History Off the Honda CB series

In 1969 Honda launched the first Honda CB model the CB750, acknowledged as a landmark motorcycle which combined, for the first time, outstanding performance, reliability and engineering sophistication.

The CB750 was the first inline four cylinder motorcycle and the first with disc brakes. The CB750 was in production for nine years during which more than 400,000 machines were sold.

In 1979 the redesigned CB750 sported a 749cc four cylinder, twin cam engine with double overhead camshafts with the rocker arms replaced by bucket and shim adjusters. The performance was significantly boosted with these modifications most significantly for the CB750F Super Sport model which was outstanding for its class.

By 1981 the CB900F was introduced with a shorter wheelbase with 20% increase in displacement for only 22.5 pounds increase in weight. The 902cc 16 valve engine had larger valves and carburetors the bike frame was stiffer with larger diameter tubing, a weightier fork and adjustable damping shocks.

By 1983 the CB1100F was introduced with all the best parts of the CB900F plus a 1062cc engine, larger engine bores, adjustable handles and a new swing arm box section. The next model, the CBR1000 - the Hurricane, was introduced in 1987 With a liquid cooled four valve inline engine it was quieter, had more consistent power output, a longer engine life and reduced emissions. With great handling and brakes the Hurricane was good for long distance riding and was lighter then its predecessor.


The next model, the CB750 Nighthawk, with an air cooled 750 four cylinder in line engine echoes the design of the original CB750. Engine displacement was 747cc with four valves per cylinder and double overhead cam shafts With solid state ignition and hot road styling the Nighthawk was a popular model.