After the launch of the Honda CB750 Four in 1969, the motorcycling world was never the same again. The 1970 example recently listed for sale on eBay represents a rare opportunity to own one that has not yet been restored.
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Light Years Ahead
Before the arrival of the CB750 Four, shoppers seeking a sporty experience on two wheels could opt for a BSA - opens in new window or tab., Norton - opens in new window or tab., or Triumph - opens in new window or tab.. Those British makers offered single-cylinder or parallel-twin pushrod motors—in the 500-cc to 650-cc range—with drum brakes and a four-speed transmission. They were fun and fast, yet unrefined, leaky, and unlikely to run for long without needing attention.
Then came the CB750 Four, with the first-ever mass-produced four-cylinder motorcycle engine. It was 100 cc bigger, had a chain-driven overhead camshaft, disc brake - opens in new window or tab., and electric start. Honda priced the CB750 to sell, and most importantly, it didn’t abruptly stop running.
The Brits made desperate attempts to coax more performance from their suddenly obsolete designs. But the CB750 Four was light years ahead in terms of refinement and technology. Moreover, Honda’s early superbikes made high performance on two wheels more accessible.
A sales frenzy ensued after the late, great two-time AMA Grand National Champion Dick Mann - opens in new window or tab. won the 1970 200-mile AMA Daytona race on this smooth, fast, and affordable Honda bike. Honda, which used the CB750 Four to develop a range of dependable four-cylinder motorcycles, became the biggest manufacturer in the world.
Early, Desirable Example
Honda’s target market was the United States. It didn’t take long for news of the revolutionary bike to spread. Over nine years of production, Honda built more than 550,000 CB750 Fours. The lion’s share went to the US.
Each year brought revisions like bigger indicators and different graphics. Today, the earliest examples are the most sought-after. That’s why the CB750 Four on eBay is special.
As the listing states, this is a K0 example, indicating that it was screwed together in the first year of production. As such, it’s at the top of the charts for desirability. Each year’s versions of the CB are easy on the eye. But the earliest machines are most fondly remembered for their looks with early-style emblems, smaller indicators - opens in new window or tab., and slender rear dampers - opens in new window or tab..
Unmolested Survivor
This early CB750 Four looks sensational in Candy Gold paint. It is still in nearly original condition, having never been restored. The seller states:
Nothing has been removed or replaced from new.
This rare find proudly wears the odd scar and some wear to the exhaust. Addressing those slight flaws—and this splendid machine's maintenance—offer wonderful “problems” for the classic Honda’s next owner.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.