CMX1100 Rebel

Introduction

The A2 licence-friendly 500cc twin-cylinder CMX500 Rebel, released in 2017, fused tradition with ground-breaking new ideas to capture younger riders for whom a motorcycle is so much more than just transport – riders for whom their motorcycle is a lifestyle, an attitude and an expression of individual identity.

The Rebel’s combination of a timeless ‘bobber’ look and a unique, forward-looking, contemporary style earned it immediate popularity in its first sales season. And it has been far from a one-year wonder: in 2019 the Rebel was the third biggest selling custom style machine in Europe. Accessible, easy to ride and live with, by going its own way the Rebel has proved an accomplished success in standard trim. And as a blank canvas for customisation, it has been a machine more than ready for whatever its owner’s imagination has had in store for it.

For 2021, where the Rebel has led, a new motorcycle will follow: the CMX1100 Rebel. By taking the essence of what’s made the smaller bike so special, and adding more performance, more character and a wealth of Honda’s most advanced technology, it offers a step up – or across from a different segment altogether – for a wide range of riders looking for something that extra bit different.

Model Overview

The CMX1100 Rebel has a dual personality. It’s been designed for a leisurely laidback cruise, but also to offer an exciting riding experience when a twisty road presents itself. Riders moving up from smaller bikes will appreciate the manageable dimensions and weight (seat height is a mere 700mm), while more experienced riders will find instant, accessible enjoyment from the chassis’ handling potential, with its stiff tubular steel frame, quality naked bike-spec suspension and high-powered braking.

All-comers will love the character and performance of the 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine (originally used on the CRF1100L Africa Twin), which has been re-tuned for super-strong bottom and mid-range punch and character, plus an evocative, enhanced exhaust note. Throttle By Wire management brings with it sophisticated rider aids: there are 3 default riding modes with a cluster of different parameters to suit riding conditions or rider mood, including engine power delivery, engine braking, the level of Honda Selectable Torque Control and Wheelie Control, and the shift schedule of the optional Dual Clutch Transmission technology. Cruise control comes as standard.

As a 21st century bobber, the Rebel 1100’s stripped-back style speaks volumes with its minimalism. Steel mudguards front and rear sit atop fat tyres; the circular headlight mixes old school looks with new school LED bulbs and mirrors the round, negative LCD instrument display. For modern day convenience, there’s a USB-C charger in the underseat storage space.