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.
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: CB12014686. The seller acquired this CBX from a Bring A Trailer auction about 3 years ago.
The odometer shows 18,710 miles. The seller did not ride it during their ownership. “It was part of a collection of landmark Honda’s that I am now letting go of”.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. We performs a full 6 carb rebuild and sync, rebuilt both forks with new seals and 10W fork oil, we rebuilt the fuel pump and fitted with new gaskets. We also had the fuel tank professionally cleaned and fitted an fuel filter and a new Petcock valve. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Cleaned for Functionality Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
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: TAIL LIGHT
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 70%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 90%
Forks: Fresh Rebuild
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 45/22
Tire Date Code Rear: 34/21
Tire % Remaining Front: 95%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 95%
Tire Press. Front: 30 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 40 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.57V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 14.5V
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench, Runs Well on Test Ride
Test Ride Completed: Yes
Test Ride Distance: 3 Miles
Modifications:
Steel braided brake lines, battery tender lead, in line fuel filter.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Kenda Challenger tires with date codes of 3421 and 4522.
The sale includes two ignition keys, two tank keys, and two helmet holder keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, CA, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean Indiana title.
Have any CBX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
