What's So Great About These Bikes? - Discuss What's So Great About These Bikes? on CBRXX, the ultimate on-line community for Honda motorcyclists. Read it in General CBR XX Discussion. (General Discussion of the Honda CBR 1100 XX Super Blackbird that does not fit into the other specific forums.)

thechamp55 · 06-22-2009, 3:19 PM

I bought an 05 ZX-12R in winter 07. And I got my 99 bird about a year ago. When I made the first purchase I was actually torn between the two though I relized the Ninjas performance advantage. I just found a Kawasaki first, then the serendipity of the universe occured and I ended up with an XX anyway.
When I bought either I didnt do it to have the fastest machine out there. Ive seen a 408rwhp busa and an 1100hp Hennesey viper on the road, and both of those guys acknowledged they arent the fastest either. Point is there are monsters out there and I will never be the fastest.
I didnt really consider the ZX or XX sport tourers either, to me that connotates FJR1300 or Concours etc.
I think these bikes (and the busa a BMW Kbikes) are more in line with luxury GT cars, like the Ferrari 599, Bentley Continental GT, Mercedes SL etc.

itsthemechanic · 06-22-2009, 3:38 PM

Well, the more recent super sport rockets might beat me on weight and power, but after 3 hours in the saddle they'll need a chiropractor. I'll also lap them on long trips because the 'Bird has a 24 litre tank.

The 'Bird is just a great all round package, does everything you throw at it.. besides maybe tow a boat trailer.

Strek · 06-22-2009, 4:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smr96

Okay I'll admit that I'm fickle. Probably why I've gone through 12 bikes in the past 20yrs! This '02 Blackbird is lucky number 13. I've had cruisers, dual sport/adventure, supermoto, naked/standards, and sportbikes. I even had the Honda Silverwing (yes the "scooter") that I went straight from an '02 ZX6R to looking for something different. I read and follow motorcycling to the point that its annoying, so yes I knew exactly what the CBR1100xx was all about when I bought it and fortunately the guy I bought it from didn't! Most of you seem to assume that I don't like the bike, which isn't true. It's a bit piggish but with my long commute the extra heft adds stability and I'm one of the few that actually likes linked braking. I wonder how many of you bought your bike new? I mean as a new model on the dealer's floor, especially before '99 when the 'Busa was released because if you did you know damn well that you had every intention of owning the fastest production bike ever made. It seems that most have now relegated it to a mighty fine sport tourer which is fine but I don't think thats what Honda intended it to be. I don't think someone looking at a new Hayabusa or ZX14 would tell you they're looking for a sport tourer but on the same hand someone with a ZX12 or maybe even an older 'Busa would probably consider those sport tourers

does that make sense? Anyway I've seemed to have opened a real can of worms with this post and you can't say that you people aren't passionate about your bikes!

I sensed that you do your homework on bikes and you had mentioned that you knew the history of the bike. I understand about being fickle too. I mentioned that I had owned a goldwing. I liked it when I got it. Liked it for about 2 years. Stopped doing the coast to coast type of rides and didn't like it after that. Heck I was starting to not like it after year one. I've said it often. You're better off in a convertible then you are on one of those things. You get about the same effect and you can store more in the convertible. You can also get a better stereo and put the top up when it rains. Now those are just my own feeling after owning one. Some folks love the wing. I think the others here have provided some good reasons why the bird is great. Looks, power, versitility, reliability, more comfort than the race rockets, handles good for a bike its size and weight,
and it still runs with bikes that are 10 years newer.

I've owned three different bikes that were considered to be the speed kings at one time or another. Most of the time it was a short lived reign at the top of the speed food chain. My 88 CBR1000F held that title for about a month. Then Kaw came out with the ZX10. My brother made sure he got one immediately. Nice guy. I never purchased any of them for the speed king title reason. Seems that some bike will come along and knock it off its perch before too long.

dracki · 06-22-2009, 5:44 PM

you havn't opened a can of worms,they didn't understand what you ment,i bought mine new & it wasn't even on the show room floor,a blue bird was there but was sold so i couldn't even sit on it,but what i wanted was a fast & beautifull bike,there was no other bike on the market for 'me' at the time,other bikes were ugly(busa's) & more sporty than comfy(zx12) & since i once owned a CBR1000f & totaly liked it for its overall package i figured if the bird is all that & much better i can't go wrong

XX-XR · 06-22-2009, 5:50 PM

Out of 38 various brands of bikes I've had 2 longterm keepers 1990 CBR1000F and the XX. The Blackbird seems to do what I ask, it's not a maintenance whore and it's simple to work on, like a centerstand so you can actually change tires and you don't have to remove bodywork just to change oil. Mine has 40k never needed a valve adj yet and is all original except drive chain, front sprocket and I replaced the CCT even thou it was quiet... for $29 and 5 minutes it seemed to be worth having peace of mind.

getsarge · 06-22-2009, 5:53 PM

The group I ride with (4 Harleys, a Katana 600, and the occasional R1 or GSXR600) stops regularly at about 45 minute intervals. I figure that's about right, my wrists have been shaken out and could use a good rest from being numb. The HD's complain about the same issue in their wrists.

What gets me is the guy on the Katana...real down to earth, would give you the shirt off your back type of guy...but he is all about speed (no doubt his gutless Katana feeds his misery). We passed an SRT Dodge Ram, he couldn't stop drooling...a corvette, more drool...his dream is a ZX14. I don't think he considers much about what he drives/rides, or what he fantasizes about while riding his bike...the only requirement is that it is the fastest.

Both the XX's that I've owned have been faster than I thought they would be, they're heavy, but smooth and solid. Best of all, it's predictable...I know that when I'm in a lean, I can give it as much or as little throttle as I'd like, and the bike isn't going to buck or kick.

About the only other bike that really interests me is Suzi's TL1000S. It's not comfortable, it's not solid, it kicks, bucks, screams, and with bags of torque - wants to wheelie every time you whack the throttle...but I like it. I wouldn't use it for an iron butt, but I would sure use it in town, around a track, and in the twisties.

I suppose I do indeed like the chubby chick from middle school.

DeathWish01 · 06-22-2009, 6:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itsthemechanic

Well, the more recent super sport rockets might beat me on weight and power, but after 3 hours in the saddle they'll need a chiropractor. I'll also lap them on long trips because the 'Bird has a 24 litre tank.

The 'Bird is just a great all round package, does everything you throw at it.. besides maybe tow a boat trailer.

might not want to take it over a ramp either... or anywhere extremely muddy LOL

deadman · 06-22-2009, 7:12 PM

When I bought my XX, I knew nothing about it,
I had not been on a bike for twelve years. Every bike was new to me and I did not have a clue.

I wanted a big motor, excellent road handling, and a very reliable motor.
Nothing more.

I looked at the new Triumphs, as I rode a 650 Bonnieville fully chopped for 17 years,
They were 40 klms faster than my Bonnie 40 years later, My Bonnie, I had to put a new top end in every 10,000 miles, but it handled supurbly. and a million miles on it.
Not reliable.
1000 cc Duke, I looked at it, but tuning hassles and noisy motor. No go.

The Honda four 750, used to get 80,000 klms with even touching the motor. super reliable,

I looked at this Honda XX on the showroom floor, I do not like cafe racers,
and to me the XX is a cafe racer. I am an old codger,

This XX had 351 klms on the clock, two year old Demo model, and Honda were winning races, So obviuosly they had sorted their elastic suspension problems out, which the 750 four had.

The price was right for me, So I coffed up the dollars and was the proud owner of a two year old, brand new Honda Blackbird. I did not even test ride it.

It came with a full factory warranty, So if it blew up, I was covered.

The first thing that went was the crappy clip ons, Aches and pains and cramps. 12 inch risers turned this bike into a dream to ride.

I then found cbrxx on the net and then I found out what sort of bike I had Bought for myself. Very impressed with the write ups.

12 months later and 21,000 klms on the clock, and two sets of tyres, I am still impressed, I now have a bike that is capable of keeping up with me.

Very little keeps up with me, But it has always been like that, I just have to wait for people every 100 klms or so, Such is life.

It might not be the fastest, but who cares, not too many riders will ride flat stick on the open road anyway.

I love my Bird and will ride it for many years to come, I have no intention of updating, I have customized it to suit my riding style and am exceptionally happy with it.

Ride the Bird for your self, dont worry what other dick heads have to say, its your bike and they dont ride it, Just enjoy the pleasure it gives to you,

Cheers,
Brian.

Nutter67 · 06-22-2009, 7:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smr96

I wonder how many of you bought your bike new? I mean as a new model on the dealer's floor, especially before '99 when the 'Busa was released because if you did you know damn well that you had every intention of owning the fastest production bike ever made. It seems that most have now relegated it to a mighty fine sport tourer which is fine but I don't think thats what Honda intended it to be. I don't think someone looking at a new Hayabusa or ZX14 would tell you they're looking for a sport tourer but on the same hand someone with a ZX12 or maybe even an older 'Busa would probably consider those sport tourers

does that make sense?

I had no intention of buying a bird (or even know what one was.....) when I was looking for a bike. I had been trolling the auction sites for an ex-police Beemer with 80-100,000km for AU$5,500. They were all interstate. Then I saw an ad for a second hand Firestorm and ZZR1200, and went down to the dealer to have a look. The Firestorm didnt feel right, and the ZZR felt very top heavy. There was a brand new bird on the showroom floor that had a build date of April 2007. I sat on it and it felt good. So good that I had signed all of the paperwork to buy it within 30 mins of seeing it - didnt even take it for a test ride. I didnt even know anything about the bike until I joined up here.

I wasnt looking for a hypersports bike, or even the fastest bike. I found a bike that suited my size and felt comfortable. I know that the bird can easily accomplish a sub two minute lap at Phillip Island, but I cant - yet. The bird can do more than I am capable of, not the other way around, and that is a safe way of keeping it too.

Doug66 · 06-22-2009, 7:38 PM

What can one say when it's all been said. In years to come when 'classics' are mentioned, the Blackbird will be on the list.

Strek · 06-23-2009, 1:48 AM

Deadman and Nutter... WOW.

I have to say that I have a hard time wrapping my head around how you guys came to know the bird. I mean it seems that you both followed motorcycles before you came to know the bird. I know that the bird is well known down under. I know that they have motorcycle magazines and the internet down under.

You did have the internet down under back when you guys bought these bikes didn't you? Really though I guess I'm just a bit different in that I like to know a bit about a motorcycle model before deciding if I would pay for it. Call me silly but when you think about it you two were a step away from... insert your funny choice for a drunken pub crawl followed by a how the hell did I get that tatoo and in that private place type motorcycle purchase here.

Thank the stars that there was a bird around when you needed one and that the salesman was smart enough to steer you towards it. Who knows what you two could have ended up on. In all seriousness though your method seems to have worked fine for you as you both seem very happy with the decision. I know that you had to know something about the bike or really really liked the ergos and feel when you sat on it. Maybe the killer looks. Perhaps like the love of your life it just felt right when you were on top. The ergo's and feel of a bike are very important in any motorcycle purchase. So I guess this helps to answer the question of whats so great about these bikes. You don't need to know shite about them before you find one to know that the buyer will still end up with a great bike. Bravo.

deadman · 06-23-2009, 2:15 AM

Strek, I have been riding all sizes of bikes, ( including Harleys ) since I was fifteen.
I know from experience what a bike should and can do, My XX, I did not even sit on it before I bought it.
Call that strange if you like, But I knew it was the bike for me, ESP maybe, But I dont regret one little bit that I bought it, unridden, My faith in my own ability has shown through for me once more.
I also had no intention at the time of actually buying another bike, But motor cycles are in my blood, My pocket had the cash, The Bird wanted some one to love, and I could not help myself, Must have been its appealing head light or some thing, Maybe the way it would not let go of my leg, With rego and paper work, two days later, I was riding the missile home. Totally unaware of what my Bird was actually capable off, But I knew within myself when I looked at it the first time, That thing is me.
My very own peice of Jap crap, Now I have modified it, it loves me even more, and I love it.
It knows it is all mine and no women will ever separate us, or come between us, like me and my Bonnie did.
I hope you get the picture, Hard to explain, but thats the way it is,
Cheers,
Brian.

Nutter67 · 06-23-2009, 4:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strek

Deadman and Nutter... WOW.

I have to say that I have a hard time wrapping my head around how you guys came to know the bird. I mean it seems that you both followed motorcycles before you came to know the bird. I know that the bird is well known down under. I know that they have motorcycle magazines and the internet down under.

You did have the internet down under back when you guys bought these bikes didn't you? Really though I guess I'm just a bit different in that I like to know a bit about a motorcycle model before deciding if I would pay for it. Call me silly but when you think about it you two were a step away from... insert your funny choice for a drunken pub crawl followed by a how the hell did I get that tatoo and in that private place type motorcycle purchase here.

Thank the stars that there was a bird around when you needed one and that the salesman was smart enough to steer you towards it. Who knows what you two could have ended up on. In all seriousness though your method seems to have worked fine for you as you both seem very happy with the decision. I know that you had to know something about the bike or really really liked the ergos and feel when you sat on it. Maybe the killer looks. Perhaps like the love of your life it just felt right when you were on top. The ergo's and feel of a bike are very important in any motorcycle purchase. So I guess this helps to answer the question of whats so great about these bikes. You don't need to know shite about them before you find one to know that the buyer will still end up with a great bike. Bravo.

When I sat on the ZZR, if felt top heavy and "something" didnt feel right. Same goes with the Firestorm (altho I loved the exhaust note). While I was thinking about the two bikes, I went and sat on the bird. It "felt right". End of story - or should that be start of new story. I am an impulsive buyer a lot of the time, but will try to do some digging around. I joined the i30ownersclub forum before placing an order for a new car. I have spoken to others before placing orders for other items.. Jaws has fielded some stupid questions from me before buying some things from him. But it just felt right when I sat on the bird - I dont know how to explain it any better.

Nutter67 · 06-23-2009, 4:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strek

Perhaps like the love of your life it just felt right when you were on top.

Erm, would you like to re-phrase that???????

CanadianBird · 06-23-2009, 7:31 AM

My story is similar to all you peeps. I came off a Harley b/c it just didn't suit my needs and wasn't a big bagger. I did a lot of market research, rode a vfr but felt I would out grow it. The Bird was in the dealer, I sat on it, didn't ride it, bought it, bought the Givi set up, Corbin FG, Heli Bars, and had it delivered to my home. LOL. My first ride was on May 4th and on July 2nd I rode her to Toronto through the States from Vancouver, BC. I just put on the 8th set of tires. The add ons seem endless as well as the farkles. As you know, I've also spent a fortune on service, I don't mind as it's always done correctly. Latest, new P2s, Acumen GI, valves, plugs, oil, hydraulic fluids, hid high beam, fender extender and duck tail. Just ordered the lighting kit from Twisted Throttle. No more commuting, 138,500 kms of trouble free riding. Not to mention the Penske rear, RaceTec front, Goodridge lines, Givi smoked touring screen, Pazzo short levers, etc, etc. I sort of like the new "Bird"/"VFR" but I'll have to see it in person and sit on it. I"m 64 and don't see any new bikes on the horizon. I love the new Duc SteetFighter but I don't see it happening. I think the Bird, in spite of it's weeknesses, which I've tried to address and most here also, is one the the best bikes Honda has ever produced. I feel blessed to be able to own one and ride one. Cheers

Strek · 06-23-2009, 7:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nutter67

I had no intention of buying a bird (or even know what one was.....) when I was looking for a bike. There was a brand new bird on the showroom floor that had a build date of April 2007. I sat on it and it felt good. So good that I had signed all of the paperwork to buy it within 30 mins of seeing it - didnt even take it for a test ride. I didnt even know anything about the bike until I joined up here.

I found a bike that suited my size and felt comfortable.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nutter67

Erm, would you like to re-phrase that???????

Nutter ...
I was just thinking about what you wrote about how you came to know the bird. You know how "it felt so good. So good that you didn't even take if for a test ride". How you found a bike that suited your size and felt comfortable. I know from what you wrote that you still like to be on the bird. Hopefully the same is still true about the love of your life as well. Now you can be the one who asks deadman if he can remember that far back my friend.

He did mention something about being away from bikes for like 12 years before he got the bird. I don't even want to know how long its been since he's been on...

well you know. Really though and not to jack the thread you two have probably provided the best examples of what is so great about these bikes. Now if you really want me to rephrase it I think that I can come up with something.

DragonXX · 06-23-2009, 7:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itsthemechanic

Well, the more recent super sport rockets might beat me on weight and power, but after 3 hours in the saddle they'll need a chiropractor. I'll also lap them on long trips because the 'Bird has a 24 litre tank.

The 'Bird is just a great all round package, does everything you throw at it.. besides maybe tow a boat trailer.

BINGO

GhostRider · 06-23-2009, 7:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doug66

What can one say when it's all been said. In years to come when 'classics' are mentioned, the Blackbird will be on the list.

In the US it already is. Mine will be 7 years old in November and it looks new. Maybe not a classic but rare enough to get some attention for sure.

Poundstretcher · 06-23-2009, 8:42 AM

This bike still excites me more than any other I have owned. To say it is under powered and heavy is not looking at the complete package properly. Try as I might I am still unable to find the limits of the Bird, the straight line speed is as good as it get's. I have seen speedo reading of 310k on my 99 and think this is as much as I require, the handling is more than adequate. I was once in a situation that resulted in me rapidly taking a left hander that I had misjudged the exit on and required me to get the bike tighter into the bend. The result being the foot being raised off the rest for clearance, the loss of the peg and extensive fairing grinding, it almost felt like I was riding on the rims. The Bird stuck like s**t to a blanket and powered out like nothing had happened, I guess I will never know just how close to the limit I was but could I get a bigger bang for my buck or is she likely to be left flagging miles behind modern day sports bikes I don't think so.
Buying a Bird becomes a love affair, if you just want bragging rights and magazine road/track test numbers she probably is not for you or more to the point you are not for her. There are easier bikes to ride out there for the faint hearted.

deadman · 06-23-2009, 10:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Poundstrecher

This bike still excites me more than any other I have owned. To say it is under powered and heavy is not looking at the complete package properly. Try as I might I am still unable to find the limits of the Bird, the straight line speed is as good as it get's. I have seen speedo reading of 310k on my 99 and think this is as much as I require, the handling is more than adequate. I was once in a situation that resulted in me rapidly taking a left hander that I had misjudged the exit on and required me to get the bike tighter into the bend. The result being the foot being raised off the rest for clearance, the loss of the peg and extensive fairing grinding, it almost felt like I was riding on the rims. The Bird stuck like s**t to a blanket and powered out like nothing had happened, I guess I will never know just how close to the limit I was but could I get a bigger bang for my buck or is she likely to be left flagging miles behind modern day sports bikes I don't think so.
Buying a Bird becomes a love affair, if you just want bragging rights and magazine road/track test numbers she probably is not for you or more to the point you are not for her. There are easier bikes to ride out there for the faint hearted.

Brian.

thechamp55 · 06-23-2009, 2:57 PM

[quote=deadman;113770]
I looked at this Honda XX on the showroom floor, I do not like cafe racers,
and to me the XX is a cafe racer. I am an old codger,
quote]

Cafe racer

Ive never heard anyone call an XX that before!

shewie · 06-23-2009, 2:59 PM

[quote=thechamp55;114005]

Quote:

Originally Posted by deadman

Cafe racer

Ive never heard anyone call an XX that before!

You've probably never seen anyone chop one before, either.

thechamp55 · 06-23-2009, 3:51 PM

Ive seen the one Lois is selling

Strek · 06-23-2009, 4:11 PM

cafe racer, crotch rocket, race rocket, GP bike, touring bike, sport touring bike. I've heard them all. I guess that is another thing that makes the bike great. It does everything.

BackStreet · 06-23-2009, 4:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by getsarge

The group I ride with (4 Harleys, a Katana 600, and the occasional R1 or GSXR600) stops regularly at about 45 minute intervals. I figure that's about right, my wrists have been shaken out and could use a good rest from being numb. The HD's complain about the same issue in their wrists.

Just asking if you ever changed the clipons to VFR or Heli bars? 45 mins with Harley speed means your burned 1 gallon of gas and rode 35 miles? No way you should be numb (other then mind dumb and deaf

).

Ever thought about Pro Grips, ThrottleMeister, Peg Lowering Brackets, Corbin seat, Pazzo levers?

These things all add up. 2 weeks ago I went 400 miles in 5 hours including one health break and one splash & dash. I then stopped for breakfast (11am). The next 400 miles I could take it easy because I was half way home.

I guess that's what I like about my Blackbird. When I ride the Dragon, The Blue Ridge Parkway, or some nasty little road no one bothered to name I can do that. When I have to slab it and go 200 miles out of my way to outrun a rain storm I can do it. I can do it all in style too.

deadman · 06-23-2009, 8:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strek

cafe racer, crotch rocket, race rocket, GP bike, touring bike, sport touring bike. I've heard them all. I guess that is another thing that makes the bike great. It does everything.

The one name I really like is, The Whispering Death.

Only the Blackbird is called this.

Cheers,
Brian.

deadman · 06-23-2009, 9:02 PM

[quote=thechamp55;114005]

Quote:

Originally Posted by deadman

I looked at this Honda XX on the showroom floor, I do not like cafe racers,
and to me the XX is a cafe racer. I am an old codger,
quote]

Cafe racer

Ive never heard anyone call an XX that before!

When you have been riding as long as us old farts, Champ my grandson,
You will have a huge list of names for all sorts of bikes, Some complimentary, some derogatory, Harley are well known for their derogatory names and some good ones.

I now call my Bird a high speed cruiser, Keep up to me, ONLY if you can.

Dont kill your self trying.

Cheers,
Brian.

Poundstretcher · 06-23-2009, 9:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deadman

The one name I really like is, The Whispering Death.

Only the Blackbird is called this.

Cheers,
Brian.

What is it with you and all this Dead & Death stuff? We should change your SN to the Grimreaper, you will be asking Mike next, if you can join him in the slaughter of the Sunflowers

deadman · 06-23-2009, 9:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Poundstrecher

What is it with you and all this Dead & Death stuff? We should change your SN to the Grimreaper, you will be asking Mike next, if you can join him in the slaughter of the Sunflowers

Hey Poundy, I have been called The Deadman since I was 18,
I tell every one to ride at their own pace, not try to keep up with others that can and do ride faster, I have seen too many make the mistake of trying to keep up and inevitably crash their bikes, which spoils their day,
and takes the fun out of their bikes.
I ride mainly with a quickish group, But we have 250 learners along with us sometimes, and they are told not to race us, we will wait for them at given points to regroup, we dont have bingles, because of our policy to ride within their own limits.
As for these gun maniacs. They are in a world of their own, And I was a crack shot in my younger days. and enjoyed hunting. I always used a long arm.
Cheers,
Brian.

thechamp55 · 06-23-2009, 9:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deadman

The one name I really like is, The Whispering Death.

Only the Blackbird is called this.

Cheers,
Brian.

I like that. When I was in California there were four of us rode together all the time and likened ourselves to the 4 horsemen. I was death.

06-22-2009, 3:19 PM	#31
thechamp55 Join Date: Mar 19 2009 Location: Texas Age: 21 Posts: 555	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? I bought an 05 ZX-12R in winter 07. And I got my 99 bird about a year ago. When I made the first purchase I was actually torn between the two though I relized the Ninjas performance advantage. I just found a Kawasaki first, then the serendipity of the universe occured and I ended up with an XX anyway. When I bought either I didnt do it to have the fastest machine out there. Ive seen a 408rwhp busa and an 1100hp Hennesey viper on the road, and both of those guys acknowledged they arent the fastest either. Point is there are monsters out there and I will never be the fastest. I didnt really consider the ZX or XX sport tourers either, to me that connotates FJR1300 or Concours etc. I think these bikes (and the busa a BMW Kbikes) are more in line with luxury GT cars, like the Ferrari 599, Bentley Continental GT, Mercedes SL etc. __________________ Everyone Dies. Not Everyone Lives.

06-22-2009, 3:38 PM	#32
itsthemechanic Join Date: Dec 04 2008 Location: Germany Posts: 115	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? Well, the more recent super sport rockets might beat me on weight and power, but after 3 hours in the saddle they'll need a chiropractor. I'll also lap them on long trips because the 'Bird has a 24 litre tank. The 'Bird is just a great all round package, does everything you throw at it.. besides maybe tow a boat trailer.

06-22-2009, 5:44 PM	#34
dracki Back in Black,AC/DC Join Date: Mar 03 2008 Location: Brisbane,Queensland,Australia Posts: 1,838	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? you havn't opened a can of worms,they didn't understand what you ment,i bought mine new & it wasn't even on the show room floor,a blue bird was there but was sold so i couldn't even sit on it,but what i wanted was a fast & beautifull bike,there was no other bike on the market for 'me' at the time,other bikes were ugly(busa's) & more sporty than comfy(zx12) & since i once owned a CBR1000f & totaly liked it for its overall package i figured if the bird is all that & much better i can't go wrong __________________ Attitude,Charisma,Mojo & Spunk. Thats what you have on a BLACK Blackbird & there the fastest.the rest of you just dream about that annoying Shewie,Lois & Poundstrecher one post at a time

06-22-2009, 5:50 PM	#35
XX-XR Join Date: Jan 03 2007 Location: 98 XX 87 VFR700 America's Autobahn Arizona Desert Posts: 72	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? Out of 38 various brands of bikes I've had 2 longterm keepers 1990 CBR1000F and the XX. The Blackbird seems to do what I ask, it's not a maintenance whore and it's simple to work on, like a centerstand so you can actually change tires and you don't have to remove bodywork just to change oil. Mine has 40k never needed a valve adj yet and is all original except drive chain, front sprocket and I replaced the CCT even thou it was quiet... for $29 and 5 minutes it seemed to be worth having peace of mind. __________________ Gettin old aint for sissy's!

06-22-2009, 5:53 PM	#36
getsarge My CFO said Yes! Join Date: Mar 09 2007 Location: Temple, Tx Posts: 215	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? The group I ride with (4 Harleys, a Katana 600, and the occasional R1 or GSXR600) stops regularly at about 45 minute intervals. I figure that's about right, my wrists have been shaken out and could use a good rest from being numb. The HD's complain about the same issue in their wrists. What gets me is the guy on the Katana...real down to earth, would give you the shirt off your back type of guy...but he is all about speed (no doubt his gutless Katana feeds his misery). We passed an SRT Dodge Ram, he couldn't stop drooling...a corvette, more drool...his dream is a ZX14. I don't think he considers much about what he drives/rides, or what he fantasizes about while riding his bike...the only requirement is that it is the fastest. Both the XX's that I've owned have been faster than I thought they would be, they're heavy, but smooth and solid. Best of all, it's predictable...I know that when I'm in a lean, I can give it as much or as little throttle as I'd like, and the bike isn't going to buck or kick. About the only other bike that really interests me is Suzi's TL1000S. It's not comfortable, it's not solid, it kicks, bucks, screams, and with bags of torque - wants to wheelie every time you whack the throttle...but I like it. I wouldn't use it for an iron butt, but I would sure use it in town, around a track, and in the twisties. I suppose I do indeed like the chubby chick from middle school. __________________ Semper Fi

06-22-2009, 7:12 PM	#38
deadman Join Date: Aug 16 2008 Location: Lilydale Melb Australia Age: 61 Posts: 2,339	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? When I bought my XX, I knew nothing about it, I had not been on a bike for twelve years. Every bike was new to me and I did not have a clue. I wanted a big motor, excellent road handling, and a very reliable motor. Nothing more. I looked at the new Triumphs, as I rode a 650 Bonnieville fully chopped for 17 years, They were 40 klms faster than my Bonnie 40 years later, My Bonnie, I had to put a new top end in every 10,000 miles, but it handled supurbly. and a million miles on it. Not reliable. 1000 cc Duke, I looked at it, but tuning hassles and noisy motor. No go. The Honda four 750, used to get 80,000 klms with even touching the motor. super reliable, I looked at this Honda XX on the showroom floor, I do not like cafe racers, and to me the XX is a cafe racer. I am an old codger, This XX had 351 klms on the clock, two year old Demo model, and Honda were winning races, So obviuosly they had sorted their elastic suspension problems out, which the 750 four had. The price was right for me, So I coffed up the dollars and was the proud owner of a two year old, brand new Honda Blackbird. I did not even test ride it. It came with a full factory warranty, So if it blew up, I was covered. The first thing that went was the crappy clip ons, Aches and pains and cramps. 12 inch risers turned this bike into a dream to ride. I then found cbrxx on the net and then I found out what sort of bike I had Bought for myself. Very impressed with the write ups. 12 months later and 21,000 klms on the clock, and two sets of tyres, I am still impressed, I now have a bike that is capable of keeping up with me. Very little keeps up with me, But it has always been like that, I just have to wait for people every 100 klms or so, Such is life. It might not be the fastest, but who cares, not too many riders will ride flat stick on the open road anyway. I love my Bird and will ride it for many years to come, I have no intention of updating, I have customized it to suit my riding style and am exceptionally happy with it. Ride the Bird for your self, dont worry what other dick heads have to say, its your bike and they dont ride it, Just enjoy the pleasure it gives to you, Cheers, Brian. __________________ If ya not boppin, Ya in ya coffin. Rock and roll will soothe your soul. Mods, 6mm Shim, 12 inch risers, Double bubble Windsceen, Homemade Ventura type packrack, Expandable to 82 litre, Rjays rack bag, Lowered rear end frame by 3 inches. Suspension is still stock, home made Cans, awesome.

06-22-2009, 7:38 PM	#40
Doug66 Join Date: Oct 23 2007 Location: Pasadena, South Australia, Australia Age: 43 Posts: 90	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? What can one say when it's all been said. In years to come when 'classics' are mentioned, the Blackbird will be on the list.

06-23-2009, 1:48 AM	#41
Strek Moderator Join Date: Jun 25 2007 Location: Chicago, Illinois Posts: 4,586	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? Deadman and Nutter... WOW. I have to say that I have a hard time wrapping my head around how you guys came to know the bird. I mean it seems that you both followed motorcycles before you came to know the bird. I know that the bird is well known down under. I know that they have motorcycle magazines and the internet down under. You did have the internet down under back when you guys bought these bikes didn't you? Really though I guess I'm just a bit different in that I like to know a bit about a motorcycle model before deciding if I would pay for it. Call me silly but when you think about it you two were a step away from... insert your funny choice for a drunken pub crawl followed by a how the hell did I get that tatoo and in that private place type motorcycle purchase here. Thank the stars that there was a bird around when you needed one and that the salesman was smart enough to steer you towards it. Who knows what you two could have ended up on. In all seriousness though your method seems to have worked fine for you as you both seem very happy with the decision. I know that you had to know something about the bike or really really liked the ergos and feel when you sat on it. Maybe the killer looks. Perhaps like the love of your life it just felt right when you were on top. The ergo's and feel of a bike are very important in any motorcycle purchase. So I guess this helps to answer the question of whats so great about these bikes. You don't need to know shite about them before you find one to know that the buyer will still end up with a great bike. Bravo.

06-23-2009, 2:15 AM	#42
deadman Join Date: Aug 16 2008 Location: Lilydale Melb Australia Age: 61 Posts: 2,339	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? Strek, I have been riding all sizes of bikes, ( including Harleys ) since I was fifteen. I know from experience what a bike should and can do, My XX, I did not even sit on it before I bought it. Call that strange if you like, But I knew it was the bike for me, ESP maybe, But I dont regret one little bit that I bought it, unridden, My faith in my own ability has shown through for me once more. I also had no intention at the time of actually buying another bike, But motor cycles are in my blood, My pocket had the cash, The Bird wanted some one to love, and I could not help myself, Must have been its appealing head light or some thing, Maybe the way it would not let go of my leg, With rego and paper work, two days later, I was riding the missile home. Totally unaware of what my Bird was actually capable off, But I knew within myself when I looked at it the first time, That thing is me. My very own peice of Jap crap, Now I have modified it, it loves me even more, and I love it. It knows it is all mine and no women will ever separate us, or come between us, like me and my Bonnie did. I hope you get the picture, Hard to explain, but thats the way it is, Cheers, Brian. __________________ If ya not boppin, Ya in ya coffin. Rock and roll will soothe your soul. Mods, 6mm Shim, 12 inch risers, Double bubble Windsceen, Homemade Ventura type packrack, Expandable to 82 litre, Rjays rack bag, Lowered rear end frame by 3 inches. Suspension is still stock, home made Cans, awesome. Last edited by deadman; 06-23-2009 at 2:19 AM. Reason: correct spelling

06-23-2009, 7:31 AM	#45
CanadianBird Join Date: Nov 25 2006 Location: BC Canada Posts: 4,433	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? My story is similar to all you peeps. I came off a Harley b/c it just didn't suit my needs and wasn't a big bagger. I did a lot of market research, rode a vfr but felt I would out grow it. The Bird was in the dealer, I sat on it, didn't ride it, bought it, bought the Givi set up, Corbin FG, Heli Bars, and had it delivered to my home. LOL. My first ride was on May 4th and on July 2nd I rode her to Toronto through the States from Vancouver, BC. I just put on the 8th set of tires. The add ons seem endless as well as the farkles. As you know, I've also spent a fortune on service, I don't mind as it's always done correctly. Latest, new P2s, Acumen GI, valves, plugs, oil, hydraulic fluids, hid high beam, fender extender and duck tail. Just ordered the lighting kit from Twisted Throttle. No more commuting, 138,500 kms of trouble free riding. Not to mention the Penske rear, RaceTec front, Goodridge lines, Givi smoked touring screen, Pazzo short levers, etc, etc. I sort of like the new "Bird"/"VFR" but I'll have to see it in person and sit on it. I"m 64 and don't see any new bikes on the horizon. I love the new Duc SteetFighter but I don't see it happening. I think the Bird, in spite of it's weeknesses, which I've tried to address and most here also, is one the the best bikes Honda has ever produced. I feel blessed to be able to own one and ride one. Cheers

06-23-2009, 8:42 AM	#49
Poundstretcher A Rainbird Warrior Join Date: Oct 15 2008 Location: Tasmania Posts: 4,147	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? This bike still excites me more than any other I have owned. To say it is under powered and heavy is not looking at the complete package properly. Try as I might I am still unable to find the limits of the Bird, the straight line speed is as good as it get's. I have seen speedo reading of 310k on my 99 and think this is as much as I require, the handling is more than adequate. I was once in a situation that resulted in me rapidly taking a left hander that I had misjudged the exit on and required me to get the bike tighter into the bend. The result being the foot being raised off the rest for clearance, the loss of the peg and extensive fairing grinding, it almost felt like I was riding on the rims. The Bird stuck like s**t to a blanket and powered out like nothing had happened, I guess I will never know just how close to the limit I was but could I get a bigger bang for my buck or is she likely to be left flagging miles behind modern day sports bikes I don't think so. Buying a Bird becomes a love affair, if you just want bragging rights and magazine road/track test numbers she probably is not for you or more to the point you are not for her. There are easier bikes to ride out there for the faint hearted.

06-23-2009, 2:57 PM	#51
thechamp55 Join Date: Mar 19 2009 Location: Texas Age: 21 Posts: 555	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? [quote=deadman;113770] I looked at this Honda XX on the showroom floor, I do not like cafe racers, and to me the XX is a cafe racer. I am an old codger, quote] Cafe racer Ive never heard anyone call an XX that before! __________________ Everyone Dies. Not Everyone Lives.

06-23-2009, 3:51 PM	#53
thechamp55 Join Date: Mar 19 2009 Location: Texas Age: 21 Posts: 555	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? Ive seen the one Lois is selling __________________ Everyone Dies. Not Everyone Lives.

06-23-2009, 4:11 PM	#54
Strek Moderator Join Date: Jun 25 2007 Location: Chicago, Illinois Posts: 4,586	Re: What's So Great About These Bikes? cafe racer, crotch rocket, race rocket, GP bike, touring bike, sport touring bike. I've heard them all. I guess that is another thing that makes the bike great. It does everything.

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