Motorcyclist Magazine names the Motorcycle of the Century
By: Dodsfall
July 31st, 2012
6:14 pm
It was promised earlier this year by Motorcycle Magazine that they would choose the Motorcycle of the Century for their 100th anniversary. After careful consideration and surely some spirited debate, Motorcyclist named the 1969 Honda CB750 as the winner.
Often touted as the bike that changed everything, the CB 750 altered the direction of motorcycle design for years to come. The affordable price, high performance, comfort and reliability of the 750 Four sent shock waves through the industry.
The Harley Sportster was immediately knocked of the throne as performance king as the other Japanese manufacturers scrambled to compete with the CB750. Kawasaki quickly went to work on the Z1 as a new era of high-performance riding machines was launched.
The inline-four 68 horsepower engine could pull the CB750 through the quarter mile at 12.6 seconds. While thought of as tame by today's standards, the Honda was considered a screamer in 1969.
Collector prices for prime examples of the CB750 have risen sharply over the last few weeks as speculation has gotten out about the choice for Motorcycle of the Century.
[The Kneeslider]
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2 comments on "Motorcyclist Magazine names the Motorcycle of the Century"
July 31, 2012 at 8:53 pm
I thought was on here earlier, but I'd say they chose WELL! These bikes, while somewhat before my time (was introduced to the Honda inline 6 via a mechanic I worked for, however), were versatile and definitely changed the playing field, for the better, in my opinion...
August 2, 2012 at 6:43 am
I wish I had purchased one six months ago, so I could sell it now for a profit. I am sure this article has made their value go up.
Ralph