Description
Please note: We only ran this bike off a bottle as the tank needs to be cleaned. Because of that, we have not test ridden it.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Honda debuted the CB160 in 1965 — just six years after it began bringing bikes stateside. Like its predecessors, the little CB featured a tubular steel frame that utilized the engine as a stressed-member.
Because of its approachable size, sporty looks, and upgraded suspension, the bike was an instant hit when compared to Honda’s other offerings. Moreover, despite the CB’s humble 161cc displacement, its over square engine was plenty revvy, and a sonorous exhaust note made for a thrilling ride. Of course, it was also backed by typical Honda build quality, so the electrical system was reliable and maintenance requirements were few and far between.
As Cycle World put in a period review: “We cannot tell you just how impressive the Honda CB-160 is to everyone who knows motorcycles and has ridden it. Somehow, Honda engineers have gotten the engine balance factor matched perfectly to the frame, etc., and while there is a slight amount of vibration at low speeds, the bike is turbine smooth at 55-60 mph.”
This example is VIN: B1601074439, Engine #: CL1601024015. The seller acquired the bike in February of 2015.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 100 miles. However, true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us clean and sync the carbs, replace the spark plugs, and install a new battery. Olly did the work, he notes the following in his condition report:
Tire Year Front/ Rear:2012/2012
Tire % Front/ Rear:90/90
Tire Press Front/ Rear:30/30
Brake % Front/ Rear
:60+Drum/60+Drum
Hydraulic:NA
Oil:ok
Coolant:NA
Low Beam:ok
High Beam:ok
Turn:ok
Tail Light:ok
Brake Light:ok
Plate Light:ok
Kill:ok
Horn:ok
Battery:NEW
Notes:
• Chain cleaned
• Gas tank needs cleaning
• Ran on bottle on bench; no test ride
Modifications:
The seller reports that he commissioned Jay LaRossa of Lossa Engineering to turn this CB160 into a custom cafe racer. He opted to keep the original patina, as that was the look that he desired. During the transformation, LaRossa rebuilt the engine. The seller notes that it has only seen approximately 100 miles since the overhaul.
Black billet wheels, polished hubs and chromoly spokes.
New grips, brake, and clutch handles.
Modified front fender (café style).
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires with date codes of 2112 and 2112.
It also includes “a complete and uncut original fender set. The front fender is in really good original condition. The rear fender is also in good condition with surface body work started.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a clean California title with current registration through February 2024. Please note: we apologize for any inconsistencies in the album, the registration sticker was applied after the bike was photographed.
Have any CB160 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!