We’ll Always Have Paris: 1982 Honda CB1100R

The Honda CB1100R is a rare – and relatively unsung – homologation bike from the fabled stables of Big Red Racing. Loosely based on the CB900F street bike, the CB1100R was designed as a production racer in the European theater, and was a popular platform for endurance events. As a street bike the CB1100R is potent and a little bit rowdy, while maintaining all of the quality and reliability you would expect from Honda. Produced across a small span of years (1980-1983) and in limited numbers (and markets), the CB1100R continues to stand out from the crowd some 40 years later.

1982 Honda CB1100R for sale on eBay

There were several changes to the model over the short run of bikes. The 1982 “C” model was the first to have full bodywork, as the initial launch featured a half fairing and solo seat arrangement. The 1983 “D” model resembled the previous year model, however there were many bodywork and chassis pieces that were all new. So while this is a multi-year model, the specific year of the bike is an important detail. The “B” spec original bikes mostly ended up in Austraila & New Zealand, while the C and D models expanded distribution through Europe as well.

From the seller:
Mythical CB 1100R
This is a type C produced in only 1500 copies
Honda’s latest and greatest air-powered 4-cylinder

This motorcycle has remained unused for a long time, which explains its very low mileage. It has just been completely overhauled and put back on the road.

More from the seller:
Refurbishment of carburettors, brakes, fork, new tyres… just waiting to be driven. The engine is healthy and the cycle part in perfect condition. Only a few small paint defects attest to its age. It is of course equipped with the original exhaust line, chrome mirrors, the original screen and we find all the little details that sign an authentic CB1100 R with the Honda finish of the time.

This bike is in its own juice, very beautiful but not perfect, but so authentic and endearing. Completely original, which is very rare on these models, and with a very small mileage.

Today’s 1982 CB1100RC looks to be in very, very clean condition. The large aluminum tank looks to be in great shape, as does the plastics (with some minor scuffs in some areas). The engine and cases look clean, as does the front and rear suspension. Check out those quick release front forks – proof of this model’s endurance racing heritage! There appears to be some confusion with the mileage: The advert states 10,500 miles in the text, but zooming in on the pictures shows 18,949 KM – which converts to approximately 11,700 miles. Still, that is not much rolling for a 40 year old work of art. The bike has been cared for – and shows it.

Pricing for the CB1100R models has varied over the years. From a high water mark in the $30 range, down to half that price for bike with higher mileage and more use, the never-officially-imported-into-the-US model is a rare bird in the States. Today’s seller is asking $25k – which is on the high side of the range, but certainly lower than some we have seen. Whether or not this sells is down to the market, but appearance and the desirability of the model are two key factors;
and this one scores high marks in both. The bike is located in France, meaning that US-based investors, uh I mean riders, will need to consider transportation into the equation. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

MI