New-look Honda CBF1000 makes last-minute appearance

Honda is reversing its decision not to import the new CBF1000 – it will now go on sale in August.

The overhauled CBF gets a raft of chassis, styling and practical changes over the plain but capable current model, but still keeps the basic virtues that made the original popular.

The key changes are a switch from a steel backbone frame to aluminium, helping to save 5kg to bring the kerb weight down to 245kg.

The forks are now adjustable for preload, and the shock gains rebound damping in addition to the preload-only on the old bike.

Braking is carried over from the old bike – twin three-piston calipers at the front are linked to the rear caliper, with optional C- ABS to assist stopping.