Design inspired by the Bol d’Or
The Honda CB 1000 F SE Concept is visually based on the legendary Honda CB 900 F Bol d’Or, which was launched in 1978. The design echoes the classic lines and colors – silver and blue. The SE variant also retains the concept of its historical predecessors, complemented by a round headlight fairing in the style of a café racer. Honda is thus following a trend that other manufacturers such as Kawasaki also pursued with the Z 900 RS Café. However, this variant disappeared from the range after a short time.
Premiere at the 8-hour race in Suzuka
Honda officially announced that the CB 1000 F SE Concept will be unveiled for the first time at the 8-hour endurance race in Suzuka, Japan, on August 1, 2025. The CB 1000 F Concept had already been on display at the Osaka Motorcycle Show in March 2025. The models on display showed that production was already well advanced.
Technical basis: modern Hornet meets retro look
Both the CB 1000 F and the SE variant are technically based on the Honda CB 1000 Hornet, which was newly introduced in 2025. The steel frame with aluminum swing arm, central spring strut, and upside-down telescopic fork, as well as the brake system and wheels, have been carried over. According to the current status, the Showa SFF-BP upside-down fork and adjustable central spring strut will also be used.
Engine and performance
The CB 1000 F SE is powered by a water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine based on the CBR1000RR Fireblade (type SC59). In the CB 1000 Hornet, this engine delivers over 150 hp (110 kW) at an estimated 10,500 rpm. However, insiders expect the retro models to have a peak power output limited to around 120 hp (88 kW) to enable more balanced handling. This would put the power output on a par with the Kawasaki Z 900 RS, which offers 111 hp (82 kW). The maximum torque is expected to be in the range of 100 Nm.
Features and design details
The striking design of the CB 1000 F SE is complemented by a round LED headlight with matching fairing. The muscular tank with a raised center section and the classic rear with rectangular taillight are reminiscent of the Bol d’Or era. Modern technology such as LED daytime running lights and presumably contemporary instrumentation complete the overall picture.
Availability and prices
Following the presentation of the concept models, the final production versions are expected in fall 2025. The market launch in Europe and Germany is announced for spring 2026. In terms of price, the CB 1000 F SE is expected to be positioned between the current Honda CB 1000 Hornet (from €10,499 / approx. US$11,350) and Kawasaki’s retro models, such as the Z 900 RS (from €13,595 / approx. US$14,700).
Conclusion
With the CB 1000 F SE Concept, Honda is continuing the tradition of classic four-cylinder naked bikes and combining retro design with modern technology. The new café racer-style headlight fairing underscores its unique position in the current lineup. The technical basis, paired with the harmonious appearance, should also make the model interesting for fans of classic motorcycles.
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