$4,900
Blairstown, New Jersey
Category
-
Engine
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Posted Over 1 Month
I HATE having to sell this bike! It's the fastest, most exciting, most reliable motorcycle I've owned. And if you check out the several online forums and fan clubs of the "Dos Equis" you'll see I'm not alone. 2003 was the last year Honda imported the CBR1100XX "Blackbird" to the USA and - despite being more than a decade old - this unique superbike has retained its stature. One of Cycle World magazine's "Best Used Bikes." Here's what they say about it: Basic specs: A dohc, dual-counterbalanced, 1,137cc inline-four that was carbureted in its 1997 introduction and injected in 1999, when it produced 133 hp on the CW dyno. The engine is a stressed member in the twin-spar aluminum frame, which carries sport-tuned suspension and features a 58.7-inch wheelbase. Dry weight was 526 pounds, gaining 8 pounds with the addition of EFI.Why it’s desirable: The “Super Blackbird” was one of the smoothest, most refined, and powerful motorcycles to ever hit the road. The XX fell short of Speed King status by “only” reaching 177 mph, but in normal riding, the bike was a stellar all-around performer. Handling was crisp, light, and sure, with beautiful steering quality. The riding position was sporty but comfortable. Earlier suspension was stiffer but was made more supple in 1999–2003 models. Linked brakes were also improved in post-’99 bikes. The biggest upgrade was PGM-FI, which improved midrange power and fuel economy. Perhaps the best use of a CBR1100XX is as a sport-tourer, particularly in light of the 6.3-gallon fuel capacity of later models, which grew from 5.8 gallons. The XX can quietly and gently tool around town at 35 mph and then, with the slightest movement of the right grip, blast you to mind-bending speed in seconds. And it does it with such shrugging smoothness, you'll feel like you're being propelled by an electric motor. On the highway, this ability to effortlessly leap forward will repeatedly get you out of trouble. Weaving motorists and other hazards instantly become dots in your mirrors. Hills mean nothing to this engine and vibration isn't in its vocabulary. Although not a museum piece, this Bird was ridden gently and meticulously maintained. No wheelies or peg scraping or burnouts by me! It has a new battery, new chain, new sprockets, fresh Amsoil in the crankcase and fresh coolant. The bike is basically stock with the exception of a slightly taller Zero Gravity windshield and slightly higher Heli Bars. There's also a tank protector. The owner's manual is intact and tucked under the seat. A word of warning: This bike is not for inexperienced riders. While it handles like a dream and stops just fine, the Blackbird can get you from point A to point B very, very quickly. On the other hand, it is a very forgiving motorcycle that is great fun for those who show it some respect. I recently met a fellow Blackbird owner. His 2003 XX, covered with stickers from the 49 states through which he's ridden (and some from Canada) has about 120,000 miles on the engine. It runs perfectly and the owner said he is curious to learn how many more miles it will go. Right now, it shows no sign of stopping.
