There’s a certain magic to the motorcycles of the 1980s. They were raw, charismatic, and had a style that’s proven timeless. But let's be honest, we wouldn’t want to give up the performance, safety, and reliability of modern engineering. What if you didn’t have to choose?
Honda has answered that question with the hotly anticipated production version of the CB1000F Retro, and it’s more than just a pretty face. This isn't a simple restomod; it's a thoughtfully engineered machine that takes the brilliant bones of the CB1000 Hornet and injects them with a heavy dose of 80s soul and modern, real-world usability.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore every nut and bolt of this new classic. From its retuned Fireblade-derived engine to the crucial addition of a cornering ABS unit, we’ll uncover why the CB1000F Retro might just be the smartest buy in the burgeoning retro-performance segment.
First Impressions: A Faithful Homage
The moment you lay eyes on the CB1000F, the connection to the past is immediate and powerful. Honda first teased us with a concept a few years ago, a machine that perfectly captured the blocky, muscular essence of the iconic CB750F from the 80s. The production model makes remarkably few concessions.
While purists might point to the modern TFT dash as a break from tradition, it’s a welcome one. The CB1000F isn’t trying to be a museum piece; it’s a celebration of heritage for the modern rider. The overall silhouette, with its long, flat seat, squared-off tail section, and classic tank shape, is a direct nod to its ancestors. It’s a blend of new and old that works harmoniously, forgiving the few modern necessities for the sake of a stunning overall package.
Color choices further enhance its classic appeal:
Silver with Gray Stripes: Understated and elegant.
Silver with Blue Stripes: A vibrant and classic Honda racing livery that pops.
Black with Red Pinstripes: A mean, stealthy look with a touch of aggression.
The Heart of the Beast: A Tamed Fireblade
This is where the CB1000F separates itself from being a mere styling exercise. At its core beats the same 1000cc inline-four engine found in the CB1000 Hornet, which itself is derived from the legendary 2017 CBR1000RR Fireblade. But Honda’s engineers haven’t just dropped in a track-ready screamer; they’ve expertly reworked it for the real world.
Power Delivery: Less Peak, More Punch
The philosophy here is simple: prioritize low-end and mid-range grunt over peak horsepower. Why? Because that’s where you spend 90% of your time on the road.
The Hornet makes a frantic 150 horsepower at 11,000 RPM.
The CB1000F Retro makes a more accessible, yet still thrilling, 122 horsepower at 9,000 RPM.
But the real story isn't the peak number—it's the torque. The Retro produces a stout 103 Newton-meters of torque, and it arrives 1,000 RPM lower than in the Hornet. Honda claims a significantly improved throttle response under 6,000 RPM, achieved through:
Different Cam Profiles: Optimized for mid-range pull rather than top-end scream.
Longer Intake Funnels: Improving airflow for better low-RPM combustion.
Pulsating Induction Sound: By using different inlet lengths for the left and right pairs of cylinders, Honda has engineered a distinctive induction roar, promising an aural character to match its visual charm.
The result? An engine that should be an absolute joy on a twisting backroad or a soggy commute, pulling strongly from virtually any RPM without needing to be constantly wrung out.
The Chassis and Suspension: Confidence Inspired
The CB1000F is built upon the same proven steel diamond twin-spar frame as the Hornet. The geometry—rake, trail, and wheelbase—is identical, promising the same agile and neutral handling that reviewers praised on the Hornet.
However, there are key changes:
A New Subframe: This is longer and lower, opening up more room for comfortable two-up riding. It also allows for the fitment of a center stand—a practical touch often missing from modern naked bikes.
Revised Suspension Linkage: The fully adjustable Showa suspension (41mm USD fork and Pro-Link shock) gets a new specific linkage. Honda says this provides a touch more comfort at lower speeds while enhancing stability when the pace picks up.
The Riding Position: Relaxed and Commanding
To match the engine's more relaxed nature, the entire riding position has been "chilled out." This is a crucial detail that defines the bike's character.
Seat Height: Reduced to a manageable 795mm (from 809mm on the Hornet).
Handlebars: Moved back and up for a more upright posture.
Footpegs: Positioned forward and down, reducing leg bend.
You are subtly rotated back into a comfortable, forward-looking position that prioritizes all-day comfort over aggressive, sporty ergonomics. It’s a stance that inspires confidence and reduces fatigue before you’ve even turned a wheel.
Also Read: NEW 2025 Honda Gold Wing – The Ultimate Touring Machine Returns with Luxury and Power!
The Tech Upgrade: Finally, an IMU
One of the few consistent criticisms of the CB1000 Hornet was the lack of a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This piece of tech is what makes modern rider aids like traction control and ABS "cornering sensitive," meaning they adapt to your lean angle.
Honda has listened. The CB1000F Retro comes with an IMU as standard.
Why is this a game-changer? Honda likely recognizes that this bike will be used as more of an all-rounder. You’re more likely to take it on a tour, use it for a commute, or ride in less-than-ideal weather. In these scenarios, having rider aids that can intelligently intervene based on your lean angle is a significant safety net. It inspires confidence when you’re caught in a sudden downpour or navigating a slippery, off-camber corner.
The suite of rider aids is comprehensive:
Riding Modes: Sport, Standard, Rain, and two user-customizable modes.
Power Delivery: Three levels to choose from.
Engine Braking: Three levels of adjustment.
HSTC (Traction Control): Honda Selectable Torque Control with three levels and the ability to switch it off entirely.
Cornering ABS: Thanks to the IMU, the braking system is now smarter and safer when leaned over.
Brakes and Wheels
The braking hardware is top-notch, carried over from the Hornet:
Front: Dual 310mm discs with radial-mounted Nissin four-piston calipers.
Rear: A single 240mm disc with a one-piston caliper.
Honda has even revised the brake hose expansion rates for what they call a more "reassuring brake performance and feel." Coupled with the cornering ABS, this should be a supremely confident braking package.
The wheels are a five-Y-spoke cast aluminum design, inspired by the current-generation Fireblade, adding a modern performance touch to the retro aesthetic.
The All-Important Price: A Segment Killer?
So, how much does this slice of modern-retro perfection cost? Honda has announced that the CB1000F Retro will be in dealers from February 2026, with a UK price of £10,599.
Yes, that’s about £1,500 more than the standard CB1000 Hornet. But paying a premium for a retro-styled version of a naked bike is the industry norm. The true test is how it stacks up against its direct competitors:
Yamaha XSR900: £11,040
Kawasaki Z900 RS: £11,699
Triumph Speed Twin 1200: Over £12,000
BMW R nineT: Starts at almost £14,500
Suddenly, the Honda looks like exceptional value for money. It undercuts its closest Japanese rivals and significantly undercuts the Europeans, while offering a spec sheet that is competitive, if not superior in some areas (like the inclusion of a standard IMU).
Accessories and Personalization
Honda knows that retro bike owners love to personalize. A full lineup of Genuine Honda Accessories will be available, including:
Comfort Seat
Engine Guard
Headlight Cowl
Radiator Guard
Heated Grips
Luggage Options
Quick Shifter
Thankfully, some modern essentials like a USB-C port, connectivity features for the TFT dash, and emergency stop signal (ESS) lighting come fitted as standard.
The Verdict: A Home Run for Honda
The Honda CB1000F Retro is not just a Hornet in a vintage costume. It is a thoughtfully differentiated model with a clear purpose. The retuned engine, the more relaxed ergonomics, the addition of the crucial IMU, and the practical touches like the center stand-ready subframe all point to a bike designed for enjoyable, everyday riding.
Has Honda made compromises? Sure. Some will wish for dedicated dual clocks instead of the TFT, and those hoping for an "SP" version with Öhlins and Brembo might be disappointed. But these compromises are massively softened by the most budget-friendly price in its class.
The CB1000F Retro successfully captures the soul of a bygone era without sacrificing the advancements that make modern motorcycling so incredible. It offers a compelling blend of style, substance, and value that firmly places it at the top of the list for anyone seeking a liter-class retro motorcycle with a genuine Honda heart. February 2026 can't come soon enough.
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