Beschreibung:

The nineteen-seventies produced so many mouth-watering bikes from the Honda factory that opinions are divided as to the finest. One model which has retained its fanatical enthusiasts and thus its desirability is the lovely CB400, a jewel amongst Hondas. Announced in 1974, the CB400 packaged a powerful four-cylinder transverse motor in a 250-sized frame and running-gear. The result of adding lightness was wonderful handling and road performance which, in the hands of a competent rider, could outclass many 500s with ease. The engine, driving through a slick six-speed ‘box, was visually a bijou edition of the renowned CB750, using a single overhead camshaft and two valves per cylinder, all proven technology which gave the 400 an instant reputation for reliability as well as a 37bhp performance with 100mph coming up with no problems in a capable rider’s hands. Indeed, the CB400 seemed happy to go at whatever speed the rider wished, to allow those who didn’t wish to race all the time to ‘take a break’ from speed. The stylishly visible, four-into-one, swept-back pipes, the rear-set footrests and flat ‘bars gave, of course, all of the right ‘street-racer’ clues and turned even a short trip to the local store into a competitive event. Naturally, such a machine was an instant success for Honda, the CBs wonderful reputation persuading a huge number of riders that a super-bike – for that is what the 400 emphatically was, despite its small size – was the thing to buy. When Honda, perhaps prematurely, ended the production run in 1979, there was genuine sadness amongst riders and good examples have remained in great demand ever since. This example is in its makers red and black color scheme and is in original and undamaged condition. Not used in recent years, it is in an ideal condition to be the basis of a restoration, or to be carefully overhauled, re-commissioned and ridden with delight. Without reserve