Honda CB750 (1984-1986) Review: The Last Breath of Air-Cooled Honesty

Introduction

The Honda CB750 needs no introduction for motorcycle enthusiasts, but the 1984-1986 iteration represents a fascinating chapter in its storied legacy. Positioned between the raw charisma of earlier SOHC models and the increasingly complex future of liquid-cooled engines, this generation is a time capsule of straightforward engineering. With its air-cooled inline-four engine, no-nonsense chassis, and utilitarian design ethos, it’s a motorcycle that rewards riders who appreciate mechanical simplicity. After spending a weekend with a meticulously maintained 1985 model, here’s why this CB750 still resonates with riders – and why it deserves your attention today.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Flair

The CB750’s design language from this era leans heavily into practicality. The angular fuel tank (19.5-20L capacity) lacks the voluptuous curves of its 1970s ancestors but offers better knee grip. The 780mm seat height remains accessible for riders of average height, though the broad seat design might challenge shorter inseams. At 252-255kg (555-562 lbs) wet, it’s no lightweight, but the low center of gravity from its transverse four-cylinder layout makes it feel surprisingly manageable at walking speeds.

Build quality is typical Honda: durable but not luxurious. The chrome accents on the exhaust and gauges have held up better than expected on our test bike, though the black-painted engine cases show minor corrosion – a common issue. The analog instrumentation is delightfully basic: speedometer, tachometer, and idiot lights. No fuel gauge, but the reserve petcock works reliably.

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Performance: The Sweet Spot of Vintage Power

Engine Character
The 748cc air-cooled inline-four (77 PS/57 kW at ~9,500 RPM) isn’t about peak numbers – it’s about character. Thumb the starter (no fancy electronics here), and the engine barks to life with a mechanical clatter that modern fuel-injected bikes can’t replicate. There’s vibration – plenty of it – but it’s the "alive" kind that communicates rather than numbs. Below 4,000 RPM, it’s docile enough for city traffic. Past 6,000 RPM? The exhaust note tightens into a throaty howl, and the tach needle sweeps toward redline with old-school urgency.

Transmission Quirks
The 5-speed gearbox requires deliberate shifts. Neutral can be elusive when hot, and the clutch (heavy by modern standards) demands forearm commitment in stop-and-go traffic. But once rolling, the 15/38 sprocket combo (varied slightly across model years) delivers flexible acceleration. Our test bike’s 108-link chain showed minimal slack – crucial for smooth power delivery.

Real-World Rideability
This isn’t a hypersport machine. 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) arrives in about 4.5 seconds – respectable but not neck-snapping. Where it shines is midrange punch. Roll on the throttle at 120 km/h (75 mph), and it still pulls strongly enough to overtake semis on two-lane highways. The 2.25-2.8 bar (33-41 psi) tire pressures (model year-dependent) strike a good balance between grip and comfort on period-correct rubber.

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Handling: A Study in Compromise

Suspension Setup
The 35mm telefork (155-245ml oil capacity depending on year) and dual rear shocks reflect 1980s norms. Over smooth asphalt, it’s stable and predictable. Hit a pothole, and the front end clangs with a reminder that preload adjustment was a luxury item. Still, the chassis communicates clearly – you always know what the tires are doing.

Cornering Dynamics
Lean it into a bend, and the CB750 responds with deliberate rather than eager turn-in. Ground clearance is adequate but not generous; footpeg feelers touch down early, especially with a passenger. The 18/46 final drive ratio (later models) helps maintain momentum through sweeping curves.

Braking Reality Check
Single disc front and drum rear brakes require planning. The front lever needs a firm two-finger pull, and the rear drum locks up easily if abused. This isn’t a bike for late-braking heroics – ride smooth, and it rewards you.

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Competition: How the CB750 Stood Its Ground

Kawasaki Z750 (1983-1985)
The Z750’s DOHC engine made slightly more power (80 PS) but suffered from abrupt throttle response. Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak rear suspension handled bumps better but required more maintenance. The CB750’s carburetor tuning was smoother for daily riding.

Yamaha XJ750 Maxim (1982-1984)
Yamaha’s shaft-driven rival offered lower maintenance but added weight. The XJ’s 70° V4 engine was smoother at highway speeds but lacked the CB’s addictive inline-four soundtrack.

Suzuki GS750ES (1984-1985)
Suzuki’s sportier offering featured a liquid-cooled engine and anti-dive forks. While more advanced technically, it lacked the CB750’s mechanical simplicity that DIY riders cherished.

Verdict: The CB750 didn’t excel in any single category but offered the best all-round balance of reliability, aftermarket support, and "analog" riding engagement.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Valve Adjustments
With intake valves needing 0.06-0.13mm clearance and exhausts at 0.08-0.13mm (cold), check every 4,000 km (2,500 miles). Use a quality feeler gauge – tight valves lead to burned seats.

Oil Changes
The 3.2-3.5L oil capacity (with filter) demands fresh 10W-40 every 3,000 km (1,800 miles). Skip synthetic blends – these engines prefer mineral-based oils like MOTOPARTS.store’s Classic 10W-40.

Carburetor TLC
The stock Keihin carbs are reliable but sensitive to ethanol blends. Install our ethanol-resistant fuel lines and clean pilot jets annually. The air screw’s factory setting (1.75 turns out) is a good baseline.

Brake Fluid & Chains
Flush DOT 4 fluid yearly – moisture buildup is the silent killer of 1980s brake systems. For the O-ring chain, our MOTOPARTS.store chain kit (108 links with 15/38 sprockets) lasts 20,000+ km with regular lubrication.

Spark Plugs Matter
Stick to NGK DR8ES-L plugs gapped at 0.7mm. Iridium alternatives (DR8EIX) last longer but lack the period-correct look purists adore.

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Final Thoughts: Why It Endures

The 1984-1986 CB750 isn’t the fastest, lightest, or most technologically advanced bike of its era. What it offers is something rarer: authenticity. Every vibration, mechanical noise, and carburetor hiccup tells a story. It’s a motorcycle that demands engagement – no rider aids, no apologies. For those willing to embrace its quirks, the reward is a pure, undiluted riding experience that modern bikes can’t replicate.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep these legends rolling. From vintage-style tires to period-correct NGK spark plugs, every component we offer honors the CB750’s legacy while enhancing its reliability for the next generation of riders.

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Specifications sheet

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