While Honda had done its best to offer the motorcycle world models of ever-increasing size and performance, by the late 1960s it had yet to offer a bona fide alternative to the larger offerings from Triumph, Norton, and Harley-Davidson. This would all change with the introduction of the CB750 at the 1968 Tokyo show. Introducing a new, classic design language that it shared with the revised CB450, the 750 differentiated itself from other large-displacement bikes with its single overhead-cam, inline four-cylinder engine and front disc brake.

Using a four-cylinder engine in a road-going motorcycle was nothing new, but the most recent mainstream bike offering four cylinders was an antiquated Ariel that had been out of production since 1959. The cylinder count was otherwise indicative of exotic racing bikes, and its use in the CB750, complete with four chrome exhaust pipes, changed motorcycles forever. Not only was the 67 hp CB750 the ultimate, well-rounded bike of the time, but its $1,495 price tag was an incredible bargain compared to its rivals. It has been said that Triumph head Don Brown knew that his company was in trouble the first time he saw a CB750. Honda’s apparent gamble paid off handsomely, and the initial year of production yielded nearly 40,000 CB750s, most headed to the US, including the example offered here.

This CB750, frame no. 1484, is a very early production example that is importantly fitted with a sandcast crankcase, a feature desired by collectors as they were only used on the initial 7,414 examples built. It was sold new in September 1969 and registered by its second owner, Michael J. Widmann, in August 1976. It was then owned by Honda expert and restorer Scott Williams, who reportedly procured it in complete, unabused condition. Williams restored the 750 in the 1990s before selling it to the consignor in 1999. As part of the consignor’s extensive collection, the bike has seen approximately 400 miles since its restoration, and it was prepared for static storage about 10 years ago, with the fluids drained.

Without a doubt, this is a prime example of one of the most important production motorcycles ever built. Its collectibility is rooted in its historical significance as the bike that changed motorcycling forever and offered the average enthusiast world-beating performance, exotic architecture, and unerring quality. This very early 1969 Honda CB750 is easily as desirable now as it was then.

*Please note that this vehicle has been in long-term static storage and will require mechanical maintenance prior to road use.