Cold Start/Walkaround Video:
Riding Video:
The Honda V65 Sabre was built around the 1100cc engine that also powered its cruiser-brother, the Magna. The engine stole the show, as it produced 121 horsepower – capable of pushing the bike up to a “design speed” of 173 miles per hour. However arbitrary that might sound, it was good for an entry into the Guinness Book of World Records for 3 years.
Cycle Magazine was able to knock out the quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds with the Sabre, noting in the process that they could break the national speed limit of 55 just in first gear. Triple disc brakes (double pistons throughout) with a TRAC anti-dive system kept everything in check – you could adjust the anti-dive and the rebound on the air-assisted forks, while the air-assisted shock offered up rebound and damping control.
But it wasn’t just powerful – thanks to the adjustable suspension, upright ergonomics, and a 5.8 gallon fuel tank, it was a comfortable ride that let you enjoy the impressive motor all day long. The technology was also top-notch for the time as well, with a LCD digital dash that incorporated a fuel gauge, coolant temp gauge, digital clock, and a gear position indicator. It was a truly impressive overall package – concluding their review, Cycle magazine stated: “The new Sabre has one overwhelming selling point: its wonderful powerband. Honda’s delightful V65 engine makes the Sabre an attractive big-inch bike, regardless of a riders’ inclinations. The big 1100 Vee’s ability to do so many things so well only adds to the Sabre’s allure. The V65 so excels as a GT machine, you’d swear gran turismo was a Japanese term.”
This example is VIN: 1HFSC1702EA006644. The seller acquired it in July 2021 from the widow of the previous owner in Washington state.
During his ownership, the seller has covered 69 miles. The odometer shows 15,693 miles.
After the seller acquired it in July 2021, he began a restoration project which is detailed below in the Maintenance section. “Bike starts, idles, brakes and runs amazing. No hesitations, revs to redline easily and pulls very smooth, very strong. It shifts very smoothly through every gear up or down. The paint is in remarkable condition for its age. It has always been garaged in a climate-controlled garage. I believe this V65 to be of collector quality.”
Maintenance:
“I have done all the maintenance myself which is as follows:
Rebuilt, cleaned and sync’d carbs.
Cleaned and flushed cooling system and refilled with Water Wetter, antifreeze and distilled water.
Rebuilt clutch master cylinder. Fresh brake fluid.
Rebuilt clutch slave cylinder.
Rebuilt both front and rear brake master cylinders. Fresh brake fluid.
Rebuilt both front and rear brake calipers and installed new EBC Sintered brake pads.
New fuel line and fuel filter.
New battery.
Installed NGK iridium spark plugs.
Valve adjustment.
Installed oil mod kit.
Changed shaft drive oil with 75w-140 full synthetic.
New Shinko Tour Master 230 tires front and rear.
New “pull” throttle cable.
New air filter.
Rebuilt water pump from AZV65.
All new red silicone coolant hoses.
Rebuilt both fuel petcocks.
Fuel tank has been cleaned with Evapo-Rust and looks very nice.
Recent oil change 4/10/26 Shell Rotella 15w-40 T6 full synthetic & KN202 filter.
Only used non-ethanol gas treated with seafoam.”
Mechanical Issues:
“The gear indicator does not work for 2nd gear, but it has worked making me think it could just be a loose connection somewhere.”
Modifications:
“Oil mod kit installed. Otherwise very stock.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko Tour Master tires with date codes of 3421 and 5121.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys, original tool kit, owners manual and the factory shop manual.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“On the right, top side of radiator the shroud has stains. (from brake fluid reservoir?)
Rear grab bar shows some wear.
A barely noticeable hairline crack on tach plastic at 7 o’clock.
Small chip on front fender.”
Currently located in Lynnwood, Washington, this Honda is offered on a clean Washington title.
Have any V65 Sabre stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
