Honda is set to unveil a new motorcycle concept, the CB1000F SE, teased ahead of its debut at the prestigious Suzuka 8 hours race in early August.
Building on a Retro Foundation
Earlier this year, at the Osaka Motorcycle Show, Honda first showcased the CB1000F concept. This was introduced as a modern take on the classic “Universal Japanese Motorcycle” (UJM) style, boasting a distinct neo-retro appeal.
The original CB1000F featured design elements reminiscent of older bikes: a classic round headlight, traditional body panels, a stepped single-piece seat, and an upswept exhaust muffler. It quickly garnered attention for its blend of vintage looks with contemporary engineering.
Introducing the CB1000F SE Concept
Now, Honda has teased a new variant, the CB1000F SE, which appears to be a more sport-focused evolution of the initial concept. The key visual difference highlighted in the teaser is the addition of a small bikini fairing, giving it a slightly more aggressive, yet still retro, look.
Both the CB1000F and the new SE variant are expected to share a significant portion of their underlying components, indicating a strong family resemblance and shared engineering principles.
Shared DNA with the CB1000 Hornet
A crucial aspect of these concepts is their shared platform with the CB1000 Hornet supernaked, whose SP variant is already available in India. This means the CB1000F concepts likely utilize the same engine and main frame as the Hornet, a common strategy seen with other manufacturers.
Much like Kawasaki differentiates its Z900 and Z900RS, or Suzuki with its GSX-8S and GSX-8T, Honda aims to distinguish the CB1000 Hornet and the CB1000F series primarily through styling. This allows them to cater to different aesthetic preferences while leveraging common robust engineering.
One notable distinction in the chassis is the rear subframe. While the Hornet features a sharply raked subframe designed for a minimalist pillion seat, the CB1000F concepts sport a flatter subframe. This design accommodates the neo-retro bodywork and a more comfortable, stepped single-piece seat, enhancing its classic UJM appeal.
Production Potential and Suzuka Debut
There are strong indications that the CB1000F concept could transition into a production model. The initial concept displayed production-spec components, including Showa suspension and Nissin brakes, suggesting it’s more than just a design exercise.
While specific engine specifications for the CB1000F SE remain under wraps, it’s anticipated that Honda might tune the engine differently to suit the more relaxed, characterful nature of these neo-retro bikes, even if the core engine fundamentals remain the same as the Hornet.
The full reveal of the CB1000F SE concept will take place at the highly anticipated Suzuka 8 hours race in Japan, scheduled for August 1-3. If it enters production, the CB1000F will join a select group of Japanese four-cylinder motorcycles offering a distinct retro design.
- The Honda CB1000F SE concept will be unveiled at the Suzuka 8 hours race in early August.
- It is a neo-retro roadster featuring a small bikini fairing, building on the previously shown CB1000F concept.
- Both CB1000F concepts share their engine and main frame with the Honda CB1000 Hornet.
- The bikes aim to offer a classic UJM aesthetic with modern performance and components.
Motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly await more details on this promising new addition to Honda’s lineup, especially to see if it makes the jump from concept to production.
