Description
Additional photos of this 1980 Honda CBX are available here for your perusal.
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.
Benelli actually beat Honda to the punch in terms of 6-cylinder bikes, but the Honda CBX1000 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.
The seller of this example is Jan Ringnalda of Mr. CBX. This is a hybrid which blends a 1979 frame (VIN: CB1-2017100) and a 1981 engine (Engine #: SC03E-2304675). Per the seller, “the benefit of this is an upgraded transmission, clutch, and primary drive improvements that came with the later model CBX bikes.”
He acquired this CBX from a private party in Chicago, Illinois. Jan has owned it for seven months, during which he’s covered less than 1,000 miles. The odometer now shows 22,244 miles – this is accurate for the frame, but not for the engine. “This is a very low mileage engine but undocumented as to when the engine was fitted and how many miles it actually has. The engine is quiet, does not smoke, and has all the characteristics of a low mileage unit.”
Mr. CBX notes good tires, chain, and sprockets. He recently recommissioned it with an oil/filter change, brake overhaul, and carb clean/overhaul with new Viton O-Ring kit. The seals “are good for a long time, but please use ethanol-free fuel.” There are no known mechanical issues.
This bike is equipped with Kerker exhausts without baffles. As Jan puts it, “there is NO stealth mode with this machine, everyone will hear you arrive and depart.”
Cosmetically, the seller notes that the paint finish is glossy and nice, “however it should be noted the tint on the paint is not quite correct for Candy Glory Red. The paint is nice so it does not really warrant a re-paint unless the new owner wants to get the bike back to 100% original color, but the different color is evident. Some of the levers, master cylinder etc. could do with refinishing but the functionality is not affected.” Jan sums this CBX by saying that it “is a great way to get into a CBX at an economical price and have an excellent rider at a cheaper price than all-original bikes.” Have any CBX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the comments below!
