The new CB1300 was the little brother who did his homework and went to college - and only partied sensibly at weekends - rather than the older sibling, CB1100R, who poured Jack Daniels on his breakfast cornflakes.

Naturally, being a retro-classic there are twin shocks at the back and a massive, alloy, swinging arm - Honda CB1300A

As it happens, the gearbox is one of the sweetest in the motorcycling world and the clutch is light and fuss free. For its intended purpose, Honda could not have done better.

Honda added a bit of modern technology to this tribute bike's brakes with ABS and some Nissin four-pot calipers.

Memorable Motorcycles - Honda CB1300A

Hondas are generally well finished but the CB1300 really is at the top of the tree. The paint is lustrous and the polished alloy impeccable.

Hondas are generally well finished but the CB1300 really is at the top of the tree - Honda CB1300A

If ever a bike was designed for the American market it is the CB1300. It is powerful - in the style of a 5.7 liter Dodge Durango - looks gorgeous and is both ideal for Sunday riding in the canyons, vacation cruising on the freeways or a trip down to the shopping Mall.

The chassis is also absolute dead center in the target zone. Naturally, being a retro-classic there are twin shocks at the back and a massive, alloy, swinging arm.

The Honda CBR1300 sports a big, five-gallon fuel tank and lots of room for both rider and pillion passenger.

Cost of a new CB1300 is around $12,000. Better still, mint second hand CB1300s are selling in the $6,000 range.