Honda unveils CMX1100 Rebel

Honda will introduce a large-capacity version of its Rebel cruiser to its line-up for 2021, using the 1084cc parallel-twin engine of the Africa Twin to power it. Dubbed the CMX1100 Rebel, the bike will produce 87hp (64kW) of power and 98Nm of torque and, like its Adventure bike engine donor, will be optioned with the firm's dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The water-cooled engine runs a 270-degree crank to mimic the feel and characteristics of a V-twin and, in this application, Honda has given it a heavier flywheel to improve its bottom-end response and its suitability for road-going cruiser duties. Likewise, the valve timing lift has been tweaked compared to the adventure bike, while the machine is adorned with a newly designed exhaust.

The engine's ride-by-wire throttle lends the all-new cruiser a swag of class-leading technology, bringing with it four switchable engine modes, cruise control, three-tier selectable torque and wheelie control as well as a two-channel ABS system.

The modes – Standard, Rain and Sport – adjust power delivery, engine braking, traction and wheelie control and, if fitted, the shift pattern of the DCT depending on the conditions. There's also a fourth User mode which offers the rider the ability to customise parameters based on individual preferences.

The instrument panel is an circular LCD affair, there's LED lighting all round and a USB-C charger can be found in the small storage area underneath the seat.

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Suspension is by way of a conventional 43mm telescopic fork up front matched to a pair of piggyback rear shocks, all of which are adjustable for preload only. Braking is looked after by a single radial-mounted four-piston monobloc caliper gripping a 330mm disc up front with a single-piston caliper biting a 256mm disc down the back.

The Euro5-compliant engine is mounted in a tubular-steel diamond chassis which rolls on a 16-inch cast aluminium rear wheel and an 18-inch front. The bike boasts a low seat height of just 700mm and tips the scales at a kerb weight of 223kg (or 233kg with the DCT).

There's a large range of genuine accessories which have been grouped into two categories: Street and Tour. The Street range is aimed at the around-town solo rider and includes a rear rack, shorty guards, custom-looking seats and a small headlight surround, while the Tour range adds saddlebags, a batwing-style fairing and a passenger backrest.