In ’72 and ’73, you could order an incredible set of alternate bodywork for CL350 or CL450 models – an idea that came from Honda’s paint department because they figured us crazy Americans were obsessed with tie dye, and some would want a similar scheme on their motorcycles. The Flying Dragon was born, but it didn’t sell well. That just means that nowadays, these rare paint jobs command a steep premium – and this is the first time I’ve seen someone go the tribute route by cloning it.
I would have assumed the original idea from American Honda, but thanks to part numbers fans have been able to confirm that this was indeed thought up at Honda Japan. For more on the Flying Dragon and its odd “tie-dye” scheme, check out this article from Motorcycle Classics.
This example (VIN: CL3504024780) has just over 5,000 miles and it’s said to be in good running condition having just been “recently serviced and completely gone through”, which is a lot of words that don’t really tell you anything. The key takeaway is that it’s been repainted and that this does not have OEM Flying Dragon bodywork. But seeing how the prices for those bikes have gone crazy, this could be a fun way to still ride your bike and have an excuse to teach people about the Flying Dragon when they inevitably come up to you at bike shows, gas stations, or wherever else you stop.
Find this tribute to a Flying Dragon for sale in Laguna Niguel, California with bidding up to $2,025 and the reserve not yet met here on eBay.