defects CB 1100

[Paris_imp]

I'm late to this thread, so I'll add only a few observations...

The CB1100 was in no way designed with the Chinese in mind. Holy crap, but was that just about the most off-base comment I've seen on this forum.

Next, regarding the engine's smoothness, yes, it is relatively smooth, but many I4s are smoother. The CB1100 with the 6-spd tranny has a noticeable patch of somewhat obtrusive, typical I4 engine vibration from 3,500-5,000 rpm. Above and below those RPM it is world-class smooth. Part of the reason people so often describe the motor and the overall bike as "smooth" has to do with its table top-flat power delivery. That sort of dead linear power (non)curve combines with the uniquely neutral-handling chassis to imbue the entire riding experience with a strong patina of Old World craftsmanship and thoughtful precision. The bike feels very highly engineered, with all the rough edges fettled away.

Honda fans love this level of refinement. Fans of more immediate, raucous, explosive experiences deride the Honda Way as boring and lacking in character. The CB1100 definitely has character, but it's more Churchill than Mussolini, more Steven Wright than Chris Rock.

Lastly, this...

Wisedrum Wrote:I think, it is the rider who brings boredom to a motorbike not the other way round.
...is genius.

...is genius.
“Defects” is not the word I would choose, but the stock CB1100 can be improved, at least to better suit my taste.

First is the seat. Ironically, this is one of the things which drew my attention to the CB1100, the ‘70s retro-style bench seat. While I know what Honda was trying to do, I soon found that one can suffer only so much for the sake of art. When younger and lighter, I guess it didn’t matter, but that seat was like riding on a sawhorse for me. It had to go, and Corbin was there to help. I now have two very comfortable and stable seats in brown leather for my CB, one a Gunfighter for me and another Gunfighter and lady for when my et ux joins me.

Next is the suspension. The rear shocks are not very good, but this again is an easy fix.

Third, I believe the bike would benefit from a 4 into 1 exhaust. It would have more power, be a lot lighter and nimbler, and would sound better.

Finally, I added a National Cycle Plexifaring to make the ride more comfortable, especially in the rain.

These are, obviously, my preferences, and not defects in the stock CB1100, which is a lovely bike even if you do nothing to it.