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: CB12024458. It came to Iconic as an import from South Africa.
The odometer shows 39,822 kilometers (24,744 miles).
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us repair the damaged motor mounts, clean and sync the carbs, replace the exhaust manifold gaskets, and change the oil and oil filter. Steve did the work, he details the following in his condition report:
Tire Life: Front / Rear: 100%
Brake Life: Front: Under 10% / Rear: 40%
Hydraulic Fluid: Front: Ok / Rear: Ok
Oil: Ok, New
Low Beam: Not working
High Beam: Not working
Turn Signals: Right rear not working
Tail Light: Right half bulb not working
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Please note that this bike will need some work to make it a rider. In addition to a noisy bottom end, Steve also found some copper metal flakes present in the oil, indicating possible main bearing damage. Furthermore, it is missing an air cleaner and it has a front tire installed as a rear tire. The battery will require replacement; we had to jumpstart the bike for the running video.
Modifications:
Tank protector.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop American Elite tires with date codes of 0921 and 1421.
The sale includes one key.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a clean Oregon title. Have any CBX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
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.
