Motorcycle Review - 1998 Honda CBR 1100 XX Super Blackbird - Is It Too Perfect?
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- čas přidán 9. 08. 2020
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CORRECTION - It definitely does not have side-mounted radiators!
Music by the band Mannaforra:
/ @mannaforra - Auta a dopravní prostředky
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NOTE: I am aware that the Blackbird doesn't have side-mounted rads. I was stupidly thinking about my old VFR-800fi.
Been off biking for 35 years, went to buy a 400cc to get back into it aged 59 and ended up with a blackbird, was terrified riding it at first but one thing about this bike is it doesn't rip your arms off unless you tell it to, is quite happy going slowly in the wet. Sold my car Sunday and found out my new car won't be delivered until Saturday, I work deep into the countryside with muddy roads and Monday morning the heavens opened and has rained all week, my experience levels have gone through the roof, been round a few slippery corners in heavy rain and the blackbird didn't skip a beat. Roll on summer.
Rock n roll
I have had 3 Honda Blackbirds and I currently have a 2000 Model ( W Reg ) I have also got a BMW Adventure but I love the Blackbird that much it’s still my first choice bike to go out on, it’s so Smooth and Comfortable, my Blackbird only as 24,500 on the clock and I will keep this Bike forever , I will never let it go 👌👌👌
Great bikes. My 2002 CBRXX has over 155,000 miles. Solid bikes.
Best comment. Mine IS 02 too Only 80k, +-50m il think
@@paulog6598 I'm a little past 207k now.
Can’t beat a classic bird. One of my all time favorite bikes
Lovely review - thank you so much! I have one since more than 20 years now and never ever would give it away! Although I bought a BMW R1200RS two years ago (which is in almost every respect a completely different bike), I still take my XX every now and then for a short ride and enjoy the smooth linear power of that masterpiece of Japanese engineering...
Thanks
Jürgen
There's just something that feels a bit special about it isn't there? Compared to other bikes from 1996 it just feels more modern and refined.
@@TheLoneTrader sublime and majestic I would say - knowing that you from the UK might have different associations by such words ;-)
I bought a super clean 99 blade in Cadbury colour a few years ago for dirt cheap with 16k miles on it. It had every bit of paper work from day 1. It was absolute mint, runs like a dream. However, old machine with low miles means rubber bits will have perished.
Just a few things since I've owned it ...
Reg/rec went on a long tour. To be expected, it was the original factory and lasted 22k miles. Replaced with upgraded oem.
Front brake master cylinder went recently, replaced with oem. Now feels amazing with loads of stopping power for little effort.
Rubber o rings on carbs perished leading to fuel leaks. I split the carbs, replaced the o rings but carbs haven't been the same since. Carb balance tool on order.
Shocks... Well, they're shot really. Forks probably never been serviced so are well over due. Rear, starting to seep so needs replacing. The handling feels way ward in bumpy corners so this really needs doing soon.
All in all, I love this bike. Great power and handling, still looks good all these years later. And I listed after one as a kid when they were new so maybe I biased.
I'll be getting the shocks and fuel sorted this summer, then it'll hopefully but a solid bike for many years to come.
Edit: carbs balanced, 1/4 richer on the mix and she's running sweet. Now on 26k miles and I'll check and adjust valves this summer. Last check was at 6k.
New Nitron rear shock fitted, forks serviced and it feels a million miles better.
I've tried some modern bikes recently, but they always just feel a bit dull compared to these older bkes.
I'm getting old aren't I!!?
I have had mine 21 years and I agree with almost all that you stated in this video... The bike is a beast! I am 5' 4" short and have mine lowered, it is heavy but it has transported me all over the UK at 70mph and across the continent at Warp Factor Speeds with ease... in all my years of ownership, I have had to replace the reg/reg twice, Stator once and and that is it! A brilliant and beautiful machine... One thing that you highlighted is the steering wobble. I experienced this when on a trip to Germany and was due to the overweight topbox, which obviously transfers weight off the front causing the front to become lighter. Additionally I also experienced it again after a fully loaded trip, two up, to Venice. The extra (over) weight on the back and possibly slightly under pressure tyres caused the Maxxi front to 'scallop' and this was very evident at slower speeds.. needless to say the tyres were changed immediately upon return to the UK. Best tyres I have had on her, and there have been a few, are the Avon Storm 3D's... beats all the others for value and feel.
Helpful, thanks!
Your level of insight, knowledge and communication style is top notch, thanks for a quality experience, cheers.
@@johnmignano7872 Thank you, John. That really means a lot. I do make errors in these videos but I do try my hardest to do the research and keep info relevant.
I think that years ago I stumbled upon the solution to the front fork wobble! Before I bought my BB, I had several glory years on a CBR 1000 Hurricane. Wonderful bike, but also had the wobble, until I saw an ad for a fork brace called SuperBrace. Klutz that I am, I still had an easy time installing the thing on my 1000, and the effect was dramatic. The bike suddenly had a nice, tight, "squared away" feeling, and greater steering responsiveness. No more wobbles! Confidence and enjoyment increased, as an all-metal, no-asphalt river bridge nearby was no longer scary to cross. And the polished aluminum brace just looked good.
When I got my new Blackbird, I wasted no time bracing it.
In other business: What a well-done review! Everything works: At all times - in any moment - I can hear your words and see what you are talking about. And your content is thoughtful and well-organized. The best-produced product review I have ever seen!
But did you really need to brace the Bird. Isn't it already solid into the corners?
What a comprehensive and skilfully laid out dissection of a bike! Thank you for putting the effort in. I had a short test ride on a BB years ago and felt it wasn’t for me at the time ( was having a crush on twins at the time - TRX and GRISO). Now I’m looking for my last bike to go alongside the Falco. I think the Blackbird could swing it if can build a gentle enough ramp to handle it in and out of my shed while still fit enough. The reason I’ll enjoy it now is because all the good points you describe - speed, reputation, engineering, finish, aero etc. All add up to one big smile factor that trumps all the rest and is why my second Falco will stay with me, and that is pride of ownership. I want a Honda because I have so much respect for their engineering and it has to be a good one from the best Honda era. In a sense the honda engine has a strong link to my beloved Rotax twin in that they both sport twin balancer shafts which add sophistication to both engines Btw if anyone wants to hear the Bird’s engine really sing then spend abit of time hunting down the many posts by Japanese rider “MJO”. I don’t know what pipes he has but it growls sweetly like an old Escort Mexico in fully rally mode👌
Seems to corner ok too when not juddering his fillings out😬
This is such a fantastic video. You said everything I wanted to know about it and hit the nail on the head how I feel about it (ideally, I don't even ride yet), describe it all clearly and compared to realistic used competitors.
As a sports touring superbike the riding position is not overly aggressive (I see you are rocking VFR risers) amazingly relaxed at triple digit speeds absolutely no vibration.
I would add the saddle is poor for long distance travel, a double bubble screen is a must and VFR or other risers a good addition. I have a 20L Motec tank bag that doubles as a chest rest when in the tuck. Great review thanks!
Great video. Ive had 2 blackbirds and intend on getting another soon. Ive had sports bikes and lots of other shapes and sizes. Nothing compares to a blackbird, its like your best friend, its brilliant at everything, and just keeps giving.
Dude...great video...great audio...great riding..and a ton of information!!!!!! Love it
Thank you for this great video. It brings back fond memories for me, of my own Carb'ed Blackbird. I liked that bike a lot and I think I want another one again in 2024.
My '97 has original chain. I've had it for 7 years, never had to adjust it. It doesn't run hot, the bars never wobble, the rear tire lasted 9K miles, Michelin s. Had to replace the reg/rect and battery. Has a micron full system, it's still not loud it's been rejetted, fuel mileage went down to 32, power went up-up-up! Quite satisfying!
You're not using your right wrist very much then 😅! Though actually you're probably riding and maintaining it far more properly than I am. I put the wobble down to that front tyre, which needs changing. I'm still thinking about the exhaust, though. I'll probably keep it standard.
In honesty. Quite a few of the issues agree probably down to my owning a previously abused example but I can only review what I actually have in front of me.
Cheers for the comments. It's really useful for people to know the ownership experience of others.
Hi does anyone find the blackbird front end a bit bouncy done fork oil s.
I bought one 99er last Friday and your description is perfect that what I today on my first ride was feeling!
I changed only the back light in led and the windshield and the bike is timeless beauty.
Against other machines this aged the blackbird is the best what you get for this prices today.
6 year paused and I love to be back on two wheels!!!
Really good describe of the bike in your tour!
Only buy for better future prices I think the blackbird is under the radar, if she is better presented in the field I think it's the last year so cheap...
Great 👍 video I’m looking at purchasing a Honda Blackbird you have convinced me now thanks from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺
Had a Blackbird for the last 3 years, love it, can do anything and I can keep up with anyone of my friends on their lighter bikes
I owned the last of the blackbird Honda's the 07 you definitely won't be disappointed these bikes look amazing with the standard Honda panniers and top box especially when touring I really do miss it only because I was getting 2 many speeding tickets so I traded it in for the Yamaha FJR 1300 touring bike 06 a gen 2 with 164800 odd KMs without any issues I'm 65 in August unless the weight of the FJR gets really overwhelming I'll be keeping the FJR model ⁹forever
NIce review! Your wobble is likely worn steering head bearings - my Blackbird is identical to yours, and no "hands off" wobbles at any speed. Fix that (and get better tyres) and you might find you enjoy the twisties a bit more too! And you should be seeing much better fuel consumption too - at least 42 to 45 mpg. (UK gallons) - I pull at least 330km (206 miles) from mine before I'm sweating on the next refuel. Put an automatic oiler on (like a Scottoiler) and your chain will last for years. It is quite hungry on tyres though.
Nice review - I was a happy owner of that exact version of the xx for quite a number of years. I switched for a CBR1000rr in 2015 and to be honest I have not looked back. I did enjoy seeing the bike again in your review as it really was a top of the line unit. However I recall the linked braking system as a much more elaborate system of modulating valves that also included an anti-dive delay system on the front forks. I never had reason to question the linked braking system as it always seemed smooth, functional and transparent to me at least.
Great review :) Yes the Blackbird was beat by the Hayabusa But.. The Blackbird is Still the worlds fastest (carb) production motorcycle in the world, yet many people dont know or simply over look that fact.. Had my 98 for decades and Shes still just as reliable and fast 23yrs later :) The bird has two personalites, the butter smooooth, slow gracefull ride and theres the holy sh...t! Hold on tight because them roads go past faster the you realise lol Defo a reason why it has CBR stamped on the bike :) i put a independent front and rear brake system on mine as bleeding the linked brakes is stupidly diiffercult, and wi have yu butting the wall a lol, plus i perfer to use my brakes independently, shes fully streetfightered and is about 40kg lighter, with a 4-1 exhaust system. shes a completely different animal but also still just as gracefull at slower speeds. The blackbird was top of the range and the flagship of honda, you defo can feel it when you own one and was worth every penny of the £9,999 back in the 90s.. Infact so good is the bird many of us see an upgrade to a modern bike wuold actually be down grading. Yes once you own a blackbird? you have her for life :)
Hah - never occurred to me that: 'The Blackbird is Still the worlds fastest (carb) production motorcycle in the world'
I have a Hayabusa and I feel almost the same about her as you for your bird. I would love to have them both!
Blackbird 141 bhp @ rear wheel, ZZR1200 145 bhp @ rear wheel. I've got one of each 😁, both carbs, and I can't tell the difference!
hey mate, got pics?
Fantastic video! Great description and Good riding,I've not ridden a bike for over 20 years but had 18 bikes in past,including Z1300,vmax,ZZR1100,ZX10 etc and just bought a bargain 2001 Blackbird but not ridden it yet.Cant wait!
Great accurate review of the blackbird..have a 2005 silver one and the adjectives used by your goodself are spot on.. "classy" is great example.. cheers
I’ve just bought one of these , thank you very much for the detailed review.🏍️
I honestly have to repeat my self here !! Not sure how old you are but at my age I will say "young man" This is a very very good review with detail that most do not share
so well done.. Most don't share because they just don't get it if that makes sense ?? Bikes are more than just Macho machines they are an art a mass to understand
and to become one with and when that happens its heaven !!!! Sounds dramatic I know but it's true !!!!!!!!!!! Once again Well Done !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So true dude!
Thanks for the review. I ordered a 2001 Black Bird with 10kmiles. A black one with fuel injection and digital dash which looked exceptionally good on the Honda dealers floor. I will receive it beginning of next year. Can't wait to ride it.
I hope to ride it as much as I ride my other bike, a Harley Davidson Fat Boy 2019 (bought it new). I needed a more sporty bike next to the cruiser style riding of the FB. The FB is my first cruiser bike but I would not put it away for something else (best looking HD).
I trust the good review you gave your bike applies also to my bike and I hope to enjoy the BB and FB for many years to come.
just got myself a 2000 blackbird, also still has the original pipes :) rides like a dream!
Great bike , my bike is a cg 125 96' .You are right toose bikes was made for ever looks like new and running too. Half a week seen one 97 original color whith two brothers silencer and led brake ligth .Enjoy and congrats for these video .From Uruguay!!
Super video mate enjoyed your input and the sound of the bike,been saving for a year now to buy but always something happens and i lose the money,someday ill buy it :) have fun and post more bikes!
Another great review man!
22:33 My Kawasaki has that very same issue with the steering shaking that you demonstrated. Mine is the front tire, likely yours is the same problem if your head bearings, forks, wheel balancer etc all check out.
Brilliant review, so many just reel off facts that they've read in a blurb whereas you've given us your personal view on ownership good and bad and shown us and explained how it rides in daily life on normal roads. It's really very very good review!
That usually means you need a new front tire!!!😢😢😢😢😢😢😮😮😮😮😮😅😅😅
Excellent review Sir. I had a great time and might consider this model. Thank you 🙏
Great review.
I've had an '06 for 3 years now and love it, and where I live , I can stretch its' legs 3 minutes after leaving the garage.
I've had my 2nd Bird for about 12 years now. It's still an incredibly smooth and reliable engine. I remember my old CBR6's gave me numb fingers after a while, but never so on the Bird.
A very enjoyable review. I Like your relaxed and well infomed style. It's good to have a bike review that is not based on the lastest offerings in the showroom. So often they are just unobtainable for most folks who are on a budget. I have never bought a bike for more than £3k and if you look there are some great machines out there for not too much money. Thanks again for your insight look forward to the next one.
There's some absolutely stunning machinery out there for sub-3k these days. Especially if you're a road rider. I rarely find that brand new bikes these days are actually better, just newer.
@@TheLoneTrader Agreed I just picked up a 2010 Street Triple with 7500 miles on it full Triumph service history for £3k It looks as though it has just come out of the show room. I'm well chuffed. looking foorward to more reviews best wshes Paul.
@@paulhartwell8460 Awesome bikes. Wheelie machines, very comfortable and agile. Hopefully it's got a pair of Arrows on it?
Thanks for your honest review of this lovly motorbike. I've own a honda vfr 750f 93 and love it. But my next will be the XX! Greetings from Germany 😎👍🏻
I met a lady in Melbourne Australia 🦘🌏 riding a VFR 750 early 90s model her Honda VFR 750 had just over 500 thousand kilometres on the clock she was wanting to get me to sell her mine which I wasn't prepared to do
Bought a 2001 US spec model 2 years ago as a project bike. Already owned a new '99 and '03 models. This one will be a full custom model with custom paint, plenty of chromed parts, a full Akro exhaust system ( 4 into 1),aftermarket shield, and Corbin "Smuggler" seat. I just need the time and ambition to finish it!
It is legend!
Great review ,
thank you
Thank you for watching. Makes it worthwhile to make them.
It is the bike to ride if you ride with pillion. My girlfriend are extremely comfortable on long rides. The fuel consumption doesn't change whether I ride alone or with pillion. Excellent review by the way. The Blackbird will go around any bend at any speed if you have the balls to do it, believe me, I've tried and tested it, not always intensional though.
Great review especially re. the topbox oscillation. Had a BB from new in 1998 and had same issue and also on buying an old 1998 just recently. It disappears completely when a little weight is put on the handlebars, but tankslapper territory is relevant.
I've had a couple of responses from people regarding the oscillation. It looks like the main culprits are:
- Top box
- Unbalanced or deformed tyre
- Head bearings
My BB has a few more hours of work before it is MOTable (drive chain and sprockets are in process of replacement) but I'll do a little video of chasing down this problem.
didn't expect ro watch all 40 minutes. But it went well. Great vid
Thank you. I get a little bit better at it each time I do it.
Loved the vid, the exact sort of review video I’ve been looking for of a blackbird! Thinking of getting one of these myself. I know would be hard to achieve but would love to see a comparison of this vs one of the newer/FI models! Keep up the good work and PLEASE do more vids on the bird! :D
I can see if I can get a chance to compare the two. I'd be very interested to have a go. Honda's early FI attempts are actually pretty good. The VFR800fi has excellent fuelling and throttle response.
I have the last of the line. And agree with everything that has been said. No difference really, when I test rode a carb model the engine felt smother from my memory but it was too long ago to be sure.
I bought a 2003 XX3 two years ago that had only covered 22k miles.
Absolutely love it, will never sell mine either.
Some ground breaking tech pr firsts you didn't mention. To reduce the frontal cross section it was the first bike to stack the headlights and move the turn signals into the back of the mirror assemblies. The Super Blackbird introduced ram air and FI which helped the top end and it was supposedly a little faster. Good video.
Wrong there ,mates,it was Kawasaki,whom started the ram air,the zzr 1100,or ZX11,in the US
Very Very good review wish they were all like this Straight to the point no messing love it !!!!!!!!!!!
Getting mine tomorrow. Thanks for the info mate.
Great review. Very detailed. Thank you!
Fantastic review , just bought one not been on it yet ! Due to weather & borris 👍
Have you had the chance yet? The weather has been pretty good of the last week or so.
I have ridden a Blackbird, ( in America ) and found the ergonomics were not for me, but i love the bike and am glad i got a chance to ride one a few years ago !
I'm really glad that someone has, at last, pointed out that smoothness, reliability and finesse can hugely define a bikes character, rather than its lack of the same. "Classy" can actually be a very apt way of describing a very desirable character, and "classy" is not the same as "boring" in my book.
Aha. Yes. Exactly what I meant. A bike that is just all business is usually one that I would stay away from but there's just something underneath it all with the Blackbird that keeps me interested. It's hard to say what that 'something' is.
@TheLoneTrader I recently swapped from an 08 CBR600RR to an 03 Blackbird. I wanted something more usable, to do more miles on. In two months I've done 30% more miles than I used to do in a year...
I think what separates the Blackbird from "just business" is that it does everything so well, with so much in reserve. It's not merely "good enough". It's excellent, but without shouting about it.
Excellent review by the way, matches my experience well.
I've always loved the Blackbird, great Sport Touring bike.
Thw B.B. is 25 year old tech, and was and is a tremendous motorcycle.
The machine deserves to be appreciated for what it was at the time.
Not a big fan of negative videos about classic, legendary motorcycles.
I come to the conclusion that it was, and still is, a fantastic motorcycle. I have very few negative comments about it. Lovely machines. My view is very much positive.
Nice commentary and review. Hope your 40mph wobble has sorted, mine won’t do that ever. But same with the fans here on my 01 Blackbird.
I was thinking about changing the bike as I was looking for something more hooligan orientated, but give the Blackbird a change of mental approach, (£5) 6mm shock spacer, knee sliders on and decent tyres, it is a brilliant scratcher on A and B roads.
Nothing comes close for value for money and adaptability to roles. Rectifier and stator issues can be solved, it’s only real weak point other than weight. I just love it.
I had a 53 plate Blackbird about 9 years ago and it is still my favourite of the bikes I’ve had since: (ZZR1400, GS1200, S1000 XR). Although it’s the only bike that ever gave me a ‘Tank Slapper’ . I got away with it without coming off or damage, but it makes you consider and respect the power a bit more! I think they actually said it was 160 or 162 bhp though, not 135?
Great review enjoyed it 😀😀
Thank you! They really are special bikes. I should have specified that I meant 135 rear-wheel horsepower.
Great review. After watching I went and bought a 2001 with 22k miles. Know what you mean about not wanting to change the exhausts. There wasn't really any cutting edge tech on the BB (except maybe the CBS which I think works well and suits the bike but is a bit strange to begin with), I think Honda just sorted all the basics extremely well - apart from the bars which are too far forward but VFR bars sorted that. It is such a well engineered bike and is so easy to work on. I cant say I entirely agree on your backroad handling assessment but I have a 4mm spacer under the rear shock that I found made a good improvement to the handling. BTW my bike didn't want to idle when I bought it and after MUCH investigation and testing I found that it just needed new spark plugs!
And what a bugger to change they are! Its only fault in my eyes
Great vid! Good information! Thank you. Greetz from Holland
I currently own a 2002 FI Canadian edition (Stealth Black), with approx 35,000 km. I bought the SBB about 7 yrs ago and I've only put 5,000 km on it. It has lived in my Garage more than it's been getting ridin' and all I keep doing is buying parts for it and also investing in various riding gear; like full-leather race suit, textile jacket/pants, Alpinestar Boots, Shoei Helmet.....a few pairs of Gloves (Gauntlet & Short)!! Overall, I love my SBB; she has a sweet engine, great for longer rides.. more Sport -touring oriented, than hardcore corner/track focused!! As many people that I come across and ask me about my SBB and I tell them that she is almost 20yrs old, they say that I am mistaken and say that the bike looks like it could be a 2012 or newer!! I'm going to keep her for many more years, cause she has a lot left in her..😁
Very nice review, thanks!
Thank you Barry. It's no chore to ride the Blackbird around.
The top box does cause real issues at high speeds, the wobble you have there is very likely to be the tyre having a weak carcass for such a heavy bike and likely the low mass after-market bar weights. The weights in the bars are actually surprisingly heavy as original Honda, and heavier ones were often a replacement over stock to improve vibrations and head wobbles.
I have a 97 model and with the OEM tyres and correct OEM bar weights it is planted and stable hands-off at all speeds.
Good advice on things to try out. Thanks. The Maxxis front tyre really does need to go and bar ends are a very easy fix.
Seeing you go past the petrol station and it says 116.9... dates the video 😅
Nice review... Seriously considering one for my mid-life crisis 😂
Isn't that right! 😄. Go for it. It's the perfect midlife mobile.
thanks for the review bought one today...
Very nice review. I appreciate that you review accessible, everyday bikes, but especially that you put so much thought into it.
I just sold my Hornet 900 a week ago, and this makes me miss it already. Particularly when you mentioned the super smooth electric feeling of the engine, and the gear whine as you wind on the throttle. Great bike. I got the feeling from this video that the Blackbird has a similar character, albeit bigger and more touring-oriented.
I've never ridden the 900 Hornet but I know that they a somewhat cult following. Seeing as the engine is, I think, based on the same Fireblade engine that the Blackbird's engine was based on there probably is a similarity. Of course, the overall power output figure of the BB is a fair bit higher, owing to the extra capacity.
An excellent review. I'm in the market for a sports tourer. I toured in Australia on a Kwaka ZR7, and it had appalling cornering. Only when I owned a Fazer 600 did I realise how fun and smooth cornering can be. It seems to me the Blackbird might be similar on the tight country corners to my ZR7.
It can hustle well but small roads are not where the Blackbird is most fun IMHO. You can just feel the weight, no matter how well it hides it.
One of the best investments you will get/have !!!!!!!!!!!
Looking into them at the moment...that's a good endorsement
@@jackmurray430 SHOOTING MYSELF IN THE FOOT YET AGAIN JUST WAIT TILL I HAVE BOUGHT THE ONE I WANT L.O.L.!!!!!!!!!!
I am a Yamaha R1 guy, but bought a 2001 super blackbird, with 166k kms and my god , the way it crushes 1000km weekends =i am in love with Honda.
I like pure sports, but I'm also looking for a bird. I currently have an F4i. Does the bird also accept a stronger touch when needed or is it too soft and heavy?
@@classicmotorsco.46 its not at all soft, once you are in sweet rev range it goes...
Loves to cruise at 105mph all day basically on tick-over in 6th.
It will pull an overtake effortlessly with tons of torque out of nowhere and maintain this sustained power from 3k to 11k rpm.
Using the cogs 1-5, 165mph appears in a few short seconds even on 1/3 throttle and without breaking a sweat on an empty road.... I chickened out before putting it into 6th at 11000 with a long way to go still - it WANTS to keep getting faster... Big grin inside my lid :-D
Yet the power is smooth and controllable despite the twist grip being a hyperspace lever.
@@stevexl7747 agree, been there and i have opened up catching an S1000RR, but was behind it.........by like 2 secs .1😃😀😃😀😃😀😀🙃
Yes,I have owned a zzr1100, definitely miss her,now I owned a R3,which I find it more fun 😊 than the Ninja, because like the black bird ,you will get into trouble very easy, almost got my license suspended! almost did got a blackbird,but I can afford that time ,will probably buy one later on,just saw one on ebay,what do you think? thanks mate! been riding for forty years...
This excellent video was recommended after I watched Andy Misenden Flyer’s recent rather lacklustre review of a ‘Bird for sale by one of his sponsors.
The radiator is in front of the engine by the way, but I’m guessing you’ve discovered that by now.
Ride safe.
Awesome Bike. I am looking one for my self now🥰. Verry good reviev, thanks m8
Got the same 1997 model .
Great bike . Got a one in 2006 then sold it as could not gel with it.
Been riding a 1100GS since but the itch was still there to persevere and buy another blackbird which I did but will still have my 1100Gs .
Love both my bikes and better built than the new stuff.
Great review mate.
Great review
Great review, it’s a lovely looking machine, and the acceleration looks very intoxicating😎.
Sadly the weight is something that would put me off and the foot peg position otherwise a great bike, thanks for the detailed in depth review and ride.
Great program . Thank you .
Still owner CBR1100xx Thailand
Thank you for review
Great review but have to disagree on tyre and chain longevity. I commute 55 motorway miles a day and have got just short of 10k mile out of a rear. (Michelin PR4GT). They are more than sticky enough to scratch around with and will cope with even the iciest of salty roads. Also if you put a heavy duty DID Gold chain and sprocket set on with a Scottoiler that will last to. My current set has seen about 44k miles of service and not in need of replacement any time soon. It also returns an average of 42mpg on a 70-90mph run. I’m led to believe that the FI models are not so fuel efficient so yours should be getting more than 35mpg. The steering wobble is caused by worn head bearings, a common problem on Birds due to their weight. But you are right, topboxes exaggerate the issue.
And I forgot to mention in 74k miles it has only ever let me down once over an old battery which are consumable. But even then never if left me stranded.
a nice read. :)
Great review. A point of note for potential buyers Is that your bike has VFR bars fitted (A very popular mod for the BB) which improves comfort as they are a bit higher and a bit closer so less of a stretch/Crouch, so this should be borne in mind in regard to your comments on the comfort. As these bars are sought after by BB owners they are pricey. I have a near mint 1999 carb model which is completely standard (i’ve bought but not yet fitted VFR bars). Build quality wise it puts my 2016 GTR 1400 to shame (some of its fasteners are tarnished and when laid up for the winter the signs of rust on the discs - there are no such issue with my 17 years older BB which has no signs of corrosion at all!). As you say in your review, the Blackbird is much more suited to faster roads than it is to twisty back roads (Even that much heavier GTR is much better low-speed handling) And is in its element on fast A roads With sweeping curves or very high speed cruising down an autobahn. When you reach 80 mph plus it all begins to make complete sense - it Becomes more comfortable and the rock solid stability and turbine like engine shine through. My GTR (a great bike itself) is a lot more comfortable for my 60 year old body and gets ridden most, but I can’t bring myself to part with the blackbird. Awesome bike and unbelievable value for money.
Yes indeed. A few people mentioned the VFR bars. I had no idea as the previous owner didn't mention it. It's all-day comfortable right now so would be interesting to know what the standard bars are like.
@@TheLoneTrader I’m 6 foot and it’s a bit of a stretch, but As I haven’t yet fitted my vfr bars I don’t know how they compare. Your build makes a BIG difference. I lost a LOT of weight and it made a huge difference to the comfort of the bikes. Peg lowerers also help a lot with the old knees/hips.
I owned the last of the fuel injected blackbirds XX 1100 a 2007 grey and black WoW what a very fast beast it had the digital speedometer all stock standard with very very low KMs in a way I really wish I'd never sold it I loved the braking systems these bikes are a bulletproof motorcycle and very very reliable as is all Honda's I ended up trading it for the Yamaha FJR 1300 a straight swap my FJR 06 Yamaha which I still have nowadays has got 164 800 odd KMs on the speedometer it's 1 of the most stable bike's IV ever ridden
fantastic review thanks
XXs equipped with taller handlebar risers , such as the VFR units on your test bike, make for a more comfortable less pure sports riding position. After market units such as "Heli-bars" are also quite popular.
There are tons of adjustable clip ons with the same height and uprightness that make Heli-bars look ugly as fuck, and in fact, Heli-bars are ugly.
@@gordonfreeman5689 I have had two sets of Heli-bars, one set was nickle plated ( from the manufacturer) and one silver painted set I had chromed. Not as nice as the VFR parts, but they worked well and were of high quality construction. I thought they looked ok.
Your ride reminds me of riding my 1100 Sabers I've had 3.
Best review ever 👍
Great review,i had one in 2001 then went and bought a ZX12r
If i had to choose,id choose the blackbird
Great review. No side mounted rads as I am sure you have discovered since. Side rads was the VTRs.
Thanks. I did end up putting a note in there at that time code. I was getting mixed up in my memory of my old VFR 800fi, which I believe shared a lot in common with the VTR.
Have no doubt. one of the best bikes ever made. Oh and 135bhp at the rear is understated. The Blackbird can go like stink if you rev it but it’s a pussycat around town. I’ll be keeping mine though I love my MT10. The Blackbird is one I just can’t contemplate getting rid of.
Not all dynos show the same power output as one another. There are a lot of variables to contend with like ambient air temp and humidity, elevation, dyno manufacturer, rear tire compound, dyno operator, etc.
I only dynoed one of my 3 XXs , a 2003 US model, and it put out 136 rear wheel horsepower.
Ride a Honda x11, extremely close relative of the blackbird and it's such a nice smooth , powerful, bike .
Before you concider swapping for a 4-1 If you fit 4-1 exhaust system you will notice two thngs.
1, It will be alot louder and more so at faster speeds
2, The power band is raised up higher and effects the Blackbirds low - mid power range, 4-1 is better for racing and topend speed and of course you shead about 25kg -30kg.
best way i could discribe is she requires just alittle bit more Revs in the low range than you normally would.
You should've got a Blue Blackbird as those are faster.
I owned a black carbed 1997, and then a Blue Inj 2001, I found that if you want extra bonkers then get the carb one, when the power band kicked in on the carbed you really knew about it, whereas the Inj was the initial pull and was a lot smoother right up the rev range.
As for the weight that disappears once moving, I used to love throwing it around the twisties up towards the Cat n Fiddle before the Police ruined any bikers fun around there and Matlock in UK.
My m8 had a Yam Thunderace, everytime he got new tyres he would give me his bike to clean off the nobbles, because he was a commuter he would square off the tyres and barely touch the nobbles, but when he went on the Blackbird he likened it to a Rolls Royce on two wheels.
My only negative of the Bird was the reach, meaning a set of bar risers were a must if you do long distance riding, along with the bubble screen which when fitted meant you could sit up and ride at 150 mph without being beaten up.
Good job, Good review
Perfect review
Hi and thanks for the video. Ive an 05 with a topbox and have never had that oscilation/wobbliness in the front end. Id guess it is incorrectly weighted tyres. Or possibly i dont think your model has the RAM air at the front, so front end may have changed in characteristics when this was added with the first injected model?? Did it get sorted out with new tyre?
Blackbird.
The bike
The myth
The Legend
Had 2 of them. Loved them, sold mine last year,.
I’ve got a 2002 EFI model , I’ve owned it 11 years and covered approx 44 k it’s my second bike now , main being a 2019 GSA 1250
Pleasantly surprised by this video. Your doing a good job. Sound quiality is a little bit poor. Maybe a mic wrapped in cloth/wind shield in the back storage of the bike for engine sound and a better one for speach. Then you have more options when editing. Maybe some more extra camera angles. Otherwise you're already there. I loved watching the whole 42 min.
Thanks for the feedback. I did some upgrades to my sound-recording setup since this video. If you check out the two most recent videos I hope you'll be pleasantly surprised.
I like to not take audio from under the seat as it tends to overly muffle the bike and vibration becomes an issue. I also like to retain a bit of stereo effect if I can. Those two most recent videos hopefully show that off.
Most of all. I'm just glad you liked the video. Once the weather clears up again, I'll be out and doing more regular content.
Side mounted rads, eh? Not a vfr. Great review (easily the best and most comprehensive blackbird review yet) btw, love my blackbird but fjr1300 calls. I managed 10k for tyres but then I don't hoon it much. I note yours has had vfr bars fitted so more comfortable than stock. Tyre pressures should be 42psi front and rear or handling can be off.
I just bought a 1997 and a 1998 black bird all 100% stock!
I REJETTED MY 97 (DYNOJET) K&N FILTER,VANCE&HINES PIPES MPG DOWN BUT,MUCH QUICKER!
I rejected mine before I ever road it. (When I got it it needed full airframe rebuild). So I have no comparison but it seems to be running rich. When cruising at 120km, the throttle is cracked only 1.5 to 2mm at the most. I’m thinking she’s probably still running on the slow jets. I’m going to change them back to stock. I hope gas mileage and range improve. 9 ltrs per 100 km is a bit pricey these days.
Very informative and entertaining review. Thanks for taking the time to do this.
I'm considering buying one of these, but I'm very tall.
You mentioned you're comfortable on it. For reference: how tall are you?
Thanks, I'm bang on 6ft if that helps. It has been mentioned to me by a few viewers that my bike is running VFR handlebars and they are more comfortable than the standard ones.
What camera and mic are you running it looks and sounds great? Good review.
Did 6th gear roll on yesterday on my 97 bird, GPS 14mph and pulled smoothly all the way to license losing teritory,
How many newer bikes can lay claim to that?
Very good review. I've got one FI version. I'm just wondering why you don't go on neutral at all? Don't you want rest your left hand whilst waiting for a green light!?
BTW. 13:05 you had a right to go first.
In the later models the side-stand light is replaced with the fuel injection light - but the bike will cut out if you try change from neutral to another gear with it down.
Ah shame. Nice info titbit there. Thanks. I liked the feature, despite how slightly pointless it was.
The FI light is actually a 'Fault Indicator' light. If the bike detects a fault this will show and then there's usually some procedure in the manual to follow that will show the fault code.
@@TheLoneTrader Nah, the manual specifically refers to it as the 'PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) malfunction indicator lamp'. But yes, it is for detecting faults with the fuel injection system.
@@Arakasi0 Fair enough. I made an assumption based on other bikes I'd owned.