The CB-1 was pretty high tech looking in its day. It still looks modern today even 17 years later. That's staying power. It's a nice clean techy bike.
The bandit has a more retro classic look and also still looks great. Overall I think the bandit looks better. But the CB-1 has the bandit beat in comfort, and instrumentation (I want a temp gauge!).
I definitely prefer the look of the Bandit 400. They're fairly unique looking. I think that's why when you go somewhere that there are a lot of bike people, you start to find a lot of people looking at her, and asking what she is.
I took the CB-1 on another ride this weekend. I was surprised to find out that it had a fuel pump. I figured it was gravity fed as well. I'd almost prefer gravity fed as its one less part to kak out on you at the wrong time.
I think they both have their benefits, but I wouldn't suspect that a fuel pump would be needed on that bike. I know that the CB900f can use it.
I also found this one has a leaky carb. I'm not sure if the float valve is stuck open, or if the gasket is bad. Not a huge deal to fix... assuming I can still find the parts.
I think you're going to be pleasantly surprised at the availabilty of Honda parts. Of course the first place to look is the same places we look for Suzuki parts, BikeBandit, Ron Ayers, Mr Motorcycle. Then you also have servicehonda.com. They usually have -the- best prices. Dealers often have the parts in stock, or in your case, likely a day away at worst (Often I wait a week cos parts are in Vancouver or Toronto.), in the event of an emergency, but we still get bent over for parts here, despite the "Strength" of our dollar.
i.e. $506 USD plus shipping (from service honda) for the tank on the 599 ( the blue pic I posted) or $1200CDN for it. This isn't unique to Honda either. it's just the most recent price that I have, cos a friend needed that tank.