1968 Honda CB450
Registration no. ORY 373G
Frame no. CB450 1019779
Engine no. CB450E-1017582

Although the Japanese motorcycle industry first made an impact outside its homeland with small-capacity commuter bikes and lightweights, the arrival of the Honda CB450 in 1965 should have dispelled any lingering doubts about Japan's intention to compete in all sectors of the market. Known affectionately as the 'Black Bomber' after its black finish, the CB450 was Honda's largest model when launched and capitalised on experience gained with a succession of smaller-capacity twins. Nevertheless, the CB450 departed from Honda's usual practice in numerous ways, in particular its use of twin overhead camshafts, torsion-bar valve springs and constant-velocity carburettors. The tubular frame, replacing Honda's traditional fabricated spine type, was another departure from the norm. With a top speed of over 100mph and a standing quarter-mile time in the 14-second bracket, the refined CB450 sounded the death knell, not just for the traditional British '500' but for the entire UK motorcycle industry.

This example was painted red by the supplying dealer, a not uncommon practice endorsed by Honda UK. Described as all original and un-restored, apart from a fuel tank repaint as some time, 'ORY 373G' has had only two previous owners (father and son), and has been dry stored for the last 30 years (it was last taxed in 1985). Recently serviced, re-commissioned and running, the machine comes with a V5C registration document and current MoT.