CB's max weight

[Roper_imp]

I am not the person to overload the bike as I don't really have where to go touring and I'm not a fan of camping - forgive me. However riding with a pillion is something I am very accustomed to, as my wife goes out with me very often, and I what I found from those experiences is that bikes that put her up high severely impact her comfort and she keeps on moving around, which in return impacts my comfort and the way bike handles. CB1100 isn't the best when it comes to this, and having more space and a backrest is definitely looked upon favorably. She is definitely more comfortable that on our old Speed Triple, but much less than on the California (pic attached)
Did I mention I absolutely hate getting head-butted by a pillion?
Then again, some motorcycles can be affected negatively by the change in geometry when loading the rear axle, and I reckon that is a thing to consider when loading up. Brakes are also affected by increase in weight, and that's just physics.
So to conclude, if loading up - make sure the subframe can handle the load, adjust tire pressure, adjust suspension settings, balance out the loading, and adjust your road speed to accommodate for slower braking.

'14 CB1100 STD 5 speed

Thanks for the pic, Tod. Man, I love the long low look of the Californias.