Description
H&H Classic Auction @ National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
3rd July, 2024 13:00
1966 Honda CB450
Early 'KO' Black Bomber
Estimate
£6, 000 - £7, 000
Registration No: FHJ 486D
Frame No: 1002391
MOT: Exempt
Authentically restored first version of the CB450
Very original including DID stamped wheel rims
Rare in the UK supplied with a current V5C
The Honda Motor Company was founded by Soichiro Honda in 1937, initially producing piston rings for Toyota. They made their first motorcycle in 1949 and within 10 years had become the biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. They have gone on to produce over 400 million two-wheelers as well as millions of other power products. By the 1960s they had taken over the go to work and learner bike market and began to move on to larger capacity bikes. The CB450, commonly known as the 'Black Bomber' was Hondas range leader until the arrival of the trendsetting CB750 in 1968.
This beautifully presented 1966 Black Bomber is thought to be an early KO model that spent its first 45 years in the dry climate of California. Restored by a previous owner to a very high standard of originality, even down to still having its DID stamped wheel rims, it looks to have done very few miles since. Before restoration the speedo only showed 2000 miles and according to him the condition of the engine internals backed this up. It has been part of an enthusiast private collection of 50s and 60s classic bikes for the last 13 years all stored in a heated garage. Stood for a while, it may need some recommissioning and comes supplied with a current V5C.
