NapoliBlackbird

Thanks, that's what I decided to go with - ordered it already.

Thanks. That's what I was leaning towards based upon what I've read, using their fork stem base mount.

Looking for a good cell phone mount/case for an iphone 5s. Most of the cases on Amazon are for standard motorcycle/bicycle handlebars that won't mount on a Blackbird. Anybody got a recommendation?

Nice to know you're a well rounded individual Hobicus.

Thanks again everyone. The bike runs flawless, like it was new, XXitanium. I'm sure I can handle it now that I have the tank issue resolved, probably leave it for the fall. Superhawk996, I said that anything past 170 is academic because unless you are drag racing someone to top speed, being on any 1000cc sport bike or larger, will get you over the 170 mph line pretty damn fast. Beyond that your just trying to get last bit of the top end a bike has left. How it feels getting there, and how it performs in every other aspect, to me is more important than whether I can eek out another 10 mph from the bike just going in a straight line. The one time I pushed my '99 Blackbird to 185 mph indicated, the experience past 170 mph was pretty much focusing on going straight and periodically glancing at the dial to check my speed. I agree it is special, that's why I'll keep this one until the only thing I can ride any longer is a wheelchair. I almost feel sorry for my FJR parked next to the Blackbird. I think it feels I've disowned it.

Thanks everyone for all the feedback. I didn't expect such a quick and thorough response from so many. It certainly sheds more light on the topic. Nice to know there are so many out there that know what a special kind of bike the Blackbird is. For the life of me, I can't understand why Honda stopped producing it. It may not be the fastest, but there is nothing else like it out there when it comes to the combination of speed, handling, looks and quality. Must be a generational thing. And anyway, once you pass the 170 mph mark, it's all pretty much academic.

Just purchased my third Blackbird, a 2003. Bought an FJR 1300 a couple of years ago because I thought it would be a nice compromise after owning Blackbirds - more comfort yet still sporty performance. Great bike for what it's intended, but always found myself comparing it to my Blackbirds, which was not a fair comparison. Super smooth but lacked afterburners and really had to manhandle it in the twisties. Now it sits in my garage next to the Blackbird - maybe I'll keep it for when the wife wants to go on a ride or for when I become an old geezer and grow into it - hey, I'm already there.. Anyway, got lucky finding the Blackbird on Craigslist locally with only 28K miles on it and in fantastic shape, so I snagged it. I wanted to change the plugs and air filter since I don't have the previous service history on it. Looked at various forums and a Youtube on doing myself. I can do basic maintenance like changing oil, etc, but the plug and air filter change require unbolting the tank to get to it. The Honda dealer will do it for a couple hours of labor (aprox $210-$265) plus parts. I don't mind spending the money and having the dealer do it, if it's a pain in the ass. Anybody give some insight on how difficult of a job it is and if you need any special swivel sockets to get to the plugs?