The new 2026 Honda CB1000F transforms the CB1000 Hornet SP platform into a retro-inspired machine that harkens back to superbike racing of the early 1980s.
This bike is specifically inspired by the inline-Four CB750F and CB900F models, which Freddie Spencer raced in the AMA Superbike series beginning in 1980, paving the way for Honda’s mid-80s racing efforts highlighted by riders like Fred Merkel, Wayne Rainey, and Bubba Shobert. This new interpretation features flowing lines that connect the fuel tank through the side covers to the rear, chrome downpipes, an exposed engine, and graphics inspired by Spencer’s AMA Superbike. It also features a 4-2-1 exhaust with a three-chamber megaphone-style muffler.
The CB1000F uses the engine that debuted in the 2017 CBR1000RR. The 1,000cc inline-Four has been tweaked for use in the CB1000F, including revised camshafts for exhaust and intake valve timing and tuned intake specifications. These changes result in an engine that prioritizes performance at lower rpm, improving throttle response below 6,000 rpm. The gearbox is also revised, with 1st and 2nd gears getting lower ratios for increased low-speed response and 3rd through 6th gears getting higher ratios for low-rev cruising.
The bike also comes with five ride modes that affect engine power, engine brake, and Honda Selectable Torque Control, with each parameter having three levels. Ride modes include Standard, Sport, and Rain, as well as two User modes that allow the rider to set parameters and save the settings for future use. Cornering ABS is also included.
The bike’s one-piece, steel diamond-style twin-spar frame is borrowed directly from the CB1000 Hornet SP, and the subframe is specific to the CB1000F. The rear fender and seat bottom panels are made from pre-consumer recycled polypropylene material. The bike offers a relaxed and upright riding position with a 31.3-inch seat height, and the curb weight is listed as 472 lb.
A 41mm inverted Showa SFF-BP fork offers preload and rebound/compression damping adjustment, and the Showa shock with Pro-Link can be adjusted for preload and rebound damping. Stopping power comes from dual radial 4-piston Nissin calipers pinching 310mm discs up front and a 1-piston Nissin caliper paired with a 240mm rear disc.
In spite the CB1000F’s retro styling, it benefits from several modern amenities. The Honda Smart Key allows riders to turn the bike on without removing the key from their pocket. Lighting is all LED, including the classic circular headlight with low beam on top and high beam at the bottom. A 5-inch TFT display allows riders to choose among Bar, Circle, and Simple display patterns and connects to smartphones via the Honda RoadSync app to access navigation, phone calls, and music.
The 2026 Honda CB1000F is available now in Wolf Silver Metallic for $10,599. Visit the Honda website for more information.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2026 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
What a beautiful bike! And thank you Honda for putting a little color on it, not your usual Matte black/Bondo gray!
Wonder if they will offer a fairing. I really wish i still had my CB900F with the CBX style fairing.
Yeah, I totally agree. A fairing would be a fantastic option.
Bought a new 1983 CB 1100F back in the day. Red and white. Nice bike but jetted so lean for emissions couldn’t get it running from November to March, when it finally warmed up on Long Island
Only thing “ retro “ is the color paint job. If it has 2 wheels they are calling it retro.
Disagree. Round headlight, tank mimics late 70’s/early 80’s CB’s, tank flows to side panels to underseat panels to rear bodywork with a little spoiler flip. Exposed shiny header pipes flow to chromey final muffler pipe. I have the 2013 CB1100, which was very retro. Honda had a hard time selling them. I’m going to add one of these to my collection. Maybe these will sell better.
Blacked out engine radiator looks like it is off of a different bike and the passenger pegs are to high to be comfortable I will keep my nighthawk
Looks very nice. Could have done without the key fob and the parts bin screen. A round screen similiar to what Indian offers on some of their models would have been nice.
I’m glad Honda signed off on offering this. Considering they had to work with an existing model, I think they did a great job with styling. I will be buying one.
It would have been easy to put finning on the cylinders to make it look like an air cooled 70s motor. And some brushed aluminum or bronze …….As is it looks like an all black industrial air compressor.