"When Honda launched the Blackbird in 1996 it claimed that it was a dynamic riding machine that would soon become known as "The World's Greatest Super Sport".
The CBR1100XX Blackbird was going to "redefined the standards of the 'big-bike' performance class with a brand new champion". But if you believe everything you read in today's motorcycle mags, the Blackbird is past it.
When the Blackbird was launched it ruled the roost, with more power, better handling and a higher top speed than any other hypersports tourer. Dial superb build quality into the equation, and Honda had a winner.
But other manufacturers didn't sit on their hands. Suzuki launched the Hayabusa in 1999 and Kawasaki introduced the ZX-12R a year later. Both develop more power and have top speeds at least 10mph faster than the Blackbird, which can 'only' manage 175mph. Both out-handle the Blackbird when pushed to the limit. But that hasn't dented sales of the big Honda, which out-sold both the 'Busa and the Kwak in 2001.
So what has the Honda got that the 'Busa and Kwak doesn't? Well, there's long-distance ability, for a start. The Blackbird can carry luggage with ease - Suzuki had problems with the rear alloy subframe fracturing when hard luggage was bolted on.
And the Blackbird's extra weight and softer suspension make it more relaxing to ride. The engine is supremely smooth - Honda designed the 1137cc lump with a dual shaft balancer system to kill vibration dead. If handlebars and footpegs don't buzz with secondary vibration you don't get tired so quickly."
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