Honda cbf1000

There wasn’t anything really wrong with the old bike apart from it appeared a little dated and it was more of an ugly duckling rather than a stunning swan. However, Honda have addressed that, given the CBF a new face, new clocks, lightened the frame and improved fuel economy. Great ergonomics, easy to ride, just enough power, relatively lightweight handling, a jack of all trades bike perfect for 98% of the time. 

Engine

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Honda claim the newly fuelled engine is now 7% more efficient than the old bike; it’s easy to see fuel figures of 50mpg and more. The detuned 06 fireblade engine isn’t going to set the world on fire but its incredibly flexible, smooth power delivery and has enough grunt for two up touring and will send the new speedo past the 140mph mark.

Ride and Handling

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It’s just as easy to ride at slow speeds through tight busy traffic as it is to have fun down an unfamiliar B road. The ride and comfort is excellent and the new linked ABS are very effective, like riding with a safety net, ideal in the wet. Its only when you ride out of the bike past its design parameters will you get any complaints as the pegs start to scrape and the rear is a little soft.

Equipment

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New clocks add the quality finish and the screen is now three way adjustable. ABS is excellent, one of the leaders in this class. The new top fairing and flush indicators have improved the looks of the front end, using CBR600 headlights. Luggage kits are available as optional extras if you want to turn your Honda CBF into a real tourer.

Quality and Reliability

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The frame is now aluminium but the wheels and suspension remain rather basic considering the new higher price tag. However everything is put together with the usual high standard we expect from Honda. There is no reason to question the reliability of the detuned Blade engine and should last for ever.

Value

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Owners' rating

The old CBF started at less than £6000 which made the old bike an absolute bargain and highly recommended bike. However now the price is pushing nearly £9000 and not much has changed to justify the price. Pricier than the Suzuki GSX1200FA, but lighter and more nimble with better build quality.

Insurance

Insurance group: 14

Model History

2006: original CBF1000 introduced
2010: Model introduced
2011: CBF1000A [£7,925] CBF1000GT [£8775] CBF1000FA offered [£9275]

Other Versions

None

Specifications

Top speed	145mph
1/4-mile acceleration	secs
Power	106bhp
Torque	69ftlb
Weight	245kg
Seat height	795mm
Fuel capacity	19 litres
Average fuel consumption	42mpg
Tank range	185 miles
Insurance group	14

Engine size	998cc
Engine specification	16v four-stroke inline 4
Frame	Aluminium twin spar
Front suspension adjustment	preload only
Rear suspension adjustment	single shock
Front brakes	2 x 296mm 2piston radial caliper
Rear brake	240mm disc two piston
Front tyre size	120/70x17
Rear tyre size	160/60x17