Photo: Joe Tordiff · CC BY-SA 2.0
Honda CB400F
78/100 Overall
70 On the road85 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB400F vs Honda CB450 Black Bomber
Honda CB400F scores 78/100 overall against Honda CB450 Black Bomber on 74/100. On the road: 70–65. As classics: 85–83. Overall result: Honda CB400F.
Photo: Thesupermat · CC BY-SA 4.0
Honda CB450 Black Bomber
74/100 Overall
65 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB400F | Honda CB450 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Honda CB450 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 6 | Honda CB400F |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Honda CB400F |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB400F |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB400F |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB450 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB400F |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 8 | Level |
Choose the Honda CB400F if…
you want jewel-like engineering, light controls, a beautiful four-into-one exhaust and an engaging small-capacity Honda four.
Choose the Honda CB450 if…
you want advanced 1960s Honda engineering, distinctive styling and a twin that challenged established British machinery.
Background
History
Honda CB400F
The Honda CB400F was produced from 1975–1977 and used a 408cc air-cooled SOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB450
The Honda CB450 Black Bomber was produced from 1965–1968 and used a 444cc air-cooled DOHC parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB400F
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 408cc air-cooled SOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, reliability.
Honda CB450
- Its production span in this library runs from 1965 to 1968.
- The recorded engine description is: 444cc air-cooled DOHC parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, styling, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB400F
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB400F. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB450
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB450 Black Bomber. Its library score for historic importance is 9/10. 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
Honda CB400F
- 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.
Honda CB450
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 Honda CB400F
Rivals to the Honda CB450
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB400F wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB400F wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB400F takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.