Honda CB1000F 2026: The Return of a Legend with Modern Power and Retro Soul

The new Honda CB1000F 2026 combines classic 1980s design with modern power and advanced features. Explore its engine, design, technology, and price in this detailed review.

Honda is taking motorcycle lovers on a nostalgic journey with the new Honda CB1000F. This bike is a perfect mix of the past and the future. It brings back the golden 1980s look but adds modern power, comfort, and technology.
Built on the CB1000 Hornet platform, the CB1000F stands out as a neo-retro naked roadster — simple in appearance but powerful at heart.

For those who love the sound and feel of a classic Honda, but want modern reliability and control, the Honda CB1000F is a dream come true.

Design and Styling: Classic Soul with Modern Touch

Honda CB1000F 2026: The Return of a Legend with Modern Power and Retro Soul
Honda CB1000F 2026: The Return of a Legend with Modern Power and Retro Soul

At first glance, the Honda CB1000F looks like it has stepped straight out of the 1980s. Honda has taken design inspiration from its old legends — the CB750F and CB900F superbikes.

It comes with a muscular fuel tank, rounded headlamp, simple tail design, and clean body lines that make it look timeless.
Even though it looks old-school, you can see modern features like full LED lights, a TFT color display, and a sleek digital console.

There are three color options available, and a Japan-exclusive SE version gets a small bikini fairing for that true retro racing vibe. The bike’s overall stance feels balanced — neither too aggressive nor too relaxed, perfect for everyday rides or weekend tours.

Engine and Performance: Smooth, Strong, and Reliable

The heart of the Honda CB1000F is a 998 cc inline-four engine — the same engine type that has powered many of Honda’s superbikes.
However, for this version, Honda engineers have reworked it completely to suit the neo-retro style.

It now produces 122 bhp at 9,000 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. That’s plenty of power for quick acceleration, but the focus here is smoothness and control rather than raw aggression.

Honda has made several updates to this engine:

  • New cam timing for better mid-range power
  • A revised airbox for improved airflow
  • A stylish 4-2-1 megaphone exhaust, which produces a unique, deep sound
  • Unequal intake funnels for a throaty and “pulsating” exhaust note

Gear ratios are also tuned smartly — the first two gears are shorter for quick city rides, while the higher gears are longer for relaxed highway cruising.
A new assist and slipper clutch ensures smooth shifts and reduces effort during downshifts.

Chassis and Ride Comfort: Strong and Steady

The Honda CB1000F is built around a steel diamond frame borrowed from the CB1000 Hornet.
Honda has added a new subframe that gives more comfort and space to the pillion rider.

For suspension, it gets 41 mm Showa SFF-BP front forks that are fully adjustable and a Showa Pro-Link rear shock for comfort and control.
The suspension setup gives the perfect balance between sporty handling and a smooth ride.

For braking, the CB1000F uses Nissin 4-piston calipers with dual 310 mm front discs and a 240 mm rear disc.
These are paired with 17-inch alloy wheels, offering stability and confidence even at high speeds.

The riding position is upright and comfortable — great for both city traffic and long-distance rides.

Technology and Features: Modern in Every Way

Although it looks classic, the Honda CB1000F is packed with advanced technology.
It has a 5-inch TFT color display with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can check calls, messages, and navigation while riding.

It also features keyless ignition, making it easy to start without removing the key from your pocket.

A six-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) controls multiple safety systems, including:

  • Cornering ABS
  • Wheelie control
  • Traction control
  • Three preset riding modes
  • Two custom user modes

You can adjust power delivery, traction, and engine braking according to your riding style or road conditions.
This means the Honda CB1000F is not just powerful but also safe and rider-friendly.

Price and Availability

The Honda CB1000F is priced at £10,599 (around ₹12.53 lakh) in the UK, slightly higher than the CB1000 Hornet.
It’s currently launched in global markets like Japan and Europe, while India may have to wait a little longer.
However, we might hear some news around EICMA 2025, where Honda could announce more plans for international markets.

Verdict: A Perfect Blend of Old and New

The Honda CB1000F is not just a motorcycle — it’s an emotion for those who appreciate Honda’s rich history.
It gives you the looks of the 1980s with the performance and reliability of 2026.
It’s powerful, comfortable, and packed with the right amount of technology to make every ride enjoyable.

If you’re a fan of classic naked roadsters with a modern twist, the Honda CB1000F deserves a place on your wish list.

FAQs

Q1: What is the engine capacity of the Honda CB1000F?
A: It has a 998 cc inline-four engine that produces 122 bhp and 103 Nm of torque.

Q2: What makes the Honda CB1000F different from the CB1000 Hornet?
A: The CB1000F has a retro design, reworked engine tuning, and different gear ratios focused on smooth, real-world performance.

Q3: What are the color options for the Honda CB1000F?
A: There are three color options, plus a Japan-exclusive SE variant with a bikini fairing.

Q4: Does the Honda CB1000F have modern features?
A: Yes. It includes a 5-inch TFT display, Bluetooth, keyless ignition, traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS.

Q5: What is the price of the Honda CB1000F?
A: The starting price is £10,599 (about ₹12.53 lakh).

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