Honda CB 1000 F Bol d’Or and SE: Overview of new retro bikes for 2026

In spring 2025, Honda unveiled the CB 1000 F as a modern retro motorcycle inspired by the legendary CB 900 F Bol d’Or from the late 1970s. In the summer of the same year, the SE variant followed with classic headlight fairing, stylistically based on café racer models. Both models are expected to be available in stores by 2026 at the latest.

Design and historical references

Honda has opted for a consistently implemented retro concept for the new CB 1000 F. Visually, the motorcycle is based on the historic Bol d’Or, recognizable by its classic lines and traditional silver and blue color combination. The SE variant differs in its headlight fairing, which is styled after classic café racers. A similar concept was already implemented in the Kawasaki Z 900 RS Cafe, although this variant disappeared from the German market after just a few years.

Engine and technology

Both variants, the CB 1000 F and CB 1000 F SE, are equipped with a water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine, which originally comes from the CB 1000 Hornet. The engine is based on the sporty Fireblade technology (type SC59). While the CB 1000 Hornet offers a peak power output of over 150 hp (110 kW), the retro models are reported to have a reduced power output of around 120 hp (88 kW).

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The red zone of the digital tachometer on the CB 1000 F SE starts at 10,000 rpm, while the Hornet only enters the red zone at 11,500 rpm. This means that the engine design has been slightly adapted for the retro model.

Equipment

According to Honda, the standard equipment of the CB 1000 F and the SE variant includes a quickshifter, a radiator guard, and heated grips. These features underscore the claim to combine modern technology with classic design.

Market launch and price positioning

The final production models of the CB 1000 F and CB 1000 F SE are scheduled to be unveiled in fall 2025. The market launch in Europe and Germany is planned for spring 2026 at the latest. In terms of pricing, Honda is expected to position itself between the attractively priced CB 1000 Hornet (starting at €10,499 / approx. US$11,410) and Kawasaki’s retro models such as the Z 900 RS (starting at €13,595 / approx. US$14,775).

Conclusion

With the CB 1000 F and CB 1000 F SE, Honda is launching two motorcycles that are clearly inspired by the brand’s history. The combination of classic design, modern technology, and inline four-cylinder engine promises to be a successful alternative in the current retro segment.