ROAD NEWS
HONDA CB1000F
Honda has built a retro version of its stunning CB1000 and it is just stunning. At first glance, it appears to be a beautiful bike from a glorious era, the CB900F Bol d’ Or. That machine was legend. Stunning looks that were backed up by success on the track against 1000cc machines, the‘ original’ leaned on an eager engine and balanced it with a nimble handling chassis, topped of with beautiful lines. Roll the Earth around the sun 46 times and here it is, the 2027 iteration. And it looks mighty fine.
It sure looks like‘ Fast Freddie Spencer’ s’ 1981
AMA Superbike but in reality, this one puts out more power, has better brakes, has all the modern electronics and can happily commute, do the odd tour and will be more than happy to strut its heritage at a track day. Timing and pricing is yet to come but if you want one of the first batch, plead your case to your dealer now. Or miss out. Your call. Just don’ t come crying to us if you miss out. You were warned..
ON A WING- NO PRAYER NEEDED
One of the most iconic Japanese motorcycles has just been upgraded. The Honda Gold Wing has been a tourer’ s staple since the first 1000cc flat-four purred out of the showroom back in 1975. Browsing the seven-inch TFT screen, you’ ll find pretty much every electronic trick in Honda’ s arsenal is located on this motorcycle. With a seven, yep, seven speed transmission, managed by Honda’ s DCT system, the Gold Wing is a rolling catalogue of touring goodness. Double wishbone front suspension leads the way on what is an eerily easy to manoeuvrer machine that lets you have a powered creeping mode, forward or backwards. Yep, reverse. The transmission can run in full auto or use the paddles to shift as you chose. With such a long and illustrious model lifespan, the accessory catalogue is massive. The list of
features is too long to quote here, so it might be time to revisit the bike with an in-depth test. The basic specs go like this: 1833cc horizontally opposed six cylinder engine. Power is 93kW at 5500rpm. Maximum torque is 170Nm at 4500rpm from a square bore / stroke of 73mm. This machine has four riding modes, tour, sport, economy and rain, and every function feels superbly refined due to the evolving technology that dampens noise, vibration and uptake in things like the driveshaft, DCT transmission … everything. Made continuously now for over 50 years, motorcycles simply don’ t get more refined than the Honda Gold Wing. And if you have never ridden one, they are easy to ride. Well balanced, ergonomically sorted, it will surprise you if you take one for a spin.
KIWI RIDER 75