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claude writes "
Back in 1979, when Honda decided to build the CBX their objective was simply to build the fastest production super sport motorcycle. Soichiro Irimajiri drew on his successful race bike design experience to produce not only the fastest production bike of its time, but also a bike that was technically light years ahead of any other vehicle.
Being an engineer, Soichiro Irimajiri left the styling of this exceptional technical feat to Honda stylist Norimoto Otsuka. However much he tried to instil on the bike a look that reflected just a hint of civilization, the beholder's gaze is drawn compellingly to that magnificent power plant. This machine was unashamedly different, a complete departure from anything that had come before, and a benchmark by which everything else that came after was judged.
Described as the most exotic charismatic motorcycle ever built, its total lack of pretension and minimalist styling perfectly reflects its racing pedigree and its unique personality.
In 1979 the CBX seduced everyone by its boldness and charm but only a certain motorcycling "elite" - those who perfectly understood the concept, actually bought one. The average rider was simply too intimidated by the bike, its sophisticated power and audacious concept was to prove too much of a radical departure from the norm to make it a commercial success.
Today, 28 years later, in a world inundated with exceptional feats of technological prowess the CBX is still seducing everyone. And it still only appeals to a certain motorcycling "elite".
Because the Honda CBX was such a brilliant statement of technical ability and daring it has taken its rightful place amongst the motorcycling legends. Twenty eight years after its first appearance the CBX can stand proudly in the company of any modern bike.
Rumours that Suzuki are about to revive the in-line six give credence to the fact that the CBX was at least thirty years ahead of its time.
In February 1978 Cycle magazine concluded a long article about the Honda CBX with these prophetical words:
"It embodies extravagance without vulgarity and high style without pretence - you see muscles and tendons not chrome and fussiness. It has been designed and not decorated. There is no trashiness in the concept, and none in the execution. The CBX is an immensely flattering bike with perfect elegance and class, and history will rank it with those rare precious motorcycles that will never, ever be forgotten."
It's difficult to read those lines and not be deeply moved.
And it is our duty to keep that legend alive, to continue to give substance to those words. We have chosen to be the CBX elite - we own the legend, and have the responsibility to perpetuate the legend.
I have long contemplated the manner in which one can perpetuate a legend in a way that best befits that legend - Gold perfectly symbolises the Honda CBX motorcycle.
Pure gold is the ultimate expression of everything this bike is and what it means to those who continue to treasure this exceptional machine.
I am an artist; I belong to a world of people who create within a context of 'high culture', people who use imagination, talent and skill, to create works that can be judged to have an aesthetic value. Soichiro Irimajiri and Norimoto Otsuka used imagination, talent and skill in creating the CBX; I will use gold to accentuate its aesthetic value and transform it into a work of art.
You can support this project by donating parts but also by purchasing my 2007 calendar.
This calendar is a luxury printed edition of the world's most exclusive (one single copy) and most expensive (€ 200 000) calendar that I have created for a French fashion house.
The calendar measures 19,69 inches by 23,62 inches and is printed on paper of the highest quality. It comes with a certificate of origin and is presented in a gift box. I will also sign each copy that is bought by a CBX owner.
The calendar price is $ 32 plus postage, and all the proceeds will go toward the golden CBX project.
PM or email me at claude@incedo.be to order your copy.
More info about the project and the calendar on my website http://incedo.be
Thanks for your support.
Claude Saint-Raphael
"
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Average Score: 4.05
Votes: 18
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