Honda introduced the CB750 motorcycle to the US and European markets in 1969 after experiencing success with their smaller motorcycles. Under development for a year, the CB750 offered two unprecedented features, a front disc brake and a transverse, overhead camshaft, inline 4 – cylinder engine neither of which was previously available on a mainstream, affordable production bike. This the CB750 a considerable advantage over its competition, particularly its British rivals. “Cycle” magazine called the CB750 "the most sophisticated production bike ever" upon its introduction, “Cycle World” called it a masterpiece, highlighting Honda's painstaking durability testing, the bike's 120 mph (190 km/h) top speed, the fade-free performance of the braking, the comfortable ride and excellent instrumentation.
The CB750 was the first modern four-cylinder machine from a mainstream manufacturer, the term superbike was coined to describe it. The bike offered other important features that added to its compelling value: electric starter, kill switch, dual mirrors, flashing turn signals, easily maintained valves and overall smoothness and freedom from vibration both underway and at a standstill. On the other hand, the bike was difficult to get on its center stand and tended to throw chain oil onto its silencer.
Technical information;
Manufacturer - Honda
Year - 1969 - 2003, 2007
Class - Sport bike or standard
Engine - Air-cooled SOHC straight 4, 1969 -1978
- Air-cooled DOHC straight 4, 1979 - 2003, 2007
Top speed - 125 mph
Power - SOHC - 67 bhp @8,000 rpm
- DOHC - 68 bhp @ 8,500 rpm (1969)
Transmission - 5-speed gearbox
Suspension - Front; telescopic forks
- Rear; swingarm with 2 shock units
Brakes - Front; disc
- Rear; drum
Tyres - Front; 3.25" x 19"
- Rear; 4.00" x 18"
Wheelbase - 57.3", 1,460 mm
Dimensions - Length; 85", 2,200 mm
- Width; 35", 890 mm
Seat height - 31", 790 mm
Weight - 491 kg