25,000 mile Honda CB1100 Long Term Review Update

It's been 25,000 miles since I bought this bike and I wanted to make an update to my last video where I sort of reviewed the bike. In this video I talk about what modifications and accessories I've added as well as discuss how I've maintained it. At the end I sort of break down the costs associated with owning it and how much I pay for the maintenance. I've done most of that myself so it's just a rough idea of the cost of the parts to keep this thing up and running smoothly.
One thing I forgot to mention in the video is that I've taken the spark plugs out for inspection twice and both times the plugs still look awesome and are fully in spec.
If you have any questions, comment below and I'll do my best to get back to you!
Parts/Accessories Mentioned-----------------------------------------------------------
Brake/Clutch Fluid: amzn.to/2pERWZ4 $17 (In the video I mistakenly wrote ~$40/bottle, I bought two bottles for both brake and clutch fluid swaps so it was $40 TOTAL)
3 pack 1gal Oil: amzn.to/2pCwoLY $85
Filters: amzn.to/2IRxdJH $10
Chain Cleaner (WD-40) amzn.to/2DTmvyK $10 for two big ones
Motul Chain Lube: amzn.to/2IR3gtb $12
DID Chain: amzn.to/2ISfFgy $163 as of upload (went way up!)
Saddlebags: amzn.to/2IRY74f $80 (went down by 10 since I got them)
Black Fenders: www.samurider.... 46k Yen plus shipping
Luimoto Brown Seat Cover: www.luimoto.co... $200
Honda OEM Air Filter: ~$85, got open but unused for ~$35
CB500F Handlebars and weights: ~80-100? (From Babbit's)
Mag Wheels: www.samurider.... 350,000 yen (got them from a forum member)
Attributions: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The song in the video is Broke for Free by Night Owl, and you can grab that at: freemusicarchiv...

[@thegreatunknown9]

Last night, I took a 175 mile night ride. Told my 1100, don't worry about the others before you, I Luv You, haha!

[@noleshot2713]

My 2014, like yours, is a solid, satisfying machine. I bought mine new 2 yrs ago...had been sitting in it’s crate in a warehouse, never run. Paid $7008! Now have 11,000 miles. I bought the Helm manual and did the first valve check myself...not too bad; just a lot of hoses and a tight squeeze getting the cover out. All valves were in the middle of the spec, so I wont be doing another check for awhile. I have used Rotella T on past bikes, but the Honda oil is surprising affordable. Like you, I change the filter each time. Also have Metzlers which are great (the Dunlops weren’t worn out, but had been sitting a couple of years before I bought it). Hint on chain lube: lube the inside of the chain where the side plates and rollers meet after cleaning. Centrifugal force wont tend to throw it off. I have a spray bottle with kerosene to clean it. Use a toothbrush and a rag every few hundred miles. I lightly lube the chain every 1 - 200 miles or so until a build up is noticeable, then clean. Thanks for your review! These bikes are built like tanks and should run forever with proper care.

[@wolfgangwind788]

A rare and helpfull comment , specially Valve Adjustment !

[@frankmccleese5092]

Very good review, and your bike looks great. I have a 2017 CB1100 I bought in June last year, very fond of the bike so far, about 3000 miles on it to date. I expect, being a Honda it’ll hold up pretty well.

[@iamheero]

Thanks Frank! I'm sure it'll hold up really well, nearly identical to mine so should be similarly pretty much bulletproof. If mine ever dies I'll just have to buy a newer model and swap the accessories I like over! I love the new tank and headlights on the '17s

[@dad5518]

I have a 2014 CB 1100 with 32,000 mi. and other than the usual chain and sprocket, brakes and tires and 1 valve adjustment...the bike runs like the day I bought it! Its also an easy bike to keep clean.

[@iamheero]

Just an incredibly easy bike to own and so far very enjoyable :)

[@_gdmoto]

Hey what brand is the top box bracket/rack?

[@iamheero]

It was a KIJIMA Rear Rack,Black from Samurider

[@dollazNzentz]

Thank you for this update! I just got over the 8k mark and was debating on doing the valve check myself. I agree that having those inspected every 8k is outrageous. Maybe a way for Honda to get a little more money on the side, who knows. I'll definitely wait now based off your assessment. If not to much trouble could you provide the link to that forum talking about things to look for with the valves?

[@iamheero]

For sure! The forum I use is cb1100forum.com/ and they're great, helpful group of guys and some really good resources on there. From my looking around it seems most peoples' experience mirrors my own- those valves are almost always fine. Obviously if you're hearing concerning noises or noticing a performance issue get them checked but otherwise I think you'll be fine! I wouldn't even consider it until at LEAST 16k unless you're really bored and have the space to do it yourself.

[@dollazNzentz]

iamheero much appreciated. Ride safe. Be safe!

[@alecmya]

what brand and size of tire did u like better ?

[@martingonzalez-jp7kd]

that is why i am happy to own a guzzi. valve adjustment is fairly easy! love your Honda though cheers

[@ireneuszpyc6684]

Moto Guzzi with similar power (86 bhp) costs much more to buy

[@Me-yh4uc]

Epък Pyc DUH. STATING THE OBVIOUS

[@travelinben1966]

Shaft drive,and it truly would be a home run.

[@JDuBz815]

Shaft drive sucks tho

[@travelinben1966]

@@JDuBz815 Never in my experience.

[@JDuBz815]

@@travelinben1966 get more experience?

[@travelinben1966]

I think 50 years is sufficient.

[@JDuBz815]

@@travelinben1966 apparently not

[@northrider8628]

Love my 2014 cb1100 s, i have been concerned about the 8k valve check and this really help to put that to rest. If the bike is running good and no ticking noise is being made, just like you said dont go spending the money to have them check at 8k. Do you believe i can wait till 25k safely? That is when you checked yours and they still didn't need it. I believe you said you are going to have them done at 35k? Is that correct? Thanks for the video...

[@wolfgangwind788]

Very good question ! ! My Service Master means : if you dont drive like Racer on a fast Racing all the Times, the Valve Adjustment need all 25.000 km ( Miles? )

[@dcjr1053]

Many thanks for posting this! I have a have the 2014 dlx model with 11k on it. Of all the motorcycles I've owned, this one is my favorite. Your bike looks very sharp. I added a dark Dart Marlin flyscreen to mine, I think one would look pretty slick on your bike.

[@iamheero]

Thank you! I'm sure yours looks very cool, too bad the '14 DLX is so hard to find! Would have loved ABS on my '14.

[@garyk8285]

Good review mate. How do you find the bike weight for around town commuting? I quite like these bikes. Something I'm considering when upgrading my bike.

[@telabib]

A good all round bike, so easy to ride, and so smooth. I would say buy one, you wont regret it, i didn't , and i am 74 years of age.

[@zhouhaonan973]

Hello, I'm looking to replace my tires and brakes too, what brake pads you are replacing? do you have a link to get them? thank you!!4

[@iamheero]

I've been using EBC brake pads and they seem to do well. I replace them about as often as I do my tires (which are currently Metzeler Roadtecs I think and I like them a lot). I don't remember the exact model, I think I ordered two of these (for the two front brakes): smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035TW21I/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@chevybrat]

Nice presentation! Did you ever change your battery? Ever have any issues with your battery?

[@iamheero]

I had changed it once, I just got another standard battery. Didn't think it was worth the premium for lithium ion.

[@TBT13977]

Nice handlebar swap. How does it compare to the original ones as far as long ride comfort?? Any major difference?? I have clip ons on my 2013. Love the look but for long rides they suck lol. This season I'm thinking of putting the original back on. But now I'm debating to do the cb500 ones. Anyone with any advice or info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[@Phaedrus-th7bi]

My 2013 has 37,000 plus miles on it. No problems, except my rear brakes ceased when I tightened the chain and didn't realize I had to also then adjust the rear brakes. Totally my fault.

[@JDuBz815]

Tip for 1100 guys who don't like the ABS, pull the fuses. You end up with the indicator light flashing but you still have full braking ability and the brakes actually work on gravel and dirt roads. Stopping distance in the wet is greatly reduced as well.

[@johnnydee123]

Nice… but no hero to me…

[@alecmya]

can you tell me what size of tires do u have and what brand have u been using ? i am loocking for the bigest tire i can fit in the back, maybe a 180 or 190, and the front a 120

[@lc6920]

Just bought a 2013 EX! Thanks for helping me make the purchase decision

[@iamheero]

Sweet! Glad to hear it man, I'm sure you won't regret it! If you ever start to have second thoughts, borrow a friend's bike and see how much you enjoy getting back to your CB haha

[@lc6920]

I just traded my recently purchased Rebel 500 lol! Coming from riding cafe'd out CB750's I just had to get back into the 4-2-1 game :D I'm looking forward to seeing more of your vids! You're pretty much the only one posting stuff and they're top notch quality.

[@J.A.Smith2397]

You pushed pass that 350lb weight limit???

[@sniperj3460]

A new one in my country Singapore cos US$22000....

[@HockeyVictory66]

What about the fork oil? It has to be filthy if you haven’t changed it yet.

[@oscarmayorga3732]

What’s the luggage rack you installed on your CB1100?! Look cool! I’ve been looking for one for any type of leather bags and not a brand specific rack/bag. Thanks for sharing!

[@iamheero]

I have used a KIJIMA Rear Rack,Black from Samurider or the Honda OEM silver rack on this bike, both are great.

[@JBrtn85]

Love your bike, have a question: I have a 2014 all black, is that a luimoto seat cover? And what color is that if it is? I’m thinking of buying one and not sure if it’s the vintage brown, or vintage DARK brown. Thanks and beautiful bike! 👍🏻

[@iamheero]

So, obviously I missed this but it WAS. My seat was actually the template Luimoto used to make the cover for this bike! I believe it was the vintage brown seat, for anyone looking in the future.

[@stb357]

Link to where I can get that luggage rack would be much appreciated. I bought one off Amazon, but it didn't fit the 2014 model.

[@iamheero]

Hi, I got it here: japan.webike.net/HONDA/CB1100/Rear+Carriers+Luggage+Racks/311/1121/mc/ but it doesn't appear to be available anymore. If you're in SoCal I've still got it! Only fits '13/'14, but doesn't fit '17 so it's been hanging out and I got the Honda rack for my '17.

[@georgeiliopoulos1917]

Never use diesel oil on motorcycles.Terry Cox below on the comments is absolutely right for the gearbox,etc

[@iamheero]

Hi, feel free to read my response to Terry but I recommend you do some research! The Rotella T6 I use (and have used now, for a cumulative 60,000 miles on CB1100s) meets and exceeds the oil specification requirements set forth by Honda and is in fact great for these bikes as well as many other motorcycles with a wet clutch. Don't be afraid just because it's marketed as diesel oil. If it meets the requirements of JASO MA/MA2 it is rated to be used in a 4 stroke motorcycle with a with one oil system for engine, gearbox and wet clutch system and is non-friction modified. Edited to add: Of course you'll need to look out of oil viscosity, if the T6 isn't made in an oil weight that matches what you need for YOUR bike then that disqualifies it on its own.

[@adventureontwowheels2308]

I’m in the process of changing my rear fender and I’m having a hard time disconnecting the break light wire. Need help please!

[@iamheero]

I just cut the wire when I replaced mine. Cut it far enough back and reattach by crimping and wrapping with heatshrink wrap. It's a pain in the butt.

[@ahmedmoustafa6829]

how you evaluate this bike after 25k miles?

[@Me-yh4uc]

What? No new sprockets?

[@johannej3241]

Hi, wondering what brand of wheels and size you replace it with? Thanks

[@iamheero]

Hi, they're the JB Power Magtan wheels available on Samurider and they're the same size as OEM, the exact specs elude me at the moment though

[@karels.hernandez9830]

I am concidering Honda CB 1100 F Bad Seeds. Would you recommend it ? I know there are some differences between the classic CB 1100 ABS x EX and RS. Thx 4 answer :)

[@iamheero]

I had never heard of it but it seems cool! Did you end up getting it?

[@karels.hernandez9830]

@@iamheerono, i bought honda cb 1100 (2014) with 4-1 exhaust and 5 speed. Im very happy with it, the only downsides are the 5 gear on highway and weight. I'm considering now if i should customize it (tank, exhaust, seat ect.) or sell it and go for BMW (i like the boxer too but the 4 cylinder is awesome)

[@jfro5867]

Thanks for the review(s). Just bought a 2018 one and your summary of the owning experience is exactly why.......

[@iamheero]

Awesome! Very glad to hear it man, I'm sure you'll really enjoy it. Owning a Honda as solid as this will not do you wrong. At first I didn't like the new fuel tank (biased!) but actually seeing it in person totally won me over, it's a beautiful bike.

[@ireneuszpyc6684]

much cheaper than Italian exotic cars

[@littleswimming]

I got a 2013 cb1100 last season and having a hard time finding accessories and such. anyone know where to find a sissy bar that fits?

[@iamheero]

Hi, I haven't seen any sissy bars for this bike. I don't think it's a very typical accessory for many standard bikes as it's more of a cruiser style thing. There are plenty of luggage racks, however, and in my experience the Honda one is by far the sturdiest (though you pay for it).

[@littleswimming]

@@iamheero thank you for the reply. I had a sissy bar on my 1982 cb900, and I was able to attach my frame pack and go camping.

[@mountainbikerpaul2267]

Thanks for making this video, I bought my 2013 CB1100 2 years ago with just over 2000 miles on the clock, i did 700 miles first year and 300 miles this last year (approx) and now the bike is at around 3100 miles, its nice to know I've not got to worry about too much maintenance, just one question though, do I not need to change the oil more frequent? I might not reach 4000 miles for another 2 years. Appreciate your view on this, thanks, Paul.

[@iamheero]

Slowrider Paul Hey Paul, I think if you're not riding much a good idea is just to change the oil yearly after you take it out of winter storage. Both heat and time degrade oil so I believe in the manual it's 1yr or 4,000 miles- whichever comes first!

[@mountainbikerpaul2267]

I wish I had more time to ride, but i live in England where the weather can be very wet and I am a fair weather rider, thank you for your advice, I will look to change the oil and filter this summer in that case, thanks for your quite reply, take care, Paul.

[@torsten9628]

Nice video, appreciate it!

[@iamheero]

Torsten thank you!

[@enriquezambrano1]

Hello, your bike looks great. what year is the 500cc Honda FR you got the handlebar from, and what kind of modification did you do on the throttle side of the handlebar ? Thank you...EZ.

[@iamheero]

Enrique Zambrano Hey Enrique, I don't think the year matters but I'd stick to pre-2016 to be sure, I know they did some minor updates that year. I had to rearrange some of the cables and their routing around the headlight as well as twist the cable ends where they meet the handlebars, all in all very simple stuff and no permanent modifications. I should reiterate the important part isn't just the handlebars but the weights inside, those are also the expensive part!

[@enriquezambrano1]

iamheero Thank you very much, I own a 2014 CB1100DLX. and i am planning to change the handlebar for a short and lower one, i like the one you have on your bike plus the things you said the they have inside which make the the bike feel like silk, so i can get the right handlebar, i would like to know the year of the 500cc it came from, so i can buy it. Thank you for the video, the bike looks great. Happy trails...EZ.

[@iamheero]

Enrique Zambrano yep that's what I'm talking about. It comes from a pre-2016 CB500F.

[@isaiahcase2815]

what kind of jacket are you wearing?

[@iamheero]

Hi Isaiah, I am wearing a couple different jackets at different parts of the filming, a standard bomber jacket and the Roland Sands Barfly are the two pictured I believe.

[@riffsontwowheels]

looks great

[@80sruler]

Bike looks good

[@JW-gw4pi]

Hey Heero, sick bike. Where did you get your saddlebags?

[@iamheero]

Hey! All the products I mentioned that I could find are linked in the description, the saddlebags are: amzn.to/2IRY74f

[@JW-gw4pi]

Awesome thank you

[@markhicks3330]

Can you add the magnesium wheel info to your "shopping list"?!! Sweet bike.

[@iamheero]

Yep! Here's the link, too www.samurider.com/?p=26675/#itemImage It's funny, they weigh less than the tires I put on them.

[@markhicks3330]

Thanks, also funny they are half the price of one of the left over 2014 CB1100!!! But, Man, they look slick!

[@iamheero]

Mark Hicks absolutely, they're very expensive. I got mine for $1500 shipped secondhand though.

[@lc6920]

@iamheero I can't believe these wheels are over 3gzzzz USD 😭😭😭

[@iamheero]

I just tried to replace the sprocket too, VERY expensive. Over $200 for the rear sprocket from the OEM, it was still over $120 for another manufacturer's version, and it's a super weird bolt pattern so I couldn't find one in the US! I love them but yeah, it's nuts.

[@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff]

Diesel engine oil is not made for engines with combined engines and gearboxes like most motorcycles have. Diesel engined vehicles usually have seperate gearboxes and the gearbox is lubricated with a different type of oil. You want to change back to an oil specifically designed for motorcycles with properties designed for the gearbox as well as the engine. Whichever brand takes your fancy. Great bike, this would be my 2nd bike if I could afford another!

[@iamheero]

Hey Terry, thanks for the input! Fortunately, the diesel oil I use (Shell Synthetic Rotella T6) meets and exceeds JASO-MA (Japanese oil standard for 4 stroke motorcycle shared engine/gearbox oil use) and uses no friction modifiers which is what you want to avoid. Therefore it will do no damage to the bike despite also working in diesel engines. Like I said in the vid, didn't want to get into an argument about oil types but since you brought it up I just wanted to remind anyone reading that if your oil meets the specifications stated in your manual it doesn't really matter what brand you use.

[@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff]

iamheero - cool, I stand corrected!

[@thecharliebravomotorcycler5335]

I have been running the T6 is a variety of bikes for years, CB750, CB900, CB500X, ST1300, Bonnevilles, CB1, DR650, Moto Guzzi, nary a problem yet...

[@Me-yh4uc]

Haha. You’re thinking too much.

[@roguewarr4662]

I just started watching your video review of the bike (cb1100) but when i got to part where you were on the hwy splitting cars . i was done ,because you think it's cool to show younger riders how to get killed doing that . you may have poor riding skills but keep it off reviews ....ya ya if you don't like it don't watch ..so that's what i'am doing...

[@iamheero]

I'm sorry you don't like lane splitting, however it's legal and statistically safer despite your feelings to the contrary. If you have any research that shows otherwise I'd be really interested in reading it, though.

[@roguewarr4662]

One i have no feelings .two just because you say it's legal doesn't mean it's a fucking smart thing to do . But just because you young guys are so much smarter than us older riders that have seen a few more dead bodies on the road because they didn't make it splitting cars ....statistically it's a stupid why to ride .....Don't know what state you live in ,but most state troopers will bust your ass if they catch you splitting cars ....now go screw off, your boring me with your research stupidity

[@iamheero]

rogue warr, The only reason I want to keep your ignorant comment up is because hopefully someone else will see it and educate themselves. You call it a stupid way to ride but statistics disagree with you. I know you think research is stupid, but UC Berkeley fortunately doesn't. Their numbers, when they did a comprehensive study on lane splitting, disagree with your anecdotal experience. Furthermore, you're a million times more likely to be following a California Highway Patrol motorcycle as THEY split lanes than you are to be pulled over for it. You know, considering again that it's fully legal (and for good reason, even if you don't understand) what could a trooper say to me? But what do I know, I'm just a lawyer. Ride safe bud

[@roguewarr4662]

Do you realize what most of this country thinks about the U-Berkeley -antifa-lawyers .Not a whole hell of a lot..That's why most of us so called (ignorant -deplorables ) don't believe in a word that cums out of your pie hole .Mr iamheero ...Really looks like any jerk can upload a cool Honda cb 1100 video.

[@iamheero]

What a well articulated ad hominem comment, it definitely doesn't sound like the simple ravings of a lunatic! Ride safe