Honda CBR 1100 XX Super Blackbird [1997-2007]: The Timeless Speed Tourer Revisited

Introduction

When Honda unleashed the CBR 1100 XX Super Blackbird in 1997, it wasn’t just launching a motorcycle—it was declaring war on the concept of speed limits. Designed to dethrone Kawasaki’s ZZR1100 as the fastest production motorcycle, the Blackbird became an instant legend, blending hyperbike performance with touring comfort. Over a decade later, this machine still feels like a masterclass in balancing raw power with real-world usability. Having spent time with this icon, it’s clear why it remains a benchmark for riders who refuse to choose between adrenaline and endurance.

Design & Ergonomics: The Art of Controlled Aggression

The Blackbird’s styling walks a razor’s edge between ’90s boldness and timeless function. That iconic twin-headlight front end—resembling a bird of prey mid-dive—ages better than most period designs. The 810mm (31.9") seat height accommodates average riders without drama, though the broad tank and forward-leaning cockpit remind you this is no relaxed cruiser.

Honda’s choice of colors—candy red, deep black, and metallic blue—still pops today. The bodywork’s wind tunnel-honed lines slice through air with purpose, yet the riding position feels surprisingly humane. You’re cradled, not crucified: handlebars sit 720mm (28.3") wide with just enough rear-set to keep knees at a 90-degree angle. At 223-227kg (491-500 lbs) dry, it’s substantial but hides its mass well once moving.

Engine & Performance: The Symphony of Speed

Fire up the 1,137cc inline-four, and the Blackbird immediately asserts its personality. Early carbureted models (1997-2001) bark to life with an analog snarl, while later fuel-injected iterations (2002-2007) offer cleaner throttle response. Regardless of vintage, the numbers astonish: 164 HP (119.7 kW) at 9,500 RPM and up to 127 Nm (93.7 lb-ft) of torque.

Twist the grip, and the world blurs. Honda’s DOHC 16-valve mill pulls with relentless urgency from 4,000 RPM, hitting 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 3 seconds. The claimed 290-295 km/h (180-183 mph) top speed isn’t just bragging rights—it’s achievable with room to spare. What’s shocking is how civilised it remains. At 120 km/h (75 mph) in sixth gear, the tacho barely crests 4,500 RPM, the engine purring like a contented predator.

Handling & Dynamics: Grace Under Pressure

For a 2160mm (85") long machine, the Blackbird dances with improbable agility. The aluminum twin-spar frame and 43mm HMAS cartridge forks provide 120mm (4.7") of plush travel, swallowing bumps without wallowing. At 1490mm (58.7") wheelbase, stability at triple-digit speeds feels absolute, yet flicking through mountain passes remains intuitive.

Bridgestone’s 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear tires (switched to radial construction post-2001) offer grip that defies the bike’s touring intentions. Dual 296mm front discs with 3-piston calipers (upgraded from 2-piston in early models) haul down mass like a parachute, though the linked braking system (DCBS on later bikes) requires acclimatization. This isn’t a flickable supersport, but it carves corners with a surgeon’s precision when asked.

Competition: How the Blackbird Stacked Up

Kawasaki ZZR1100/1200: The Blackbird’s initial rival offered similar speed but heavier steering. Kawasaki’s 2002 ZZR1200 countered with 125 Nm torque, yet never matched Honda’s polish.
Suzuki Hayabusa (1999+): The ‘Busa’s 194 HP and 312 km/h top speed stole the crown, but its extreme ergonomics made the Honda feel like a mobile living room.
Yamaha YZF-R1 (1998+): More agile and track-focused, but punishing on long hauls. The Blackbird trounced it as a mile-eater.
BMW K1200RS (1997-2005): Teutonic build and shaft drive appealed to touring purists, but couldn’t touch Honda’s acceleration.

The Blackbird’s genius was blending Hayabusa-rivaling pace with Gold Wing-level comfort—a balance no competitor truly matched.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owners praise the Blackbird’s reliability, but these tips ensure peak performance:

Valve Adjustments: Every 24,000 km (15,000 mi). Intake: 0.16mm (0.006"), exhaust: 0.22mm (0.009")—cold.
Oil Changes: 3.9L (4.1 qt) of 10W-40 with filter. Consider MOTOPARTS.store’s synthetic blend for smoother shifts.
Cooling System: 3.2L (3.4 qt) capacity. Flush every 2 years using our ready-mixed coolant.
Tires: Stick to recommended 2.9 bar (42 psi) pressures. Upgrade to modern radials like Michelin Road 6 for better wet grip.
Chain: 110-link 530 chain with 17/44 sprockets. Our DID VX3 chains add durability for high-speed runs.
Spark Plugs: NGK CR9EHIX-9 iridium plugs (post-2001) improve cold starts.

Common upgrades:
- Braided steel brake lines for firmer lever feel
- Aftermarket windscreens (we stock +4" taller variants)
- HMAS damper rebuild kits for refreshed suspension

Conclusion: The Eternal Speed Tourer

Riding the CBR1100XX today is a time-capsule experience—one that proves greatness doesn’t expire. It’s a machine that laughs at compromise, delivering hypersport thrills without the chiropractor bills. While modern electronics have raised the performance bar, the Blackbird’s analog purity and mechanical grip remain addictive. For riders seeking a classic that can still humble modern liter bikes on a cross-continental dash, this Honda isn’t just history—it’s a living legend.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep these icons flying. From OEM-spec maintenance kits to performance upgrades, every Blackbird deserves to soar.

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Specifications sheet

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