One of the most significant motorcycles to come out of Japan, Honda’s CB450 K0 was the firm’s first ‘big’ bike and the first mass-production motorcycle to utilize dual overhead cams.
Affectionately referred to as the “Black Bomber”, this bike put other manufacturers (particularly the British) on notice, as it was tough for them to compete with features like torsion bar valve springs, electric starter. That’s even before you get to the dual overhead cams, technology that was only offered on legitimate race bikes of the time – according to Motorcycle Classics, “the Bomber was disqualified from some production races in England on the grounds that it was too much like a factory racer.” The engine redlined at a hefty 10,000 rpm and produced 42 horsepower, yielding a top speed of 102 miles per hour.
Production ran from 1965-1968, by which point Honda switched things up with the K1 model to address common complaints: a restyled tank, 5-speed transmission, larger oil pump, and a longer wheelbase. The models were offered side-by-side in 1968 and then the role of Honda’s flagship motorcycle was taken over by the CB750 in 1969.
This example is VIN: CB4501025298, Engine #: CB450-1022852. The seller acquired the bike in 2003.
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 2,000 miles. The odometer shows 11,243 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, clean/sync the carb, and replace the speedometer cable. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok (Age Unknown)
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Dirty
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Moderate (Switch contact is poor)
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Non Functioning/Not Present
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Tail Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok (Key)
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80% Drum
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80% Drum
Forks: No Dampening
Shock/s: Little Dampening
Tire Date Code Front: 26/23
Tire Date Code Rear: 29/23
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 22 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 24 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.5V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 12.68V
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench
Test Ride Completed: Yes
Test Ride Distance: 2 Miles
Notes:
-Speedometer semi-functional. Reading, but at incorrect speeds
Recommendations:
-Needs new advancer
-Electrical diagnostic for headlight switch
Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D404 tires with date codes of 2623 and 2923.
The sale includes two keys and some maintenance history papers.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Has some scratches on the tank nothing major. Small nick on the front fender. Front rim has small amount of rust by the bead. A few random bolts have rust like the foot peg, shifter. Tank doesn’t have any rust at all inside. Small tear in the seat strap. Right side air box has a few scratches under the seat.”
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean California title. The seller states that the bike is currently on Planned Non-Operation registration status.
Have any CB450 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
