Motorcycle specifications HondaCB 900 F Bol d'Or 1983

It owes its name to one of the most prestigious endurance races. The CB900F Bol d'Or was first presented at the 1978 Paris International Motor Show (marketed in 1979). That was the year Honda began to expand its touring range. The CB750F2 was no longer enough to counter the competition, especially the turbulent Kawasaki models, which shone not only on the road but also in races.

for this reason, Honda is pulling out all the stops. The CBX 1000, with its 6-cylinder "cathedral" engine, is the top-of-the-range luxury model, the CB750 returns in a KZ version with a new-generation engine, and the CB900F Bol d'Or is the sports model.

like its sisters, the Bol d'Or gets a latest-generation engine: in-line 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, double overhead camshaft, 16 valves. Inspired by endurance RCBs, the cylinder head is designed to withstand high power and revs. A one-piece lightweight alloy cylinder block, flat-capped pistons with notches to avoid valve contact and enable a high compression ratio, everything about this engine's design exudes the pursuit of performance. In the end, this 901cc block develops 95 hp at 9,000 rpm, 12 hp more than a Kawasaki Z1000 (83 hp at 8,000 rpm) of the same era.

the chassis, while not totally revolutionary, also has its share of innovations. For example, the "Comstar" wheels, whose pressed steel spokes are riveted to the rim. These wheels allow the use of tubeless tires, a technique derived from racing. The suspension (telescopic fork and double combiner) is fully adjustable. The latest versions even feature shock absorbers with separate reservoirs. At the time, many specialists saw the Bol d'Or as the first Japanese motorcycle with handling compatible with its engine's capabilities. Braking was by 3 discs. For once, the rear brake acted not only as a stabilizer, but also as a genuine decelerator.

the Bol d'Or weighs 235 kg unladen. While this makes stationary maneuvers (especially putting the bike on the center stand) and low-speed travel often very tricky, handling once underway is surprisingly good for a bike of this size. The narrow-section tires, quality suspension and wide half-handlebars more than compensate for the excess weight of this sportbike.

and while the bike's sporting capabilities are undeniable (racy engine at high revs, rigid chassis, efficient suspension and top-level braking for its time), the Bol d'Or is by no means an exclusive motorcycle. On the contrary, it welcomes its rider with great care. The upright riding position and comfortable seat show the bike's obvious suitability for everyday use. In short, Honda has succeeded in combining sport and versatility in a motorcycle with sober, classy styling that doesn't deny its CB pedigree.

the engine's capabilities prompted a number of motorcycle craftsmen to develop highly refined models based on the 900 Bol d'Or. Bimota used this engine for its fabulous HB2, and Egli for its Honda Egli. These small-volume bikes, far from competing with the Honda, merely enhanced the qualities of the 900cc 4-cylinder.

the 900 underwent a number of modifications throughout its career, until 1983 (including an F2 version fitted with a fairing), when the engine was upgraded to 1100cc. The Bol d'Or name was dropped in 1986 with the advent of the CBR range and its liquid-cooled engines. Yet it retains a special aura. No one could deny, even those who only know it by name, that the 900 Bol d'Or was and remains a sports bike. Today, however, its lines would make it look more like a pretty SUV. Proof that in motorcycling, the notion of sport has changed considerably in just over 25 years.

Tanthallas - Photos: Internet - D.R.