HONDA The Power of Dreams

In February 2005, Honda launched the CB1300 Super Bol d’Or.

Based on the CB1300 Super Four fully revamped in 2003, the Super Bol d’Or featured a new half fairing which reduced wind pressure, ideal for comfortable long-distance riding. The half fairing also incorporated storage space for small items, enhancing practicality.

The development of the CB1300 Super Bol d’Or was driven by the lifting of Japan’s ban on tandem riding on expressways and automobile-only roads.

In Japan, tandem riding had been banned on expressways for over 40 years following accidents involving tandem riding on the newly opened expressways in the the 1960s.

Meanwhile, the progress of globalization also spurred movements to abolish this unique Japanese regulation. The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), along with motorcycle-related organizations and overseas motorcycle manufacturers, persisted in shaping public opinion while advancing negotiations with legislative bodies.

These efforts led to amendments to Japan’s Road Traffic Act, lifting the ban on April 1, 2005.

As tandem riding became permitted on expressways and automobile-only roads, provided the rider met conditions such as holding a large-sized motorcycle license or regular motorcycle license for at least three years, and being at least 20 years old. This improves environment for motorcycle riders.

It was at this time that Honda launched the large-displacement sport tourer, the CB1300 Super Bol d’Or.

With the Super Four and Super Bol d’Or, Honda had expanded customers’ options for the CB1300 series.

In adopting the half fairing, the development team thoroughly discussed the shape and function to achieve both comfort and handling stability, repeatedly conducting wind tunnel and real-world riding tests. As a result, Honda succeeded in limiting weight increase to six kilogram compared to the base Super Four.

The newly developed CB1300 Super Bol d’Or delivered riding enjoyment across a wide spectrum, from city commuting to touring, and even two-up touring on highways.

Since its debut in 2005, the CB1300 Super Bol d’Or has been a long-selling model, loved by sport bike enthusiasts for over two decades.

The “Bol d’Or” name originates from Honda’s RCB1000, which won the Bol d'Or 24-Hour Endurance Race for four consecutive years starting in 1976. Honda enhanced its racing image through this event, incorporating racing technology and glory gained to later production models such the CB900F and CBX750F Bol d’Or.