Honda CB1000 Retro: A Return to the Basics Expected for 2025?
When we talk about bikes that combine modernity and nostalgia, Honda has always hit the mark. But ever since the CB1100 and CB1300 left the lineup, fans of big retro roadsters have felt a bit lost. Good news: Honda looks poised to rev up the engine again with a retro version of the CB1000 Hornet, set for 2025. This model promises to shake up the competition, especially the Kawasaki Z900RS. So, grab your helmet, and let’s dive into this exciting new development!
Honda and the Return of Retro Style
Honda isn’t quite the same manufacturer it was a few years ago. In 2025, we’re hearing about a return to its roots with a model inspired by the brand’s classics, a blend of modernity and tradition. After the discontinuation of models like the CB1100 and CB1300, Honda appears eager to reintroduce a roadster with a powerful engine and a retro look, in a market where competition is fierce.
A Bike That Revives Past Models
The Honda CB1000, rumored to draw design cues from the CB-F concept introduced in 2021, could take on the iconic style of the CB750F, CB900F, and CB1000F from the ’70s and ’80s. These bikes, emblematic of their era, have left a mark on the history of the Japanese manufacturer. But rather than a simple throwback, the 2025 CB1000 is expected to feature a more refined engine, offering increased torque at low and mid-ranges. This marks a shift from the sportier CB1000 Hornet, delighting those wanting an everyday-friendly bike while staying true to Honda’s spirit.
An Engine Designed for the Road
The heart of this new Honda CB1000 would borrow from the CBR Fireblade 2017, but modified to deliver more torque at lower and mid-ranges. Unlike the Hornet, which favors a sporty and dynamic ride, the retro version of the CB1000 targets a smoother, more enjoyable ride for daily commutes while retaining the power to have fun on the road. This refined engine promises an appealing balance for those wanting a retro bike without sacrificing performance.
Production and Release Timeline
This new Honda CB1000 isn’t being rushed. Produced at Honda’s Kumamoto plant in Japan, this model is shaping up to be thoughtfully crafted. For eager fans, the wait is going to be a bit longer before they can lay eyes (and hands) on the bike, but the good news is it should be unveiled by 2025. There’s hope that the CB1000 could hit European showrooms by the end of 2025, or even early 2026. A little patience will be rewarded!
The Competitor: Kawasaki Z900RS
We can’t talk about the CB1000 without mentioning its big rival, the Kawasaki Z900RS. This bike, already well-established in the market, poses a serious challenge to Honda. With its retro style and modern engine, the Z900RS has carved out its niche among classic bike enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Honda seems determined to go head-to-head with this legendary machine with its own retro motorcycle version. But the question is: will the CB1000 match up to or even surpass the Kawasaki?
