Highlights
• The original ‘superbike’
• Three owners from new
• Original condition throughout
The Appeal
Honda introduced the CB750 to European and US markets in 1969, having had success with smaller ‘bikes.
Said to have been the first ‘superbike’, the CB750 was by no means the first to use the transverse, overhead camshaft, inline four-cylinder engine configuration (the layout had been used in racing engines prior to World War II) but Honda popularised the configuration with this bike, and it subsequently became the dominant sport-bike engine layout.
Said to have been the first ‘superbike’, the CB750 was by no means the first to use the transverse, overhead camshaft, inline four-cylinder engine configuration (the layout had been used in racing engines prior to World War II) but Honda popularised the configuration with this bike, and it subsequently became the dominant sport-bike engine layout.
With its 4-cylinder engine and front disc-brake as well as an affordable price, the CB 750 had a considerable performance advantage over its market rivals – British ones in particular.
Cycle magazine called it ‘the most sophisticated production bike ever’, while Cycle World hailed it ‘a masterpiece’. Over its ten-year lifespan, more than 400,000 CB750s were produced.
Cycle magazine called it ‘the most sophisticated production bike ever’, while Cycle World hailed it ‘a masterpiece’. Over its ten-year lifespan, more than 400,000 CB750s were produced.
The ‘K2’ variant was introduced in 1972 with some subtle improvements: a modified exhaust system reduced noise output while the chain-guard was now steel instead of plastic.
KUB 135 N appears to be in completely original condition throughout, with no evidence of restoration or repair.
The History and Paperwork
• First registered July 1975
• Current V5 in vendor’s name
• Three owners from new
• MoT and tax-exempt
• 3 original ignition keys and 2 petrol cap keys
• 3 original ignition keys and 2 petrol cap keys
The vendor acquired the bike in 2018, from the private collection of its second owner.
He believes the bike was stored as part of the collection and virtually never ridden. As the previous owner was a motor trader, he hadn’t registered the bike in his name – which is why the V5 records only one previous owner.
He believes the bike was stored as part of the collection and virtually never ridden. As the previous owner was a motor trader, he hadn’t registered the bike in his name – which is why the V5 records only one previous owner.
Since taking it in part-exchange for another vehicle, the vendor hasn’t ridden the bike, and has only been on it briefly, as a pillion passenger on a visit to a fuel station! It’s been stored in a dry, secure garage.
The vendor no longer rides and is selling partly to free up garage space, but also because he feels that the bike deserves to be ridden and used as intended.
The vendor no longer rides and is selling partly to free up garage space, but also because he feels that the bike deserves to be ridden and used as intended.
There is no paperwork with the bike other than the current V5 document, although the original owner’s manual is still in its designated holder under the saddle.
The Exterior
• Stunning Candy Gold paint scheme
• Classic styling
• Original features remain unmolested
That the bike has had a cherished life becomes apparent at even a cursory glance.
It also appears, on closer inspection, to be in original condition throughout. There are few signs of its age, the only notable blemishes being three small stone chips on the fuel tank, which have been retouched.
There is also evidence of pitting on the chrome wheel rims, presumably a fact of the bike’s age. Otherwise, the bike looks fantastic and the Candy Gold colour scheme is probably that which most suits the bike’s classic styling.
It also appears, on closer inspection, to be in original condition throughout. There are few signs of its age, the only notable blemishes being three small stone chips on the fuel tank, which have been retouched.
There is also evidence of pitting on the chrome wheel rims, presumably a fact of the bike’s age. Otherwise, the bike looks fantastic and the Candy Gold colour scheme is probably that which most suits the bike’s classic styling.
The saddle is in very good condition, and is firm and supportive. Underneath the saddle, the original owner’s manual still lives in its designated holder, and there is a (presumed original, but immaculate) plastic wallet and tools.
The dials, switchgear, number plates and brightwork all look to be in first-class condition. The lights and indicators are all in excellent condition.
The Mechanics
• 736cc, OHC 4-cylinder engine
• Starts and runs well
• Lovely engine note
The CB750 was the first mainstream motorbike to sport disc brakes and a large-capacity power plant.
Additionally, it boasted an all-new 5-speed transmission, 125-mph top speed, and constant-vacuum Keihin carbs. It was this combination that really set the CB750 apart from its rivals, and accounts for its numerous accolades.
Additionally, it boasted an all-new 5-speed transmission, 125-mph top speed, and constant-vacuum Keihin carbs. It was this combination that really set the CB750 apart from its rivals, and accounts for its numerous accolades.
KUB 135 N starts readily, and the engine runs beautifully, but the vendor cautions that as it has not been ridden properly in a long time it might need some TLC before being pressed into regular use.
In particular, he cautions that the tyres may well be originals and so should be used only with care. As far as we can tell without a full test ride, the brakes work well and everything else appears to work as it should.
In particular, he cautions that the tyres may well be originals and so should be used only with care. As far as we can tell without a full test ride, the brakes work well and everything else appears to work as it should.
Summary
Often imitated but never bettered, the Honda CB750 is a true motorcycling icon; the bike that set the standard that others followed.
KUB 175 N is probably as original an example as you will find – unmolested, well cared-for and original. It’s waiting to be ridden and enjoyed.
KUB 175 N is probably as original an example as you will find – unmolested, well cared-for and original. It’s waiting to be ridden and enjoyed.
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