Honda CBF1000 Long Term Review & Thoughts (15,000+ Miles)

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Apologies for the delayed release, I was travelling to Tampa and find it very difficult to do properly on the phone app :) Let me know would you buy a CBF? I love this bike.

[@richierichardson5333]

A question please 🤔 you mentioned after 25000 miles you have to change the stator? I was just wondering what would be the initial cost of the stator? Is it expensive 🤔 the performance of the bike is very impressive 👏 its perfect for the riding I like to do, also the comfort is important? The videos fantastic 👏 thank you man..

[@brianevans1776]

I have had my 2008 CBF1000 for 10 years now and have put 75k miles on it. It truly is a great bike to own and yet it's rarely acknowledged or promoted. I used to commute 400 miles a week on fast motorway, then into central London. I have travelled all around Europe and even ridden to the edge if the Arctic Circle (Norway) so hence all the miles. The engine at 80k miles sounds as good as the day I bought it thanks to regular servicing. It has lived in a garage, even at work, so still looks very decent. Its reliability and usability is why I have kept it so long, and it feels like a good friend to me!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I honestly think it's one of those bikes that did it's job too well, and that made it get over looked as it was never a flash bike. I know people who've used them on track for years also and they're pretty quick there too!! Yeah garage kept really helps the finish, sounds like you've had a great life with it so I can completely understand how it feels like an old friend. Mine honestly it's just that ol reliable that will never disappoint me I think :)

[@richierichardson5333]

A question please? Did you ever have to change the stator? And if so what was the cost to buy it 🤔

[@randomrides]

I've just bought a 2016 MK2 and first impressions are all positive...I'd always overlooked it🤦

[@Grumpy-Goblin]

I just wanted to thank you for all the content on this bike and to say that your content is one of the reasons that yesterday I purchased a one owner CBF1000 with all the luggage to replace my aging CB500. It has been really hard for me to find a "do it all" bike because you are automatically drawn to adventure bikes but at 5'7" with a 29" inside leg every adventure bike even the ones I can touch the ground on do not make me feel confident but the CBF I can flat foot comfortably and it doesn't feel as heavy as I was expecting.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ah thanks, well thank you for watching them :) Best of look with the bike, it's honestly been an absolute work horse for me and it'll kill me now that I've to sell it to move country. Honestly it'll do 98% of what you'd have done on an adv anyway :) Very glad you like it! :)

[@kevinsilson2711]

I absolutely loved your impression before you bought this bike and this video as a follow-up, really excellent I live in Perth, Western Australia and have just purchased a 2008 CBF1000 with 55000km on the clock. Mine did not come with the lower belly pan part of the fairing, only the upper half. It also came with aftermarket panniers which are much bulkier and round but also clamshell style (they have already been removed and will replace with a larger topbox only). I last rode 38 years ago (Kawasaki Z1300 with full custom fairing, previously Suzuki GS850, an old original Honda CB750, Yamaha R5 350 and Yamaha YM1 305), so am basically learning to ride from scratch again, though you never forget the basics and with time will be back to "normal" again hopefully. I am now 71. I agree the saddle height on middle is good for me but the handle bars are going to be replaced, just find them too straight and a little too low as I am bending over forward the whole time. Hope you are enjoying your new lifestyle and Sláinte

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ah nice one, congrats on the bike and I hope you get as much value out of it as I did :) Glad you enjoyed the videos too! I really miss this bike and wish I could have moved it with me. A lot of people hate the lower fairing for some reason, I genuinely couldn't have been without it, it just clicked in my head for some reason. Ah fair, I used the topbox 99% of the time anyway, it suits the bike too. Welcome back :) Ah you'll pick it up in no time, you're probably a lot more sensible now too and aware of your mortality so you'll be grand :) Yes, I think I would have eventually tried bar risers myself, I think that'll work out very nicely! I am indeed, and thank you :)

[@kevinsilson2711]

G'day, i know this is going to sound ridiculous, but I never felt "Comfortable" on the CBF1000 and it always felt a bit top heavy (I am only 5'8"), and have just traded for a Honda ST1300. From the moment I picked it up I feel a lot more confident and the bike goes where you point it. The only thing I am considering is a handlebar riser kit from Steve at BikeQuip as it will allow me to sit more upright and comfortable when riding 2-up. Cheers and I hope you settle in well over there 🦍

[@MattMiss79]

This is one of the best reviews of this bike. Thank you Mike. I was looking at a NT1100 but will save myself a couple of thousands lol and just get one of these. Don’t really care about any rider aids and tech. So, this makes a lot of sense. I’m currently riding a CB500x which has 75k miles on the clock. Only thing that needed changing after 50k were the swing arm bearing and with that I decided to also upgrade the suspension. OMG it completely transformed the CB500x. So, totally worth it one is going to keep the bike. Reason for a bigger bike is touring and pillion riding with the wife. I will use both bikes for commuting to work just to keep the miles down on both bikes. I do about 15k miles a year. Anyway, I just booked a test drive with a 2012 model and can’t wait to take her out. Thanks again

[@TheGorillaBiker]

No thank you! Sorry for the delayed response I took a few weeks off social media over Christmas :) If you're moving/moved from a CB500X to this you're going to love it, I think it'll feel very familiar :) ANY bike that you sort the suspension to be actually spec'd to you makes such a huge huge difference. I hope you get along great with the bike, I loved mine for all of the above :)

[@daisyduke4246]

I spoke to you in november last year ,i bought one and i love it it's a great allrounder .im from north west england andit's great on all the roads .big thanks for all your help ,happy biking

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ah very good :) Glad someone else has discovered the loveliness of a CBF :) You too!

[@peterfranklin1759]

I love mine. All the things you say I pretty much agree with. You mention the bars and I probably wouldn't have done anything with mine, but they got a bit grubby in my less than totally dry garage and so I replaced them with a Renthal pair which was pretty much a straight swap. Less vibes through them too. I think the motor is an absolute peach and it's a bike that's never left me stranded. The battery they say is a little small for it and I've managed to go through 3 in the 13 years (!) I've owned the bike, even with an Optimate on when it isn't getting used. So far, the stator is good. I do find it comfortable and even though I'm now 66 years old, I can still peel myself off it after a couple of hours relatively unscathed. I do look at new bikes occasionally and there's some I wouldn't mind trying, but to be fair, if you get the love from the bike you have, why change it? If I do buy another bike, I'll probably be tempted to keep the CBR anyway. Love your videos by the way (or whatever they call them these days).

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I was always eyeing up the Renthal bars, I think the black ones look properly nice on there. Pity you were forced in to it in a way but at least it worked out well :) Yeah the engine is a beauty. I'd love to fit a chunkier battery but there really isn't space, if I'd never planned on leaving Ireland I'd have stripped out the ABS and relocated the battery to there. That's bad enough even with the Optimate! Glad to hear it, it's an easy fix anyway thankfully! :) Yeah, I'd love a smidge more leg room myself but I'm an outlier :) It's been perfect. Ah I've looked at so so many bikes over the time I've owned this one but none of them ever made sense, it just does everything well :) Haha still videos as far as I'm aware :D Thanks :)

[@frankmalone8389]

Really enjoy when you do this, brother...like the channel..keep up the good work!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks bud :)

[@deanwelsh3468]

After watching all of your videos and enjoying all of them and really thinking about buying a cbf1000 I’ve finally pulled the trigger . On a cb500x and have absolutely no regrets .🤣

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Haha I also loved the cb500x I rode. Best of luck with it :)

[@markpearce5793]

Very good vid. You've done well to get so much in it 👍 As an older rider, 1.74m tall and 73.5kg I have a different view on some aspects. I am the second owner of my 2010 ABS (non GT) model in red. I'm really pleased with it. It's the best road going bike I've owned out of about 20+ bikes. The low seat height means I can stand up and get my bottom off the seat for a stretch at the lights. Full lock turns are at the limit of my reach, otherwise great. Givi taller screen reduces buffeting and I can still see over it. I like the standard suspension. Soaks up most bumps, can be a bit wobbly when pushed, but responds well to smooth inputs and has never got scary. I've had Hagon shocks twice and both were too soft, so I don't like to change things now. For quick stops I use heavy front brake and a little rear. I find it's very stable and I never notice any weird link brake effects. They're very stable, predictable and confidence inspiring; SBS pads fitted, works well. No complaints. I like your exhausts, but I prefer the standard ones. Quieter means I don't get noticed riding fast. I don't get extra strain on my hearing. I can hear what the engine is doing without amplification. I like the look, length, angle and finish of the standard pipes. I just had to replace the clamps at 25k miles, easy job. I've had Bridgestone BT021 and 023 tyres so far. Good in wet and dry and I get over 4k miles from them. Mpg is always 50+. If the stator fails I'd just replace it. It certainly wouldn't be a reason not to buy a CBF. Honda has developed an alternative to cheese keys; keys fobs (not that I'd like one) 😄 Also I have found that the CBF is a good bike to work on and your various vids have helped enormously with that. Cheers 😎

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks Mark! :) That's why I always ask for opinions, it's actually great to get someone who does have so many differing views on things :) I must look in to the GIVI screen, might help me a bit but it also might direct the air to the wrong place! Ah I get that, but at the same time it really should be better than ok and wobbly when pushed. It doesn't cover enough of a range of people. Fair enough on the Hagons, I did talk to them when ordering mine and explained it'd have to stand up to fairly fast track use too, and a pillion with luggage. They did a great job with mine thankfully. The brakes are fine, I know I'm harsh on them as I like my brakes a particular way, I just think looking at other bikes they were producing at the same time as the original design, they could have done a bit better with tech they already had. But they do work well. Haha I'm also very harsh on the stock cans, I do like my quieter cans on the Aprilia so I completely understand your point there :) That's very good MPG! I'm still on the Mitas tyres as they just haven't let me down, they do wear very quick tho :) Exactly!! It's such a minor thing in the grand scheme of things. Haha fobs are also not something I love, just gimme a chunky key!! And your support has helped enormously with the channel, so thank you :)

[@markpearce5793]

@@TheGorillaBiker Regarding the keyless fob, when I bought my Honda SH scooter the dealer tried to talk me into buying a newer model just because it had the fob. Perfect reason not to buy it 😂 Yes I’ll agree with you about the suspension 👍It should be able to cope with a broader range of riders. I’m just lucky to be within the profile and comfort for me is paramount; I can adapt my riding style to suit the wobbles 😂 Hope you’re enjoying Tampa and managed to get a ride 👍😁

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Haha not only do you not have a fob you probably saved money :P Win/win!! It's just annoying as it seems to be a Honda thing, just put decent suspension people can respring in the bike, then everyone would be happy. :) Haha man have someone look at the wobbles :D I am indeed and I so far got a HD softtail slim :)

[@markpearce5793]

An HD is perfect for Florida. Comfy, cool and posey 😁 I bet you fit right in to the local biker scene. And we get to see it all too 👍

[@Viper6-MotoVlogger]

Happy to hear you are enjoying that bike in all circumstances 👍

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks bud :) I can see you really enjoying one too tbh :)

[@dunfalk7]

Thank you for all your great videos and your videos on the cbf is the reason why I bought a 2008 cbf 1000a last summer. The bike just pulls off from 50km/h in 6 gear without shaking. I am 186cm tall and weigh's 105kg and it just fits me very well. I am going to Norway (live in Denmark) in june for a week and cant wait to drive on all the twisty roads. I do agree on the suspension is too soft and is going to be changed.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ah brilliant, very glad you got one and I'm even more glad you like it :) That's one thing that I love about it, every time I tour I rarely have to knock it out of 6th. Excellent!! :) Ah brilliant, enjoy it!! I'd absolutely love to bring my bike over there some day and ride around all of that region. What will you go for?

[@dunfalk7]

@@TheGorillaBiker We are going to explore the southern region of Norway, up to 3-400 km north of Kristiansand. We are definitely going up to Lysefjorden, that should be epic....

[@I_hunt_lolis]

I love your use of dual measurement system when you use both imperial and metric. Too many channels unse only imperial and leave me scratching my head when they weight stuff in stones and pebbles...

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Well I mean I'm Irish so metric is what I use like most sensible people :P I've always just tried to use all the units to include everyone!

[@dariuszklak012]

They have designed it to be functional, functionality over form. Had CBF 600 3xtimes. 12 motorcycles in last 14 years. CBF 600S was my first bike and I always love it. 1000cc I only presume is even better than 600. Cbf600s, Honda Blackbird 1100xx, Cbf600s, Zx7r, Sv650 S , TL 1000r, Gsf 650 bandit, Transalp xl650, Cbf600 S, VFR800vtec, BMW 1150 GS, VFR 800 fi, Sv 650 S currently

[@TheGorillaBiker]

But it's also very nice form wise! That's why I'm so harsh on the suspension I think too, they got 98% of the bike perfectly practical. That's a lot of bikes!! :) The 1000cc is just nicer all round than the 600cc as much as it goes for touring and low down grunt. Other than that the 600 is just as good really. Those are some seriously nice bikes! I'm particularly jealous of the TL1000r :)

[@dariuszklak012]

​@@TheGorillaBiker sold a sv 650 s got VFR 750 1992 reg. Thinking of getting one more bike. CBF 1000 is on my radar

[@randomrides]

Hi, thanks for this video I find it very useful, informative and easy to watch. I stumbled on it recently after acquiring my brand new second hand 2016cbf, 1 owner and only 8k miles. As a heavy older chap I'm downsizing from more torque/power yet find this bike a pleasure to ride in towns or motorways tho I'm constantly looking for a 7th gear. I'm getting battered and deafened so I need to sort the screen out. Couldn't agree with you more on all the points you made. Thanks 👍

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Not at all!! Thanks for watching :) Haha so0 many people hunt for that 7th gear, It definitely could have been geared longer but I got used to it in a very short time :) I think people have had luck with just adding the screen spoiler thing, worth a shot!

[@AuldhannRua]

They are a nice bike those CBFs. Honda have a history of budget suspension, my Blackbirds setup wasn't great new, and mine is 23years old, phenomenal engine though. Being a Honda fan I may look at one for doing longer trips.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

They are indeed :) They do and it's such a pity, literally throw something semi decent on there stock and basically I don't have any major complaints any more! The blackbirds are beautiful bikes and brilliant engines, the CBF is definitely more comfy tho :) And less likely to get you sent to jail 😂

[@AuldhannRua]

That sounds like a challenge 😅. Are the calipers on the CBF four piston? The Blackbird only has 3 per caliper, so if you pull the front brake 2 pistons activate and 1 on the rear.

[@lifeonmarshmoto]

Great video, glad to see your still happy with you cbf!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks!! :)

[@aniko71]

My stator failed at 12000km and Honda replaced it at no cost for me with the improved version. Now I have 135000km with this second stator and no problems arose since then.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Would make it worth investing in the upgraded version for sure if they all did that sort of mileage!

[@DennisdeLange]

Got one, love it!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

A man of taste and culture I see. *Tips hat*

[@dgordon130]

I am seriously considering this bike for my next ride. The price is frankly very reasonable used, and everything about it fits with what I'm looking for. Coming off a lot of European bikes, prior to over 20 years on VFR's. Want more upright and comfort. And Honda reliability. And I love the way this looks too. :-)

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I miss my one daily tbh. Brilliant bikes and very reasonably priced for a used bike, most of them have very low mileage too. I don't think you'd be disappointed if you do go with one, just remember they're not the lightest bike and the stock suspension I did find lacking :)

[@apassionforlace]

I hear nothing but complaints, but you're smitten with it. Like me. I've still got it as is, not improved on it. Hope we both have many, many more safe miles on it.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Haha I had to point out everything I've observed, it's a long term review :P I said many nice things too :) Absolutely! Many miles and many years :)

[@travesty70]

I just bought a 2012 cbf. I watched all These cbf 1000 vids, they fail to mention comparitive elements to other bikes. One that shocked me was their weight and lack of nimble manuverability. My test ride was a suprise. Keep that in mind.. they look sweet but feel like a scaled down goldwing.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I have to disagree, I feel the bike you got may have had suspension issues or something as I've even had this one on the track and found it very nimble for it's size and weight. So the reason it wasnt mentioned is because I don't agree, it's actually more nimble than most proper sports tourers I've ridden.

[@travesty70]

Hmmm.. i will check fork pressures. Mind u i have an r6... in comparison the cbf is a goldwing.

[@BonzosDog1]

Great review. Looking for new bike after the alternator failed on my ST1300. This is definitely an option.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks, glad you liked it :) I miss the hell out of my CBF. I'd have moved it here with me if I could have.

[@IrishSongsAndStories]

Great video, and the initial one at Franklin. You've help me make my mind up to go get one in the UK :)

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks!! Best of luck with it :)

[@mikeschap1]

Absolutely love your presentation and honesty. I have a 2011 model and have recently changed the exhaust for a Scorpion which sounds absolutely gorgeous, I’ve put a DID Heavy duty gold chain and sprocket set on. Not because of wear but the fact it had the original set on the bike and I felt it needed updating. Totally agree with you with regard to brakes and suspension. The biggest bugbear for me is the minor vibration through the bars and was wondering if you have experienced that with yours? Loving your videos!!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks :) Ah nice, always been a fan of scorpion stuff, had a set on my old FZ6 for years and loved them. Never a bad shout tbh, the DID stuff is so good and last a long time, I personally think they're better quality than anything OEM. I never had much of an issues with vibrations, but I never seem to experience them on any bike that others have felt them on so take that with a pinch of salt. Thank you, glad you are! :)

[@byDanimal]

Were the CBF1000 available in the USA I'd consider it. You've shown it to be a solid bike. A workhorse really.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

You'd ride one and be like, "I am not blown away by anything but I love it all" and go home with it, you'd be confused but happy, and never disappointed. :D It is an absolute workhorse!

[@MonkeyButtRides]

Indeed he has, even did a track day with it!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

A very fun track day :) And rode it home :)

[@cccenturion4480]

Depending on where in US you are, could you maybe import one from Canada? If import regulations allow.....

[@mrthomas394]

Ive just done a fork service with new 15w oil and and 12mm of spacers to increase the pre load slightly and also bought a new cb1000r rear shock that is supposed to slot right into the bike 👍

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Very nice! Yeah I would have eventually added some form of preload had I not sold the bike. Still, the shock and work I did do to the forks transformed that bike.

[@elliotharris2111]

Hey thanks for the CBF vids they helped in my choosing a CBF1000, it's an older mk1 but hey ho it's my first bike lol.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

That's a great first bike once it's not too heavy :) It's a brilliant bike and I'd say you'll love it!

[@elliotharris2111]

@@TheGorillaBiker thanks man.

[@motorbikesandhacks]

I like the linked brakes on the Blackbird, where fork dive applies the back brake that keeps the bike balanced under heavy braking. Front, back and fork dive gives staged braking and impressive stopping for a heavy bike. Bad for braking in turns or on the track, bad for complexity (I will delink mine rather than repair the linking).

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Yeah I like that system too, I've ridden it and gotten to poke about at the system and it seems a better design that also works much better. I know a fella who was keeping up with a a buddy of mine on his blackbird, my buddy was on a track bike GSXR 750. Those blackbirds are seriously impressive in the right hands. Yeah I get that. Linked brakes are all well and good until they break.

[@cccenturion4480]

I put 35,000 on an 06 CBF in 5 years. Two years after selling it to get a Sprint GT I still kinda miss it, good memories of a good bike.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Good going! It's a bike you'd easily do it on too :) How do you find the Spring GT? I already miss my CBF.

[@cccenturion4480]

@@TheGorillaBiker The sprint is a good bike but my aging bones don't find it as comfy as the CBF. More than once I did a 500+mile day. I couldn't do that on the Triumph......

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Yeah there really is a lot to be said for the comfort of the CBF, I was the same with my other bikes, the only one I wanted to take any longer distance was the CBF.

[@Geshmaal]

Currently have a V-Strom 650, test riding one of these next weekend. I'm 6'2 but I'm all torso/head so I think the screen/buffeting will be the main make or break item!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Best of luck with the test! I think the buffeting shouldn't be bad for you tbh at your height, it can be noisy tho. There are loads of fixes for both issues tho for not a lot of money so don't let it put you off :)

[@Geshmaal]

@@TheGorillaBiker yeah it's all a bit of a balancing act really. I like the relief from wind blast on the motorway that a screen offers, I don't like having wind dumped straight in my face and I hate buffeting! We'll see how I get on with it though, a rainy Glasgow is the current forecast for the big day.

[@Geshmaal]

@@TheGorillaBiker update, I ended up testing two CBF1000s at this place and neither had been checked over apparently. Leaky front forks on one, dead battery, oil leak and warped rear brake disc on the other. Both had steering wobble above 40mph or so. Pretty shoddy for a Honda main dealer, a shame because the engine is sweet and both bikes were super easy to handle at low speed etc, just too sketchy to test properly at normal riding speed.

[@tommymonaghan8547]

Now that’s a proper review 👍🏻

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks! Glad you liked it :)

[@scotty_beast_rider]

Well I would definitely buy CBF1000 unfortunately the one I went for was already sold so I bought the V-Strom DL1000. No regrets as I love grunt of the Vtwin. But I do think the CBF looks better and will be way smoother too.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ah like we spoke about before I was in a very similar situation, I think either of the bikes would have made you very happy tbh :) It's a sleeker bike I suppose, I do love the look of the big DL too :)

[@niksamiletic3229]

Hey, love the effort you put into this. I own an MK2 and agree it is underrated a lot. Im also on the heavier side but have no issue with suspension so far. I did get the Palmers bracket and a Loster touring screen (a Polish company) and the buffeting is an issue no more. I do tend to sometimes find some superficial rust on the handlebar, gear lever and shift lever after rain (although I dont have a garage it is either covered or under a roof)... My biggest issue with it, living in a warm climate, is it heats up really fast, really hot. And using the lower fairing the hot air from the vent is directed onto my right leg which is no fun :/ All in all it is a great bike

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks! We're just cultivating mass man, glad to hear the Mk2 was improved in that case, the Mk1 really just could have used a lot more spring from factory imo. Ah very good, I personally never experienced the buffeting thing, could be my height or whatever, but glad to hear a fix does indeed exist! Ah that's a pity, the outside thing makes sense tho, I used to get the same on the Fazer when I had it and had to store it outside. I would suggest trying GT85, just rub it all over the metals with a cloth, obviously just avoid brakes etc :D Ah yeah, tbh most bigger bikes have an issue like that, I just rode a Softail slim in Florida and the thing nearly melted my leg off :D Obviously as you said no fairing might help! It is indeed :)

[@RoadsOfOz]

I like the CBF for its everyday use. I went its much smaller relative though the CB125E. If I was to only have one bike to do all of my riding, the CBF would come into calculation.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Me too!! A lot, it's such a nice bike even tho I probably should go something like a cb500x for my next commuter. Far more frugal like your 125!! Ah but you have my disease ...we can never have one :P

[@sickmick8846]

I'd rather an FZ1 (I've owned two) which has the same stator issue but outstanding brakes. The linked brakes on my VFR1200 are the best I've experienced on any motorcycle!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I do love the FZ1, but it was more cramped for me than the CBF and is less easy to load up with luggage. Horses for courses tho the FZ1 is definitely a faster bike, but the CBF is a chonker that does everything I need :D I'd love a VFR1200.

[@grant6277]

I love your reviews and tutorials on the bike. I'm a second year rider and just got my Biffer this year. Interesting that my 2011 is a MkII whereas yours is a MkI. I am the opposite body type from you but find the bike suits me just fine. It is very manoeuvrable and quick when it needs to be.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks :) Glad they're useful! Ah that's just registration stuff, mine was probably built a year earlier or whatever just hadn't been Registered. The newer ones are nice bikes too, haven't ever had a chance to properly ride one! But I can't imagine they broke the mould much :)

[@kevinevenson3133]

Recently brought a kawasaki z1000sx fantastic machine but couldn't get rid of my pins and needles in my hands, exchanged that for a kawasaki versys 1000 2017 probably the most comfortable bike I've ever ridden hated the exhaust and lacked eceleration, not mid range or top end , but looking at the honda cbf 1000 i might be getting the best out of both worlds, wot do you think

[@TheGorillaBiker]

If you currently have a 2017 Versys 1000 that's on paper just as fast as the CBF, I'd probably say go down the route of an exhaust and tune first before changing bike again. The CBF is a great bike but also doesn't accelerate like a Z1000sx

[@hachewie]

I hate my linked brakes. When trail braking around corners, I have no confidence at all.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Linked brakes are a grand idea for some application somewhere I'm sure. Maybe. It'd be a turn off for me in future for sure tho looking at a bike. Exactly that. No feel and less control.

[@rufussamuel8913]

I like the looks, but am wondering what's the long time effect of installing a Fibre exhaust on the engine.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Not sure why having a carbon fibre end can would affect anything? I'm a mechanical engineer btw so do know a bit about this :)

[@johncarlson8029]

At 280 pounds any bike may be too soft for you. I'm 210 and all forks have been too soft. You did the best with a set of springs, i hope you set the sag correctly. It looks like it's riding well or better now

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Pretty much every bike is, that's my point, they shouldn't be. Lot of bikes like this are marketed as tourers for multiple people and luggage. Most people combined with their kit will weight at least that. The Aprilia I have is actually fine too, so it can be done. Yep suspension is set up correctly. It is, much better on the road.

[@johncarlson8029]

@@TheGorillaBiker All Japanese bikes are set up for Japanese 5 foot 6 and 110 to 140 pounds. They don't seem to care that we have to modify all the bikes with springs wether straight rate or progressive. I do straight rate for road bikes and progressive for off road. GP bikes are opposite, hard as a rock which gets softer the more it compresses. Oh well the wife wants to play Jenga or Chess, so talk again soon. You are the only guy i really talk ti so peace for now John

[@TheGorillaBiker]

A lot of the ones sent to Europe and the US are apparently closer to 170lbs now or so. Still way too low eh. Yeah I've linear springs in the gsxr and progressive in the cbf and Magna. Progressive make sense to me on the road here cus it's so bloody rough! Your way also makes perfect sense! Enjoy man! I haven't played chess in ages :) Haha I'm sorry I'm the only one you talk to as I am boring 😂

[@hachewie]

I’d love to try one to compare with my GTR.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Just book the flights so :P

[@OutbackKanga]

I have the stock suspension , finding it great I am a fairly large guy riding on bad outback roads and the suspension just glides over everything .. I really cant fault it.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Fair enough! It's the one thing I really found crap on that bike, upgrading both the shock and forks changed the bike for me.

[@theanalyticsproject1014]

I haven't ridden mine enough to know yet, but personally I like soft suspension. So is it 'crap' or just soft? For me I like suspension set up for ride quality not corner firmness. I don't mind if the bike moves around a bit at the rear when pushing on - it's fun. But I generally don't ride fast these days though.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Soft as in pliable in fine. The suspension on my bike was crap, whether it was age or what made it that way it wasnt up to the task. Forgiving suspension is fine, but if you're bottoming out or moving around in corners it's a recipe for overloading your tyre and having an accident. I've done exactly that on track with another bike and wouldn't recommend it. Take it to someone to set up the suspension, if they cant get it done(to comfortable road settings) with that shock, then you need a new one really.

[@martinbyrne1330]

Thanks for the videos.. Just bought a cbf1000, nice bike to ride. A bit clunky changing gears.. Is that normal. Feels like clutch is not engaging properly.. Martin

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Thanks for watching them!! Yes sadly that is normal, they're a fairly clunky gearbox but it worked forever no matter the abuse. The clutch however shouldn't feel off, you may need to bleed the clutch master/slave and replace the fluid in there.

[@lisbom2001]

Do you also feel there is an abnormal clunk when fully releasing the throttle? Just bought mine and it might be chain slack.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

That's not normal, check your chain, sprockets and rear wheel bearing lastly. Definitely shouldn't be a noticeable clunk when releasing the clutch

[@lisbom2001]

@@TheGorillaBiker thanks. The transmission was changed not long ago by the previous owner. Perhaps the chain needs fine tuning after settling in.

[@lisbom2001]

@@TheGorillaBiker sorry. Not clutch. Throttle as stated. Perhaps it has to do with the clunky gearbox

[@alexhogan1]

Ah you were only out the road from me! 👌

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Haha I'm often out and about those roads!

[@adrianleeyoughal]

Where in ireland did you get the keys my dad just bought one of these. thanks

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I already replied on Instagram also just in case anyone else is ever wondering tho, the lock doctor in Waterford!

[@crumblymal8479]

Not much I could say about these bikes as for me these days it would not be a bike I would need I don't think ,I have only ever had one kind of sports type and maybe not even tourer and that was the genesis Yamaha FZR 1,00O pre exup loved it back then .Would have had the Thunderace but I got caught fer speeding whilst out on the test ride so I took it as an omen and bought a ZRX 1100 Kawasaki instead .😁👍. cheers

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Ohhhhh that's a nice bike :) Haha fair enough, it is an issue with the inline 4 bikes in general of larger displacements, they like to go fast, which can get you in trouble sometimes eh. And I know you didn't regret that ZRX :D Thanks bud :)

[@hachewie]

I love this bike. I could easily have bought one if they were available here in any decent numbers.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Speaking to people over on your island of madness.....why are used bikes so few? Like loads of people ride over there. Do they just chuck them in holes in the ground instead of selling them on

[@hachewie]

@@TheGorillaBiker There was only one for sale and it was 6 hours away. Not sure what happens to them all.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

@@hachewie that's far. Too far really since you might not buy it. It's weird. You need a new series chewie investigates. See where all the bikes are going

[@hachewie]

@@TheGorillaBiker I like it.

[@zedddddful]

Ah I dunno I think if it were me I'd get a bandit 1250gt I do like those but there's absolutely nothing wrong with a CBF they are what they are big reliable sport tourers that'll go forever and do whatever.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

The bandits are great bikes, but I rode one of them and then the CBF, I just got on with the CBF more, it was smoother and a bit more nimble for me. Haha exactly that. All I need from a daily really :)

[@johncarlson8029]

Have you looked at multi compound tires?

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Yes I've used them before, I like my softer tyres though even though they wear faster.

[@hachewie]

Why do manufacturers ignore things like adjustable screens, seats, bars and foot pegs. In any modernish cat you can adjust the seat height, lumbar support, backrest angle, seat angle, distance from the pedals, steering column height and distance from the driver. When will a bike manufacturer cater for us in a similar way? Bloody pisses me off. 🤬

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Agreed. It drives me mental, it's laziness. They get away with it and know they do so don't bother trying to change the status quo. Then they charge on brand new bikes for things like taller seats etc. I'm sorry now if I'm buying the bike new the seat to fit me should be bloody free. Hopefully one day Chewie!

[@Mr133mike]

i've just started a job a a motorcycle road tester for an insurance claim repair handling company and i took one of these out the other day......... Now im thinking about selling my VFR Lol

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Oh that sounds like a fun job :) Haha well mine is now sadly for sale as I'm moving to the US if you have any interest 😂

[@Mr133mike]

@@TheGorillaBiker tempting but ive only had the vfr 6 weeks and i think the Mrs would kill me and its definately the best job ive had, proper landed on my feet after lockdown good luck with the move!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

@@Mr133mike ah fair 😂😂 VFRs are absolutely lovely bikes anyway, 800 or 1200? That's the job. I'd love something like that tbh. Thanks :)

[@Mr133mike]

@@TheGorillaBiker honestly cannot belive i landed it but im not complaining! and its a 2004 800 Much more comfortable than the old hornet 600 i think the reason the CBF got me was it handles so similarly to the hornet but has the planted feel of the VFR amazing bikes and ill definately own one one day

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Hey look, can't help it if we get lucky eh, I'm much the same with the move to the US, no idea how I pulled it off! Ah very nice, lovely bikes :) Yeah it honestly always feels like a lighter bike to me, I'd have brought mine with me to the US but I can't, they were never released there.

[@mikehawk9156]

What actually happens when stator fails ?

[@TheGorillaBiker]

It shorts essentially. They can fail to varying degrees, sometimes they'll be completely burnt and sometimes slightly less like mine was.

[@HippoDrones]

I'd not buy one, but that is not because I don't like it, I just don't have a use for it. Hope you are having fun in Tampa Michael? :-)

[@TheGorillaBiker]

That's fair enough, the Tuareg is super awesome anyway :D I am indeed, I even got to ride a Harley and visit the Dirty Shame :)

[@HippoDrones]

@@TheGorillaBiker Ahh mate, that is brill... I know you very much wanted to have use of a bike out there. Did you meet the legend?

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Yeah I won't lie it was absolutely brilliant to get out and about for a day!! Met some absolute legends of people too, I love bike people. No sadly not, I'd imagine he's the busiest man alive tho :P I did meet Flip tho :)

[@HippoDrones]

@@TheGorillaBiker and you have had use of another bike I think I saw on Instagram maybe? Flip seems a cool chap from what I've seen :-)

[@hachewie]

Love the paper scrunch and throw. Hahahahahaha

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Only way to dispose of paper 😂

[@stephencartwright5046]

It is undoubtedly an admirable machine but I would not buy one. My days of across the frame fours has passed. Are you being a little hard on the stock suspension? Wouldn't you expect it to be a bit sad after all this time. You are not trying "new" stock suspension. Also in my mind I think peoples expectations have changed, the need for speed, race replica, trackday culture of reviewers has led to an expection of firmer suspension. A very good summary of your experiences with this machine. Why would you want to change, it fits. 👍

[@TheGorillaBiker]

That's fair enough, what you have now suits you, your area and your riding style there. All you need :) Sorry to see your instagram got hacked btw, I didn't get to reply before it was gone. I don't think I am, I agree that some leniency may be applied for the age, but there was only 11,000 miles on it when I got it and it was very poor. The Aprilia is 22 years old and is streets ahead stock, as was the GSXR. The Magna was also poor stock but being 30+ years old I'll give it a pass. I do agree everyone wants "faster" suspension these days, I'm very used to have bikes undersprung for me due to my size, but the issue was it just never felt stable in to sharper corners and enjoyed bottoming out a little. Thanks Stephen, and I definitely found a bike that just suits me :)

[@BatterseaBill]

Have you ridden the 1100?

[@TheGorillaBiker]

The NT? No I have not

[@BatterseaBill]

@@TheGorillaBiker Sorry no, I meant the cb1100. And have you noticed the jump in price for used ones?

[@TheGorillaBiker]

@@BatterseaBill No but I wish I could!

[@johncarlson8029]

A Honda man, ur like a brother. I have owned everything except Ducati and KTM. Those i have no interest in. Honda is all around the best!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

I'd love to try every bike manufacturer in existence tbh :D I do love Hondas tho!

[@doomnami9375]

6ft 7!! Damn son! i would love to meet you one day, I'm 5ft 6 it would be fucking hilarious to see!

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Haha my wife is 5'6. Doesn't really look hilarious tbh 😂😂

[@apassionforlace]

I'm 6'2"... my cbf1000 is orange.

[@billniavent]

I have a 2009 MK1...105000 km

[@TheGorillaBiker]

It'll do easily double that I'd imagine! :)

[@hachewie]

To be fair, we do weigh more than two thin short people.

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Hmmmm, really thin. Then there's the luggage!

[@hachewie]

I expect no response to this comment as it will likely annoy you….. Kawasaki is better. 💚😉🏍💨

[@TheGorillaBiker]

Hahaha it doesn't annoy me. I love all bike manufacturers 😂😂

[@hachewie]

@@TheGorillaBiker Damn you. 💚😂🏍💨