Honda CBR 1100 XX Blackbird - a dynamic and comfortable bike

Appearance

Of course, design is important for any bike. However, when it comes to a sports or sport-touring model, the degree of importance of appearance is higher than, for example, for road motorcycles. The Honda CBR 1100 XX Blackbird looks great both in the city and outdoors, thanks to the refined taste of its creators.

The motorcycle is not trying to look somehow extraordinary, strange, spectacular... It simply took all the best that is in the class and demonstrates the design of a sports tourer in all its glory: smooth lines, uniform color, a fairly high windshield. No detail catches the eye more than the others. And such harmony is perhaps the best thing that can be imagined for a bike of this class.

The most explosive weapon Honda CBR 1100 XX

In California, a test drive of CBR1100XX motorcycles took place on a 12 km long track. The reason for it was obvious: to prove that the new model of the CBR1100XX motorcycle was faster than the KawasakiZX-11, which was considered the fastest motorcycle at that time.

The CBR1100XX features the user-friendly instrument panel first introduced on the VFR750F. The speedometer is visible in any driving position, which is very important for the racer. The tachometer is located in the lower right corner of the panel. The model is also equipped with a clock and fuel indicator.

The motorcycle engine has a power of 149 horsepower at 9500 rpm. The top-notch engine and fairing did the trick, and the CBR1100XX outperformed its rival, the KawasakiZX-11. In this test drive, the XX was driven by driver Jason Black. While riding, the tachometer showed 10,950 rpm, the motorcycle was moving in sixth gear at a speed of 178.5 km/h.

This record did not come as a surprise to anyone, because the developers of the new motorcycle model talked about it in advance, but being careful, they did not give a 100% guarantee. I just had to believe the rumors.

Looking back at the latest Honda models, it’s easy to see the basic principles of the company’s motorcycle production: all models are refined and versatile, with decent assembly and configuration. The handling of a motorcycle is more important than its power. The CBR600, CBR1000 and VFR750 are proof of this, as is the CBR 1100 XX, but this latest model is suddenly the fastest there is. Apparently, Honda no longer wants to take second place on the podium.

At the front of the motorcycle there is a 43 mm “HMAS” telescopic fork with a travel of 120 mm. Two floating rotors (310 x 5 mm) on the front wheel (3.50 x 17 inches) and 3 Nissin piston calipers. The rotor is made of stainless steel with 6 spokes, and on Honda models with a large wheel diameter there are 10-12 spokes.

Here's what the press writes about the new Honda model: “Beautiful appearance has never been the main goal of production. Pure aerodynamics come first.” The fairings are the by-product of careful and extensive wind tunnel testing; the model has few sharp corners in its design; thanks to the air ducts on the front wheel, a low-pressure zone is created on its outer edge, this helps control the air flow around the front wheels; The front turn signals are integrated into the mirrors, as on the NR750, eliminating air resistance. The CBR1100XX has a lower drag coefficient than the NSR250.

The most important element in the design is the inclined front fairing. Bulky conventional headlights did not fit into the XX model with its radically pointed nose. As a result, combination headlights were developed that shine both high and low beam at the same time.

It's no secret that the most important thing in a motorcycle is its engine. The CBR1100XX motorcycle engine, with a power of 149 horsepower, replaced the engine with 136.7 horsepower.

The brake is located on a bracket behind the right fork slider. On the previous model with LBS brake, the front and rear brakes were used simultaneously. And in the CBR1100XX model, when you press the brake, first the left piston is activated, and then the right one. The result is smoother braking.

When journalists asked one of the main Japanese designers why the CBR1100XX did not have an inertial inflation system, the answer was short: “XX has 164 hp. With. [Japanese standard] and very fast. It doesn’t need inertial inflation.” Such a system would make the bike even faster, but it is quite difficult to achieve. And besides, without inflating, this motorcycle reaches a speed of almost 290 km per hour, which is very impressive.

The CBR1000 fairing looks very good. The black frames, subframe and engine blend with the thin aluminum components, oil lines and wire braid. And this sophistication can be seen throughout the motorcycle. Every aluminum body fastener, steering head and exhaust pipe are neatly cut out.

The very idea of ​​a model is built not only from its individual details. To be called the greatest motorcycle, it must be comfortable and easy to ride. The creators also put a lot of effort into this. The panel and footrests are made to a high standard. The motorcycle is easy to control. However, the instrument cluster is not so simple; the speedometer occupies a dominant position on the panel, which suggests that the developers wanted to draw the driver’s attention to the speed capabilities of the model.

The engine in the previous model of the CBR1000 motorcycle had a displacement of 998cc, this model has a 1137cc engine and weighs almost 10 kg more. Honda used a rubber damper and floating clutch to dampen internal engine noise.

The XX is by no means a small motorcycle. He weighs 557 pounds. However, the large mass of the motorcycle is not felt when driving. This is achieved not only by mass centralization, but also by placing the fairing and windshield closer to the driver than usual. Unlike many bulky motorcycles, this motorcycle has a narrow fairing and a wide, flat windshield that create the feeling of riding a small motorcycle.

Despite the large engine, the bike does not make a loud roar. Another advantage of the model is the six-speed gearbox. The developers planned to use a cable-driven clutch, but the hydraulic unit worked surprisingly well. Even in adverse highway conditions, the traction ensures a smooth ride. Our test drive was hampered by bad weather and the bike was moving in second gear. But under ideal track conditions, the CBR1100XX will beat its rivals in 10 seconds at a speed of 212 km/h.

Riding a liter motorcycle in the city is comparable to riding a tank, but the Honda surprised us. It doesn't take much effort to control a motorcycle on a busy road. Maneuvering at low speed is quite easy. Folding side mirrors are what you need for those who drive in places with limited space.

The latest Honda model's wheels are quite large at 58.7 inches, which is four-tenths of an inch shorter and heavier than those on the CBR1000. The black frames pair beautifully with the black sculpted body. Sixty percent of exported models have Bridgestone BT57s (as pictured), the rest are Dunlop's D205.

So, the test drive showed that the motorcycle is very fast and also quite smooth. Honda balancer shafts do their job by preventing unwanted vibrations while driving.

The power increases with the speed, as if the motorcycle were equipped with an air duct. The engine has power over 6000 rpm, but due to the large diameter of the carburetor diffuser (42mm), there is not enough air speed to climb the mountain at low speeds. However, as the speed increases, the speed also increases, and then the driver better grab the steering wheel firmly. Peak power is achieved at 9,750 rpm, but on the test drive the XX motorcycle withstood 10,950 rpm!

Is the SBR1100XX a nimble motorcycle? Several tests have answered this question. Due to the non-adjustable front end, the suspension is overdamped. Low compression and rebound rates cause the bike to wobble over bumpy terrain. This causes inconvenience. This could have been avoided with a fully adjustable fork, and the fact that Honda didn't include this feature is inexcusable.

Dual mufflers are necessary to keep exhaust noise within acceptable limits. The rear wheel (5.5 x 17 inches) has a 4.7-inch "Pro-Link" suspension with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping. The two X (XX) emblem is a decorative element of the motorcycle.

The rigidity of the frame counteracts the rigidity of the suspension. Even with the suspension shortcomings, the bike handles twisty terrain well at high speeds. Moving the motorcycle from top to bottom requires little steering effort, as opposed to leaning from one side to the other. The two-stroke engine of the CBR motorcycle promotes rapid movement in space. The motorcycle's braking system copes well with critical situations when the driver has to suddenly reduce speed. In this, this motorcycle model is superior to previous ones.

The fairing outlets direct air into the oil cooler and radiator. Separating panels prevent hot air from mixing with cold air flowing through the openings in the upper fairing to the 9.5-liter vent box.

Unfortunately, the additional brake lines, retarders and servo mechanisms mask one drawback characteristic of Honda models - the feeling of a “soft lever”. But six pistons on three rotors is definitely considered a plus. Some test drivers use the rear brake quite hard, not thinking it would cause rearing, but the retarders do a great job of preventing this from happening. Each driver will evaluate a motorcycle's braking system differently. This is a review of the Honda model that brought us the fastest motorcycle ever created. The CBR1100XX has set an even higher standard in the sportsbike market, combining comfort and handling in a fast and refined package.

Honda combines comfort and handling in a fast and refined package.

Make no mistake, the CBR1100XX is not just a CBR1000 with an upgraded fairing. This is a new Honda project. Experts have created a leader among other motorcycles. Instead of using the engine from the first CBR models, Honda developed a new design with a 1137cc engine and cylinder block configuration. The cylinder block is angled forward approximately 22 degrees more than on the old CBR, allowing it to accommodate the largest carburetor in existence (Keihin CV, 42mm) on a 4-barrel motorcycle. (The previous CBR model had a 38mm carburetor). The camshafts are driven by a side cam chain, which reduces the distance between the cylinders and gives room for the engine. The placement of the cam gear on the right side (compared to the old model, where it was located in the center) allows for a narrower and lighter cylinder block. In addition, the steel cylinder liner has no protrusions on the surface, so the entire upper aluminum body of the motorcycle is cast as one piece, making it more economical and easier to process. The cylinder block is now 408.5 mm wide. Holes and stroke parts are 79 x 58mm compared to 77 x 53.6mm on the old CBR model.

Here is a double shaft balancing system. The first balancer moves from the crankshaft in the opposite direction to the movement. Another balancer is located above and below the crankshaft, moving opposite to the direction of the first balancer. Honda claims that the combination of these two balancer shafts eliminates most engine vibrations.

The cylinder head is similar to those installed on the 600 and 900 models. It is based on a valve actuation system using a piston. The valve angle is now 30 degrees (compared to 32 degrees on the 600 and 900 models), allowing for a flatter, more compact combustion chamber and more efficient flame movement. The valve dimensions are 32mm for intake and 27mm for exhaust. Honda's designers wanted to make the XX as streamlined as it was powerful, and by eliminating the engine mounts, they incorporated frame powertrain. The strengthened frame added weight to the motorcycle. Prior to the Model XX, other motorcycles used only a single balancer, but Honda installed a dual balancer system designed to eliminate high-frequency engine vibration. The computer-controlled 3D ignition system combines with the throttle position sensor on the carburetors and monitors to regulate throttle angle and engine speed. To cool such a powerful unit, Honda created a new high-capacity aluminum radiator. To dampen excess noise, the clutches are lined with a thick rubber pad and have rubber inserts around the mounting bolts. The spring-loaded front gear has six speeds and effectively reduces excess driveline play and resonating noise produced by the main gear.

The newly developed frame consists of three layers and has a box-shaped section, it is made of aluminum and has dimensions of 40 x 90 mm. Unlike the frame on previous models, this one is more durable. Honda specialists have created a “tuned” frame with an optimal ratio of torsional and lateral stiffness.

Comfort

The convenience for many will be that this motorcycle is far from a sportbike in terms of properties. Yes, the engine is strong, but the wind protection, dry and curb weight, chassis - all this is closer to a touring motorcycle than to a sports one.

And in this case this is a plus. It is unlikely that a person who wants only speed will pay attention to this class in principle. The dimensions themselves are no longer conducive to the maneuverability that a regular sportbike is capable of. Potential buyers of a sports tourist are primarily interested in comfort and practicality, while speed and design are a kind of pleasant bonus.

Honda CBR 1100XX SuperBlackbird - valve adjustment.

So, the procedure is standard, nothing new, but it’s always interesting to look under the hood.
Remove the plastic, tank, receiver cover and air filter. Which, by the way, is time to change.

The injection unit is all dirty and dusty, all due to untimely replacement of the filter element.

We remove it for washing, cleaning, rinsing.

Then we free access to the valve cover and carefully remove it from its tight depths.

We measure the gaps and check with the nominal ones. In my case there were strong deviations, so we will adjust it.

We evenly unscrew the top pastel, carefully remove it and inspect it for uneven wear, scoring, etc.

We examine the camshafts in the same way.

Everything is normal, we take out the necessary baskets and adjusting washers.

We install new ones of the required thickness in place of the old ones and assemble them in the reverse order. Tighten the pastels in strict order with the torque specified in the instructions.

Then we synchronize the injection and check the motorcycle on the go.

The engine began to work more clearly, faster and smoother.

Source

Dimensions and weight

Of course, the dimensions here are impressive. This is a sport-tourist after all. The machine is distinguished by its large tank size, length and height. As for the saddle height, it is average. The long length allows the passenger to feel comfortable. So this is a good bike for traveling as a couple.

Dimensions:

• tank – 23 l;
• ground clearance – 140 mm;
• curb weight – 250 kg;
• height – 1170 mm;
• width – 720 mm;
• length – 2160 mm;
• seat height – 810 mm.

The weight of the motorcycle, of course, significantly exceeds that of sports models. Fifty kilograms. However, among sports tourists such dimensions are quite typical. This makes the class convenient for riding together over long distances.

Specifications

This is a large car, and therefore the brakes are adequate. Technical characteristics generally meet modern standards. Considering how much it costs to fix a model like this, it is important to keep the bike in good condition for as long as possible. And this specimen can be called durable.

The top speed, as well as the acceleration to 100, are impressive. Not every sportbike or cross-country motorcycle can boast of such indicators. As for fuel consumption, it is low considering the tank size and class. The dimensions of the bike are such that this figure could be higher.

Chassis

The XX is equipped with a new aluminum chassis. Triple, box-section aluminum side members connect to a cast aluminum steering head and a cast aluminum swingarm. The inclination is 25 degrees. The subframe is made of steel. Mass centralization is necessary to make a large, heavy motorcycle lighter and easier to ride. The model has a 43 mm telescopic fork “Honda Multi-Action System”. The distance from the tire tread to the wheel arch is 120 mm. The Honda internal piston is designed to provide excellent damping. Fork rebound damping has doubled, increasing with shaft speed, and fork compression damping has been increased by about 35 percent. The movement of the damper axis is 120 mm. Rebound damping is increased by approximately 70 percent, while compression damping has doubled.

Dual combined brake system for Honda CBR1100xx.

first introduced the dual combination braking system on the CBR1000F in 1993, and then further improved it in 1996 on the ST1100. A new “evolutionary” version of the double CTS is also installed on the CBR1100XX. Three-piston calipers adorn each rotor, with the front rotors measuring 310mm and the rears measuring 256mm. The two outer pistons in each front caliper are controlled by the brake levers. When braking force is increased, the servo uses the caliper lever to activate the secondary cylinder mounted on the left slider of the front fork, in turn causing the outer pistons on the rear caliper to operate. The rear brake pedal activates a central piston on each caliper.

What do the owners say?

The owners note that the motorcycle performs well on long journeys. However, they warn you: do not neglect the operating rules and drive over rough terrain. No matter how durable that model is, it is not structurally designed for this. Therefore, a breakdown will soon occur. And it’s good if there is a workshop nearby.

IMPORTANT! Such specimens, of course, are suitable for travel, but many advise using tourist enduros for very long trips. Judging by the reviews, sports tourists are not nearly as reliable in general. Although against the general background this Honda model holds up well.

It’s now impossible to get a new motorcycle, and a used one is not always in good condition. Therefore, before purchasing, it is advised to negotiate with an experienced person in the class so that he can join you and evaluate the condition of the car and how much it costs. If this is not possible, it would be nice to familiarize yourself with a couple of training photos and videos or a review that clearly shows what to look for when choosing.

The CBR 1100 XX Backbird does not cause any difficulties in operation if you follow the rules. According to the owners' description, it is still possible to get spare parts, so maintenance will not be too expensive. But it is important to understand that a motorcycle of this level requires certain financial capabilities.