Honda has officially unveiled the production version of its much-anticipated CB1000F Neo-Retro motorcycle on October 12, 2025, following its concept debut earlier this year at the Osaka Motorcycle Show. This revival of the iconic CB1000F nameplate pays homage to the naked bike's storied legacy from the 1970s and '80s, while infusing it with contemporary engineering prowess. Built on the same platform as the sporty CB1000 Hornet, the CB1000F distinguishes itself through a redesigned sub-frame that alters the rider ergonomics, offering a more upright and relaxed posture ideal for long-distance cruising.

Currently available in Japan and select European markets like the UK, Germany, and Italy, with pricing starting around ¥1.7 million (approximately $11,500 USD) in Japan, Honda has confirmed plans to expand to markets including North America and Asia-Pacific by mid-2026, pending regulatory approvals and local demand assessments.

The CB1000F's aesthetic is a masterful nod to neo-retro charm, featuring a sculpted peanut fuel tank with chrome accents, a round LED headlamp evoking classic Honda CB models, and an upswept dual-exit exhaust that enhances its muscular profile. The single-piece seat, upholstered in premium brown leather with quilted stitching, complements the teardrop-shaped aluminum swingarm and wire-spoke wheels shod in dual-purpose tires (120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear). This design philosophy not only captures the essence of 1970s café racers but also incorporates subtle modern flourishes, such as a compact LED tail light and bar-end mirrors for improved aerodynamics. Weighing in at 220 kg (kerb), the bike's balanced proportions—thanks to a revised chassis geometry—promise agile handling, making it suitable for both urban jaunts and winding backroads, while the 830 mm seat height ensures accessibility for a wide range of riders.

Underpinning the CB1000F's retro facade is a suite of advanced hardware that underscores Honda's commitment to performance and safety. Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork-Big Piston (SFF-BP) inverted front setup with 120mm of travel, paired with a fully adjustable Showa rear monoshock offering 130mm of wheel travel for customizable ride dynamics. Braking is entrusted to dual 310mm floating front discs gripped by Nissin four-piston radial calipers, complemented by a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, ensuring confident stops even under aggressive riding conditions. The six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) integrates seamlessly with electronic aids, including cornering-aware ABS, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for traction management, and four riding modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, and User-customizable) that adjust engine mapping and intervention levels. Additional niceties like a quickshifter for seamless up/down shifts and cruise control further elevate the touring credentials.

Also Read: New BMW G 310 RR Set to Dominate with High-Tech Upgrades

At the heart of the CB1000F beats a detuned version of the legendary 999cc inline four-cylinder engine from the 2017-2019 CBR1000RR Fireblade, recalibrated for smoother low-end torque and compliance with Euro 5+ emissions standards. This liquid-cooled mill now produces 123 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm, channeled through a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch for refined shifts. Fuel efficiency stands at an impressive 20 kmpl (approximately 47 mpg), supported by a 16.2-liter tank that offers a range exceeding 300 km. The 5-inch TFT color display serves as the command center, featuring Bluetooth connectivity via Honda RoadSync for navigation, music streaming, and call management, alongside keyless ignition and all-LED lighting for enhanced visibility. These tech integrations ensure the CB1000F remains as connected as it is charismatic, appealing to riders who crave nostalgia without sacrificing modernity.

As Honda positions the CB1000F to rival neo-retro icons like the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 and Ducati Scrambler 1100, it represents a strategic pivot toward lifestyle-oriented motorcycles amid shifting market trends. Early reviews from Japanese testers praise its "soulful engine note" and "effortless power delivery," while European outlets anticipate strong sales among urban professionals seeking a blend of heritage and high-tech. With optional accessories like a touring windscreen, heated grips, and luggage racks slated for release, the CB1000F promises versatility for solo adventures or pillion trips. As availability expands globally, this neo-retro revival not only honors Honda's storied past but also signals an exciting future for naked bike enthusiasts worldwide.

Also Read: Neo-Retro Gems Under 350cc That'll Steal Your Heart This Festive Season