Classic motorcycle head-to-head

Honda CB750 K0 vs Yamaha RD350

Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha RD350 on 79/100. On the road: 70–70. As classics: 95–88. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.

The numbers

Category-by-category result

CategoryHonda CB750Yamaha RD350Advantage
road
PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field.77Level
HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners.68Yamaha RD350
BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance.56Yamaha RD350
ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained.88Level
Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge.98Honda CB750
ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys.75Honda CB750
classic
StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal.98Honda CB750
Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era.109Honda CB750
Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.108Honda CB750
CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience.910Yamaha RD350

Choose the Honda CB750 if…

you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.

Choose the Yamaha RD350 if…

you value light weight, lively acceleration and a simple, exciting two-stroke riding experience.

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Background

History

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.

Yamaha RD350

The Yamaha RD350 was produced from 1973–1975 and used a 347cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance, styling. 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

  • 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.

Yamaha RD350

  • Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1975.
  • The recorded engine description is: 347cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
  • Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance, styling.
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Present-day appeal

Collector notes

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.

Yamaha RD350

Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD350. Its library score for character 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

  • 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.

Yamaha RD350

  • Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
  • Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
  • Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
  • 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

On the road the motorcycles finish level. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.

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