The Honda CB-1 was a wonderful standard in a time of replica racers. Originally built for the Japanese market, it was a beautifully balanced motorcycle that lost out in an American market that was obsessed with having as much horsepower as possible.
Cycle World called the CB-1 “a great motorcycle that never found an audience,” — in hindsight, it’s easy to see why. A healthy 55 horsepower was enough to take this 400-pound bike up to 118 miles per hour, and the upright seating position lent itself to comfortable commuting or canyon carving.
General consensus at the time was that this bike the perfect “street weapon for the masses.”
Manufactured in June 1989, this example is VIN: JH2NC2709LM100651. The seller is the original owner, he purchased it new from Farmington Cycle World in Detroit, Michigan in 1992.
The odometer shows 11,665 miles.
“I think that the photos should do most of the talking for this motorbike, but it wouldn’t hurt to give the viewers a little background. This bike rides and drives like new. It has never given me any trouble. It has never spent a night outside. And if you’re wondering how a 35 year old motorcycle has only 11,665 miles on the clock, the answer is that it was not the only toy I owned. I had (and still have) other good choices.”
Maintenance:
“I bought this bike when I was 46 years old. I spent my early years working at a Honda shop as a line mechanic here in the Detroit area. This bike has never been serviced by anyone other than myself. The engine has never been opened up. All parts are original to the bike with the exception of wear item like battery, filters, tires, etc. It has had faithful oil/filter changes all its life with Mobil1 exclusively. The Yuasa battery is new.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
“The only modification to the bike is a Kerker 4 into 1 pipe and corresponding DYNOJET jet/needle kit (remember them?) for improved driveability. I might add that the Dunlop tires show very little wear, but must be ready for replacement due to age.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D208 tires that have aged out with date codes of 3005 and 0601.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys, owner’s manual, and service manual.
The sale does not include the pictured rear stand.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“As I was preparing the bike for this sale, I noticed a very small chip on the rear of the tank where it meets the seat. I’m guessing that it might have been caused by zipper, but I really do not remember how it happened. It is a very small imperfection and I doubt that it will cause any dismay.”
Currently located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, this Honda is offered on a clean Michigan title.
Have any CB-1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
