09-05-2014, 01:13 PM
I'm very close to making a purchase but can't quite decide between the CB1100 and the CB1000R and wondered if those of you with the CB1100 (or who have switched to the CB1000R) might offer some thoughts. I'm coming from a 2011 Kawasaki 650 Versys, and that's pretty much my only point of comparison. Mainly, I'm wondering how much better or worse than the Versys is the CB1100 in terms of (1) acceleration and (2) handling and cornering?
The CB1100 is beautiful and has me just on the looks, particularly the black of the 2014 standard. I'm concerned though that I might want the thrill of the CB1000R. How much can the 1100 deliver in terms of fun acceleration and quick, nimble cornering?
To put it in context, I'm in my mid-40s, with kids (who sometimes ride on the back, attached to me by harness), and I'm not looking to do anything crazy. A fair amount of my riding is pretty basic riding around town on errands etc., which sometimes includes stretches on the interstate. I want to be able to take weekend trips on the bike but have only managed one so far, so that's not a big priority. I like the versatility of the Versys but want something with more soul and character and spirit. All of this sounds like the CB1100 would be a good fit, but at the same time, when I'm out on two wheels I want to feel that the bike is ready for some spirited acceleration and fun cornering. From what I've read, the CB1000R can deliver all of that with ease and grace (while still being civilized and easy to ride), but my heart is with the looks of the CB1100. I'll go for the CB1100 if I feel I won't feel disappointed in the ride. Any thoughts?
The CB1100 is beautiful and has me just on the looks, particularly the black of the 2014 standard. I'm concerned though that I might want the thrill of the CB1000R. How much can the 1100 deliver in terms of fun acceleration and quick, nimble cornering?
To put it in context, I'm in my mid-40s, with kids (who sometimes ride on the back, attached to me by harness), and I'm not looking to do anything crazy. A fair amount of my riding is pretty basic riding around town on errands etc., which sometimes includes stretches on the interstate. I want to be able to take weekend trips on the bike but have only managed one so far, so that's not a big priority. I like the versatility of the Versys but want something with more soul and character and spirit. All of this sounds like the CB1100 would be a good fit, but at the same time, when I'm out on two wheels I want to feel that the bike is ready for some spirited acceleration and fun cornering. From what I've read, the CB1000R can deliver all of that with ease and grace (while still being civilized and easy to ride), but my heart is with the looks of the CB1100. I'll go for the CB1100 if I feel I won't feel disappointed in the ride. Any thoughts?