1974 Honda CB750

Description

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

Honda introduced the world to the four-cylinder CB750 at the Tokyo Motor Show in October of 1968. Considered by many to be the first “superbike”, it was an absolute game-changer of a motorcycle.

Best of all, the CB750 didn’t cost an arm and a leg. Despite features like a 296mm front hydraulic disc brake, five-speed gearbox, quality lighting, electric starter, and industry-defining reliability, it was a shockingly economical bike. The CB also got a compact five-speed transmission with a wet multi-plate clutch, hydraulic fork, dual rear shocks, and a rear drum brake. Weighing in at 495 lbs, the CB750 and its tubular steel duplex frame wasn’t exactly light, but the powerful engine put down 67 hp at 8,500 rpm and was capable of reaching speeds of up to 125 mph.

The original CB750 was succeeded in 1971 with the K1 model. It was highly successful (Honda sold approximately 77,000 of them) and had several cosmetic updates as well a two-cable throttle system which made throttle action much lighter and smoother.

As Cycle World put it in a period review: “It is so clear as to be beyond argument. Some will say that it is too heavy, or the suspension is too stiff, or it is too quiet, or that four cylinders is too many for a motorcycle. But the total is greater than the sum of its parts. If the Four didn’t run faster than 120 mph, if it didn’t turn a 100-mph standing quarter-mile, it would still be the finest.”

Manufactured in May of 1974, this example is VIN: CB7502356549. It was accepted as a trade-in by our friends at Bartel’s Harley-Davidson; they report that it underwent a $16,000 restoration.

The odometer shows 6,525 miles.

Modifications:
This CB750 is completely stock.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Avon Speedmaster MK II tires with date codes of 0918 and 2218.

The sale includes four keys.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located in Marina Del Rey, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration that expired in August 2022. Per the California DMV, it would cost $222 to make registration current through August 2023.

Have any CB750 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!