HONDA CBF1000 (2010 - 2018) Review

Highlights

  • A brilliant jack of all trades bike
  • Legendary Honda build quality
  • Detuned 'Blade engine isn't even that bad on fuel

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Annual servicing cost: £190
Power: 106 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.3 in / 795 mm)
Weight: High (540 lbs / 245 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £3,500 - £5,800

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

There wasn’t anything really wrong with the old Honda CBF 1000 sports tourer motorcycle apart from it appeared a little dated and it was more of an ugly duckling rather than a stunning swan.

However, Honda have addressed that, given the CBF 1000 a new face, new clocks, lightened the frame and improved fuel economy. Great ergonomics, easy to ride, just enough power, relatively lightweight handling, a jack of all trades bike perfect for 98% of the time.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

It’s just as easy to ride at slow speeds through tight busy traffic as it is to have fun down an unfamiliar B road.

Cornering quickly on the 2010-2018 Honda CBF 1000

The ride and comfort is excellent and the new linked ABS are very effective, like riding with a safety net, ideal in the wet.

Its only when you ride out of the bike past its design parameters will you get any complaints as the pegs start to scrape and the rear is a little soft.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Honda claim the newly fuelled engine is now 7% more efficient than the old bike; it’s easy to see fuel figures of 50mpg and more.

Detuned Fireblade engine in Honda CBF 1000

The detuned 06 Fireblade engine isn’t going to set the world on fire but its incredibly flexible, smooth power delivery and has enough grunt for two up touring and will send the new speedo past the 140mph mark.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The frame is now aluminium but the wheels and suspension remain rather basic considering the new higher price tag. However everything is put together with the usual high standard we expect from Honda. There is no reason to question the reliability of the detuned Blade engine and should last for ever.

Honda CBF 1000 fairing

We've got loads of Honda CBF 1000 owners' reviews on the site, and there doesn't seem to be anything massively concerning - a few report issues with corrosion but this bike is hardly unique in that respect.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The old CBF started at less than £6000 which made the old bike an absolute bargain and highly recommended bike. However when the price was pushing nearly £9000, not much had changed to justify the price. Pricier than the Suzuki GSX1200FA, but lighter and more nimble with better build quality. Other rivals include the slightly newer Suzuki GSX1250F and the Kawasaki Z1000SX, so...

Watch: Kawasaki Z1000SX vs Honda CBF 1000 vs Suzuki GSX1250F video group test

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

New clocks add the quality finish and the screen is now three way adjustable. ABS is excellent, one of the leaders in this class.

Honda CBF 1000 clocks

The new top fairing and flush indicators have improved the looks of the front end, using CBR600 headlights. Luggage kits are available as optional extras if you want to turn your Honda CBF into a real tourer.

Specs

Engine size 998cc
Engine type 16v four-stroke inline 4
Frame type Aluminium twin spar
Fuel capacity 19 litres
Seat height 795mm
Bike weight 245kg
Front suspension preload only
Rear suspension single shock
Front brake 2 x 296mm 2piston radial caliper
Rear brake 240mm disc two piston
Front tyre size 120/70x17
Rear tyre size 160/60x17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 42 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £190
New price -
Used price £3,500 - £5,800
Insurance group 14 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 106 bhp
Max torque 69 ft-lb
Top speed 145 mph
1/4 mile acceleration -
Tank range 185 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 2006: original CBF1000 introduced
  • 2010: Model introduced
  • 2011: CBF1000A [£7,925] CBF1000GT [£8775] CBF1000FA offered [£9275]
  • 2018: Bike goes off sale.

Other versions

None

Owners' reviews for the HONDA CBF1000 (2010 - 2018)

26 owners have reviewed their HONDA CBF1000 (2010 - 2018) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your HONDA CBF1000 (2010 - 2018)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Engine: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5)
Equipment: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Annual servicing cost: £190
4 out of 5 Best bike ever
21 April 2023 by Bob

Version: Great bike “ reliable friend for life”

Year: 2010

I have owned lot s of bikes; kawasaki, bmw, ducati yamaha but this honda CBF 1000F beat them all on comfort, realibility, easy to handle, and last but not least cheap in services comparing to others. Only the less choise in colors is the only negativ point😎

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

After one year and 15k driven I replaced the tires for the Michelin GT 6 , so much better in rain, cornering etc, like glu on the tarmac by every speed

Engine 5 out of 5

Solid proof , easy driven at low speed and you get the DNA from the fireblade after 7000 rpm

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Good better best

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Honda side trunks,

Buying experience: Dealer price was in 2022 around 5k euro

5 out of 5 Great bike for all uses
03 January 2023 by Dario

Version: It an A version.

Year: 2011

Amazing bike. Would recommend it to everyone. No character at all, just the way I like my bikes. Drives as you want to drive it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Good for everything. In the city it's narrow and drives like a scooter if needed. On the open road it can go like a formula 1. Comfortable and stable on the highway. Enough power not to feel any difference when riding with a pillon.

Engine 5 out of 5

Drives like an electric engine. Just goes in what ever gear. Very linear and predictable. But if you want it, it goes much faster than I can handle.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Small battery for the engine. Has to be new and looked after. No other problems so far.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Bought used. Not in the best condition but only one visit to the mechanic sorted all out.

4 out of 5
05 December 2022 by Ian Davidson

Version: FA

Year: 2015

Typical Honda- easy to ride, reliable, quality finish. Needs another 20 hp in the mid range, more adjustable forks and better rear shock to fully exploit its potential.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Good on motorways and good A roads , rear shock and front forks limit the performance on more demanding roads.

Engine 4 out of 5

Given its a detuned Fireblade adding 20 hp in the mid range would have easy and made the bike more exciting. Less gear changing and a smoother ride.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Great finish, minimal corrosion (garaged) very reliable.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Everything works, reliable and comfortable . Running on Road Attack 4s which are very good

Buying experience: Honda main dealer - excellent service. Dobles.

4 out of 5 Great all rounder.
16 August 2022 by Stevie Shuttle

Year: 2012

Annual servicing cost: £180

Great all round, do-it-all bike. I've owned this bike from new and now covered 25k miles. I find it really comfortable, even managing a 15 hour, 830 mile ride home from Switzerland only stopping for fuel and refreshments. Definitely a bit heavy and softly sprung around Cadwell Park! Tank and fairing paintwork is still like new but frame, swinging arm and fasteners are pretty dismal making it look a bit scruffy.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

As a sports tourer, this is a cracking bike. Comfortable enough to ride for a full tank of fuel when I'm "on a mission" (about 200 miles), a Puig screen improved the wind protection and reduced the buffeting. Handling is good enough for some fun on the twisty roads, even on the Stelvio Pass fully packed up.

Engine 4 out of 5

Enough low down power to make life easy. I would have liked a bit more higher up the rev range (don't we all!), but overall there's enough power for what it is.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Lots of corrosion on fixtures and fittings. Why would Honda fit a mild steel exhaust clamp in a position where it catches all of the filth from the road. Said clamp had rotted away (unnoticed as it's under a stainless steel cover). As it's next to the exhaust sensor, the engine management light kept coming on at high revs, the local Honda dealer had it for a service and couldn't find any issues. The next time I was cleaning the bike I noticed the remains of the clamp and replaced it. Since then, no engine management light.... Also, no more genuine Honda servicing.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

As standard, there's not much in the way of accessories. Centre stand was extra, as was the luggage. I added Oxford heated grips after being informed that the genuine Honda ones were expensive and rubbish. The Oxford ones are great! My pet hate with the luggage is with the horrible steel tube frame that holds it. You look at the bike and admire the deep, shining paintwork then see the shoddy workmanship of the luggage frame and wonder why.....

Buying experience: Bought new from Honda dealer.

5 out of 5 Often overlooked; hidden gem
20 May 2021 by Classic

Version: ABS

Year: 2010

For me this is a perfect road bike. Enough power to satisfy any time, with great tractability, plenty of comfort and good mpg. When I compare it to the 2012 Z1000SX I owned before, this is a far better road bike. The Kawasaki was sportier, but it was a lot less comfortable, especially the seat and unforgiving rear suspension. I didn't like the CBFs standard screen and quickly swapped it for a Givi touring screen, that is a major improvement as well as good quality fit and finish. I'm going to change the standard hugger for a Powerbronze version. The dirt currently gets thrown up a lot around the rear. Overall it's a bit of a hidden gem, that doubtless gets over looked in favour of more popular machines.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

This is a touring bike that can be ridden sportily at times. The Z1000SX was the opposite and as such the CBF is way more usable and therefore enjoyable for me to own. I can do up to 1.5 hours before needing a stop. Mainly I find the leg position a bit cramped for longer periods, whereas the Kawasaki was the same on legs, the seat was horrible and I couldn't do an hour on that. The CBF has plenty of power for easy overtakes even in top gear. The brakes I find very good, although the Z1000Sx brakes were better. I find the CBFs more than good enough for any situation, and the ABS gives that bit extra confidence to squeeze harder if needed. The suspension is on standard settings as far as I know. I haven't adjusted it since I bought it. It absorbs road irregularities comfortably and although it wallows slightly in fast corners it's more than manageable and is a fair trade off versus ride comfort.

Engine 4 out of 5

There is plenty of power for road use. The power delivery gets a little bit more peppy once you get over 5000 rpm and it will click through the gear box smoothly, including clutchless changes if I'm getting a move on. Like another owner I get the flat spot at about 2500 rpm, which is more pronounced when the engines cold, but is still there a bit when warm too. Also the other slight bugbear is that the sweet spot when you feather the throttle to cruise is very tight. The slightest movement of the throttle means it either accelerates or goes on overrun. Maybe it needs some time on a dyno to sort this out.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

I've owned mine for a year and apart from needing to charge the battery once after lockdown started it's run faultlessly. I've covered just over 3000 miles in the year and it's due for service and MOT in August. I don't find it an attractive bike, but the paint work and metal surfaces are in great condition after 11 years.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

On average I am getting just over 50mpg from this. Slightly more on longer trips, which equates to about 200 miles on a full tank. The Bridgestone BT021 already fitted are about half way through. I had a couple of unexpected rear slides in the damp early on, but I think that was because the tyres are old (2013) and hadn't been used much since fitted in 2015. After that they've settled in well and are confidence inspiring in both wet and dry.

Equipment 4 out of 5

My favourite bit of equipment is the centre stand. So few bikes now have them and they're so useful!! The mirrors are great; vibration free and with a good rear view. The instruments are basic analogue dials, but perfectly legible day or night. The fuel gauge isn't accurate, being pessimistic on my machine. After a while I got to know what the reality is and it's better than nothing. I would have liked a temperature gauge for reassurance as the cooling fan does come a lot at times, but I can't tell if the engines over heating or just hot. The switch gear is simple and easy to use and there's the useful addition of hazard warning lights too. As I said the standard screen was awful for me with horrible buffeting and the standard horn is very feeble.

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer with 22800 miles and only one older owner for £2995. I paid the price and asked for, and got a cover and disk lock included in the deal.

3 out of 5 Honda build quality a myth.
10 April 2021 by Neil

Version: Neo Sports Cafe

Year: 2019

Engine and gearbox fantastic, Build quality not up to Honda standards. Paintwork fading, corrosion everywhere, despite being garaged and covered. Less than 3000 miles in 2 years use. Disappointed.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 A true review for real on road riding
03 April 2021 by Mike hyett

Version: Gt

Year: 2011

So easy and forgiving to ride, sufficient power for today’s roads, some wind noise

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I like to take a little walk when I stop for fuel about every 150 miles

Engine 5 out of 5

Plenty of low down power

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Some rust on central stand

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Serviced by myself every year

Equipment 5 out of 5

Completely standard just get on and ride the bike is one of the last twin silencer models

Buying experience: Dealer

5 out of 5 honda heaven..i think...
22 January 2021 by dave s.

Version: fab mk.2

Year: 2011

Annual servicing cost: £220

great all round bike..best i have had all, day comfort..very plush when out on the road..compared to the other bikes i've had..it came with bar risers,and a givi rack,for some reason it makes the bike quite easy to push around,as required, i had a 2012 model a few years ago for some reason this one is miles better ! shame to get of it.if you like an easy to use bike you will not go wrong with one of these..

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

short trips or touring it will do it all ..petrol stops ideal time for a break if you want or press on regardless..its up to you..been to scotland on it and various parts of peak district..

Engine 5 out of 5

very smooth power delivery from a lovely torquey engine..nothing to dislike.low seat makes bike easy for shorties, a real plus point

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

this one is very good quality..have changed a few fastners.to titaniumit makes a big difference nothing now appears to corrode!! or is that me.. my other one was a 2012 model not as good quality as this one..

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

serviced at a honda dealer in nottingham..and m.o.t could do it myself but have not got the time..

Equipment 5 out of 5

mine has a hugger radiator guard ,heated grips ,bar risers givi rack, have fitted puig pro frame sliders,these are mounted further forward on the frame not engine mounts would recomend if you can get them now

Buying experience: bought from bob minion honda dealer, at the time..it cost£4495 and got a good part exchange for my old fazer 1000 2005 mk.1 was very happy..

5 out of 5 Happy Honda owner
15 November 2020 by Colin Pettit

Version: Gt

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £200

The Cbf1000 suits me as it physically a small bike.I can get both feet flat on the ground which is so important when carrying a pillion and touring luggage. I also love the really low down torque ,also the fuel consumption. I get 60mpg. There are no worst features.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Ride quality is ok, maybe Bridgestone T31's make it a little harsh.My wife can do 2 hours before we have a break

Engine 5 out of 5

So smooth,oodles of torque,light clutch

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Excellent build quality, very reliable

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Honda panniers and top box are great,no panniers frames either I'm 5ft 8 and got a screen extension to prevent buffetting, It works. Bridgestone BT31's give me 10000 miles before replacement

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer new for £9000 which included full luggage with liners and a Tom Tom Sat Nav.

5 out of 5 My Brilliant Honda CBF1000FAC
14 October 2020 by Mike Fensome

Version: FAC

Year: 2013

Annual servicing cost: £100

Great Bike, best feature easy to ride Worst feature, fuse box can corrode through spray from rear wheel,

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great all round bike, 2 hours maximum before needing a break with or without a pillion

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth ride, no noticeable vibration and plenty of torque (no dislikes)

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Radiator failed at 39,000 miles due to leak from water channel at rear of radiator (not stone damage)

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Home serviced from new by myself, spare parts from Honda, no high costs (except radiator)

Equipment 5 out of 5

Good handling, neutral stance, accessories fitted, Honda Topbox and panniers plus Honda fairing lowers, Ermax Hugger all great items Tyres, Michelin Road 5 are brilliant for both wet and dry riding, all Pilot Road tyres last 10-11K with or without a pillion

Buying experience: Bought new From Honda Chiswick, with Panniers, Topbox, heated grips, Fairing Lowers and Datatool Green alarm Cash price £11,600.00

4 out of 5 Honda CBF1000FA
13 October 2020 by StevefromRopsley

Version: FA

Year: 2012

Annual servicing cost: £160

Best features - decent midrange and economy. Easy to ride, all day comfort. Great finish on tank and fairing paintwork. Worst - terrible corrosion problems on swingarm and fasteners. It's a great bike that's easy to live with and reliable. It's biggest drawback is that you just don't get excited about it!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great all round bike. Although the suspension is too soft for really fast riding, it's a great compromise for the bikes' purpose and price.

Engine 4 out of 5

Lots of low and midrange power, it makes for an easy time when spending the whole day riding. I just wish it had the same power as CB1000R!

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Despite an intermittent engine management light (which local Honda Dealer couldn't trace), it's been very reliable. 22k miles and despite having 3 new batteries, it's not let me down. Quality of the paintwork is excellent, the rest of the bike is awful. Think 1970's Suzuki quality.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

No standard power or USB points. Centre stand was an optional extra. Luggage was an optional extra. Advised to go for the Oxford heated grips (excellent) as the Honda ones were expensive and rubbish (as I was told..). Best tyres so far are the Michelin PR5's.

Buying experience: Bought new from local main dealer in 2012.

5 out of 5 CBF-F
02 June 2020 by Niall

Version: Mk2

Year: 2011

Annual servicing cost: £300

Have owned a CBF1000F for 2 years now and done 35000 kms on it. Bike is my daily commuter and tourer 2 up with my wife. Very hard to fault it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great bike for most occasions. Brakes excellent. Fitted bar risers and extra padding to the seats. Stock seat s little hard on long runs. Taller screen also....

Engine 5 out of 5

Sublime.....

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No major faults except HISS wiring cracked, so done a DIY fix. Sorted.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Value for money? Oh YES!! Easy to work on. Do all my own servicing.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Every bike needs some customisation, but, this is one of the best stock set-ups you'll find.

Buying experience: Got a great PX on my old Bike from M50 Honda Dublin.

5 out of 5
02 May 2020 by XRWoody

Version: FA-C, Mk 2

Year: 2014

Superb bike - Uses a detuned Fireblade engine, loads of torque, loads of reliability, great handling. Nowhere near as quick as the donor fireblade but plenty fast enough,

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5

Some people may like a little more top end rush but its perfect for me.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never had a problem - with the MK 2.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I don't record the actual costs but I just fit new oil filter with every oil change. 20,000 miles & I have fitted a new sir filter.

Equipment 4 out of 5

I prefer an alternative screen to the Honda original.

Buying experience: Good service from Wheels at Peterborough

3 out of 5 probably an awesome commuter for a rider under five seven.
17 November 2019 by Bern

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £150

....Tiny little bike, very little presence on the road despite the lovely running lights. Crouched position and zero weather protection, feels desperately like it needs a sixth gear even at around fifty to sixty (havent got faster than that because my helmet feels like it is going to fly off (what is the attraction of naked bikes???). Not the bike for me (mine being a very well cared for rental).

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Brakes..fantastic. I am glad to get off the thing after my commute (ten miles).

Engine 5 out of 5

It is snappy but a bit gutless, lack of protection means a joyless ride for me, needs a sixth gear.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

it's thirstyish, not impressed for such a wee bike.

Equipment 2 out of 5
5 out of 5 Biffer
29 August 2019 by Toonloony

Version: GT ABS

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £250

Really easy to ride, doesn't play havoc with my wrists as my previous bikes did!! Not the most powerful, but does all you will ever need a bike to do. I actually think it could be the best bike I have owned owing to it's all round versatility. It tours, it handles and it doesn't try to hurt you!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

plush on a long distance, ABS an absolute boon!!!!

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth, torquey and just enough power

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Thermostat and housing needed replacing!!

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Got all the honda luggage, plenty of dials and lights on the dash, fitted heated grips and a scottoiler and its is spot on!!

Buying experience: Bought from Tinklers Yamaha in Norwich, fantastic service!! When it overheated they booked me in to my local Honda dealer and paid the bill.... Cannot really ask for better service.

5 out of 5 Easy rider
11 August 2016 by Drazen

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £125

Easy to ride motorcycle.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

I bought this bike as new in December 2010. Bike have 45.000 km. So far I have only alternator problem (stator was burned). Since this is usual fault I gave verdict "4 out of 5".

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Mr
18 June 2016 by Alex

Version: FA

Year: 2014

Could do with a temp gauge and gear indicator. Traction control would be a bonus. Better quality suspension would get this bike 5 out of 5.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Suspension could be improved

Engine 5 out of 5

Gem of an engine

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Cannot Be faulted.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Could be more economical

Equipment 5 out of 5

Centre stand

Buying experience: Purchased from a dealer

4 out of 5 Much Better than you think.
16 June 2016 by Bigtwinthing

Year: 2010

Great Bike very often overlooked. Try one you will be impressed.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

much better that the parts would suggest. Great for A and B road blasting and Super comfy. Great for 2 Up in my Wifes opinion.

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth enough power and creamy smooth.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Typically honda.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Accurate Fuel gauge. Centre Stand Room under the seat. Superb with the Luggage.

Buying experience: Lots to see buy a good one.

3 out of 5
26 October 2015 by Bill

Year: 2013

the chrome rusts quickly

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

not a comfy bike on long runs, handle bar risers help

Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

rust on all the chrome and hose clips, bolt heads etc

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

hight adjustable screen

Buying experience: dealer, advertised priced was £9,400, got for £9000 plus £300`s worth of any accessories

5 out of 5
09 October 2015 by Terry Harte

Version: AA

Year: 2013

Annual servicing cost: £140

This is the 3rd of these I have owned, very easy to ride 1 or 2 up and with luggage. The only minor fault with all 3 the front suspension needs to be stiffened up

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brakes on my latest model ABS much improved over non ABS. The bike is good all rounder. 150 miles not stop not a problem.

Engine 5 out of 5

Bullet proof de-tuned Fireblade engine, plenty of grunt

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Typical Honda build 100% reliable all I have had have been totally reliable, Only part to fail was the battery on my last one, It was 4 years old.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Givi Panniers and top box give loads of space for long trips or holidays

4 out of 5
07 October 2015 by Novamundial

Version: FAB

Year: 2012

Great commuter, tourer pretty much does everything you want it to do. Typical Honda build quality, typical useless screen

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Basic suspension gets found out when pushing hard

Engine 4 out of 5

Honda should have let it have more power

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

50+mpg, dependable Honda

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 2 out of 5

It has none, try to find a decent screen

4 out of 5 CBF1000GT Honda's hidden jewel
25 August 2015 by Gilmore

Version: GT

Year: 2015

Huge improvement to the very good MKI model in looks finish and especially performance. Fantastic all-rounder, but could do with an extra 30Hp just to top it all off. It's great for touring with all the extras, and fantastic for those knee-down country lane burns when you just need to let off some steam. Minor niggle is the frame around the heels scratches up easily, so look out for aftermarket covers/protectors when they become available.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Handles far better than a bike with a centre-stand has a right to. In fact, one problem I get is grinding away the foot rests and exhaust shroud when cranking it over too hard. Superb combined ABS package lets you get away with bad decisions that a standard setup wouldn't...i.e Hitting a corner too fast! Just apply the rear brake (braking is then split between front and rear calipers) to stay on line without the bike standing up out of the curve. Acceleration is incredible for a hefty bike with only(!) just over 100HP available at the throttle.

Engine 4 out of 5

Power delivery is flawless and extremely smooth, with an incredible amount of torque, even in 6th gear at low speeds. Gear ratios are just about perfect and she sounds raw and meaty at just the right times.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Excellent (but slightly expensive) build quality, good equipment and finish. Nice touch with the height adjustable seat and variable handlebar positions. I can't understand why this bike appears so overlooked, because if you want a bike that can tour and give you a saturday afternoon thrill but can't afford to buy both, then you would be hard pushed to find a better buy.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Keeping broadly to speed limits and not yanking the throttle hard, I managed to turn in 260 miles on a full tank.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Could really do with a gear change indicator due to never knowing what gear I'm in because of the high torque. Nice touch with the adjustable screen, although a choice of clear and tinted would be nice.

Buying experience: Bought from Thunderroad Honda main dealership. Price was £10,299 but comes with excellent TOMTOM sat nav, full pannier and internal bag set and the dealer also chucked in a couple of freebies including a rear wheel hugger.

4 out of 5
03 July 2015 by Davy

Version: CBF1000GTFA

Year: 2015

Annual servicing cost: £400

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Linked brakes work well and inspire confidence

Engine 5 out of 5

Very smooth and effortless. More than enough for two-up touring

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Honda charging for first service is disgraceful

Equipment 5 out of 5

Full luggage kit comes as standard.

Buying experience: Bought from dealer for £10,000

5 out of 5 Best touring bike I have ever owned.
05 June 2015 by Alan Sh

Version: FAC

Year: 2012

It seems to have everything I need and is a vast improvement on the old one (which I also owned).

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Seat height is very adjustable and suits me with small legs. I can get both feet on the ground with it in the middle position. The screen can be a bit buffety, but I've put some spacers in to rake it back which improves it no end. Suspension is better than the old one with more adjustment as well.

Engine 5 out of 5

No issues anywhere, Powerful engine. I've put a 17t front sprocket on which makes the speedo 100% accurate and means cruising is that much easier. Engine is more economical and seems to have shade more power than the old one. The display is much better and displays more information.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

I've had mine for over 2 years now, it's got 10,000 miles on the clock and nothing has failed.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I do all my own oil and filter changes. It hasn't needed anything else yet.

Equipment 4 out of 5

I've added a gear indicator, scottoiler and heated grips. Mine came with full luggage and is superb for touring.

Buying experience: Bought new from a dealer (Rochdale Honda) and got a good deal.

5 out of 5 Captain Sensible's Bike
28 May 2015 by Alan

Version: Naked version

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £50

Having owned and loved the older 2006 version I was pleasantly surprised by how much better this one was all round. Smoother, much nimbler feeling and free of buzzes and minor fairing noises. MCN understates the difference between the two versions.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I love the newer ABS but think if you are used to a sports bike will find the brakes needing a good squeeze at times.

Engine 5 out of 5

Great engine, pulls 6th gear from around 30mph (obviously not best practice) and on long twisty runs you seem to be able to stay in top everywhere! Smooth too and fast enough for any sensible person.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I always do my own servicing and this is a very easy modern bike to work on. Be embarrassed if you put this in for what amounts to an oil change and quick check-over. (Annual/4000 mile service)

Equipment 4 out of 5

Adjustable seat as standard is great and being short, I love the sensible (range) of seat heights on this bike.I had mine fitted with Pilot Road 4's from new and they are wonderful tyres.

Buying experience: The old one was such an amazing bargain new, that people have been unable to stomach the present day list price. Shopping around works - I paid £7250 for a pre-reg bike with nominal mileage, full guarantee etc., from Castle Motorcycles. Winter deal but I still cannot believe the bargain I got and they changed the tyres!

4 out of 5 All rounder
28 January 2011 by Charterhouse

This is a great bike for those who need one bike for all year round commuting, touring and weekend rides. It is a smooth bike, easy to handle (though heavy), but during the snow and frosts I got caught a few days riding home in a few mm of snow and I had no surprises. Good low down power and MPG (around 50 for all riding) and has reasonable look. Mine came as a black GT version with full fairing and full luggage and new was £1000 less than the price quoted on MSN. Traded in my ST Sprint for this bike and not missing the Sprint (though a great bike) because of the better luggage capacity and now £1000's less than the new Sprint tourer. No vibes from mirrors! Many Deuville riders progress to these.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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