In the late 70s, the big four Japanese companies kicked off a horsepower war 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.
But here’s the thing: Benelli actually beat Honda to the punch in terms of 6-cylinder bikes with the Sei. Even still, the Honda CBX1000 quickly became the standard as a naked superbike with an intoxicating soundtrack. It was easily the most technologically advanced bike of its day – and with a 1/4 mile trap speed of 117.95 @ 11.36 seconds, it was the fastest, too.
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. A 6.1-gallon tank was necessary as the 6 individual carbs and monster power led to mpg figures in the 20s.
This example is VIN: SC032000344.
The odometer shows 42,181 miles.
The seller is listing it on behalf of his father as he had a stroke and can no longer ride. His father purchased it in 2011 from a private party in 2011. He also notes a previous sale record from Bert’s Mega Mall in 1992. “My dad told me he was the 2nd owner. Bought it from a guy that was 85. Only put about 1,000 miles since 2011.”
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, clean/sync the carbs, replace the spark plugs, flush the brake fluid, and change the engine oil/filter. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: New
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New (<1.5% of moisture contamination)
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Ok (<1.5% of moisture contamination)
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Dirty and Tight
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 20%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 49/21
Tire Date Code Rear: 42/21
Tire % Remaining Front: 95%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 95%
Tire Press. Front: 36 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 38 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.56V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.8V
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench, Runs Well on Test Ride
Test Ride Completed: Yes
Test Ride Distance: 2 Miles
Notes:
-Right hand turn signal on but no flash
-Bike has been sprayed with anti corrosion spray
Recommendations:
-Chain Service
-Front Brake Pads
-Right hand turn signal bulb needs diag
-Three of the coils are cracked but functional
Modifications:
Slotted rotors.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Kenda Challenger tires with date codes of 4221 and 4921.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The rear section looks like it has been touched up. Some minor stress cracks.”
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean California title on Planned Non-Operational registration. The California DMV website estimates that it would cost $157 to make the registration current through March 2027.
Have any CBX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
