Honda CB1000 Custom Reviews

24th Mar 2012, 06:55

I acquired a Honda CB1000 Custom this time last year. It had been stood in a garage for six years. The engine oil was dropped and the fuel tank filled (it was empty), and a new battery fitted. The owner found the keys, and it started on second push of the button with full choke... couldn't believe it! I guess that's Honda engineering for you.

Since then I have had some great road trips, and clocked up a number ;o) miles.

I agree the seat isn't the most comfortable, and it took me a while to get the air suspension right, but it handles great.

I had the old brake hoses replaced with braided ones, and changed the brake fluid too. Braking improved considerably then.

The only thing that spoils my bike is that the LHS side cover/panel is missing, so if any of you guys come across one, please let me know. My machine is black and grey, but don't mind what colour the replacement panel is.

I would also agree that the engine runs perfectly with Shell V-Power fuel ;o)

All in all, a truly great bike... right, I'm off for a ride ;o)

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1983 Honda CB1000 Custom from United States of America

Model year	1983
Year of manufacture	1983
First year of ownership	2011
Most recent year of ownership	2011
Acceleration marks	7 / 10
Roll-on Performance marks	7 / 10
Handling marks	3 / 10
Braking marks	3 / 10
Reliability marks	5 / 10
Comfort marks	3 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper)	9 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)	5.3 / 10
Distance when acquired	16400 miles
Most recent distance	17900 miles
Previous motorcycle	Kawasaki KLR650

Summary:

Lots of potential as a long distant runner

Faults:

Rear caliper seals degraded and caused the pistons to stick out, wearing the rotor, and causing drag.

Front fork seals leaking.

General Comments:

The bike only cost me $700.00.

It's cumbersome compared to the KLR; that was expected.

It needs carb work and detailing this winter.

It had the hanging rear caliper problem that may explain the inconsistent performance issues. If I can find a rear caliper rebuild kit, and get those carbs synced and rebuilt this winter, I'll be looking forward to some great weekend road trips next year!

The only design complaint I have, is at 5'9" I feel like a jockey more than a rider on this bike. I wish I had more leg stretch without having to use the highway pegs.

I agree with the need for a more comfortable seat as well. It traps you in one position. At 57 years old, I need to stretch a little on rides.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th November, 2011

1983 Honda CB1000 Custom from United States of America

Model year	1983
Year of manufacture	1983
First year of ownership	2011
Most recent year of ownership	2011
Previous motorcycle	Honda VT1100C2 Shadow ACE

Summary:

I love it!

General Comments:

Just bought the bike last week. Have only taken it for a couple of spins, but VERY impressed with a bike that is 29 years old. Has 21K miles with full fairing.

I would love to have a sissy bar and either Hondaline bags or a trunk box. I'm looking forward to Spring! Please contact me if you know where I can get a set of hard bags, trunk box and a sissy bar.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd November, 2011

1983 Honda CB1000 Custom from Canada

Model year	1983
Year of manufacture	1983
First year of ownership	2008
Most recent year of ownership	2011
Acceleration marks	8 / 10
Roll-on Performance marks	8 / 10
Handling marks	7 / 10
Braking marks	7 / 10
Reliability marks	9 / 10
Comfort marks	7 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper)	8 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)	7.7 / 10
Distance when acquired	9000 miles
Most recent distance	11500 miles
Previous motorcycle	BMW K 1200LT SE

Summary:

Fun to ride, plan to keep it for a long time

Faults:

Little hard to start when cold outside.

I have had no problems with this bike.

General Comments:

I really enjoy this bike.

Like the 10 speed transmission - great range.

The bike is nice and quick - runs really well.

Unique bike - stands out in a crowd.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th January, 2011

1983 Honda CB1000 Custom from Mexico

Model year	1983
Year of manufacture	1983
First year of ownership	2010
Most recent year of ownership	2010
Acceleration marks	10 / 10
Roll-on Performance marks	10 / 10
Handling marks	10 / 10
Braking marks	9 / 10
Reliability marks	9 / 10
Comfort marks	8 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper)	7 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)	9.0 / 10
Distance when acquired	90000 kilometres
Most recent distance	92000 kilometres

Summary:

Remarkable!

Faults:

Had to change the two transmission chains.

Will have clean the carters off of the metal chips.

Will to calibrate one of the valves; it's clicking.

Will have to change the valve over gaskets.

Will have to buy a new front fender.

The cat damaged the seat.

Found out it only has 4 shifts instead of five.

General Comments:

Regardless of all above, it's a very hot motorcycle.

The seat is uncomfortable, needs a lumbar support.

It's been modified to a very nice retro look.

It's a handsome machine heavy, but soft on the ride.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th October, 2010