Kawasaki Z900 RS Black Ball Edition 2026 vs. Honda CB1000F 2026

Honda CB1000F 2026

What can I say? I’d had high expectations, because the CB1000F looks fantastic and is built on the excellent Hornet platform. At the same time, I was worried that Honda might have tamed the engine too much, set up the suspension to be too comfortable, or that the whole retro theme would ultimately be nothing more than a nice bit of window dressing. None of that happened. The 122 Horsepower unit is spot on, because this engine delivers powerful thrust at low and mid-range revs. The suspension combines comfort with the firmness you need when sending it harder. The S22 sticks to the tarmac, the brakes work superbly and the sound is a dream. Add to that the riding position, which makes you feel as though you can practically see Freddie Spencer and the great AMA battles right in front of you. The bike is quite simply world-class. AMA Superbike racing has arrived in the 2020s. Congratulations, Honda! Brilliant.