When the invite for the introduction arrived at our offices, it was requested we bring a test rider of the appropriate age, size and skill level. It just so happened my nine-year-old nephew Ryan fit the bill. He has limited experience on motorcycles, but he’s learning quick and gets more confident each time he twists the right grip. A quick call to my brother and Ryan got a note to get out of school for his first test-riding gig.

What makes a Honda a Honda? How does one define the essential form of a new bike? Is it a particular styling treatment or an idealized design? Does a certain level of performance always enter the equation? How about the inclusion of innovative and groundbreaking concepts? Do these standards evolve over time? How and when do aesthetics come into play? Do beauty and fun play a determining role in the creation of a new motorcycle?

When all you want to do is go on a ride, what better bike than a fully modern but totally authentic blast from the past? Honda has delivered. The classic UJM is back.

Honda recently invited MotoUSA out for a secret test on the 2013 CB prior to its official unveiling. We were able to get a quick hour’s riding time aboard the vintage-looking stallion to get familiarized with it. Although it's before my time, I had virtually traveled back to the ‘80s thanks to timeless styling cues. From its standard fork, dual rear shocks, dual color black and silver wheels, to its air cooled engine all wrapped up in a candy red paint job, the CB really gives off some old school vibes.

Honda’s introduction of air-cooled inline four-cylinder engines forever changed the world of motorcycles