1971 Honda CB750 K1
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. CB750-1054584
Engine no. CB750E-1052011
•One of the all-time great classic motorcycles
•Sold new in Texas, USA
•Recent full service

'Seldom has a road-test model attracted such a wide interest and appreciative comments from bystanders. That it justified the praise goes without saying. No manufacturer has come nearer than Honda to producing an ideal roadster.' - Motor Cycle.

Fifty-plus years on, it is hard to imagine the impact the Honda CB750 had on the motorcycling world when it was unveiled to a stunned public at the Tokyo Show in October 1968. True, there had been plenty of four-cylinder motorcycles before, but these had been built in relatively small numbers and aimed at the wealthy few. Here for the first time was a mass-produced four within the financial reach of the average enthusiast, and one whose specification - overhead camshaft, disc front brake, five-speed gearbox, electric starter, etc - made the opposition look obsolete overnight.

Bike magazine summed up Honda's achievement thus: 'Like BSA/Triumph's parallel twin and Ducati's desmodromic single, the Honda inline four is one of those engines which created a standard out of an ideal. The list of Honda's technical achievements is impressive but the appearance of a production four-barrel roadster at a Mr Everyman price was probably their greatest coup.' A trend-setting design of immense significance and one of the truly great classic motorcycles, the CB750 is highly sought after by collectors.

Offered here is a fine example of the K1 model, introduced for 1971, which featured a larger fuel tank and a new oil tank, side panels and dual seat together with various cosmetic changes. Mechanically, the most significant advances were the adoption of a simplified and more efficient throttle operating system; stiffer rear suspension springs; and the provision of an oiler for the rear chain.

This K1 was purchased new in Smith County, Texas, USA. Nothing else is known of the Honda's early history prior to its sale to a resident of Queensland, Australia on 16th August 2012 (bill of sale on file). The new owner kept the Honda in excellent condition and on 30th May 2016 offered it for sale via a local auction where it was purchased by the current vendor (invoice available). Shipped to the UK especially for this Bonhams auction, the machine is described by the vendor as in 'as new' condition, fully serviced and benefiting from a new battery. The odometer reading of 669 miles is believed the distance covered since the Honda's restoration in the USA.
Footnotes:
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness, and originality prior to bidding.
This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: *
* VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.