Post-Listing Update: Apparently it’s not meant to be for this CB-1, which did not attract any bids at the opening $4,000 bid after being relisted.
12-6 Update: This CB-1 did not meet reserve, and it’s been re-listed on eBay here.
In a time when Japan’s export portfolio to the US was dominated by repli-racers, the Honda CB-1 was a ‘standard’ breath of fresh air.. Originally built for the Japanese market, it was a beautifully balanced motorcycle that lost out in an American market that was obsessed with having as much horsepower as possible.
Redlining at 13,500 rpm, the 400cc engine utilized gear-driven overhead cams (which sound amazing) to produce 55 horsepower – enough to take this 400 pound bike up to 118 miles per hour. Also known was the NC27, this bike was only produced between 89-90. Due to the small size, riders enjoyed a low seating position, and miles per gallon as high as 50. This bike was a cult classic; few were sold, and many of those were turned into amateur mid-size racers. Thus, not many are left.
Want to learn more? Check out the unofficial Honda CB-1 page here.
This specific Honda CB-1 is being marketed as a ‘barn find’ from Central Minnesota. Last licensed 14 years ago, this bike has under 2,500 miles on it. Whether or not the barn find story holds any water, you can’t deny that the bike looks fantastic in photos, and it’s still on the original tires. The seller claims that the mechanicals have been gone through, including a cleaning of the carbs and gas tank. Now all you’ll need is a 90’s set of Kushitani leathers and you’ll be all set!
Find this Honda CB-1 for sale here on eBay with a healthy opening bid of $4,500 in Maple Lake, Minnesota.
