Ah, the Honda CBX. Just saying the name brings a glint to the eyes of motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere. For those in the know, the CBX isn’t just a bike; it’s a legend on two wheels, an engineering marvel that continues to inspire awe decades after it first hit the streets. Whether you’ve had the pleasure of hearing that iconic six-cylinder engine roar to life or you’ve only admired it from afar, the CBX stands as a testament to what happens when motorcycle design dares to dream big.
Let’s take a journey back to the late 1970s, a time when Honda decided to do something truly audacious. And by audacious, I mean squeezing six cylinders into a bike that looked like it was ready to take on the world, and win.
The Birth of a Beast: A Little History
The Honda CBX was first introduced in 1978, at a time when the motorcycle industry was beginning to flirt with the idea of power and speed in ways that hadn’t been seen before. Honda, never one to shy away from a challenge, decided to go all out. The result? A bike that packed a 1,047cc, inline-six engine into a sleek, muscular frame. That engine, by the way, was derived from Honda’s racing technology, making the CBX not just a motorcycle, but a piece of racing history brought to the streets.
Now, six-cylinder bikes weren’t entirely new—Benelli had already made some noise with its Sei—but Honda took things to a whole new level with the CBX. The sheer ingenuity of cramming that much engine into a relatively lightweight frame was revolutionary. The bike weighed in at just over 600 pounds, which, for something with six cylinders, was practically featherweight.
But it wasn’t just about power. The CBX was also about smoothness. That engine didn’t just roar; it purred, creating a symphony of mechanical precision that made even the toughest bikers swoon. It was fast, sure, it could hit 140 mph without breaking a sweat, but it was also incredibly refined. Honda had managed to create a bike that was both a brute and a gentleman, something that could tear down the highway yet remain composed and smooth while doing so.
Engineering Marvel: Why It Was (and Still Is) a Big Deal
The CBX wasn’t just a bike, it was an engineering masterclass. For starters, the inline-six engine was a feat of mechanical brilliance. Compact, powerful, and beautifully balanced, it represented the pinnacle of Honda’s engineering prowess at the time. It was the kind of engine that made other motorcycle manufacturers sit up and take notice, and maybe lose a little sleep at night.
But what really set the CBX apart was how all that power was delivered. Thanks to its six carburetors and sophisticated engine tuning, the bike offered a level of responsiveness that was practically unheard of. The throttle was smooth as butter, the acceleration was linear, and the sound—oh, the sound! That high-pitched wail as the revs climbed was like music to the ears of anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. It was, quite simply, a masterpiece.
And let’s not forget the design. The CBX’s engine wasn’t just functional; it was beautiful. It protruded proudly from the sides of the bike, almost as if daring other bikes to try and keep up. The rest of the design was sleek and minimalist, allowing that magnificent engine to take center stage. This was a bike that looked fast even when it was standing still.
Why We Might Never See Its Like Again
So, why don’t we see more bikes like the CBX today? Well, for one thing, it was expensive to produce. Honda poured a ton of resources into the CBX, and while it was a technological marvel, it wasn’t exactly cheap to build—or buy. That six-cylinder engine required a level of precision and engineering that most modern manufacturers just aren’t willing to invest in these days, especially when simpler designs can get the job done for a fraction of the cost.
There’s also the fact that motorcycle tastes have changed. Today’s riders are often looking for something more practical, more fuel-efficient, and perhaps more suited to urban environments. The CBX, with its raw power and highway-crushing capabilities, was built for a different era—one where bikes were as much about making a statement as they were about getting from point A to point B.
But that’s exactly why the CBX remains such a cherished icon today. It was a bike that didn’t compromise, a machine that existed purely for the joy of riding. And in a world that sometimes feels like it’s moving toward the utilitarian, the CBX stands as a reminder that there’s still a place for boldness and beauty in motorcycle design.
The CBX Abroad: Making Waves in the U.S. and Beyond
While the CBX made a big splash in Japan, it also had a massive impact overseas, particularly in the U.S. American riders, who had already developed a taste for powerful bikes, were smitten with the CBX’s combination of muscle and finesse. It wasn’t just a bike; it was a statement, a rolling piece of art that commanded respect on the road.
In the U.S., the CBX found a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciated its unique blend of speed, style, and sophistication. Motorcycle magazines of the time couldn’t get enough of it, and riders who were lucky enough to get their hands on one quickly became the envy of their peers.
But here’s the thing: even back then, the CBX wasn’t cheap. And today? Well, let’s just say that finding an original, unmodified CBX in good condition is like finding a needle in a haystack, except that the needle is made of gold. Prices for original CBX models have skyrocketed in recent years, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for a piece of motorcycle history. It’s not uncommon to see well-preserved CBXs going for tens of thousands of dollars, and the price only seems to be climbing as time goes on.
If you’re thinking of adding a CBX to your collection, be prepared to shell out some serious cash, and maybe embark on a bit of a treasure hunt. But for those who manage to find one, the reward is more than worth it. After all, owning a CBX isn’t just about having a motorcycle; it’s about owning a piece of history, a tangible reminder of a time when motorcycles were designed with pure passion and creativity.
Final Thoughts: Why the Honda CBX Will Always Be a Legend
In the end, the Honda CBX is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a symbol of what can happen when engineers and designers are given the freedom to push boundaries and create something truly special. It’s a bike that defied expectations, challenged conventions, and left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycling.
Whether you’re lucky enough to ride one, or you’re simply an admirer from afar, the CBX will always hold a special place in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life aren’t practical, but they’re definitely worth the ride.
If you are passionate about motorcycle history like we are, strap up tight and hold yourself in, we will be bringing a brand new tour in the horizon that will center around the Tokyo Motorcycle Show, an annual event that will see a blend of new and old motorbikes for all enthusiasts; and you might just see a Honda CBX or two when you’re there!
