How to Source a Rear Rack for a CB1100

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Because of the aesthetics and the kind of top cases I wanted for my CB1100EX, a Honda OEM rear rack was my only option (I tend to needlessly make things more difficult for myself than need be). There were not very many OEM racks manufactured.

I can assure you that none of the major parts distributors in the United States, European Union, Great Britain, or Australia still have a brand new OEM rack in stock for a CB1100EX. My compulsive obsession led me to look across the world. I suspect my email address and phone number have been blocked by more than one sales representative who dreaded my thick, Southern-American accent and constant requests to “check in the back of the warehouse one more time.” 

I ultimately turned to used parts suppliers with the hope I could refurbish one that had been separated from its motorcycle. I set up automated searches on eBay and checked out used parts listings on Webike and other credible international motorcycle-supply houses.

Along the way, I fell pray to a stock image that had obviously been stolen from a Honda brochure. I purchased an after-market rack I saw advertised on Amazon:

1. The first rack I received was packed poorly and looked like a chrome pretzel when it arrived. I returned it.
   
2. The second rack arrived in one piece but the welds looked like I did them. I also had concerns about the strength of the welds because I could see fissures / cracks. I returned it, too.
   

Although I cannot recommend the Amazon racks, I feel compel to share the link from Amazon. Here it is: Amazon After-Market Option. Perhaps your luck will be better than mine.

Finally, I received a hit on an automated search on eBay Germany. It was a great OEM rack. I purchased it.



It was structurally sound and had good welds.  After I installed it, I spent four hours over a few days to get it CB1100 ready. I used heavy chrome polish and a small buffer to remove a few light scratches. I then decatiminted the metal and applied two ceramic coating layers and a top coat.

See Thread about the Rear-Rack Installation.

Note: Our mischievous friends at Honda changed the design and bolt patterns for the rack almost yearly. If you are looking for a used Honda OEM rear rack, I would encourage you to make sure you have a year, make, and model match if you find a candidate. Hope this helps and best of luck. David