News Honda's trail-blazing revolution unveiled by... Kawasaki?

As EICMA 2024 approaches, the excitement in the motorcycle world is palpable, and an unexpected revelation recently added spice. During the presentation of its new Versys 1100, Kawasaki accidentally lifted the veil on a long-awaited model from rival Honda!

Kawasaki: clumsy or calculated?

It all began at the press conference dedicated to the Kawasaki Versys 1100. A slideshow presenting the main rivals revealed a brand-new model: the Honda CB1000X. Journalists present at the press conference reported that this sporty trail bike had been mooted for several years without ever having been confirmed by Honda.

The question then arises: has Kawasaki made a simple mistake, or has it cleverly orchestrated a communications stunt to attract attention, or even get ahead of its Japanese competitor? Tell us what you think in the comments.

An ultra-powerful trail bike in the works?

The Honda CB1000X, surrounded by models already announced, looks like an intruder. Moto-Net

In the meantime, it's rather amusing to observe how it would work internally, and what generally shouldn't go outside the box. Beyond the question of who is the "mole" responsible for this leak, it's also interesting to see how this unofficial information has reignited speculation. To date, Honda has still not made the model official, but it seems that Kawasaki already has solid details.

Early rumors suggest that the CB1000X is closely related to the Hornet 1000, sharing the CBR1000RR's in-line four-cylinder engine with an estimated 155-160 hp. This configuration would put this trail bike in direct competition with machines such as the Ducati Multistrada V4, BMW S 1000 XR and Suzuki GSX-S1000GX. The CB1000X would also feature advanced technologies, such as the "Throttle By Wire" electronic throttle, different riding modes, "Honda Selectable Torque Control" adjustable traction control and a slipper clutch. All features that would make it a high-performance motorcycle suitable for long trips, without denying its sporty character.

Honda CB1000X: probable launch at EICMA 2024

Kawasaki's leak, relayed by specialist media such as Moto-Net and Motorrad, has rekindled expectations of an official presentation of the Honda CB1000X at Milan's EICMA, to be held from November 5 to 10, 2024. This event is often the occasion for manufacturers to unveil their major new products, and it now seems highly likely that Honda will finally reveal its own.

Ducati, BMW, Honda... An epic battle in sight on the trail bike market

The arrival of the CB1000X could fill a gap in the Honda range, which currently lacks a trail bike capable of competing with the sportiest models in the segment. While the Honda NT1100 is appreciated for its touring bike qualities, it lacks the sporty dynamism sought by some bikers. The CB1000X seems ready to meet this challenge. With growing interest from enthusiasts in this segment of multi-purpose motorcycles, bikers around the world are on the lookout.

Honda, facing further leaks

While it's likely that Honda has had the wind knocked out of it, the brand has not reacted to this leak. On the other hand, it is also making news in a more compelling vein. Honda recently recalled 700,000 vehicles (models 2023, 2024 and 2025) due to defective high-pressure fuel pumps, which can cause fuel leaks and increase the risk of fire. In Europe, 323,090 vehicles are affected, including almost 16,000 in France.