Review of the 2022 Honda CMX1100 Rebel

What did you think of the engine, power and torque?

"The engine is a punch powerhouse, offering tremendous low-down torque - it'll whip you around town with no troubles at all. It hosts an excellent gearbox with silky smooth gears and a decent lower rev range. I think the torque at hand is a bit surprising within a cruiser-style motorcycle, so there's lots of fun to be had - whether you're in Sport, Standard or Rain mode.

I think although this is a 1084cc motorcycle it wasn't really made to be a steam train of power. The feeling you get when aboard one of these machines trumps the force it can churn out. Instantly upon sitting in the saddle you feel badass... The blacked-out components of the engine build really make it something special and you'll get off feeling a little bit like Jason Momoa - although I am fully aware that I'm a lot shorter and certainly not Aquaman."

How was the handling, brakes, comfort and riding position?

"The Rebel was surprisingly easy to handle and I had no struggles manoeuvring the machine when out and about. It did become a fraction harder to handle at lower speeds, but that's a pretty global cruiser attribute that you swiftly become used to when on the road. Honda definitely did good by only loading one brake on the front as a second could add unnecessary weight to the handling that would have potentially ruined the model. That being said, the stopping force of the bike was confident and precise - there were no troubles in sudden nor gradual slowing.

Comfort for a cruiser has got to be one of the most important aspects. The handlebar reach and footpeg position aren't a problem for even the longer journeys you may be doing. That being said I would potentially change the seat for a more comfortable alternative as it left me with a little bit of tailbone ache. Additionally due to the power behind this mile eater, if you're riding two-up you may want to add a backrest for your pillion."

Technology - was it helpful?

"First of all, I really love the way Honda has stylised their display - it's got a classic round shape. If you look into that classic shaping, everything modern is waiting for you. I was surprised with how much technology is waiting for you aboard the Rebel for something which looks so simple in the flesh. There are tons, like ABS, a USB charging point, traction control, ride modes and of course the HISS. I would say the technology is useful but there are some unnecessary features such as wheelie control - is it capable of a wheelie mistakenly? I would be surprised."

What Modifications would you make?

"As mentioned earlier I think I would go with a third-party seat alternative as the curvature of the stock seat just doesn't sit right with me (if you pardon the pun). Additionally I would look for pillion seating alternatives and a backrest too.

Although only a slight modification, I would probably invest in some braided brake lines, as there's only one brake on each wheel so any braking deterioration would be instantly noticeable. Other minor modifications I would make are flipping the mirrors to underbar or bar-ends, as I think they would just fit better with the overall style of the bike."