When you think of legendary homologation machines, one generally thinks of the RC30, the RC45, the OW-01, or any number of the limited edition Ducati SP, SPR, or R bikes. All are cutting-edge, relatively compact, and scream hyper performance, even when sitting still. Add to that vaunted list a relative unknown – but no less exciting – example that pulls from Honda’s foray into endurance racing: the rare CB1100R. And while these are rare beasts – especially in the US – RSBFS readers have seen this one before as a Featured Listing on our site.
While American riders might be more familiar with the “F” models of the CB range, the R model was quite bespoke and designed as a racer. From nose to tail there are some subtle – and many not too subtle – references to the intended purpose. Up front, the forks incorporate a quick release mechanism to facilitate tire changes. Under the full, aerodynamic bodywork hides the air-cooled, inline four with higher compression, hot-rod cams, and some sprinkling of magnesium and alloy covers. Above that is the huge tank (almost 7 gal!), a clear connection to the endurance racing that inspired the machine. Comstar composite wheels and piggyback twin rear shocks hold up the somewhat portly 515+ pound machine .
From the seller:
Selling my 1982 Honda CB1100R
Do not miss this opportunity to own a legendary collectible Honda motorcycle
Beautiful and original unrestored condition
11,529 original miles
3rd owner
purchased 2 years ago from 2nd owner who had the bike since 1985
bike is located in California (I have only used 101 octane non-ethanol fuel during my ownership)
clean Illinois title
always loved, pampered, and garaged it’s entire life
recent maintenance includes oil and filter change in October 2023, as well as the following work performed prior to my purchase in late 2021: rebuilt front forks, a complete brake system overhaul and rebuild using OEM Honda parts, new tires 700 miles ago, the drive chain was removed, soaked, and reoiled, and the carburetors were rebuilt as well.
runs excellent and needs nothing
some minor scratches on the left side and fairing cracks surrounding each mirror (please refer to the last (3) pictures showing these details)
includes the original owner’s manual and tool kit
Quoting liberally from Dan Crouch, RSBFS founder and forefather: “Within the CB1100R line, three distinct models emerged, each corresponding to a specific year of production. The present machine belongs to the “C” spec, with the “B” variant launched in 1981, and the “D” model introduced in 1983. Despite their apparent similarity, the CB1100R models differ significantly, featuring numerous non-interchangeable parts across the series due to the rapid pace of race bike development. The initial model sported a half fairing and exposed engine, while the “C” and “D” models showcased full fairings and aluminum fuel tanks. However, even within the full fairing category, variations persisted, rendering the fairings and their components non-uniform and non-interchangeable. Additionally, the dash layouts and mounting elements were distinct between models. As a result, locating an original CB1100R in its stock spec and correct for its specific year can prove to be a challenging task, particularly considering the limited production numbers.”
There is not much time available on this auction, but plenty of interest if one takes the number of bids into account. And given that the auction has just ticked over the $10k USD mark, there is still a lot to play for. These really are wonderful machines, with asking prices well above the level of the current auction. Take a look through all of the pictures as provided by the seller, and be sure and check out the Featured Listing post of this exact bike from a few years ago as well (link at top of page).
When you are done drooling, click over to the auction here – and Good Luck!!
Oh man, I wish . . . Definately in my top 5 dream bikes!