Returning after a two-year hiatus, the Honda CB1100 Deluxe returns as the CB1100 EX. The CB1000 combines retro elements—an air-cooled motor, 18-inch wheels, and twin shocks—with the modern performance we expect.
Certainly, the 1140cc inline-4 has nothing to apologize for when it comes to performance. Not only does it look good, but it’s a muscular engine that always has power on tap.
With the six-speed transmission, you always have the right gear ratio for the task at hand. Handling is outstanding, with a focus on stability—27 degrees of rake and a 58.7-inch wheelbase sees to that.
The seating position is magic, and takes you back to the original Honda CB750 K1 in all the right ways.
Note: The photos are of the Euro version of the CB1100 EX
Benda motorcycles are beginning to make a ripple on US shores with four intriguing and competitive models, courtesy of its partnership with Keeway Group. We were impressed with the Napoleonbob 500 and have now gotten our gloves on the persuasive, entry-level 2026 Benda Chinchilla 300, with its modest MSRP of $4999. It would be difficult to design a more welcoming entry-level cruiser than this easy-handling, visually appealing boulevard bobber. Editor Don Williams and Associate Editor Kelly Callan discuss the Benda Chinchilla 300 and how it actually rode for them.
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Our guest this episode is Jesse Merriman, Chief Technician for Jeremy McWilliams at the Arch Motorcycle racing project. Arch Racing was founded by Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reevs to compete in the Moto America Super Hooligan race series. Teejay Adams chats with Jesse about the Arch motorcycle and the challenges of extracting the absolute most from an air-cooled V-Twin racing engine and custom chassis.
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Here’s quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It’s filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you’ve probably not seen elsewhere. It’s absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well.
Don’t forget to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
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