06/12/2026
Third hitting on our auction site today's a CB450 Black Bomber - it shattered expectations of what a production motorcycle could be, and gave riders a glimpse of Honda’s engineering future! This iconic Honda's from '66 and it's available for bid now on Iconicmotorbikeauctions.com
One of the most significant motorcycles to come out of Japan, Honda’s CB450 K0 was the firm’s first ‘big’ bike and the first mass-production motorcycle to utilize dual overhead cams.
Affectionately referred to as the “Black Bomber”, this bike put other manufacturers (particularly the British) on notice, as it was tough for them to compete with features like torsion bar valve springs, electric starter. That’s even before you get to the dual overhead cams, technology that was only offered on legitimate race bikes of the time – according to Motorcycle Classics, “the Bomber was disqualified from some production races in England on the grounds that it was too much like a factory racer.” The engine redlined at a hefty 10,000 rpm and produced 42 horsepower, yielding a top speed of 102 miles per hour.
Production ran from 1965-1968, by which point Honda switched things up with the K1 model to address common complaints: a restyled tank, 5-speed transmission, larger oil pump, and a longer wheelbase. The models were offered side-by-side in 1968 and then the role of Honda’s flagship motorcycle was taken over by the CB750 in 1969.
This example's odometer shows 11,243 miles.
Per the seller, this bike is stock and includes two keys and some maintenance history papers.
Currently located in Panorama City, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title.
