When Honda introduced the CB750 in 1969, it marked a turning point in motorcycling history. With its transverse inline-four, front disc brake, electric start, and everyday reliability, the CB750 is widely considered the world’s first “superbike.” It quickly became a sales success and established Honda as a serious player in the large displacement market, influencing nearly every manufacturer that followed.
The CB750K received regular updates throughout its run, with each “K” version representing incremental improvements. By 1977, Honda gave the standard CB750 a livelier engine by adopting the camshaft and carburetor setup from the CB750F Super Sport, adding extra pep compared to earlier K models. The 1978 CB750K8 represented the final year of the single overhead cam (SOHC) design before Honda transitioned the platform to a double overhead cam (DOHC) for 1979. This makes the ’78 model particularly significant as it closed out nearly a decade of SOHC development.
Period specs included a 736cc air-cooled inline four producing roughly 67 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed transmission and a front disc brake. The K8 carried the classic upright riding position and four into four exhaust that gave the CB750 its distinctive look, while benefitting from refinements that made it smoother and more responsive than earlier iterations. Today, the CB750K8 stands as both a collectible piece of Honda history and a practical vintage ride, representing the end of the line for one of motorcycling’s most important engines.
This example is VIN: CB750K2827177. The seller states he bought it about 4 years ago, and has put just 100 miles on it. “I’m not a fan of selling anything, but this just has to go to thin the herd.”
The odometer shows 16,963 miles.
Maintenance:
“My son and I had to do the brakes, plugs, a Barnett clutch pack, oil change, battery, tires in 2024, throttle cable, oem intakes and as many engine seals as possible without pulling motor. Oil is weeping out from engine onto fins which i have a shot of. Also, needs a carb expert to dial in and sync the older carbs I put on the bike.”
Modifications:
The seller states: “It is a very stock bike but we did put in electronic ignition with coils from Charlie’s Place, and bought a set of older carbs that I cleaned to the best of my ability. Everyone in the CB750 community told me it runs better than the originals from ’78. The originals come with the bike.”
Pod filters.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on IRC Durotour RS-310 tires with date codes of 3123 and 3423.
The sale includes one ignition key and one seat key. Also included with the bike are the original carbs, airbox, and an aftermarket exhaust system.
Cosmetic Blemishes: The seller states: “It’s original paint except for the side panels and is almost 50 years old. Plenty of blemishes, that I’ve taken photos of.” Please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Glendale, California, this Honda is offered on a clean Ohio title. Do you have any CB750 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
