Partially Deluxifying the '13

[shdwghst457_imp]

For the life of me I can't figure out why Honda didn't go with color matched side covers

Two reasons I can think of are:

1. A single part number can be used on multiple colors of CBs. Manufacturers love it when they can do that.

2. The designers wanted the contrast a different color cover would bring.

I've not seen a matching side cover bike yet, so I can't say if I'd like it. I can say that I like the silver covers, and having them match the tank isn't even on my radar for upgrades.

Likewise I definitely prefer how the '13 covers fit inside the frame tubes and show them off, vs. how the '14 covers lay over the top of the frame tubes.

You're absolutely right that the '13 center covers do a great job highlighting the frame, which on a naked bike seems like the right thing to do.

However, I think the CB1100F was a subliminal source of inspiration for changing the covers. I like how the color flows right off of the tank onto the side of the bike.