Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird Review

Good Points
The Blackbird delivers power and torque smoothly and in large amounts all through the rev range, this means you're not fiddling around trying to get the revs "right". The knock on effect is that you find yourself thinking more about where you are on the road, what's going on around you and oh, that's a nice scenic view! Everything about the bike is effortless and everything I ask of it is delivered without any kind of drama.

Don't listen to anyone when they mention the linked brakes as a negative, they're fine. They quietly go about their business and other than stopping the bike a tiny bit more level, you'd never know you had them.

Bad Points
Genuine parts are very expensive and servicing properly can be a little on the costly side. There are, of course, the standard big bike problems. Do not put a Bridgestone 014 on the rear (It ate mine in 1200 miles - 1 month!)... Stick to 020's. Make sure you have good break pads on the front and rear as cheaper pads feel awful. Currently the bike has a low resale value so if you're thinking about buying one new, I wouldn't bother, unless you're going to keep it forever, it's going to be a poor investment.

General Comments
I have a full Givi luggage set fitted and it's very ugly but transforms the Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird from a fast motorway bike to a fast autobahn bike! Also fitted is a double bubble screen, front fender extender, rear hugger, gel seat and bagster fitted tank cover and bag. On the way home from a trip to mid Wales, fully loaded, I caught up with 2 GSXR 750's... The conditions were perfect on the road and I was having a whale of a time. Even with the full luggage on the gixers couldn't lose me and they were trying bless 'em. So, it wasn't very relaxing and required often more commitment than my trousers would prefer but the very fact that they couldn't shake me quantified to me just how accomplished this bike is at doing everything. Also, it loves the commute in to central London every day rain or shine just as much.