CB1100 as first bike?

[davidsargee_imp]

Thanks for the replies folks, very helpful. I am average height, reasonably fit; I am not too concerned about handling the thing at low speeds. Slightly more concerned about too much power giving me more opportunity to get hurt than a lesser bike might. As a Honda I would guess it would be much smoother, more controllable, than the paper specs might suggest. And yet have plenty to grow in to. That's how I felt about my Honda 350 "dual sport" 25 years ago. I'm quite interested in anyone's feedback on that.

I do know that to my eye it looks fantastic, exactly what a motorcycle ought to look like, as few if any other current bikes do (including the rest of the Honda lineup). It may sound odd but I think that will help me to maintain respect and enthusiasm for it over the months it will take to master it.

I returned to riding after about 12 years without a bike, I had large bikes in the past, so I was looking for one. The CB1100 is just like everyone has said, smooth power delivery, very torquey, and easy to ride. It is not a hot rod, but it is quicker than most sports cars, and cruisers.

Actually, I found that low, low, speed maneuvering is what I had to re-adjust to, the CB is top heavy, and sometimes that can get you in trouble if you are not paying attention. Once you get any speed at all, the bike is very nimble and easy to ride. Also, the brakes are very, very, good, care must be taken until you know the bike.

I know this, I probably had some of the same concerns you do, I don't regret buying the CB1100 for a minute.