Description
Additional photos of this Honda CB1100R can be found here.
Considered to be Honda’s first homologation special, the CB1100R is a legend among Honda fans – especially those based in the US, where this bike was never officially sold. The CBR was offered in 1981 (RB), 1982 (RC), and 1983 (RD). As a RC, this bike is one of 1,500 examples.
Based on the CB900F, the CB1100R was developed to allow Honda to compete in endurance racing – they won the ’81 New Zealand Castrol Six Hour. It was big and it was heavy, but it was damn fast. The engine from the CB900 was bored out, bumping displacement up to 1062cc. The new engine produced 115 horsepower at 9,000 rpm.
Despite the 518 pound weight, the new one piece frame combined with Honda’s first use of twin-piston calipers and nitrogen-charged piggyback shocks in a production bike made this bike successful on race tracks that utilized fast sweepers over tight hairpins.
Top speed was 149 miles per hour, making it the fastest bike of its time.
This example is VIN: SC08-2001285, Engine #: SC05E-2101336.
The seller acquired two years ago from the original owner, and he’s covered approximately 1,250 miles in that time. The odometer now shows 55,311 kilometers (34,368 miles).
It is highly original with just one modification – a Progrip tank protector.
The sale includes the original owner’s manual and tools.
The seller is letting it go as he is downsizing his collection (you may have seen his Kawasaki Eddie Lawson Replica recently sell here on Iconic Motorbike Auctions) and he already owns several variants of the CB1100R.
“It presents extremely well and just has usual patina associated with a 38 year old collectors bike.” We note a scratch on the right side of the tank in the Honda logo and some wear in the engine covers.
There are no mechanical issues that the seller is aware of. “I took it this morning on a 180km tour and it went lovely with no issues.”
It’s gorgeous, unique, fast, and was never officially sold in the US – we’re big fans of this model and are excited to offer this one on Iconic Motorbike Auctions!