Classic motorcycle head-to-head

Honda CB750 F2 vs Triumph Bonneville T120

Honda CB750 F2 scores 79/100 overall against Triumph Bonneville T120 on 82/100. On the road: 75–65. As classics: 83–98. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.

The numbers

Category-by-category result

CategoryHonda CB750 F2Triumph BonnevilleAdvantage
road
PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field.86Honda CB750 F2
HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners.78Triumph Bonneville
BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance.75Honda CB750 F2
ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained.86Honda CB750 F2
Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge.88Level
ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys.76Honda CB750 F2
classic
StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal.910Triumph Bonneville
Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era.810Triumph Bonneville
Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.89Triumph Bonneville
CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience.810Triumph Bonneville

Choose the Honda CB750 F2 if…

you want the later sporting CB750 with twin front discs, sharper styling and strong everyday usability.

Choose the Triumph Bonneville if…

you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.

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Background

History

Honda CB750 F2

The Honda CB750 F2 was produced from 1977–1978 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, reliability, performance. 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.

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Interesting details

Did you know?

Honda CB750 F2

  • Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1978.
  • The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
  • Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, performance.

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.
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Present-day appeal

Collector notes

Honda CB750 F2

Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 F2. 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.

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Before you buy

Buying checks

Honda CB750 F2

  • 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

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Final result

The verdict

Honda CB750 F2 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.

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