Originally built for the Japanese market, the Honda CB-1 was a beautifully balanced motorcycle that lost out in an American market that was obsessed with having as much horsepower as possible. On the flip side of things, Japan had a very competitive 400cc market due to a combination of regulations, licensing rules, and taxes. Cycle World called this “a great motorcycle that never found an audience”, and with hindsight, it’s easy to see why.
In my mind, an average used CB-1 is cool by itself. But I love this particular example because it’s being sold by the original owner who bought it back in 1990! It’s got approximately 7,000 miles and the sale includes the manual, service manual, and some period magazine reviews. The seller apparently changed the oil every 500(!) miles, and notes that the only thing it needs is a rear tire.
Find this CB-1 for sale in Valparaiso, Indiana for $3,200 here on Craigslist.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by Dan A!