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 Triumph Bonneville T120
Honda CB400F scores 78/100 overall against Triumph Bonneville T120 on 82/100. On the road: 70–65. As classics: 85–98. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.
Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB400F | Triumph Bonneville | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Honda CB400F |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 6 | Honda CB400F |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Triumph Bonneville |
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 Triumph Bonneville if…
you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.
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.
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville T120 was produced from 1959–1973 and used a 649cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. 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.
Triumph Bonneville
- Its production span in this library runs from 1959 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 649cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
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.
Triumph Bonneville
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Bonneville T120. Its library score for styling 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
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.
Triumph Bonneville
- 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 Triumph Bonneville
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB400F wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.