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: CB12016329. The seller acquired it seven years ago from a private party in California.
During his ownership, he has covered roughly 1,500 miles. The odometer shows 25,798 miles.
Maintenance:
“Carb service, new tires, oil change, gauge restoration.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
CBXs sold in the US had mid-control pegs and taller handlebars than the Euro counterparts, but customers could source a “Sport Kit”, also known as the Euro GP kit. Said kit is equipped on this machine, and it includes shorter bars, a throttle assembly with cables coming out of the top, as well as shorter throttle/choke/clutch cables.
The Sport Kit also includes footpeg plates that set the pegs back 2-3 inches, and a revised shifter, linkage, and brake pedal. Click here for an unboxing video of a NOS Sport Kit if you want to learn more!
The engine has several modifications: “1170 big bore kit, Carrillo rods, aftermarket cams, stainless valves, titanium keepers, 1980 Honda CBX clutch basket.” It also uses Accel coils.
Front fork spring kit with air caps.
Cal Fab swing arm, Honda Gold Wing wheels (custom built rear wheel to accept 160 tire).
Nippon Denso alternator.
“Reworked carbs to work with air pods.”
530 chain kit.
Winning 6 into 1 exhaust
Works shocks.
Performance Machine front brakes with stainless steel lines.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
The seller notes “small scratches here and there. This is a street hot rod…not a garage queen.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires with date codes of 2319 and 4719.
The sale includes two keys (one pictured).
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through November 2022.
Have any CBX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
Additional Information
Location
Santa Monica, California
Year
1979
Make
Honda
Model
CBX
Mileage
25,798
VIN
CB12016329
Title
Clean
Title State/Country
California
Private Party/Dealership
Private Party
Additional Charges
No
Total Bids Placed: 36
Auction has ended.
Auction expired without reaching reserve price.
Highest bidder was: a*****3
After the auction ended, the seller accepted an offer of $14,445 including buyer fees.
Continental US: Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf. You do not need to crate your bike or drain the gas/disconnect the battery if you go with Haul Bikes. We are glad to work with the shipper of your choice as well, but you will have to arrange it.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.
