How to shift a Honda CB900 Custom 10-speed transmission

See how to shift a Honda CB900 Custom 10-speed transmission out on the road in this demonstration video.

[@dillabong1897]

Been rebuilding one of these for two years. Finally getting on it today. Glad to see I don’t need to upshift ten times hahahah

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

How did the test drive go?

[@dab-pre-ss-ionaustin1986]

Nice just got me a roller frame of this once i find a engine ill be right along riding

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@dab-pre-ss-ionaustin1986 Right on!

[@DriverDave79]

I have my eye on one of these bikes and this video was immensely helpful. I won't look like a fool when I go to test drive the bike now! Straightforward and easy to understand. Thank you for posting this!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@DriverDave79 You're welcome, Dave!

[@Jenuin]

I recently bought a 1982 ten speed cb900c and I’m super happy it’s not like my ten speed truck LoL 😅

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@lowxpectations]

I was almost hoping they were like a ten speed truck😂😂, would be wild, but definitely would only be fun for so long

[@Jenuin]

@@lowxpectations yes. That would have been cool but it’s a five speed with a high low gear. Not a split shift. But still fun.

[@bringbacknames]

Great video, Jon. I looked around for some instructions before I bought mine, and didn't have any luck. Thanks.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Jesse. I'm glad it's helpful.

[@Go8nuts]

I’ve never even rode a motorcycle and this man just solved all my problems

[@juans3728]

Thank you , i never knew that Honda had this type of Cycle, yes very informative, Japanese built bikes made for the serious biker and maintenance friendly.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on Juan! This era of bikes is my favorite in terms of style, function, simplicity and reliability. I just feel cooler on a vintage bike.

[@williamchristie7365]

Excellent video. I had a new 83' CB1000 Custom. Never regretted selling a bike more. Easily the most fun and reliable bike I have ever owned! The next time I find one (which is hard) - I will probably buy it.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! I haven't seen a CB1000C for sale. I have had three CB900Cs recently, and they were nice bikes. Cheers!

[@davidanderson4500]

great vid jon. must say ive learned today watching this vid. as never knew that gearing existed. brill.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks David!

[@marvtarzan]

Very versatile, actually. I had a new CB900C and later, a CB1000C. If I felt like it, I could leave them in high-range, and skip 2nd and 4th gears, using it as a lazy 3-speed. Short shifts to redline shifts, these bikes have enough stuff to shift about any way you feel like. P.S.: Redline in high-range first is almost 55 mph. Everything after that is optional.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@normanklature6014]

That’s called ‘lugging’ your gears, can be very expensive to repair.

[@SternDrive]

It's a bit hard on the clutch to start off in high range. A lot of bikes are like that. First gear is a bit high, and they give their local motorcycle shop some extra business. So go ahead and start off in high range. Your local shop will like you.

[@marvtarzan]

lol...Guess I got lucky, selling them after "only" 35,000 total miles of riding.@@SternDrive

[@brianboucher809]

Love my Hondas looking for a 750/900 ,had been put off 900c because of the gear, now thanks to your video you have put my mind at rest on how to use them thanks 😁,900 c on it's way 😁😁

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on, Brian! The 750 and 900 Hondas are good bikes. Good luck in your search. I have lots of 750 and 900 content on this channel. Feel free to check it out. Cheers!

[@brianboucher809]

Have owned two 750k,at moment have vtr 1000 but getting older so need something slower,

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@brianboucher809 Awesome! Did you see my VTR1000F review that came out this morning? Cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/npPEqWZui9Cgmqcsi=OjY3I92qBNVPYhtU

[@corblom11]

Just thought I would mention the reason it has the dual range gear box in the first place. It was done so they could use the Gold Wings drive axle which was on the other side. The transfer case brought drive to the other side and made it a additional selling feature as a 10speed.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You are correct!

[@upchuckchops]

Nice explanation. I have one that is next on the project list to bring back to life.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Very cool 😎! There is a CB900C playlist on this channel that may be helpful. Feel free to check it out. Good luck with the rescue!

[@upchuckchops]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 thanks. Will do

[@engir63]

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I agree 100% about the CB900 Silverwing.

[@Key-dg2os]

woahh thats cool, im literally about to buy one of these tomorrow so this helped a lot thanks for getting straight into the point! save riding to all!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! I have lots of CB900C videos on the channel. Just look for the CB900C playlist. Cheers and good luck with your new purchase!

[@Key-dg2os]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 thank you! you’ve earned yourself another subscriber!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@Key-dg2os Awesome, thanks!

[@Key-dg2os]

hey i just bought the bike im trying to get the seat up and out, do you mind sharing some tips on that?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@Key-dg2os There are two bolts, one on either side, below the passenger portion of the seat.

[@29madmangaud29]

Yeah Jon, remember as I've told you, if you're using it in HI-gear, around town and riding it HARD, the clutch won't last too long, "GUARANTTED". It'll be "slipping" soon. Best way , is as you've said, use it as an over drive... > keep it in your thoughts not to HOT ROD it in 1-High! ......

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You can rest assured, I never hotrod it off the line in hi-range. 🙂

[@motodon5686]

That’s awesome. Thanks for the video

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Don!

[@TheMarcball]

Kind of a parts bin gimmick, but keeps one busy when riding along... Thanks for the inspiration and keep on trucking!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@maxpate8518]

Reminds me of old like Chevy c30 or 50 had your gears and a switch for 2 speed rear end so really when you got up to speed just hit 2 speed rear end button to ease the strain going faster giving it a break . Cool idea for long ride bike doesn't have to labor as hard

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I agree, but it could have simply been done with a 6-speed.

[@mikesiksa9421]

I had a 1982 10 speed it was very nice

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Nice Mike!

[@joefetty3441]

Thank you for this!!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome Joe!

[@001kingston]

Thanks for the informative video. What was the purpose of the Low and High range back then? thanks

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I think it was just to add an overdrive to the 5-speed transmission. Cheers!

[@Errol.C-nz]

never heard of such a system here in NZ or in Aus.. makes me wonder why they did'nt use a bar mounted solenoid switch system instead.. is the dual range gear part of the main shaft or the output shaft.. its novel for sure.. understandable that it never took on

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I'd rather just have a six-speed.

[@SternDrive]

Thanks for that. The mystery is now solved. Love this bike! Could you put this transmission on a CB 750? I love the idea of that top gear, but a 900 is a bit to big for me.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Hi Doug, the CB900C is a unique design and the transmission is not transferable to any other model. The CB750C chain-drive model was actually quicker.

[@sll-tt6bj]

That's pretty cool

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@WowItzAkina]

So I’m thinking about picking one of these up, now that I understand how to use it, what’s the purpose of having one to begin with? When should I shift between high and low range

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Low-range is good for pulling out from a stop and up to 50mph or so. Think of the transmission as a six-speed with an additional step that you need to do. No one knows exactly why Honda did this. A six-speed would have been simpler and easier to use. Thankfully, it seems to be relatively reliable. Cheers!

[@thelorax7704]

I had the 82 Super Sport. How much does that extra shift drop the RPM at highway speed? I loved the bike, but I always felt like it was revving too high on the highway for the size of the engine. It was near perfect. Wish I still had that one.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

On the 1982 CB900C, the high range is like an overdrive and significantly lowers the rpm at highway speeds. On the 1980 CB900C, not so much. I don't know what year they made the gearing change. Other upgrades on the 1982 include better brakes. I would love to review a CB900F if I get the chance. Cheers!

[@nb7466]

I have that same exact bike I love it n

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Very cool!

[@jaredlazaron8414]

Had one. I'd use low range around town and high range on the highway.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@arlenejnelson]

Cool demo. What would be the ideal top cruising speed for this bike? I think you mentioned 55 is it's sweet spot but if I wanted to take my CB900c out for a longer cruise, what speed is it most happy with?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great question! That depends on the year. My 1980 CB900C was geared lower than my 1982. However, you can go at any legal speed you want to without hurting the bike. It's really a matter of what you're comfortable with. Cheers!

[@arlenejnelson]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Thanks. Mine is a 1981 with the single piston calipers.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@arlenejnelson OK. It's probably similar to my 1980. Regardless, you can cruise at whatever speed feels comfortable to you. You won't damage the bike. Cheers!

[@rickymckim4480]

Restoring one now

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Very cool. They are smooth-running, neat motorcycles.

[@seanstambaugh3256]

I got the chance to drive one smiles for days

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Nice, they are fun bikes!

[@RetiredTSgtUSAF]

I had a 1982 Dodge Colt manual speed that shift the same way. The stick shift next to it has a overdrive or high range and low range and it shifts just like that but only 4 gears. Must have been something from the 1980s. That Dodge colt was made by Mitsubishi, so another Japanese produce of the 1980s

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Interesting!

[@maxpate8518]

Better than the quadrupled nightmare

[@maxpate8518]

Msp quadraplex

[@user-wg6xc2qi5s]

Churr thanks I ain't see one of those

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome. The Honda CB900C was the only streetbike to have it. Cheers!

[@RetiredTSgtUSAF]

let me know if you're ever going to sell that bike, or know where I can purchase one

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Sorry, I sold this one this summer. I do have another even nicer one though. I'll post a video if it goes up for sale.

[@paul7232]

When I got my CB1000C in 1983 I had spent thousands of miles on my 10 speed BICYCLE so it was reflex: run through all 5 rear wheel sprockets on low (forward crank) sprocket then upshift to high sprocket on crank. A 10 speed bicycle has 6 speeds when used this way. The “10 speed” label is misleading in both cases.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Well put Paul - it's the same principle. To be honest, I would prefer a simple 6-speed.

[@davidreed6608]

I had a1980 CB 900 it was awedome. In high range on the freeway you could downshif two gears. It flat hauled ###. Guys on Harleys couul not catch you

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Fore sure, the CB900C had the heart of a sportbike - the CB900F!

[@frenchiechanel64]

So where’s the neutral?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Between first and second (regardless of what range you're in).

[@johnhenry8424]

5 speed with high and low....Sport or Touring. Pick one. Still a 5 speed

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Ish... if (as I often do) you start off in low range and shift into hi range once in fifth it is essentially a 6-speed. I then shift back into low at the next stop. Not 100 percent necessary but it's easier on the clutch pulling out and there's no reason to leave it in low range above 50 mph.

[@SternDrive]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 It will definitely save your clutch to start off in low range. I cringe when I see some of those modified bikes with a small rear sprocket. They can go 70 MPH in low gear, but their clutches burn very fast. Too bad. I don't understand why people want to have such high first gears.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@SternDrive Right on Doug.

[@maxpate8518]

That's it I said 2 speed rear end but you had it with differential not really a ten speed pet say just a 5 speed with a differential

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Correct. Although it technically has ten different forward speeds, in practice, it functions more like a 6-speed. 1-5 and then into high range. In many situations, you don't need to shift back into low range - you can just use it like a 5-speed.

[@moparmaker]

Let’s see you shift all 10 gears😂

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I've seen videos of people trying to do just that. It's hard to watch, and I just feel bad for the bike! Cheers!

[@moparmaker]

Never saw anywhere Honda called it a 10 speed. Just high and low range.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@moparmaker Same concept as a twelve-speed bicycle.

[@joshw3539]

Seems more like 5 speed with overdrive

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I would have preferred a six speed for ease of use. But, evidently, Honda decided a two-speed transfer case was the way to go. No different than a 10-speed bike. Cheers!

[@greglockyer4335]

More importantly what is the rev difference between low and high range in 5th gear??

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great question Greg! It depends on the year of the CB900C. My 1980 has much shorter final drive gearing than my 1982. I don't know rpm in 5th gear low and high for a certain speed off the top of my head though.

[@greglockyer4335]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Hmmmmm thanks for your reply John 👍 Maybe I will have to buy one to find out 😁 Looking to buy a classic Japanese bike now as I'm over water cooled bikes. For me it's a hassle just to change the sparking plugs. Keep up the good work 👍👍

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@greglockyer4335 Right on, thanks Greg!

[@johnnelson4455]

It’s simple , keep in low range when in town , put in high range on open road .

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

That works.

[@unknownsoldierx637]

So it's a 6-speed with extra steps... got it.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Pretty much. Though you can leave it in high-range or low range and use it like a 5-speed.