Ending 1st Jun, 2025 19:00

Hampson Marketplace Timed Auction 23rd May - 1st June 2025

 
Lot 1
 

1967 Honda CB450 'Black Bomber'

Registration – MJG 353F

Chassis No. – CB450101801

M.O.T. – Exempt

Odometer – 1,052

‘MJG353F’ is a beautifully restored example of a very pivotal model for Honda – the CB450. Nicknamed the Black Bomber by dint of the early bikes’ black only livery, a characteristic that ‘MJG353F’ exhibits perfectly. Fully restored in an earlier ownership, ‘MJG353F’ was acquired by the current and eight keeper in January 2024. ‘MJG353F’ comes with copious paperwork detailing the restoration undertaken by a well-known, reputable motorcycle restorer. ‘MJG353F’ has been dry stored in current ownership with the vendor reporting that “it runs superbly.” All in all, this is a rare opportunity to own a superb example of Honda’s first “big” motorcycle and forerunner to the legendary CB750.

By 1959 Honda were already the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world producing over 500,000 units per annum. With these almost exclusively small commuter models for the Asian market, Honda aimed to conquer European and North American markets. The CB450 was their Trojan horse. Hailing from the second model year, ‘MJG353F’ exhibits all the key traits that made this model so revolutionary. It presents in gleaming black and silver livery with the familiar chrome sided tank and generous pillion saddle. Everything visible seems to support the vendor’s description of this bike as “mint.” Unsurprisingly then, bodywork, paintwork and rider environment are all rated as “excellent.”

It was the CB450’s technical specification that really put the cat amongst the pigeons, however. In common with all CB450’s, ‘MJG353F’ features a 444cc straight-twin with revolutionary double overhead camshafts and a horizontally split, leak free crankcase. This finely engineered unit was a true 100bhp / litre offering which was disqualified from many competitions of the day as it was considered too much like a factory built race bike. The originals would easily top 100mph whilst delivering 65mpg. Other innovations showcased on ‘MJG353F’ include electric starter, five speed transmission and pair of 36mm constant velocity carburettors - a first on a production motorcycle. The engine, transmission and electrics are all rated as “excellent.”

In summary:

  • A beautifully and professionally restored example of this watershed motorcycle
  • Offered with plenty of supporting paperwork covering the restoration period
  • Described as running superbly
Estimated at £5,000 - £7,000

 

 

Please click on the image below to discuss finance options with the Apollo Capital team led by Andy King and David Moss, experts in luxury, supercar & hypercar finance for more than 25 years. Before you bid, you must make sure you have the funds ready or have approved finance in principal with Apollo.

 

Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.

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