The first major cruiser equipped with a semi-automatic transmission.

When Honda launched the Rebel 1100 in January 2021, they broke the norm in many ways. The Rebel 1100 is the first cruiser on the market equipped with a semi-automatic gearbox. Honda equipped the 1100 with more beautiful lights and more advanced dashboards, but Rebel’s new engine is receiving more attention, which comes directly from Honda’s adventure motorcycle , CRF1100L Africa Twin.

In addition, a variety of customizable modes are provided, and more functions that were once options are now standard configurations.

Read on to learn more about how the Honda Rebel 1100 is different from any previous model.

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It can be said that one of the most striking things about the Honda Rebel 1100 is that it is the first major cruiser equipped with a semi-automatic transmission. Although the Honda Rebel is traditionally small, the 1100 is very different from its predecessors. Its engine is reminiscent of Honda's flagship adventure bike CRF1100L Africa Twin.

This parallel twin engine was then placed in a fierce lattice frame to create something previously invisible. If the driver wants a manual six-speed transmission, the Rebel 1100 costs US$9,299, but for an extra US$700, the driver can get Honda’s automatic dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCT provides the rider with the opportunity to use a button mounted on the lever to change gears or activate the fully automatic mode.

The Rebel 1100 is considered the "Big Brother" model of the Honda Rebel 500. This motorcycle itself is still quite popular and is known as an ideal bike for beginners. The engine has a 1,084 cc power unit, which can output 86 horsepower at 7,000 RPM. In addition, at 7,600 RPM, the horsepower increased to 92.

The tube on the 1100 is stronger than the tube on the 500. This is evident in the dual shock absorbers and telescopic forks. Due to the titanium oxide surface, the appearance becomes black. The Honda 1100 is available in metallic black and metallic Bordeaux red. The seat height is low (27.5 inches) and the rider position is relaxed. It is designed to provide a smooth riding experience.

Compared with its predecessors, the specifications of this model are even higher. Anti-lock braking system and cruise control are standard equipment. As of 2021, it is the largest displacement manufactured by Rebel Honda. Rebel 1100 also showed a 270-degree crankshaft design and an engine designed to provide low-end torque and easy-to-handle power.

The 1100 is also equipped with slip and auxiliary clutches, and the electronic components are not inferior. The entire chassis of the Rebel 1100 is equipped with LED lighting and an LCD instrument panel that can display the speedometer, tachometer, gear indicator and fuel gauge.

As mentioned earlier, Rebel 1100 will have four riding modes with different throttle maps and power output to choose from: standard, sport, rain and customizable modes. Another notable feature is the four-level Honda Optional Torque Control (HSTC). This new feature is known for its combination and integration of front wheel control, engine braking, DCT settings and traction control.

In terms of its size, the Honda Rebel 1100 shows a 4.3-inch tail distance, a 28-degree forward angle and a 59.8-inch long wheelbase. It also has a radially mounted single 4-piston caliper and a 330 mm brake disc for front braking. The flywheel is also about 20% larger than its predecessor, which allows for increased inertia, just as cams change their timing according to RPM to get more impulsive sounds.

Related: Here are our expectations for the Honda Rebel 300 in 2021

Unlike the previous Honda Rebel models, the 1100 is inspired by different sources, and its appearance and works are derived from this.

For reference, Honda's famous Rebel 500 and early Rebel 300 are derived from CB500F and CB300F bicycles, respectively. By choosing CRF1100L Africa Twin as the raw material for the 1100, Honda decided to emphasize performance this time.

The feeling of owning a "cruiser" is also an important aspect. It is important to remember that although the Africa Twin used as the original material is an adventure bike, the Rebel 1100 is a cruiser. Therefore, a certain number of modifications and adjustments must be made to the engine. The motor is less aggressive, and the valve timing and lift have been drastically modified.

This bicycle has also undergone several tests before entering the sales area in 2020 to collect data and determine specifications. In addition, the unique air filter, exhaust system and muffler on the chassis are unique to the Rebel 1100.

The Honda Rebel 1100 showcased several additional luxurious features, which have proven to be somewhat practical. As mentioned earlier, the four riding modes can be customized. In addition, HSTC is basically traction control with integrated wheel control.

The buttons on the handlebar may seem to be placed just for aesthetics, but these buttons can easily adjust almost all the functions on the 1100. Finally, there is a USB-C socket and a 3-liter storage box under the seat.

Source: ridermagazine.com, cycleworld.com, tflbike.com, powersports.honda.com,

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Kenny graduated from Indianapolis University with a bachelor's degree in communications. After graduation, he continued to work as a reporter and writer for three newspapers. Kenny also has experience using WordPress to edit websites. He directed a newspaper team to produce two magazines during the 2012 Super Bowl in Indianapolis. Kenny was hired to write listing articles for Valnet in March 2020. In his free time, Kenny often goes out to socialize with friends, practice karate, read comics, discuss Enneagrams or on game nights.