1969 Honda CB750cc KO (Sandcast) Motorcycle

Description

Often referred to as the world's first superbike, Honda raised the bar to new levels with the introduction of the CB750 in 1969, the advanced specification paving the way for future generations of superbikes.  Created in response to demand from the American market and dealer network, Honda’s new road burner eclipsed every other bike on the market; fed by quad carburettors, the transverse SOHC four-cylinder engine developed an impressive 68 horsepower at 8500 rpm, enough for a top speed of around 200 km/h.  A five-speed gearbox, four-into-four exhaust and a front disc brake were all notable features and the original 1969 model was sold in Candy Ruby Red, Candy Blue Green or Candy Gold.  The advanced specification also included an electric starter, kill switch, twin mirrors and repeating indicators.  Unsurprisingly, Honda’s flagship model received rave reviews and was soon selling in large numbers; the earliest K0 variant used sand-cast alloy cases but switched to the more conventional die-casting method from October 1969 due to increased demand.  Honda also made a kit available to convert the CB750 into a race bike, designated the CR750, enjoying great success in production-based racing in the USA and elsewhere.  Although production of the K0 lasted from June 1968 until September 1970, successive CB750 models continued until 1979 before being discontinued and Honda’s rocket ship is now becoming one of the most collectible early Japanese superbikes of all.