It was 1985 when Honda first released the original Rebel and, over 35 years later, the model is still in the game with the all-new version, the CMX1100, joining the family in 2021.

Full of premium features and proudly flying the cruiser flag, this is a model that is sure to be admired by all!

Join me in this new blog where I’ll be running through the 7 things you need to know about Honda’s CMX1100 Rebel!

Based on the CRF1100L Africa Twin, but with a few adjustments to ensure it can perform its cruiser duties, the 1,084cc liquid-cooled engine is fully Euro5 compliant and puts out some strong numbers, reaching 64 kW (or just under 86 hp) and 98 Nm of torque.

It also features throttle-by-wire, cruise control and Honda’s specialty – their own selectable traction control.

Let us not forget about those compact dimensions and adventure bike origins, such as the unicam drive train and semi-dry sump crankcase, that enable the CMX1100 to centralise its weight neatly allowing for more ground clearance.

Moving onto the gearbox.

When choosing your model you will have the option of either the six-speed manual gearbox or the six-speed DCT. This will affect the price (more on that in just a minute though) but Honda claims that the DCT offers a smoother ride and is providing the best of both worlds as it can still offer manual gear changes through the trigger shifters on the left handlebar.

It’s clear to see that Honda really has built the CMX1100 with everyone in mind and to be enjoyed as much as possible!

Don’t be fooled by that timeless treasure exterior because Honda has included everything needed for modern-day convenience which includes a negative LCD digital dash.

It may be simple, but the size and shape displays all information from riding modes to fuel indicator clearly and fits in with the overall minimalist vibe Honda is going for.

Next up, we’re getting up close and personal with the styling.

The all-metal bodywork, including front and rear mudguards, is raw and bare-boned. The long and low-slung frame showcases the laidback cruiser styling it’s taken inspiration from. And the low-set, circular headlight finishes the overall look nicely!

When it comes to colourways, you’ll have the choice of either ‘Gunmetal Black’ or ‘Bordeaux Red’. Both look great in my opinion but if I had to choose, I think I’d go with the ‘Gunmetal Black’.

Honda’s CMX1100 Rebel is a 21st-century roadster that has real depth and plenty of old-school-new-cool attitude – and I’m really, really enjoying it! 

Moving onto the lights and, for a more contemporary touch, Honda has treated us with full LED lighting throughout including headlight, indicators, and taillight.

Point number 6 brings us to brakes and suspension.

Braking power is served by a 330mm front floating disc and rear 256mm disc. As required, the CMX1100 also features ABS which is always a nice touch. 

Alongside this, it wears fat tyres with cast-aluminium wheels and sporty, y-shaped spokes for better lean angles.

With suspension, Honda has kept it classy but don’t worry because by using 43mm cartridge-style front forks and twin-spring adjustable piggyback rear shocks, it’s still made for those corners!

Last but by no means least, we’re finishing this quick-fire list with the decision-maker – the price.

As standard, prices sneak in at just under £9k, or more specifically £8,999, which does make the CMX1100 that little bit cheaper than its main rivals over at Triumph and Indian.

If you do have a little more wiggle room in the budget though, and as I mentioned a minute ago, you’ll also have the option of upgrading to the DCT version which does increase the price to £9,899.

Engine	1,084cc, 85.8 hp, liquid-cooled
Fuel tank	13.6L
Brakes	Front and rear disc
Seat height	700mm
Weight	223kg
Price	£8,999 (standard) or £9,899 (DCT)

With this big bobber, Honda aren’t just dipping their toes in the water but are diving into a section of the cruiser market that they haven’t swum in for a while and, here at Bike Matters, we couldn’t be happier! The CMX1100 Rebel is a class addition to their 2021 line-up and one we’d love to get our hands on!

We want to hear your thoughts though. Are you desperate to get your bum in the saddle of one of these beauties? Let us know in the comments!

If the Honda CMX1100 Rebel has won you over and you're thinking about purchasing one of these bad boys for yourselves, make sure to get a motorcycle insurance quote direct with Lexham!