Honda’s all-new CMX1100 will launch in Australia next year, as the Japanese brand enters the litre-class cruiser segment occupied by the likes of the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 and the Yamaha Bolt.
The Honda CMX1100 draws power from the the same 1084cc parallel-twin engine used in the CRF1100L Africa Twin adventure bike, with a unique tune that puts outputs at 64kW and 98Nm.
For comparison, the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 ($12,699) delivers 37kW/78Nm from its 903cc V-twin, while the Yamaha Bolt ($14,499 rideaway) makes 38kW/79Nm from its similar 942cc powertrain.
The Honda CMX1100 takes on the same ‘bobber’ design language as the CMX500 LAMS cruiser but gains significant performance parts and electronics to match its larger-capacity donk.
Like the Honda Africa Twin, from which it draws a number of components, the CMX1100 will be offered with the choice of a conventional six-speed gearbox, or an automatic dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
According to Honda, the twin-cylinder engine has been tuned for strong bottom and mid-range power delivery, while the electronics suite packages three rider modes to tailor power output, engine braking, torque control and wheelie control.
Specifically, four rider modes are selectable, dubbed Standard, Rain, Sport and an editable User mode.
Cruise control is also standard, while DCT-equipped units will allow for tuning of the shift schedule.
For instance, in Standard mode, the DCT shift pattern is optimised for low-speed cruising, while the Sport mode holds onto revs for longer before upshifting.
Opting for the DCT adds 10 kilograms to the CMX1100’s wet weight, for a total 233kg.
In a press release, Honda suggests that the new cruiser is designed to be manageable for a range of rider types with its 700mm seat height, yet its geometry allows a 35-degree lean angle for fast goings.
Other notable features include LED lights, a negative LCD instrument cluster and a USB charger in the three-litre under-seat storage compartment.
Is Honda working on a CB1100X sports tourer?
While there is no official word from Honda, rumours have recently been circulating that Honda may be working on more models based on the 1100 platform.
Japanese publication Young Machine recently published a rendering that imagines a CB1100X, using the same 1084cc parallel twin as found in the CMX1100 and Africa Twin.
If the CB1100X is to surface, it could be well positioned to rival the recently revealed Yamaha Tracer 9 GT and the BMW F 900 XR.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
