Motorcycle enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate vintage bikes, may have heard of the 1983 Honda motorcycles. This year was a significant year for the Japanese motorbike manufacturer as they introduced several models that gained popularity among riders and collectors alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most iconic models released in 1983.
Honda CB1100F: The Superbike of the 80s
The Honda CB1100F was considered one of the fastest bikes of its time, with a top speed of 137 mph. It was equipped with a 1062cc inline-four engine that produced 108 horsepower, making it a popular choice among sportbike enthusiasts. This bike was also known for its sleek design, which featured a full fairing, a single seat, and a sharp-looking tail section.
Despite its popularity, the CB1100F was only produced for one year, making it a rare find for collectors today. If you’re lucky enough to come across one, expect to pay a hefty price tag as it has become a sought-after bike among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
Honda XL600R: The Off-Road Champion
The Honda XL600R was a dual-sport motorcycle that was designed for both on and off-road use. It was equipped with a 591cc air-cooled engine that produced 43 horsepower and had a top speed of 95 mph. This bike was known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among adventure riders.
The XL600R was also equipped with long-travel suspension, which provided excellent handling on rough terrain. It was also one of the first bikes to feature a Pro-Link rear suspension, which was a significant improvement over the traditional dual-shock system. This bike was produced from 1983 to 1987, making it a great option for those looking for a vintage off-road bike.
Honda VF750F: The V4 Powerhouse
The Honda VF750F was a sportbike that was equipped with a 748cc V4 engine that produced 86 horsepower. It was known for its smooth power delivery and excellent handling, making it a popular choice among riders. This bike was also one of the first to feature a gear-driven camshaft, which helped reduce engine noise and vibration.
The VF750F was also equipped with an adjustable suspension, which allowed riders to fine-tune the handling for their riding style. This bike was produced from 1983 to 1984, making it a rare find for collectors today.
Honda GL650 Silverwing: The Touring Bike
The Honda GL650 Silverwing was a touring bike that was equipped with a 674cc engine that produced 65 horsepower. It was known for its excellent comfort and handling, making it a popular choice among riders who enjoyed long-distance touring. This bike was also one of the first to feature an anti-dive front suspension, which helped improve braking performance.
The GL650 Silverwing was produced from 1983 to 1986, making it a great option for those looking for a vintage touring bike. It was also one of the first bikes to feature a full fairing, which provided excellent wind protection for riders.
Honda CX650 Custom: The Cruiser
The Honda CX650 Custom was a cruiser-style motorcycle that was equipped with a 674cc engine that produced 60 horsepower. It was known for its comfortable riding position and smooth power delivery, making it a popular choice among riders who enjoyed cruising around town.
The CX650 Custom was produced from 1983 to 1986, making it a great option for those looking for a vintage cruiser. It was also one of the first bikes to feature a hydraulic valve adjuster, which helped reduce maintenance costs for owners.
Conclusion
The 1983 Honda motorcycles were a significant year for the Japanese manufacturer, as they introduced several models that gained popularity among riders and collectors alike. Whether you’re looking for a sportbike, touring bike, off-road bike, or cruiser, there’s a 1983 Honda motorcycle for you. These bikes have become sought-after among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, so if you’re lucky enough to come across one, expect to pay a premium price.
Do you have any experience with the 1983 Honda motorcycles? Which model is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.