The Monterey Peninsula recently witnessed a blend of history and innovation as Freddie Spencer a three-time World Champion and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer rode the all-new 2026 Honda CB1000F during Monterey Car Week. This event marked the first time the CB1000F was ridden in the U.S. combining Spencer’s racing legacy with Honda’s cutting-edge technology.
The CB1000F draws its styling inspiration from the CB750F and CB900F models that Spencer raced in the early 1980s a period that cemented his status as one of the country’s top road racers. This retro-inspired model, built on the modern foundation of the CB1000 Hornet SP offers a unique blend of open-class performance and advanced technology all wrapped in a timeless design.
The Quail Run: A Journey Through Time
The Quail Run a scenic ride through the Monterey Peninsula and Carmel Valley brought together approximately two dozen participants. Departing from and returning to Laguna Seca the ride coincided with the Monterey Motorsports Reunion which this year celebrated Japanese motorsports. Spencer also participated in exhibition laps at Laguna Seca aboard a replica of the Honda NS500 he rode to the 1983 500cc Grand Prix World Championship.
Spencer’s experience with the CB1000F was met with enthusiasm. “This is not just a retro bike in colors and style, but in the way they’ve done the engine,” Spencer remarked. He appreciated the changing pitch of the original inline engine, which Honda successfully restored in the new model. The bike’s modern technology, he noted, does not interfere with the riding experience, making it a pleasure to ride. The CB1000F handles incredibly well, blending the memories of the old motorcycle with the refinement of a modern bike.
Celebrating Seven Decades of Motorsport Heritage
Honda celebrated seven decades of two- and four-wheel motorsports heritage during Monterey Car Week, showcasing more than 20 iconic Honda and Acura championship-winning race cars and motorcycles. Among the highlights were the 2026 Honda RC213VNicky Hayden’s 2006 MotoGP Championship-winning RC211V and Mick Doohan’s 1997 FIM Grand Prix Championship-winning NSR500. A replica of Dick Mann’s 1970 Daytona 200-winning CR750 Honda’s 2004 CBR600RR AMA Formula Xtreme bike and Jett Lawrence’s 2026 SuperMotocross Championship-winning CRF450R were also on display.
Additionally, Ricky Brabec’s 2026 Dakar Rally-winning CRF450 RALLY was showcased, with Brabec riding his current factory rally machine during demonstration laps at the Monterey Motorsports Reunion and The Quail Run.
The Legacy of Honda Powersports
Honda’s deep roots in motorsport competition are an integral part of its history and culture. Colin Miller, Manager of Experiential Marketing at American Honda Motor Co. emphasized the significance of Monterey Car Week in celebrating this heritage. “Honda has deep roots in motorsport competition, which is an important part of our history and culture,” Miller said. The event provided a unique opportunity to showcase some of Honda and Acura’s most iconic racing machines, with Spencer playing a pivotal role in this celebration.
Honda began motorcycle sales in America in 1959 and today offers a full range of Honda motorcycles, scooters, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and side-by-sides in the U.S. Innovative technology has always been a Honda trademark, showcasing pioneering engine and chassis design that has set the standard for excellence for more than 65 years. Honda also has announced plans for battery-electric powersports products. Honda Powersports products have been built in America for 45 years, with all Honda side-by-sides and ATVs made in America at Honda manufacturing plants in Timmonsville, SC, and Swepsonville, NC, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
