Ariel Square Four
77/100 Overall
58 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Ariel Square Four vs Honda CB750 K0
Ariel Square Four scores 77/100 overall against Honda CB750 K0 on 83/100. On the road: 58–70. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.
Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Ariel Square Four | Honda CB750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 5 | Honda CB750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 9 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Ariel Square Four |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Ariel Square Four |
Choose the Ariel Square Four if…
you want unique engineering, refined four-cylinder character and one of Britain's most distinctive luxury motorcycles.
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Background
History
Ariel Square Four
The Ariel Square Four was produced from 1931–1959 and used a air-cooled square-four engine. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 K0 was produced from 1969–1970 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Ariel Square Four
- Its production span in this library runs from 1931 to 1959.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled square-four engine.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, character, styling.
Honda CB750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1970.
- The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Ariel Square Four
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ariel Square Four. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 K0. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Ariel Square Four
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda CB750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Ariel Square Four
Rivals to the Honda CB750
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB750 K0 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.