Top custom builder creates a very special CB1100RS

Honda UK have unleashed his stunning special-edition CB1100RS, inspired by the factory endurance racers of the 1980s.

There will be 54 of the drop-dead gorgeous machines built in partnership with 5Four Motorcycles to mark the 50^th anniversary of the legendary Honda CB750. That ground-breaking bike is widely regarded as the first proper superbike and this eye-popping tribute mixes old and new to create a breathtaking beast.

The 5Four special-edition is powered by the same 1140cc air-cooled inline four as the standard machine, which pumps out 88.5bhp. It also shares the same chassis and conventional preload-adjustable 43mm Showa forks and twin shocks found on the mass-produced CB1100RS. Visually though it’s all change.

The super-cool café racer look is created by using a single seat unit and understated fly screen surrounding the rounded headlight and clocks. There’s no plastic here though; everything is hand-beaten and formed from aluminium;  just how creator Guy Willison wanted it.

“5Four Motorcycles was created to move away from the one-size-fits-all philosophy and to build thoroughbred machines with cool design, a statement of individualism and top quality, performance and exclusivity,” explained Willison.

Honda CB1100RS facts

• 1140cc air-cooled
• 88.5bhp @ 7500rpm
• Handmade in UK
• Just 54 available
• £15,554

“From the moment I first saw the CB1100RS I knew it had the potential to be a thoroughbred, single seat, point-and-squirt A and B-road blaster.”

The attention to detail on this special is simply astounding. Complementing the bikini fairing are a set of Renthal ultra-low handlebars with Tomaselli racing grips, alongside shorty levers and billet mirrors; all finished in black. Contrasting the black is the mirror-polished aluminium footrest hangers, with the hand-stitched seat finished in a diamond pattern of alacantra and leather.

Providing an authentic endurance racing soundtrack are a pair of four-into-two Racefit Urban Growler titanium end cans. Going further still each one is individually numbered with the digits subtly etched into the nickle-plated 5Four badge inset into the tailpiece.

And why 5Four? Simple: “That was my despatch call number…”

Want to get one? Well you’ll have to be quick. They’re only making 54 of them, but you can order from your local Honda dealer and there’s even a PCP option! The 5Four Special Edition is priced at £15,554 and each one is made to order, so deliveries are expected to take around three months. If they’re anything like Willison’s last bike, the Norton Commando Street, they’ll sell out in no time.

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