Honda CB1 Specs and Information (1989 to 1990 – aka CB400F NC27)

Comments

50 responses to “Honda CB1 Specs and Information (1989 to 1990 – aka CB400F NC27)”

1. 

   RICK

   June 13, 2019

   I got a 1990 with 13k miles – love the bike. Great info! What were your reference sources for the specs?

   Reply
   1. 

      WhiteDogBikes

      June 16, 2019

      Reference sources are…..
      -Me (I’ve owned a few of these over the years)
      -Collection of old service and spec books
      -And there is a service manual available online for this bike (there’s a link to at at the bottom of the above article) 🙂

      Reply
   2. 

      FatKeanu

      June 29, 2022

      I was 16 when I saw this at the dealership. I still want it and have been getting kinda serious about. Being 5’10” I wonder if it would be a good fit. Comfortable enough for longer rides. Any opinion?

      Reply
      1. 

         Paul

         July 27, 2022

         I have one. Im 5’11”. Im ok on the bike, but its more a fun bike than nice touring bike. My previous bike was a Vstrom 650 2014 that was very good bike for long traveling. Ilove my CB1 for short run…1h30 max. I can use all the power at full throtle and the feedback of the screaming 400cc 4 cylinder is like my older GSX750r when I was young! But not dangerous or fear to lost licences.
         I keep my CB1 for what it is….a litle very funny bike that can surprise many biker. I owned many sport and touring bike…but I can sold my CB1. Its like a toy, easy to ride, and there is nothing that sreaming like a 4 banger carburated a 13 500 tr/min lol.

         Reply
      2. 

         Simon Haddock

         December 10, 2022

         I am 5′ 10′ and have owned these bikes for years . Never a problem in fact , it’s an advantage -You’re tucked in more like being part of the bike and the with smaller height it’s quite wonderful with town use and being able to put your feet flat to the ground. The handling on these bikes is second to none , they are so well balanced- Even these days with modern bikes I have never felt the ability of the bike to be out classed by new machinery . Long rides , well this summer with almost every day being a biking day my long rides they were very long indeed . How about an average of 200 miles every day and never ever feeling the effects of any type of back ache or wrist ache … I have owned 100 plus motorcles since 1969 and will say in all honesty that there have only been very few bikes that have been able to outclass them in any way . Yep they aren’t the fastest bike out there but in all reality you don’t need that massive top end . I’ve owned bikes that can do 170 mph plus and always got frustrated that I couldn’t ever use that power ( only when I lived in Germany was I able to open the bikes up) but really after you do that a few times , that novelty wares off )…No the real rush is between 50 and 80 which is just perfect for these UK roads …One thing be wary of getting one of the old dispatch riders bikes , they were very popular in the early 90’s with the London boys who would thrash them around the city …Top tip . When on tick over that engine should sound sweet , because they don’t have a cam chain ( Direct drive Cam GearDrive ) so no rattles . Try if you can to get one of the MK1’s , they were built for the JDM and are of much higher quality re- alloy’s with a full factory made stainless steel system . The DVLA have confirmed to me that there are only 57 in total in the UK . Many of these being the USA/ Canadian model that were produced in 1991 . All bikes that came into the UK get reg as on a 1989 plate for convienience . They had a production run of only 22.000 and that was split into three batches . 10.000 -1989- 8.000 -1990 and the final year of production 1991 with only 4.000 made and these were for the USA/ Canada. These are the MK2 versions with a steel exhaust system , steel passenger foot rails. Black headlight surround , reflector strips on the forks and their clocks will be in MPH. As of summer 2022 there are only 7 MK1’s reg for the UK roads of which I own 3. They are rare and going up in value quickly , you will be hard pressed to find the MK1 . Back in Novemeber 2021 Classic Motorcycle Magazine did a main page review of the bike, with cover photo and up to that point you could get one in superb condition( original ) not restored for £1.500 because I did and was pleasantly surprised to find a few months later that the value of the bike had gone up by more than 100%. They are now worth on the classic scene a min of £3000 plus . They have to be original nothing changed ,no resto 100% factory spec . I have been lucky enough to find another one for my collection only last week – I now own 3 of the current 7MK1’s on UK roads so I can sell for what I like . There is no actual market value and they will only go up in value . I could sell my collection of all 3 for at least £9000 min . So good luck in finding one they are getting rarer and rarer as each year passes . Remember you will have to be able to fork out £3000 for a good one or you could get a MK 2 for less . The MK 2 just doesn’t cut itin the looks dept , in fact it looks like a different bike altogether . All the best Simon .

         Reply
2. 

   sim

   August 20, 2020

   cb1 400cc 1990 can you tell me how to check engine oil level exactly dip stick screwed in or screwed out
   best regard

   Reply
   1. 

      Dan

      September 28, 2020

      Screwed out, 100%

      Reply
3. 

   Issa Abdul razak

   October 27, 2020

   I got problem with my valves,I just replaced new engine head .but how to set the timing gears

   Reply
4. 

   Simon Haddock

   November 22, 2022

   I own two CB1’s both manufactured in 1989 . these are the MK 1 models which were also produced for 1990. The MK2 series was produced for the USA / Canadian market . Subtle differences for the two bikes . The alloy billet for the MK1 , pillion footrests not steel like the MK 2 . Stainless steel exhaust system for the MK1 was replaced by a mild steel all black system, black plastic headlight , reflectors on the front forks MK2 …Total production 22.000 world wide . 1989 -10.000-1990-8.000 – (MK2 -1991 -4.000- for the USA/ Canadian market) I have been in contact with Honda Japan Hammatsu via their messenger service and talked with a very helpful Japanese lady who spoke English . She confirmed the details and she sent me ( In Japanese ) the total production figures for every Honda CB1 -400 made in Japan and I have had the info translated into English . Bikes with the KM clocks were made for JDM and some other Pacific rim countries. ( JDM =Japanese Domestic Market). Some found their way to Australia and a few went to Hong Kong the Hong Kong bikes will have mph clocks like one of mine . I have two bikes from the same monthly production run in 1989. Rumour has it that in 1989 Honda tested the waters in Japan with 500 CB1’s with the CBRR 400 engine prior to changes they made with the gearing …For reference the 3rd gear on the CB1 is the Ist gear on the CBRR 400 . They are very sought after , I have contacted the DVLA and as of summer 2022 there are only 57 CB1’s reg for the road – 7 are the MK1 1989 JDM models and the remainder are the MK2 version …That doesn’t mean there aren’t more, possibly on sorn waiting for rebuilds . resto’s or just sitting around in garages… Hope people find this useful ?

   Reply
5. 

   Simon Haddock

   December 10, 2022

   Max power of 57bhp reached at 10.000 rpm – warning don’t bury that needle into the red for any length of time , it could overload the cams and you might get into a situation with valve bounce , meaning it will be reving so high that they hover and can’t actually close because the engine is spining so quickly …These engines were race derivedd so are needing to be used , they perform better when above 6.000 rpm and can easily reach 80mph pretty damn quick . For reference the 3rd gear if used properly can do 0-to 75 in one gear , That was the 400 R’s first gear . all Honda did was a re- gear configeration for road use , so you have a short shift to get to 30 pus in 1st- 2nd all the way up to 50 , then if used like a race bike full on until 75-80 -I’ve done it many times , then with the 4th gear it’s just extra until you reach 5th around that mark you will be hitting max power of 10.000 rpm . 6th gear will be stable at top speed of a max around 118-120 Wrongly stated in the blog as being a different engine as the CB400R , the engines are exactly the same and will have a stamp on the right side of the engine , where the clutch cable sits , pull back the cable and you find NC23E.( all CB1 400 ‘s will have a classifiaction of NC27 that is for the frame and running gear, handle bars etc. The NC23 E denotes the same engine as the CB400R the difference between the engines on both bikes is the gearing , with the R having that very tall 1st gear . Made for racing in Japan’s race series at the time . If you need any more information please feel free to contact me ok .I am in contact with Honda’s headquarters in Hamamastsu in Japan . I have in my possesion the listings. codes, production runs , the amount of bikes made , details of years of production and the list gives me every single Japanese bike manufactured from 1966 until the present day . This for the JDM only ( Japanese Domestic Market) doesn’t include bikes made under the Honda name built in other coutnries .Ths list doesn’t even include the CB1-MK2 variants because all Honda did was ship over the engines from Japan and the rest of the M2 was built in Honda’s USA plant …It was the American arm of the Honda company that decided on not supplying the MK2 with steel exhausts , steel footrest hangers and other bits . mainly to do with cost , they were testing the waters with the US model to see if it would sell and it didn’t do well ( there were only 4000 models built in the US . One reason was the bike cost more to manufacture than the then current ‘Jelly Mould CB600 F’ sales seemed to go to the 600 and not to the 400 as was expected . The world wasn’t ready for a naked ‘cafe racer styled bike at that point , all people wanted was the race look which was all popular in the late 80’s early 90’s …Many despatch riders bought these bike that were either shipped over from Japan or the US by container , I know because I was one of the importers ..haha.

   Reply
6. 

   John Rigby

   December 8, 2023

   Just bought one its a1990 in need of a little TLC Carbs cleaned and serviced.. After reading this thread I Think it musts be a MK1 as its got alloy rear footrest hangers and a mint full stainless exhaust, Only gave £500 for it too!

   Reply
   1. 

      Chris Gates

      December 29, 2023

      I just bought a 1989 CB-1 in Cobourg, Ontario (a nice small town just east of Toronto). It (the bike, I mean) has an interesting history. It was bought from a dealer in Michigan in 2007 with only 1440 miles on it. It started and idled well. It still has only 1440 miles on it and has been stored at room temperature virtually all of its life. The fellow I bought it from bought it for his son as an “investment”.

      Now I have to get it running. The tank was emptied but not the carbs. The previous owner let the local Honda car dealership keep it in the showroom “as a conversation piece”. He routinely turned the engine over.

      So, here’s what I think I need to do to get it running and certified for the road. 1) clean the carbs; 2) replace all fluids (coolant, oil, filter and brake fluid); 3) replace both tires as the 35 year-old ones seem quite brittle.

      What else am I missing?

      Reply
      1. 

         WhiteDogBikes

         December 30, 2023

         My advice would be to get it started before buying tyres etc.
         Check the oil level, replace the spark plugs, check the air filter is still intact and servicable, fresh petrol and clean the carbs if there gummed up.

         If it runs ok with no nasty knocks, smoke (a bit from dirty fuel etc would be normal) or other surprises then go ahead with the rest.

         The engines are fairly reliable so it’s unlikely to have any problems other then those caused by being in storage for so long.

         Other things your likely to need to replace would be:
         Battery
         Brake hoses (if there the original rubber ones)
         Spark plugs
         Air filter
         Oil filter
         Grease for nut’s, bolts, spindles and other lubrication points
         Also budget for a carb rebuild kit and possibly caliper rebuild kits (if needed)
         And possible cables (throttle and clutch) although these can often be freed up with oiling

         As you mentioned it would be best to change the tyres as they deteriorate over time and are likely to have flat spots if it’s been sat on the tyres for years.
         Good luck 🙂

         Reply
         1. 

            Simon Haddock

            December 30, 2023

            Maybe one other thing you might want to do is change the coolant in the radiator , certainly wouldn’t hurt , Air filter is a must and one thing check to make sure sure that fuel pump is working well and quiet . If you hear any loud ticking it’s on it’s way out . Try to buy a Mitsubushi original as the cheap chinese copies are useless. Wiring can get brittle over the many years as it’s been sitting around , especially in a warm envirioment . Is the bike a USA / Canadian model ? – I would think it is a MK 2 version with black steel exhaust and metal foot hangers , still has the same engine . It will have a stamp just behind the engine casing on the right side of the bike . This will say NC23 , which is the model Honda used with the engine from the 400 RR. The NC 27 bike used different gearing than the sports bike with a very quick 1st gear , almost reduntant , quick shift into 2nd get into 3rd and you’ll see where the demons live !!- With 55-57 bhp these bikes fly . They hate sitting around , so the best thing you can do is ride , you will be rewarded with a very happy bike.

            Reply
            1. 

               Chris Gates

               December 30, 2023

               Mt thanks to both of you! I can’t wait for this dreary Canadian winter to be over!
      2. 

         Simon Haddock

         December 31, 2023

         Yeah over here in the UK we are having very frequent storms with pretty cold winds ( not the best weather for riding of any sort ) – Good time to get everything checked and prepped for the spring. Hope the bike doesn’t need too much doing to get it all working well . LIke I said in a previous post ‘you will be rewarded with a fine , powerful , light weight machine , that can do the miles and is suprisingly comfortable as well’ . One last thing – the engine because it run’s the Cam Gear System’ should be incredibly quiet even on start up ( don’t use much choke better to warm the float bowls with a hairdrier in colder months -warm fuel much easier to ignite rather than cold ) , if there’s any hint of ‘tapping’ then it could be prudent to check the valves and have everything ‘set’. One of my CB1’s did indeed ‘tap’ quiet loudly on start up and after getting everything set up the noise went away . The bikes don’t use any oil and with regular checking ( dip stick ‘resting ‘ never screwed in) will give you the actual level and this should be done after a ride , leave it 10 mins then check the level this is the optimum level you’ll get . Never cold ok …Sounds weird eh . Good luck for 2024 and have fun .

         Reply
7. 

   Simon Haddock

   December 9, 2023

   You my friend are one lucky dude . As long as the engine spins freely and with no nasty rattles you have got a good un .
   Many parts for the CB1 are interchangable with other Hondas from the late 80’s through to the mid 90’s , electrics especially .
   Plastics are very rare so hopefully yours are all good . Rear plastic cowling is easy to take off but be wary with overtightenng when puting back on, the lugs can snap quite easily . Chain and sprocket, set best to use what Honda used back when new which is a RK Takasago kit . Expensive but so worth it – Tyres your choice but go for good ones , these bikes handle so well and they perform with good quality ‘boot’s . Rear shock could be ok and if not a good replacement is a YSS one .
   Back in October 2021 Classic Motircycle Mechanics ran a full 5 page article on the bike , worth checking out if you can …Well at least I know where 4 of these beauties are right now . Hope you have fun getting her all ready for the road . Colour for that model should be either red , deep blue , black , slate grey …See you .

   Reply
   1. 

      Sean Hallett

      January 2, 2024

      Hi, I very recently bought a CB-1 from Torbay Motorcycles in Newton Abbot in red and I believe it may be a bike that you previously owned, I’d read this thread and realised you’re local to South Devon and I actually asked Mark in the showroom and he confirmed it was yourself, I actually worked in the motorcycle trade myself many years ago at William Croft in Paignton, I was in the parts and accessories side of things.
      I did of course ride bikes back then but I haven’t done for over 30 years and I’ve recently returned this year to biking but purely as a leisure pursuit, I decided to do a refresher course as it’s been so long since I’d ridden, I’m still finding my feet, some things are still second nature others not so much, the bike is actually the largest(engine size)I’ve owned, I did have a Suzuki GT380 years ago but I mostly rode 100-200s.
      I am pleased with the bike but the idle speed seems too high at around 1700rpm, I’ve since found out it should be more like 1300, the bike is still under the 3 months guarantee and I may ask Torbay to adjust it but if it’s a very simple job would you be able to advise how to do it, obviously I don’t want to get involved too much as apart from the high idle speed it runs well, although I’m finding the gear change is not the slickest I’ve ever used but it could be me still not used to the bike. Anyway many thanks in advance if you’re able to help.
      Sean Hallett

      Reply
      1. 

         Simon Haddock

         January 2, 2024

         Hi there yep that would be the bike I traded in back in the summer of 2023 . I can garantee that all the work that was needed to be done was completed by TBM’s – All the valves were checked , new fuel pump , new carbs , tyres and I made sure that it was as clean as it could be .
         The idle wheel is just under the tank on the left side and is very easy to regulate the idle speed.

         Make sure you get the engine up to temp , you can feel the engine casing’s for warmth . Left turn to reduce , right turn to increase . The idle speed should be around 11.000 or just above . If you have any problems I’m sure TBM’s will help if needed.

         These bikes are bullit proof and so well built , you really shouldn’t get any problems . Hope this helps .

         Reply
      2. 

         Simon Haddock

         January 2, 2024

         Ref the gearbox , they are sometimes a bit crunchy , some are some aren’t . Best bet for riding is to ‘quick shift ‘ Ist very short , sometimes I use 2nd to get off on the flat – once in 3rd the bike is happy and if just wanting to ‘pootle in town best keep the bike in 2rd- 4th don’t worry about changing up any more – These bikes are high reving , don’t be put off with accelerating hard they love it when out on the open road . They are very fast , there is a demon that lives above 5000 rpm !!

         Cleaning products vary in usefulness and cost …

         I use silicone spray for the chain , first to clean maybe with parafin or similar and then spray a light coating on the revolving wheel whilst on the main stand, you could use an old tooth brush to work the silicone in after spraying ( silicone spray is great at keeping water out and as it’s not oil based, is kind to the roller bearings in the chain , plus you won’t get that gunge which builds up with chain lube and turns it’s self into a grinding paste ! . WD 40 is always useful for the engine casings and to clean the stainless steel exhaust -best not to use on electric cables and such like , silicone will do .( Trago Mills sell a good slicone product and not expensive) A little squirt inside the the end of the pipe in the winter , keeps out any water ingress.

         Basically after every ride I clean all my bikes , only a ten min job and worth it if only for peace of mind . Like my gran used to say ” You clean to keep it clean , not because it’s dirty ” !

         I never have ever used water to clean any bike , especially a power hose , lethal, get’s in all the electrics and you’ll never dry it out .

         When very cold I use a small hairdryer to warm up the area where the carbs are , helps with starting ( easier to start with warm fuel rather than freezing cold petrol ) only in the winter months . You shouldn’t have to put the battery on an optimiser it’s pretty new and will hold it’s charge well …

         As the bike is quite immaculate , all these jobs should be pretty easy to keep up with . I am very particular about looking after my machines , some say almost to the point of some OCD haha.

         I still have the two remaining bikes one is a ‘donor’ bike in case anything goes wrong and a lovely low mileage blue CB1 which spent it’s life in Hong Kong …plus a very cool Yamaha TRX 850.

         NB – You bought well and from a good shop , Marcus is a decent guy who knows his stuff and has served me well over the years . I wish there were more shops like his right now …

         Good luck and am pleased you like the bike , you’ve got a good un…Plus they are getting very rare in this condition . Oh and make sure you use high grade fuel E5 -97 99 octaine rating . I’m sure it would be ok with E10 but to be safe go for the E5( ethanol is a killer and has to be used up otherwise you’ll get ‘seperation with water and petrol) – See you

         Simon.

         Reply
         1. 

            Sean Hallett

            January 3, 2024

            Hi Simon, thanks once again for all the advice, I am keen to keep the bike in good condition especially as it is already so good and amazing for an 89, I have so far been taking it out only when it’s dry although as we know it’s hard to choose a dry day at the moment, I didn’t want to mothball it through the winter as for one thing I don’t want my newly refreshed skills to fade, and as you say the battery spins it over very easily, I’m still taking it quite easy although I’ve found out on the A380 last week that engine just wants to go, also as you’ve said I’ve been pleased with how flexible it is pootling around town and I noticed there’s no problem with pulling away in 2nd gear on the flat.
            Silicone spray is something I hadn’t thought of for the chain but I can see it makes sense, I know some of the lubes are so sticky that all sorts of grit will just stay put.
            I agree with you about the power washing being a bad idea and I’ll be looking for some sort of waterless cleaner.
            You must be a real enthusiast for these if you’re hanging on to your other two, and Mark had mentioned you’d got the TRX850, I’m sure I saw they had another one in there when I collected the bike in early December, it’s a really interesting place and they seem to be real enthusiasts for a certain era of bikes and for imports too.
            I’ll certainly be only using E5 in it, I’m the same with every vehicle I own.
            All the best for now.
            Sean

            Reply
         2. 

            Sean Hallett

            March 7, 2024

            Hi Simon,
            Further to our previous conversation regarding the red CB-1 which belonged to you and which I bought from Torbay Motorcycles in December 23, I thought I’d get in touch with you to let you know I’ve decided to sell the bike or possibly part exchange just in case you wanted the opportunity to buy it, I’ve really enjoyed the bike but now having returned to biking after 30 years or so I’m like a kid in a sweet shop and want to sample as many bikes as I can while I’m still able, in particular I’m interested in a Guzzi Breva or Ducati Monster but I’m still keen to test ride lots of others to see what I might go for next, unfortunately both my finances and space are tight so I’m not in a position to have more than one at a time, I did actually ask Mark at Torbay if they might be interested in buying it back but as you probably know they’ve just bought quite a lot of new stock but they might be interested after they’ve sold a few.
            **Phone number removed – WD Admin** As you can imagine I did pay full retail from Torbay but obviously I’m expecting to get less when selling privately, so if you’re interested just let me know.
            Sean

            Reply
            1. 

               Simon Haddock

               March 8, 2024

               Thanks for the offer but have three machines in the garage and to be honest with you , I don’t ride them as much as I should .
               There is quite a market for the CB1’s right now especially in the condition yours is in . You could try selling it on Car and Classic ‘ on line that’s where all the good condition bikes from the 80’s/90’s are for sale .
               Mainstream bike dealers like Bridge would not be interested but I do know that ‘Speed Motorcycles’ in Marsh Barton could be good for a trade in .

               Check out their site all bikes are listed and they do sell any type of machine …You won’t have a problem with finding the 400 a new home .Perfect machine for a newly qualified rider or ‘born again type – Yep ‘Speed’ I’m sure they’ll consider it .

               – I’ll stick my neck out and say approx £2,200-£2000 for a trade in or hold out for current value of £2.995 on Car and Classic .

               Good luck , all it takes is that one person who’s been looking for that particular bike or someone who wants to get into the retro scene without the vast expense of a new bike …See you .
            2. 

               Simon Haddock

               March 8, 2024

               Hi there .
               Ref the clutch and gearbox .
               When the bike’s cold the clutch can be a bit stiff with selecting gears . Best bet is to warm the engine for at least a good 5-10 mins before you take off . I’ve never had any issues but did learn a long time ago that these bikes do like a bit of TLC.
               The only time you would have to consider any clutch replacement with low mileage is if the bike has been ‘wheeled’ for any length of time .
               Considering how the bike has been looked after for 35 years I’m doubtful a new clutch is needed.

               Honda around that time did produce ‘crunchy’ gearboxes and this always showed up when the bikes were started cold . I bet you’ll find it quite different during the summer months . The only way of determining if the clutch is worn badly is by ‘slipping’ under acceleration when it will feel like an elastic band trying to catch up with it’self …( It’s not a big job to replace really )
               These engines were tried and tested in the race version of the bike with the 400 RR, so are pretty strong overall …Just let it idle until the engine get’s up to temp . And I don’t mean the water temp on the gage , I mean the oil temp inside the engine. 5 mins should do it fine …
8. 

   Sean Hallett

   January 2, 2024

   Hi Simon, thanks so much for the info, that idle adjustment seems really simple and straightforward, I did have one of the invoices from TBM showing the valve clearance check and it said they were spot on, also I had no idea it had new carbs and fuel pump, it’s all great to know and will certainly keep the bike going for many more years, I’ve certainly got the impression of how well built it is and nice and manageable because I’m on the short side, makes a lovely classic 4 cylinder sound as well, I read your previous messages, do you still have the other 2 CB1s I wonder?
   Also I hope you don’t mind me asking but I’m a bit out of touch with modern cleaning products and chain lube, are there particular ones you can recommend?
   Many thanks
   Sean

   Reply
9. 

   Sean Hallett

   March 8, 2024

   Hi Simon, Many thanks for your helpful reply and suggestions, I’ve been to Speed in Exeter as I was looking at a couple of bikes there before I got the CB-1, the chap I spoke to was friendly and helpful, and I do actually have a look on Car and Classic myself.
   Just a question about the gearbox that I mentioned in a previous message to you, you described them as being a bit crunchy which is a good way of putting it, I spoke to a repair place in Paignton that has a good reputation and he suggested it might be in need of a new clutch, or is it just a characteristic of the box in your opinion seeing as you’ve lots of experience with that bike, I don’t really want to spend out on it if it’s not necessary and I’m trading it in anyway.
   Many thanks
   Sean

   Reply
10. 

    Sean Hallett

    March 8, 2024

    Hi Simon, yes what you’ve said about the stiff clutch when cold is exactly what I’ve found and I generally let the bike warm up before I set off, I know Honda’s are usually very well developed and give few problems so it’s good to know that it’s unlikely to have a worn clutch in need of replacement, there’s no sign of any slipping at all when I’m riding it.
    Thanks once again for the information and advice.

    Reply
    1. 

       Simon Haddock

       March 8, 2024

       No problem ,should all be good –
       Maybe take a ride up to ‘Speed’ in Exeter and then you can show them the lovely condition the Honda is in with ref to a trade in ( if you find what you want ).
       They have a good selection of older bikes , I have bought a couple of bikes from them over the years . One thing with Speed’ is that they don’t do any type of ‘real servicing’ prior to sale or exchange ‘sold as seen’ as they say . Always a bit of a punt … .Just a general PDI which is always a bit of something and nothing !
       – Just checked on their site and there’s a nice looking 2009 Moto Guzzi V1200 Sport going for £4995 so with your bike say for £2000 trade in ? Depends on the budget you’ve given yourself I suppose …I’m sure you’ll find what you want , just takes a bit of time …Happy hunting .

       Reply
11. 

    Sean Hallett

    March 10, 2024

    That’s actually a good suggestion for me to ride up so they’ll know exactly what the CB-1 is like, I’ve had a look at their stock and there’s a few I like the look of including that Guzzi, I’ll have a word with myself about the necessity to have a litre plus bike in my life. All the best.
    Sean

    Reply
    1. 

       Simon Haddock

       March 11, 2024

       This week is going to be ok apparently . I went up to Speed today , good choice of machines …I took a fancy to one of my old bikes an immaculate Yamaha FZR 1000 from 1988…Hmmm. Nice but can’t justify another bike .

       Reply
12. 

    Simon Haddock

    March 10, 2024

    Shame the weather’s pretty rubbish right now , you’ll have to wait for some dry weather eh !…
    I reckon they’ll do a deal …good luck .

    Reply
13. 

    Sean Hallett

    March 11, 2024

    I know, it’s pretty annoying and a day where it doesn’t rain seems to be a rare thing, roll on spring and summer!
    Sean

    Reply
14. 

    Richard Stein

    March 12, 2024

    Just about to take delivery of a CB1. Clocks are in KM so does that mean MK1? Took a ride on it briefly, it is pretty rapid for what it is. Old school good fun. Showing 28000kms which if genuine is pretty low for 1989. Will do an oil change, 10w40 Castrol fully synthetic unless anyone has a better suggestion. Happy riding…

    Reply
    1. 

       Simon Haddock

       March 12, 2024

       All MK1’s had stainless steel exhausts , alloy billet passenger foot pegs. Check the right side of the engine casing ,just behind the clutch cable -should read NC 23 which is correct the bike’s code is NC27 .KM clocks would be the Japanese only machine . Later MK2’s had MPH clocks for Canada and USA. Engines were all the same although rumour has it that 500 MK1’s were sent to Japanese dealers in early 1989 to test the market and they are meant to have the Aero RR 400 engine with the very tall 1st gear and slightly more BHP . Standard engines put out 57 BHP with a very short 1st gear …3rd gear is where the power is and don’t be afraid to use the rev’s these bikes love it …Should do around 119 to 120 MPH top speed with loads of torque if you keep the revs above 4000 plus. Fast little bikes .

       Reply
       1. 

          Radio Rich

          March 12, 2024

          Thank you. I take delivery on Friday. Exhaust is stainless, will take a closer look when I get it. Can’t wait to enjoy myself on this little monster. Will post again when I get it

          Reply
          1. 

             Simon Haddock

             March 12, 2024

             Keep me posted on progress ok …Love these bikes , if you get a good one it’s worth keeping . Remember no cam chain to worry about ‘Gear Driven Cam’ magical piece of engineering no adjustment needed . Back in the day despatch riders in London bought many CB1’s part of our ‘ Grey Import Boom …They would ride them up to crazy mileage’s , just with oil and filter changes. If the bike’s done around 20.000 miles probably worth having the valves checked , if it’s running smoothly with no glitches I’m sure all is good . Once checked you probably won’t ever have to do it again . Good idea to change the coolant as well , especially if it’s been standing for any time . Air filter is simple to replace always good practice to change as well – Chain and sprocket set has to be the correct kit to get max power out of the bike -Have fun ok . …

             Reply
15. 

    Radio Rich

    March 15, 2024

    NC23E On the engine casing and has everything you describe

    Reply
16. 

    Simon Haddock

    March 15, 2024

    Yep great ,do you have the stainless exhaust and alloy passenger hangers…?

    is it either Red , Dark Blue, Black with CB1 embossed on the tank ?

    If it has black steel passenger hangers and black steel exhaust then it’s the US/ Canadian export model they all had MPH clocks . These are the MK 2 version. Same engine with 55/57 bhp-
    Some changed the JDM km clocks for mph versions and some were re calibrated with a gear wheel on the km clocks to read in mph …Glad you’ve got the bike now , check the fuel pump for any strange sounds when you go to start up , if the bikes been standing for some time the stale fuel could gunge up and a fuel filter is always a good replacement . They should fire up pretty quick . If it’s cold try blowing hot air around the carbs with an old hairdryer just to warm the cold fuel , it will help with starting . Best bet is to run the engine on idle up to temp , not the water temp but the oil temp – 5 mins should be enough –
    Just let it idle .After that the engine is prepped ready to go (after all these engines were built for racing , it will thank you for it )

    -Obviously if where you live is hot and dry then it should be a much easier start …The bikes run perfectly in misty cooler temps , loads of pure clean air to suck in and then watch her go…Have fun .

    Reply
17. 

    Radio Rich

    March 16, 2024

    It has a stainless exhaust and alloy passenger hangers. The clocks are in KMS. It is a very light blue colour (⛎ this colour) with CB1 embossed on the tank. Did 100 miles on it yesterday, incredibly quick and love the music it plays!!!!! Give me your email address and I’ll send you some pics.

    Reply
    1. 

       Simon Haddock

       March 16, 2024

       Not sure if this will work ok , this site seemingly doesn’t allow emails to be printed . Here goes .

       ** Removed by WD admin **

       Reply
    2. 

       Simon Haddock

       March 16, 2024

       NB – Forgot to congratulate you on getting one of the ‘JDM’ models , very cool indeed . They are pretty rare now , especially in good condition.

       Survivor bikes . Oh yes always try to use high octane fuel , they seem to run better …Not sure about the email , would be good to swap pics.

       Reply
18. 

    Änder Wirtz

    February 23, 2025

    Hello, could you please help me.
    I try to make ro run the CB1 of my wife wo stand for 15 years in my garage,I changed the spark-plugs and now I don’t know the correct order oft the cables on the plugs. Can you please tell me the order from left to right. Rhe new plugs I put in are:TORCH B8RH-9
    thanks for help
    Änder from Luxembourg

    Reply
    1. 

       WhiteDogBikes

       February 23, 2025

       To be honest I can’t remember, I know 1 coil does cylinders 1 and 4 and the other does cylinders 2 and 3. The coil wiring pics (from the servise manual available online) below may be of help:

       

       

       The cylinder order from left to right (if you were sitting on the bike) is 1 – 2 – 3 – 4.

       Hope this helps.

       Reply
19. 

    l

    March 1, 2025

    picked one up recently. any idea where to get new air filters from? I’ve looked on ebay and the shipping makes it double. also was looking for a stainless exhaust to replace the black oem one I have. any idea where to source parts other than ebay? it looks like the cb1 forum is gone now.

    Reply
    1. 

       Richard Stein

       March 3, 2025

       There is a complete 89 CB1 MK1 up in Elgol, Isle of Skye, full stainless steel exhaust system aswell. Can put you in touch if you’re interested

       Reply
       1. 

          l

          March 19, 2025

          Unfortunately I’m from the States, but thank you for letting me know. The bike seems to be very unknown and not very popular around here compared to everywhere else sadly.
          Also, does this bike have parking lights? I engaged the steering lock which was a little difficult to do since it feels a little mushy inside the key barrel and a week later, my battery is completely flat. I’m ordering another battery since I can’t charge the old one but I’d rather not have to deal with that again.
          The labels of where each key turn is on the ignition barrel is pretty worn out and I can’t see if there is such a thing.

          Reply
          1. 

             Richard Stein

             March 19, 2025

             They’re pretty rare here in the UK as well.

             No they don’t have parking lights, must be something else I would imagine.

             Amazing to ride but getting parts are difficult.

             Reply
             1. 

                Simon Haddock

                March 19, 2025

                I know there is a Black NC 27 CB1 400F sitting in the back room waiting for some bits to get it back on the road .
                Engine very sound , full stainless steel exhaust in good condition .

                Not listed for sale but they may take an offer to buy .

                View the dealer here

                It’s a good sound bike , I owned it some years ago .

                — Note: Apologies, I’ve removed the dealers name and tel no, there is a link to them above though – Whitedogbikes —
20. 

    Simon Haddock

    March 1, 2025

    The problem with the CB1 400 is that they getting so rare ( outside Japan ) …
    In the ‘ring of fire countries ‘such as Thailand there is a whole scene with customising and the little Honda is just perfect for turning it into a real cafe’ racer.
    Many have been converted , my suggestion would be to contact Honda Japan direct which is what I did via email , they were very helpful and gave me loads of information . You’ll have to find the email yourself because this site won’t let me post it . Anything you would need would be OEM JDM parts so would cost sadly …
    Or try to find what we call ‘breaker yards’ you might get lucky , the stainless steel system is so rare but because it was built to such a high standard it would have survived . They shine like diamonds once polished and make the CB1 look so different …
    Ebay is a good start , there are parts listed especially on the UK site.

    I did see a complete stainless system going for £150 on Ebay for £150 some time ago .

    Good luck .

    Reply
21. 

    André Wirtz

    March 31, 2025

    Hi, sorry for my late reply, I wanted to say thanks for your help,
    I Connected the cabels on the ignition plugs in the order as marked on the cables, 1-2-3-4, and it runs.

    have a nice day
    Änder

    Reply