Honda CB1000 SP

The front-end of the Honda CB1000 SP is dominated by dual projector LED headlights. It exudes a piercing gaze that enhances the bike’s aggressive stance. The compact design provides superior illumination and also contributes to the motorcycle’s aerodynamic efficiency.

The fuel tank, inspired by wings in flight, adds to the bike's muscular appearance. The sculpted lines flow seamlessly into the minimalistic seat unit, creating a streamlined silhouette that tapers sharply towards the rear, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. The blacked-out twin-spar steel frame, complemented by a trellis-style rear sub-frame, provides structural rigidity and also accentuates the bike's aggressive aesthetics.

The design ensures a slim waistline, contributing to both form and function. A five-inch full-color screen with optical bonding ensures clear visibility under various light conditions. The display offers customizable layouts, providing real-time information like speed, gear position, and riding modes.

It’s integrated with Honda RoadSync that offers seamless smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to access navigation, music, and calls directly from the dashboard.

The Honda CB1000 SP is equipped with 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) inverted forks in the front. These forks are fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping, allowing riders to fine-tune the setup to their preferences. The rear-end comprises a premium Öhlins TTX36 monoshock connected via Honda’s Pro-Link system.

This setup offers full adjustability for preload (via a hydraulic knob), compression, and rebound damping. The Öhlins shock provides exceptional feedback and control, ensuring the rear wheel maintains optimal contact with the road surface, enhancing both comfort and performance.

The bike offers an upright riding position, complemented by handlebars set up and back and sporty foot peg placement. It ensures a relaxed upper body posture. But taller riders may find the knee angle slightly tight because of the combination of higher-mounted foot pegs and the seat height.

The Honda CB1000 SP is equipped with an inline-four, liquid-cooled, 1.0-liter engine that produces 155PS/107Nm. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission. The powertrain has been retuned for enhanced mid-range torque and real-world acceleration. The two-wheeler benefits from a Revolutionary Controlled (RC) exhaust valve, which remains closed at lower RPMs and opens fully at 5,700 rpm, boosting power and delivering a more aggressive exhaust note.

Honda has equipped the CB1000 SP with a suite of electronic features to enhance the riding experience. This include throttle-by-wire that enables precise throttle control and integration with riding modes. The bike comes with Standard, Sport, Rain, and two customizable User settings that adjust power delivery, engine braking, and traction control.

The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) allows riders to choose how much rear-wheel slip is permissible based on road conditions or riding confidence. The standard up/down quickshifter allows seamless gear change. These features collectively provide a customizable and connected riding experience, catering to various rider preferences and condition.

The Honda CB1000 SP is equipped with dual 310mm floating discs at the front, gripped by radial-mounted Brembo 4-piston monobloc calipers. The high-performance calipers are known for their sharp initial bite, consistent pressure under hard braking, and excellent feedback. The combination delivers strong braking power with minimal fade, even under aggressive riding. At the back, the bike gets a 256mm disc with a single-piston Nissin caliper.

Though not as aggressive as the front, it provides adequate support for balance and slow-speed control. It works well during cornering and in stop-and-go traffic.

At a starting price of ₱69,999, the Honda CB1000 SP is a bit expensive in its class. It’s a bike for riders who appreciate a blend of elegance, performance, and everyday usability. It’s not a track monster. Instead, the Honda CB1000 SP delivers a satisfying riding experience with character, refinement, and timeless design.