Honda CB750 (1969-1978) Review: The Original Superbike That Changed Motorcycling Forever

Introduction

When you swing a leg over the Honda CB750, you're not just mounting a motorcycle - you're straddling a legend. This air-cooled inline-four didn't just dominate roads from 1969 to 1978; it revolutionized motorcycling itself. Through a week of riding this mechanical icon across twisting backroads and busy urban streets, I discovered why it earned the "King of Motorcycles" crown - and why it still commands respect half a century later.

Design & First Impressions

The CB750's design language whispers "classic" while shouting "innovation." Its tank's knee indents cradle the rider like a bespoke suit, while the iconic four-into-four exhaust (later simplified to four-into-one) announces its presence with authority. The chrome accents and twin dial gauges (featuring a groundbreaking 150 mph/240 kmh speedometer) create a timeless aesthetic that still turns heads today.

At 810mm (31.9") seat height, it accommodates riders from 5'6" to 6' comfortably. The 235-253kg (518-558 lb) weight feels substantial at standstill but disappears once moving. That mass contributes to remarkable stability - at highway speeds, it tracks like a freight train on rails.

Engine Performance: The Heart of Revolution

Firing up the 736cc (44.9 cu in) inline-four produces an orchestra of mechanical harmony. The 67-73 PS (49-54 kW) powerplant delivers its 59 Nm (43.5 lb-ft) torque with velvet-gloved urgency. Below 4,000 RPM, it's a civilized commuter; past 6,000 RPM, the howl transforms it into an entirely different beast.

The crossplane crankshaft (a first for production bikes) creates that signature smooth power delivery. While modern riders might find the 8,500 RPM redline conservative, the real magic lives between 3,000-7,000 RPM - a sweet spot perfect for carving canyon roads or overtaking trucks on two-lane highways.

Handling & Ride Experience

The CB750 redefined expectations for Japanese handling. The 35mm telescopic fork (140-157ml oil capacity) and twin shock rear suspension offer surprisingly compliant damping. On twisty roads, the 1,400mm (55.1") wheelbase provides stable cornering, while the 25° rake keeps steering light enough for urban maneuvering.

Braking was revolutionary for its time - that single 296mm front disc (first on a production bike) still performs admirably, though modern riders should allow extra stopping distance compared to ABS-equipped bikes. Tire pressures of 1.9-2.8 bar (28-41 psi) front/rear prove crucial for optimizing the vintage rubber's grip.

Ownership Experience

Living with a CB750 is surprisingly practical. The 18L (4.8 gal) tank delivers 240-290km (150-180 mile) range, while the upright riding position avoids wrist strain on long rides. The real joy comes from its mechanical transparency - every component feels purposefully designed for accessibility.

Common quirks include: - Carburetor synchronization needing attention every 3,000-5,000km - Points ignition requiring regular gap checks - Drum brake models needing more frequent shoe adjustments

Yet these "flaws" become virtues for enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on maintenance.

Competition: How the CB750 Stacked Up

In its era, the CB750 faced formidable rivals:

1. Kawasaki Z1 (1972-1975)
2. 903cc produced more power (82 PS)
3. Heavier steering and less refined transmission

4. Higher maintenance demands

5. Triumph Bonneville T120 (1971-1975)

6. Classic parallel-twin character
7. 30% less power (46 PS)

8. Frequent oil changes and valve adjustments

9. Suzuki GT750 "Water Buffalo" (1971-1977)

10. Liquid-cooled two-stroke triple
11. Smoother power delivery
12. Complex maintenance with coolant system

The CB750 struck a perfect balance - offering groundbreaking performance with unprecedented reliability. While competitors chased higher specs, Honda delivered a complete package that still feels remarkably modern today.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owning a CB750 requires dedication, but MOTOPARTS.store makes maintenance straightforward:

Critical Maintenance Items 1. Valve Adjustments
- Intake: 0.05mm (0.002") cold
- Exhaust: 0.08mm (0.003") cold
Recommend: Shim kit HND-CB750-SHIM

1. Oil Changes
2. 3L (3.2 qt) with filter (API SE)

3. 2.8L (3.0 qt) without
   Recommend: MOTOPARTS 10W-40 Classic Oil

4. Carburetor Care

5. Air screw: 1-1.75 turns out

6. Annual diaphragm inspection
   Recommend:* Carb rebuild kit HND-CB750-CARB

7. Chain Maintenance

8. 88-100 link chains

9. 15-18T front / 41-48T rear sprockets
   Recommend:* X-Ring chain set CB750-XRING

10. Brake System

11. DOT 4 fluid changes every 2 years
12. Disc pad inspection every 5,000km
    Recommend:* Sintered brake pads CB750-SINT

Pro Tip: Use NGK DR8ES-L plugs gapped to 0.7mm (0.028") for optimal combustion.

Legacy & Custom Potential

The CB750's true genius lies in its adaptability. Whether restored to showroom condition or transformed into a café racer, its architecture invites creativity. The robust bottom end handles mild tuning (big bore kits can push 836cc), while the frame accepts modern suspension upgrades with minimal modification.

Conclusion: Timeless Machine, Modern Relevance

A week with the CB750 reveals why it's considered the first superbike. It combines visceral mechanical engagement with surprising practicality - a balance few modern machines achieve. While contemporary bikes offer more power and technology, none provide the same raw connection between rider and machine.

For owners preserving these icons, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from OEM-spec components to performance upgrades. Whether you're chasing original perfection or building a personalized masterpiece, this legendary Honda deserves to be ridden - not just displayed.

The CB750 isn't just a motorcycle - it's motorcycling history you can ride. Keep yours alive with genuine passion and quality parts from MOTOPARTS.store.

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Specifications sheet

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