Honda’s duo of big-bore Rebel cruisers become a trio with addition of the new ‘street custom’ CMX1100SE. All three share the well-proven 1,084cc twin-cylinder engine, now with bolstered low- and mid-range torque, as well as more power. The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) option receives low-speed running upgrades to increase usability. Other updates comprise a more ergonomic riding position and new five-inch TFT screen with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity and USB-C socket. Technical highlights include Throttle By Wire (TBW) control, three default riding modes plus two USER customised modes, three-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and cruise control.
1. Introduction
Honda’s A2 licence-friendly 500cc twin-cylinder CMX500 Rebel, released in 17YM, fused tradition with ground-breaking new ideas to capture younger riders for whom a motorcycle is so much more than just transport; riders for whom their motorcycle is a lifestyle, an attitude, an expression of individual identity.
Learn more about the 2025 CMX500 Rebel here
The Rebel’s combination of timeless ‘bobber’ style and unique, forward-looking, contemporary detailing earned it immediate popularity in its first sales season. And it has been far from a one-year wonder: in 2021, 2022 and 2023, the CMX500 Rebel was the best-selling custom style machine in Europe. Accessible, easy to ride and live with, by going its own way the Rebel proved an accomplished success in standard trim. And, as a blank canvas for customisation, it has been a machine more than ready for whatever its owner’s imagination has had in store for it.
For 21YM, where the CMX500 Rebel led, a new motorcycle followed: The CMX1100 Rebel. It took the essence of what made the smaller bike so special and added more performance, more character, and a wealth of Honda’s most advanced technology.
Armed with all the above, the CMX1100 Rebel offered a step up – or across from a different segment altogether – for a wide range of riders looking for something that bit different. In 23YM, the family expanded once again with the introduction of the CMX1100T Rebel, a dedicated Touring version ready to answer the call of the open road.
For 25YM the big Rebel builds on the blocks of continued success and receives a host of upgrades to engine performance, comfort, riding ergonomics and technology.
Plus, there’s a new addition: the CMX1100SE Rebel – an ‘out of the box’ Special Edition factory custom that drips street character thanks to Genuine Honda Accessories. As ever, and in whichever variant, the CMX1100 Rebel’s combination of performance, specification and accessibility will continue to resonate with riders across Europe.
2. Model Overview
The CMX1100 Rebel has a dual personality. It’s been designed for a leisurely laidback cruise, but also to offer an exciting riding experience when a twisty road presents itself. Riders moving up from smaller bikes will appreciate the manageable dimensions and weight while more experienced riders will find instant, accessible enjoyment from the chassis’ handling potential, thanks to its stiff tubular steel frame, quality naked bike-spec suspension and high-powered braking.
A more relaxed riding position is a key 25YM update: the handlebars move rearward and up, the footpegs forward and the seat is now 10mm thicker with overall seat height a very manageable 710mm. All-comers will love the character and performance of the 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine (as used by the CRF1100L Africa Twin). Especially for 25YM because, like its adventure-ready sibling, it has been re-tuned with a higher compression ratio to give even stronger low- and mid-range punch, with characterful delivery plus an enhanced, evocative exhaust note.
Throttle By Wire (TBW) management brings with it sophisticated rider aids: there are three default riding modes and two user defined options that allows control over a number of different parameters to suit riding conditions or rider mood, including engine power delivery, engine braking, the level of Honda Selectable Torque Control (with integrated Wheelie Control), and the shift schedule of the optional Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which is itself updated for smoother low-speed response.
As a 21st century bobber, the big Rebel’s stripped-back style speaks volumes with its minimalism. Steel mudguards front and rear sit atop fat tyres; the circular headlight mixes old school looks with new school LED technology. A new five-inch TFT display features customisable screens and the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync. The USB-C socket also now locates on the left of the unit.
The 25YM CMX1100 Rebel will be available in the following colour option:
- Pearl Hawkseye Blue **NEW**
The 25YM CMX1100T Rebel will be available in the following colour option:
- Iridium Gray Metallic **NEW**
The 25YM CMX1100T SE Rebel will be available in the following colour options:
- Flare Orange Metallic **NEW**
- Mat Ballistic Black Metallic **NEW**
3.1 Styling & Equipment
The CMX1100 Rebel offers a simple, raw and ‘unprocessed’ look created by the same US-based Honda R&D studio that laid down the style of the CMX500 Rebel. Long and low, with narrow body crowned by the sculpted 13.6L flangeless fuel tank, its minimalist presence has real depth, with proportions that are complemented naturally with a rider on board.
Both front and rear mudguards are drawn from 1mm-thick steel and mounted on die-cast aluminium brackets. The low set 175mm diam