Featuring a re-tuned version of the 1,084cc parallel twin found in the Africa Twin adventure models, Honda rolled out its all-new Rebel 1100 cruiser earlier today. We understand peak power is roughly 87 horsepower with a chunky 72 foot/pounds of torque at just 4,750 rpm. This will be a pretty quick cruiser.
With throttle-by-wire, four selectable riding modes, various electronic rider aides and cruise control standard, this is definitely a new generation cruiser from Honda. Available with either a manual or DCT transmission, Honda is boasting about the chassis and handling … even cornering performance. The price is pretty attractive, in our opinion, at $9,299 for the manual transmission model and $9,999 for DCT. Here is the full press release from Honda:
November 24, 2020 — TORRANCE, Calif. Honda announced today an all-new midsize cruiser model—the Rebel 1100—to be powered by a water-cooled, parallel-twin engine and offered for the 2021 model year. Introducing new technology to the cruiser category, including Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)—the model was conceptualized and developed following a “Relax and Excite” design theme, and is notable for its ability to suit a variety of rider types and deliver wide-ranging riding experiences.
A forward-looking motorcycle, the adaptable Rebel 1100 features carefully developed geometry, sport-worthy components and a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio, all of which combine to make it capable not just of straight-line cruising, but also more dynamic riding, including brisk acceleration and exhilarating cornering. The model has Honda’s renowned reliability and finish, along with a very competitive retail price.
The engine is a retuned version of the power plant from Honda’s popular Africa Twin adventure platform, with a 270-degree crankshaft design that gives a pulsing, rhythmic sound and feel at low engine speeds but runs smooth at higher rpm. The DCT enables automatic shifting, or riders can select manual mode and change gears via handlebar-mounted buttons. They can also switch between three different riding modes—Standard, Sport and Rain—each of which delivers a distinct riding experience, thanks to carefully balanced settings for power, Honda Selectable Torque Control (which incorporates Wheelie Control), engine braking and DCT.
The chassis features geometry that achieves both straight-line stability and neutral handling, and although seat height is low at 27.5 inches, the engine is compact enough to enable a 35-degree bank angle—much more than most cruisers and suitable for spirited cornering. High-performance suspension components comprise a 43 mm conventional fork with a cartridge-type damper, and twin Showa shocks with piggyback reservoirs, while the front brake has a monobloc, four-piston, radial-mount caliper with a floating rotor. Curb weight is just 509 pounds for the DCT version.
Facilitating the customization penchant for which the cruiser segment is known—and enhancing the model’s already-impressive versatility—Honda is offering a full line of accessories for the Rebel 1100, from minimalist to touring-focused.
“With the evolution of cruiser culture, today’s rider demands a motorcycle that expands on the capabilities that have traditionally been possible in the segment,” said Lee Edmunds, Senior Manager of Powersports Marketing for American Honda. “The all-new Rebel 1100 fits the bill, providing cruiser customers with technologies—including DCT—and riding experiences that were previously unavailable in the category. It’s truly a motorcycle for the modern cruiser rider.”
The 2021 Honda Rebel 1100 is scheduled for release in January and will be available in Metallic Black and Bordeaux Red Metallic. The MSRP is $9,999 ($9,299 for the manual-transmission version). ABS is standard.
Honda’s website has additional information on the Rebel 1100.
I applaud Honda for re-entering the segment with this. The 1100 Shadow still has a following to this day, and I think Big Red screwed the pooch when they put their eggs in the VTX1300/Fury basket. If you cross-shop this against the Indian Scouts, the Triumph Speedmaster/Bobber, and yes the big Sportsters, Honda has by far the bang-for-buck leader. I kinda dig the industrial aesthetic too; this one has me intrigued.
It grows on me. We know it will be smooth, reliable, and the fit and finish will be to Honda standards. If it is discounted because it’s not a “classic cruiser” it will be a steal.
If Honda is reading this, please drop this engine into a normal Roadster frame.
And make it as a classic Kawasaki Z900RS type of bike. Enough of this Neo style.
This cruiser looks awfully tiring to ride. Bottom on the deck, arms stretched upwards, dead straight ahead. Not for me, the bike’s frame is too long for this 1100, yet a peanut tank.
The proportions of the 500 have been too compromised.
Fred, good points. Proportions don’t look quite right, yet I like it. When it goes on clearance in two years I’d be tempted to buy it, somehow raise the seat about 4 inches, reroute the pipes from under the oil pan, slap on a skid plate and knobbies, and we have one sweet post-apocalypse ride.
It might work well enough but it lacks garage appeal and is difficult to look at. Honda please hire some Italians for your design department.
Kawasaki please bring back the eliminator 900 and show that wimpy Honda how a bi@$h go down a slide. Do it right now, Kawasaki. Keep it in the 400lb range, narrow, good cornering clearance, and keep the supercharger in your pants for a later version. It is time……
Boring boring boring. Bikes like this is why the Japanese are losing market share and the Euro bikes are taking up the slack. Honda that built the V65 magna, a total hot rod cruiser now comes up with a snooze of a bike like this? Going backwards big red.
1980’s were the golden age for the bikers,too many beautiful models to choose from. Remember Magnas,Shadows,Maxims,Eliminators,Maduras.They were available with too many engine choices from 400 cc to 1200.Plus too many models with air cooled inline 4 cruisers.Those were the good days.
Man! The V65 was the poster child for shaft effect. The first time I gassed one of those out of a corner I thought that I was going to die.
Yes I agree ,handling was the common problem with these early generation power cruisers.Too much raw power without refinement.But man, what about their wild and beautiful looks.Who can argue that.
Problem is instead of improving power delivery,suspension and other things for better handling the big 4 has decided to pull the plug for these bikes.
Another sad point.Hard rock and heavy metal bands mostly dissapeared at early 90 s together with these bikes.What a coincidence
It’s not often that you see something that isn’t a sport bike or something with low displacement that doesn’t have passenger accommodations.
Given that amount of complaints about this bike, it’s kind of surprising that no one has mentioned that.
While I have had a number of “street bikes” without passenger accommodations over the years. All but the 916 Ducati that I bought in 1994 was the only off the rack street bike that lacked passenger pegs. All of the rest, including my current supermoto, started life as off highway dirt bikes. I’ve had at least one of those since the seventies. Off road bikes always have more fang for the buck.
” It’s not often that you see something that isn’t a sport bike or something with low displacement that doesn’t have passenger accommodations. Given that amount of complaints about this bike, it’s kind of surprising that no one has mentioned that.”
I did mention that on Nov 24…6 days ago lol
I bought the passenger seat, pegs, sissybar and luggage shelf on EBay for my Rebel 500. It took me about 30 minutes to install it all. I think I paid about $200 but I can’t remember because it was a couple of years ago. I bet what I bought would bolt straight to the 1100.
I really like the Africa Twin Power-plant. Not a cruiser guy so how about dropping that killer motor in the CBR500R chassis…add a second front disc and tart up the suspension a bit and you have a torquey and fun street bike.
Or in the naked model and call it the cb1100F. That’s a winner right there.
I like it, primarily for the power plant, I have a 20 Africa Twin and absolutely love the engine, the software to adjust power delivery, not so much, snatchy throttle in sport modes and a funky phantom cruise at 2500 rpm on decel is bothersome, otherwise it’s an impressive power unit. I hope they didn’t neuter it too badly for the Rebel. Given the performance of it, I’d rather see it in a Super Hawk type chassis…
I have a friend that has an Africa Twin, and he loves it. He was a Honda dealer for about 50 years, and has, and rode, everything just about. its the engine that is interesting to me, a Vtwin really. but with smaller, tighter, better packaging. I can only see this being in more and more different types of models, as time goes on, and hopefully with price drops. Its a twin, not a 4 cylinder. I cant believe how many hate it, without ever riding one. I realize looks are important. but they are not everything. so many bikes for sale these days…
I’m not looking for a cruiser and probably would not buy one but I like this. Good for Honda. The top of the right cylinder is not too interesting to look at but otherwise this design hangs together pretty well.
“$9,299 for the manual transmission version.” Wait. This is offered with an automatic?
DCT
I don’t understand the allure of automatics, in cars and especially in bikes. With a manual, it’s always doing exactly what you want, when you expect it to. There’s no quirkiness to put up with and learn to live with. There is no difficulty in shifting (unless you have some foot or hand disability), and if it bothers you to shift, you’re paying too much attention. If I’m out for a cruise, I don’t even notice or remember shifting, it’s all automatic muscle memory. If I’m out enjoying the ride (90% of the time) I can pay a little attention to shifting and rev matching, and in a car, double clutching downshifts. I don’t understand why anyone would want to take any bit of the experience away and just ultimately become a passenger. I understand the allure to manufacturers, they can hopefully sell more vehicles to people who never want to spend a half day learning and the cost savings of offering fewer choices. Automatics just make zero sense to me and I’ll never buy one.
Spot-on assessment and my feelings exactly, though I’d go further and say that I really enjoy the skill of riding with gears and a clutch. A friend of mine who runs the local Ducati Monster group seemed to me to have lost his mind when he tried a Zero e-bike and declared that gear-changes were just baggage and we should all abandon them as they detract from the riding experience!
I don’t care for automatics as they never seem to do exactly what I want them to be doing. However, I agree with your friend’s assessment of the single gear electric powertrain, at least in an offroad setting. I still need a clutch (or at least one simulated through the software) as that is just too important a tool for black diamond trail riding, but not needing to shift really brings other aspects of the ride to center stage. It’s a great experience.
I tried an electric bike, though this was some time ago. I think the whole experience detracted from the riding experience. It was different but everything that I enjoyed about riding it was already present on any 250-500cc ICE bike, so was everything I missed. I didn’t get to test its full range but riding a 25 to 30 mile radius is less than what I’ve come to expect in a bike. I wish I didn’t pass on the offer to ride an Alta, maybe taking one of those through a rocky creek bed will be a better experience. Unfortunately, the nearest creek bed I can legally ride through is 35 miles away. I could make it there and ride through it but then I would need to spend the night in a parking lot with it plugged in to a light pole to get enough juice to ride back home.
Think of it this way. The closest thing to flying is motorcycling. Gear changing is satisfying with sound and thrust changes, however without, riding is like a fast jet down low, swooping and banking thru a canyon.
my 2012 VFR1200DCT has the earlier DCT, dual clutch transmission, automatic for some. When I first got it, workmates (mc gearheads) called it grandpa’s bike and that I would never be able to “do a wheelie”. It will wheelie, like most big bikes if left in gear, without clutch, if you just hammer the throttle the front wheel comes up pretty quick. and the buttons on the handlebar to allow me to over ride the auto shift when i want, makes it pretty slick. I have a car that has paddle shifters, and it works the same way, go figure. It took me a long time to get to like the DCT, but I do. Its nice, slick, in a turn leaned over, coming into the apex, if i use the front brake a little, i can hear the engine tone change, when it downshifts, but thats it. no wonky upsetting of the bike, just smooth as glass. It might take a while for the DCT to be accepted, but like electric starters, once you use one, you’ll like it, over time, and get over the “I gotta have a clutch” manly man grunt.
Sooner or later one of these makes is going to nail the auto-shift experience and the end of clutches and shift levers will be visible on the horizon, like we’ve seen happen in the auto world.
I see shifting as a distraction from the experience, not an enhancement of it.
the two DCT’s I test rode, the upshifts were pretty seamless, but the downshifts were clunky.
at slow speeds, it can be clunky, but clunky is as best it could be with a downshift at slow speeds on any bike with manual clutch. at speed, in a turn, its seamless, without any clunk or difference in feel, if you couldnt hear the difference in engine tone, it would be non existent. of course if you look for someplace where its clunky, I guess its there. i dont ride like that. the only thing i wish i could to is to put it in neutral while rolling, its goofy and wont do that. you have to stop to put it in neutral, and if you by chance roll out of a gas station downhill, you cant put it in gear while its rolling. you have to stop to put it in gear. 2 of the small things that dont make sense? its not for everyone. purists will beat it till its dead. I’ve been riding bikes all my life, and I still think off road, i would want a manual clutch. for the street, its awesome. if you like a auto for your truck, you’d like this.
Keep in mind that a DCT is not an automatic transmission, it is a manual with the same operational concerns of clutch slippage while in stop and go slow going. That can be rough on the clutches, and in the automotive world ( cages ) is only mitigated with a hybrid power train. 4 wheeling in real off road, the automatic trans is the way to go, as long as one can select a single gear to stay in. 2 wheeling in the off road with a DCT would be a tough go.
There are a couple of guys in my group of regulars that roll DCT Africa Twins, and we do real deal off-road. The DCTs seem to work flawlessly.
I currently own 2 Honda’s with DCT. My VFR1200X is fantastic running up to warp speed and smooth as butter. It’s a pig at slow speeds but I didn’t buy it to ride in the parking lot. My other DCT is a 1000cc side by side with a cab and tracks. It’s truly amazing how it keeps power to the ground. I’ve had zero issues with the DCT, it’s great!
I am always looking for a bike that will fit my needs. If I just wanted to hop on the freeway to get across town, the rebel will do just fine.
I am always looking for a bike that will fit my disability. With a prosthetic leg, I require a cruiser that is low enough to throw my leg over, and is light weight. The rebel fits.
As for reliability, it’s a Honda. Nearly bullet proof when compared to Harley or BMW…
My personal style requires taller handlebars, a windshield, cargo, and another gallon of gas.
and change that exhaust to something loud enough to hear me coming past you at high speed.
what is interesting, is the 270° crank. first suggested by Phil Irving in the fifties, it basically makes a V-twin, not by turning the cylinders, like Harley Davidson, but by turning the crank pins. This allows the cylinders to be side by side for better packaging, side by side carburetors (I know Fi these days), and proper weight distribution for better handling. Still keeping the potato potato sound and feel of the engine. not much said about that, unless i missed it. I’ll bet this bike is smaller than what most think it is, and its a blank canvas, maybe soon we will see more versions, not just this chopper style, from Honda?
Do not forget the best part. Both pistons and rods never stop or start at the same time. This is a win win for performance vs reliability.
More than the “potato-potato” (unique to narrow angle =-engines), it produces a desirable inertia trade between the pistons. Sounds good, but also works to smooth the output, plus all that other good stuff you mentioned.
I4 engines are sometimes accused of having no “soul”. Listen to a Yamaha cross plane 4 with an open exhaust and you’ll wonder why all I-4’s haven’t gone that route for the sound alone. Nobody would bag on 4 cylinder cars if they sounded this way.
My son has an MT-10 with the cross plane motor. Sounds great even with the stock exhaust.
what is “a desirable inertia trade between the pistons” ? the pistons are going up and down, in their own bores? you mean connected to the crank, all multi cyl engines do that! I’m lost… there is no magic. potato potato, is mc speak for a Vtwin. I see sometimes, in other parts of the US, maybe the world, some phrases become more than what i think. like listening to someone describe “hey look at those jet-ski’s”, when they are really Sea-Doo’s, pointing that out, they say, “yeah, jet-ski’s, not knowing the term jetski is actually a specific brand, and the term should be “watercraft”. “hey look at that jeep”, when its a toyota, but its growing on me, inertia trade… like when pushing a car out of the ditch, i’m getting it, i think.
.. and all cell phones are iPhones.
A “desirable inertia trade between the pistons” refers to a solution to the issue all flat-crank in lines have where due to the pistons being clocked @ 180*, they all “stop” twice per crank revolution and are carried through TDC and BDC by the inertia of the crank.
With a cross-plane crank or a v-engine, when one half of the pistons are at TDC/BDC, the others are mid-stroke, moving at their maximum speed, “trading” their inertia to the pistons that are stopped, smoothing the crank’s output considerably.
When it comes to flat/crossplane cranks in automotive v-engines, I’m totally lost..
https://www.cjponyparts.com/resources/flat-plane-vs-cross-plane-crankshafts
If it were just a plain vanilla UJM, not too retro and not too adventure-y, you absolutely couldn’t keep me away, even with that hideous exhaust. As is, I’m not sure what the intent is supposed to be.
To me a naked plain old (hell make it classic looking) bike with this engine would be pretty nice. Hard luggage and a small screen and I’m away. 🙂 Too late for me though, the Guzzi bug got hold of me 16 years ago…..
Nice price, performance. The rider shown is a lovely little lady, or a very attractive guy, with a strained reach to the handlebars. I believe the ergos would be better for my 6’1″ frame, provided it comes with a shim under the seat to give me legroom.
The riding position looks really poor. The rider looks like he’s dropping off a load.
close to, if not, THE preferred riding position, by many. upright, slight lean forward, central pegs not front not back. very classic rider position, since the seventies. I have no idea of what position you ride?
He’s a she. Look closely. Nice looking gal.
nice looking gal… wtf?? It is a guy with dreadlocks, lol.
Yeh, and he’s got some nice trim pecs! Not to mention slim elegant legs…
and breasts…
Sure looks like “she” has a 5 o’clock shadow going on there.
https://powersports.honda.com/street/cruiser/rebel-1100/gallery
Rider’s arms are stretched out while going straight. How can he turn? Who approved that promo pic at Honda? Needs tall seat that also slides him forward will a ball bar to keep him from humping the tank.
I love the concept and I have always loved Honda bikes and owned a few, including a cruiser: 2003 Magna 750.
But… As much as I love the concept, that seating position looks absolutely painful.
I’m 6’ tall and ride a Rebel 500 among others. The only gripes I have is that I tend to sit right on the bar which is not ideal, & the seat is rock hard and whoever designed it should commit Seppuku immediately. I wouldn’t mind if the seat was about 4” thicker so I wasn’t sitting so low too. Overall, it’s fine for 45 minutes but after that I have to shift around to find a comfortable position.
the rumored CB1100X should make more of you happy (Including me if it comes to fruition)
https://www.visordown.com/news/new-bikes/new-images-show-how-future-honda-cb1100x-could-look
they will probably make it and then not send it to the US
Feels like I just ate a York peppermint patty….
You’re supposed to eat them? I thought they were suppositories.
Give me shaft drive (no jokes about peppermint patty), cruise, good weather protection and a big arsed fuel tank.
todd, of course, but this was the first paragraph in the article
“The images you can see are have originated from the Japanese website AutoBy, the very same website that accurately predicted how the just-launched CMX1100 Rebel would look”
even if it is only similar, for me, it is a step in the right direction compared to the African Twin and the 1100 Rebel.
and I didn’t create the image someone else did. Honda’s pattern is to use the same powerplant in several different guises ex: NC 750 and NC Integra and NC Forza
or CB 500 S and X
Anyhow, fingers crossed
I think the twin 1100 motor is interesting but I’m not keen on the cruiser styling.
A standard naked version of this bike would definitely get me interested and if it was made lighter it would have plenty of real world power.
To compare, I had a 2009 Kawasaki 650 Versys. At barely 60 wheel hp and about 475 pounds wet it was a pretty quick bike. I currently own two bikes with double that power yet I was entertained by the Versys (tho I grew tired of the Versys adventure styling).
I’ve had much more powerful bikes than the two I have now but that lead to trouble.
So a 90 wheel hp twin coming in at say 450-470 pounds wet would be a nice ride. 👍
😂
You realize that’s just some artists interpretation of what a bike like this could look like if Honda wanted to make one. Where are the rumors that Honda is going to do anything else with this motor – other than the one you just created?!?
Looks great. Reminds me of the Yamaha TDM850. Their EU TRX 850 was also pretty good. C’mon Honda!
I’d rather see them follow up with a retro concept version but maybe using the AT engine.
http://www.motorbike-search-engine.co.uk/2009-motorcycles/CB1100R-1.jpg
That’s the retro that Honda should have made when they started the CB1100…absolutely gorgeous!
Looks like a TDM 850 Yamaha from the early 90’s.
Chain drive is a deal breaker for me. I will service the chain on my sporty bikes but I cannot see why in the world Honda would put a chain drive on this bike. I am sure it is cheaper. Can’t think of another reason why. Crazy.
Not as heavy as shaft drive. No power loss that shaft drive demands. No hub splines to service. No jacking up when applying heavy throttle either.
More efficient power transmission than belt drive.
Paul, no one who wants a shaft or belt on their motorcycle cares a single metric iota about those “benefits” of chain drive.
What they do care about is that a shaft driven motorcycle tends to be heavier, more expensive, and it tends to have a very rough ride because, baring the use of very expensive linkages, the rear suspension has to be short and stiff to counteract the jacking effect.
Chain drive is cheap, compact and very effective these days. With very little maintenance required thanks to o-ring chains and dry wax-based chain lubes.
History is littered with Japanese shaft-driven bike models that were designed to offer what riders said that they wanted, and then they didn’t buy them because they didn’t like the trade-offs.
Have had a Suzuki GS 850G, Honda V65 Sabre, Honda St 1300 and a Yamaha FJR
Never wished for a chain on any of them. Never worried about the weight, the complexity, efficiency loss, suspension or initial asking price. Provided with hundreds of thousands of trouble free miles.
I’d take a shaft over a chain anyday. In fact I ve had shafts on all my cars and trucks too.
Chain fine with me. Not what I would expect on this bike, but not an issue. Kinda odd but cool looking bike. Would be interested to ride one and see what I thought.
I remember my 82 Seca 650 with shaft drive and center stand. The bike wasn’t any heavier than most bikes of that era. It also had plenty of power and could still out-accelerate a modern SV650. There was no jerkiness or shaft jacking, everything about that bike was smooth as glass. My K75S is just about perfect as are my old airhead boxers. I don’t see any downsides to shaft drive.
Just today this was posted on the FJR forum in a thread called “thinking of going lighter” and is typical of the responses:
“Whilst vacationing at the coast for a few days I had the opportunity to check out the 2020 Tracer 900 GT. Meh. I’ve gotten used to the fjr’s storage and protection. And I would not be thrilled to go back to a chain”
I’m a fan of chains, but I think tomg is right. Things like weight savings don’t mean squat to cruiser buyers. Shaft jacking is really only an issue for performance riding (even spirited riding goes along delightfully well with modern shaft drives), something also irrelevant with cruisers.
Chain drive on this bike? Because the Africa twin is chain drive…the bike they pulled the drivetrain from.
Well, DCT, elec cruise, ABS and Africa Twin twin for $9999?
Yeah, because it’s cheaper.
DCT, elect cruise, ABS, hydraulic valves and shaft drive in a 100hp 75 lb ft torque, under 500# for $9999..now that would be the cat’s meow
Wow there are a lot of whiners on here! Have you ever seen a 250 Rebel? Compared to that, this is a proper machine. The only fault that I can find is that the price is about $1000 too high. It is not a good value at the current estimated price.
I am not a cruiser rider but I can see problem – they do not like to lean forward. While maintaining the posture as shown with legs forced forward, it strains raider’s lower back – badly. My guess is it will count into corporate losses.
Bingo. forward controls are a low back killer. Hard pass.
My million dollar advice.. give up on the mock harleys. Play to your own heritage and Make a CB around it.
Oh jeez, another cruiser with a peanut gas tank. If we’re going for the ‘look’, at least put twin rotors up front. A few years back, rumors abounded that Big Red was working on a “Deuville” (SP?) that’d be akin to the ST1300, only with a big parallel twin, bags, shaft, cruise, DCT, lightweight…
Yup, and we are still waiting…. are you listening Honda?
Honda did have the V-twin Deauville and even offered it in the US. I used to look for them on the used market but came up empty handed. I just stuck with my K75S, as it’s probably better anyway. BMWs K75 range was a large success in the mid-capacity sport touring category, so the market is there. Honda just, somehow, messed up with the NT700V.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Deauville
Todd, I have owned an NT700V since 2011 and have accumulated ~124K miles travelling to the 48 states and one province. It certainly wasn’t a popular bike but those who own them love them.
that’s awesome Mike
“I just stuck with my K75S, as it’s probably better anyway. BMWs K75 range was a large success in the mid-capacity sport touring category, so the market is there. Honda just, somehow, messed up with the NT700V.”
You know it’s been a while since they made the K75, right? Saying that “there is a market” because the K75 was successful is like justifying a market for floppy disks based on their past success. Time marches on.
Huge success? Wasn’t the K75S only in production for 2 years? 85 and 86?
I had deleted this comment because t was wrong. I guess the naked K75 was available for 2 years but it seems the S model was available for about 10
I think there is a market for a sub 500 pound near liter class sport tourer. All the time on the ST and FJR forums guys are seeking a lighter weight alternative to those bikes..but they don’t want cruisers or adv bikes..they want a dedicated shaft drive sport tourer with luggage
I don’t know. BMW has always been THE sport touring brand, and they’ve abandoned that market in all displacement categories. I honestly don’t think the demand is there. What would happen i suspect is that you’d end up with a bike spec’d and priced like Yamaha’s new Tracer. Then people say exactly what they said about the Tracer – that’s too expensive. Why not spend a little more and get the bigger and better one? Then all those guys clamoring for a lighter FJR end up buying the big FJR because now, it is such an amazing value.
Good point Jeremy, compared to the Tracer GT the FJR is a great value. I paid $14.5K for my 2018 FJR-A brand new or about what the Tracer GT costs only I got 1300 cc, bigger luggage, more wind protection, elect windshield, ride modes. ABS, TC, cruise and shaft drive. The only down side is the weight at 630 lbs for the FJR vs 475 lbs for the GT.
Isn’t it more like saying there’s a market for compact removable memory storage devices? BMW is still after this market with the F800s or whatever capacity they’re at now, this Yamaha is also the same idea as a K75S, it’s even a triple. I’d say there is still a strong market for a high quality smooth, mid capacity sporty touring bike with all day comfort and seamless power delivery that comes in at under 500# ready to ride.
“I’d say there is still a strong market for a high quality smooth, mid capacity sporty touring bike with all day comfort and seamless power delivery that comes in at under 500# ready to ride.”
I’d agree with that. It’s a common theme on the ST and FJR boards.
If by “compact removable memory storage devices” you mean micro SDs and quasi-adventure bikes like the Tracer or Versys, then yes, there is still a market.
But if you mean floppy disks and K75s, I’d say that demand for that niche has collapsed. BMW discontinued the F800S/GT a few years ago. It was replaced with the F900XR quasi-adventure bike.
I could live with the looks if the ride is good. I’m betting it will be a fun bugger to hop on and fly inter-city. This is clearly not meant as a continental bagger. Those brakes look fine, the single disc up front is big. Price is reasonable, weight is reasonable, too.
1. I am glad to see Honda using this engine in a few different bikes. Hopefully Honda throws this in a light sports tourer!
2. Great work on the light weight Honda!
3. I don’t get the styling. I know
this is based on old Frisco-style choppers and that others like this look, but I just don’t get it.
Who is this bike designed for? New riders who don’t recognize ugly will go for the 500, experienced riders aren’t going to ride a Rebel.
I miss the V65 Magna.
yeah, me too. I had a sabre, and it had the Honda front fairing, and i added VFR lowers to it. today, my VFR1200 is the modern replacement. like the Magna/Sabre, 6 speeds, mag wheels, disc brakes, shaft drive, big engine with lots of turque, smooth V4, but with all the modern upgrades. But, not with the chopper styling, sorry. I tell my friends, its a modern V65. Its not the V5 sport bike everyone was waiting for, and because of that, many condemned it. Its an excellent bike.
Cruise control?! And just where are you gonna cruise to with that puny tank? Talk about stooooooopid…FTN Honda.
I hope they lose their corporate butt on this one and the ‘tard that came up with it gets fired. Looks like it needs to be re-named. “Turdster” sounds about right.
One more thing. The bright minds at Honda give the USA this piece of poo but send the gorgeous and useful CB350 to India? Whoever buys this pig better keep it moving because as soon as it stops it’ll be covered in flies.
I am disappointed in Honda big time.
I get it and appreciate Honda for designing & delivering this 1100 & range of Rebels.
This 1100 model provides an upgrade goal within a range/line of bike to attract new riders with a focus on approachable comfort and low seat ergos providing easy maneuverability, low centralized weight and manageable power plant delivery.
I’d rock one albeit with someone else’s money.
I didn’t see that coming. Agree with HS1, it looks very much like the little ones. Regardless of how one feels about their appearance, that’s kind of a miss. I wonder if there is much crossover between those who like the cruiser profile and those who’ll appreciate this engine. I’d like to see this engine find its way into a road standard bike, like a CB. That’d be a nice application where its attributes would be appreciated, without running afoul of the spec sheet racers.
I like the Shadow. That’s always seemed like a good alternative to a sportster 883.
This reminds me of the Yamaha bolt, both goofy looking cruisers to me. Oh well, somebody will like it.
Let’s not forget short people may want to ride too.
The picture with the rider crossing the intersection looks really awkward. The rider triangle is all messed up for any kind of bike. Then, there is something about the tank that looks even more awkward with a person on the bike, than it already does on the dismounted bike. I am super glad Rollie Free didn’t ride a Rebel.
Honda has truly lost their corporate mind.
Single cheapazz disc up front? Yup.
Tiny virtually useless 3.6 gallon tank? Yup.
Social JustUs Warrior name and “style”? Yup.
Nailed to the showroom floor(s)? Yup.
New slogan for Honda: “You meet the wokest peoples on a Blanda”…
Wow! The rare double dis from a guy who has an MP3 and a Kymco AK550 on his short list.
I think that pretty much disqualifies you from making styling comments. And you may want to run, not walk, away from any mention of SJW anything.
I’ve never understood the appeal of cruisers, because I’m not short, even though I have shrunk two inches. But really, if it’s this or a 1200 Sportster. No contest. Modern engine and very likely to have better heat management.
Since the street bike industry seems content to make nothing for me at all. I think it’s interesting to see what they do make and what those they serve think about them. What give me a chuckle about this bike is the headlight. The industry seems to have a rule about headlights these days. So if you are going to make a traditional headlight. You have to do something weird like make it house four little headlights.
Yo, Mick! The bike has an LED headlight. I’ve seen plenty of those on Harleys including my Sportster.
Oh yeah…You’d rather ride the Weeble than a Sporty. Like I said, you meet the wokest peoples on a Blanda. You’re such a “Wild One”. 😉
Mildred: “Hey Mick, what are you rebelling against?”
Mick : “Whadda you got?”
🙂 🙂
The Blanda Weeble.. It may wobble but it won’t fall down.
Honda has made a number of bland bikes that have become cult classics. I know a few guy who really dig their Pacific Coasts.
One guy bought one and rode it for several years with this weird mural painted on the trunk. He named it Barbie. He sold it to a friend of his who used over cleaner to remove the mural. He still has it. He renamed it Ken.
Strange things happen all the time.
Oh yea, longer shocks to quicken up the front end too.
For the life of me I will never understand the chopper/cruiser look. However, if I was ” forced ” to buy this silly turd, here is a thought. Because the pegs are near the crank, and it has full fenders, would be worth the effort to R&R the seat with a giant 60s Bates pillow type, ditch the peanut tank to screw on a skinny fat, and fit a reverse cone upswept muffler or two ( aka Ducati ). They don’t show the rear axel level muffer width but must be excessive.
Could be an interesting ride, with the beautiful 270 crank, and a nice metal flake olive drab paint job.
muff looks oval to me, muffler width? excesive? ya think…
Just guessing, however anytime a muff is adjacent an axel it sticks out. Really like them to stick in.
I love some Hondas and I love some Harleys, but you don’t go to Tokyo to get barbecue. IMO, the only Japanese cruiser that held its own, and even surpassed a Harley, was the Honda Valkyrie. Performance AND looks. C’mon Honda, bring it back.
Ugliest bikes ever
Have you seen a BMW 1200C?
It’s not bad looking. With the exception of cruise control, I don’t think a bike like this needs all the electronic whizbangs. The price seems like it’s in the ballpark. Not really a fan of throttle by wire but…..
It’s all about bringing DCT to cruisers market and it sounds reasonably, but why Honda assembles it inside so cheap looking bike? Cruiser design can be raw, rude, savage, or industrial, but by any means can not be cheap!
A pretty nice “mid-sized” cruiser, I think. Even checks a lot of techie boxes, but…chain drive??
Oh right, for that mythical unicorn of a rider who wants to change his gearing.
They also nailed the mythical unicorn that wants to buy a 1100cc bike, in a declining segment, that looks exactly like a small displacement bike, even when you squint.
From 10 inch suspension travel with attendant too high a seat, to no-inch suspension travel (and with an arguably too low seat)…. Whatever happened to the golden middle?
I like it. Interesting.
If I was forced into buying a cruiser, this would be it.
The muffler is really ugly, and I don’t really understand a 3.6 gallon gas tank, but if it’s quick and light I can work with it.
Oh, that does look like odd ergos. That reach to the bars is gonna be harsh under hard acceleration. I guess young pups can handle it. Good luck.
That would be really good for Honda, if young people didn’t generally disdain cruisers.
Nice to know that at 65 I’m young…
Why, Honda?
Wow, that’s an ugly bike, even by cruiser standards.
I’ve never thought the Rebels were good looking, but I’m not a cruiser guy. They are using proven motors from the CB500f/X and the Africa Twin. So they have that going for them. I guess if I were a cruiser buyer I would at least test ride one.
Yea, that gas tank angle..uggghhh
Guess the rear passenger accommodations are add on accessories?
Attractive to nobody…..
The fuel tank / seat slope just looks …………….. wrong.
Nice job Honda, I was going for a Sportster but this one nailed the ugly American Iron look a bit better.
The price is right, but not my cup of tea.
Looks like a squished up V-Rod
That bike is one ugly duckling.
Cruise control and dual front discs would be welcome. Maybe scooting the foot controls back just another inch. Other than that, nice package.
It has a radial-mount, 4-piston caliper with a 330mm front disc, and (apparently) a radial master cylinder as well. I suspect that it will brake pretty well. It comes with cruise control standard. Looks like you’re out of luck on the footpeg location. It’s on Honda’s website already if you want to check it out.
At 487 lbs ready to ride it is light, especially for a cruiser. Should be surprisingly quick and have no need of dual discs.
Most bikes don’t really need dual disks. At least not for braking power. It’s more a matter of how many repeated stops, how quickly, they can absorb the energy of. Since no-one is likely to be diving into corners hard on the brakes repeatedly on a bike like this, a single disk should be fine.
Only time I have lost either of my brakes was coming down the Bormio side of Passo de Stelvio. I have a single front disk, smaller than this probably. I don’t reckon too many cruisers run down there quick….
Oops, I missed the cruise control part.