Description
Additional photos of this Honda V65 Sabre are available here for your perusal.
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.
Let’s continue to ignore the theoretical top speed and just enjoy what actually happened – 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.”
The seller of this Sabre (VIN: 1HFSC1704FA102776) acquired it just over a year ago from the original owner of approximately 35 years. The bike was entirely original, even down to the tires. It has spent its entire life in Ontario, Canada, and the original owner rode it occasionally, never letting it sit around for too long.
During that time, the seller has covered approximately 150 miles. The odometer shows 11,790 kilometers (7,325 miles).
When the seller acquired it, he said it needed nothing other than an oil change, a tank of gas, and new tires – he installed new Metzelers – Lasertec up front and Metronic in the rear.
There are no mechanical issues to report. “She starts right up and pulls hard.” There is only one cosmetic issue – a small nick on the front fender that is presumed to be from road gravel.
“The bike was transferred to my name but never plated. I have the manuals (English AND French) and two keys, and it comes with the original tool set. You will notice the keys are not original due to the fact that the dealership lost the keys when they took delivery of the bike in 1985. When the bike was sold to the original owner (whom I purchased from), the dealer had to have new keys made. They didn’t bother to use original Honda key blanks. Rest assured, these were the only keys the bike has seen in over 35 years.”
The seller is letting it go as “I would like someone else to enjoy and take care of this bike because it is in excellent condition.” Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below.
