Photo: Andrés Teixidó · Public domain
Honda CBX1000
89/100 Overall
78 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CBX1000 vs Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
Honda CBX1000 scores 89/100 overall against Suzuki GSX1100S Katana on 89/100. On the road: 78–80. As classics: 100–98. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Rainmaker47 / Freisteller von Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
89/100 Overall
80 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CBX | Suzuki Katana | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 10 | 9 | Honda CBX |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki Katana |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki Katana |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Honda CBX |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Honda CBX |
Choose the Honda CBX if…
you want engineering spectacle, turbine-smooth performance and one of the most memorable engines ever fitted to a production motorcycle.
Choose the Suzuki Katana if…
you want radical landmark styling, strong superbike performance and unmistakable early-1980s design.
Background
History
Honda CBX
The Honda CBX1000 was produced from 1978–1982 and used a 1047cc air-cooled DOHC inline six. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki Katana
The Suzuki GSX1100S Katana was produced from 1981–1983 and used a 1075cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CBX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 1047cc air-cooled DOHC inline six.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
Suzuki Katana
- Its production span in this library runs from 1981 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 1075cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CBX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CBX1000. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki Katana
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GSX1100S Katana. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda CBX
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki Katana
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CBX
Rivals to the Suzuki Katana
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CBX1000 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.