Please Note: The VINData Report for this bike states that it was Salvaged/Rebuilt in Arizona in 1998. The custom work/Spondon was done after this.
In the late 70s, the big four Japanese companies kicked off a horsepower war that by stuffing increasingly larger engines into their usual frames. When it came to Big Red’s turn, Honda decided to push boundaries and utilize their first 6-cylinder engine in a production motorcycle. In a 1978 review, Cycle Guide said “the CBX is the Vincent Black Shadow of 1979.” The Honda CBX1000 only lasted for five years, but just like the Vincent, it led to a new wave of sports-oriented motorcycles. It was big and brutal – the engine alone weighed 233 pounds, while the whole package was just under 600 pounds wet.
That’s what makes this today’s featured bike so interesting: it combines the raw power of Honda’s inline-six with the exquisite craftsmanship of a Spondon aluminum frame from the UK! That story is reflected in the paint job – the left side features the Japanese flag while the right side features the British flag.
The seller states that Spondon made less than 20 frames for the CBX. He acquired the frame directly and built this custom himself roughly 16 years ago.
“The bike has been featured in The CBX Book by Ian Foster where he’s quoted as saying the bike is a work of art!
It’s also been featured in the annual CBX Club calendar.”
This example is VIN: JH2SC0609CC402598.
The odometer shows 521.4 kilometers (323 miles), though the seller notes that he rode the bike for roughly 1,000 miles before the speedometer/odometer was wired up.
Maintenance:
“I had the motor rebuilt by Tim’s CBX and the carbs done by The Carb Doctor. All regular maintenance I’ve done.”
“There is a small oil leak under the bike. Very minor.”
Modifications:
The rebuilt engine was bored out to 1,100cc with performance cams, jetted carbs, electronic ignition, and a heavy duty alternator.
Suzuki GSX-R front end and rear wheel, Galfer wave rotors.
Suzuki GSX-R tail section.
Ohlins rear shock.
6-into-1 exhaust.
Koso dash.
Corbin seat.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on a Dunlop D218 front tire and Pirelli Diablo Corsa III rear tire that have aged out.
The sale includes one ignition key and “a new set of handle bars with adjustable height for riders who don’t want such an aggressive riding position.”
Cosmetic Blemishes:
The seller states, “it’s a show bike in show condition so there are no scratches or flaws.”
Currently located in Arroyo Grande, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through March 2026.
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