
Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha RD350LC on 88/100. On the road: 70–77. As classics: 95–98. Overall result: Yamaha RD350LC.

Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0

The numbers
| Category | Honda CB750 | Yamaha RD350LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 8 | Yamaha RD350LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| 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. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD350LC |
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
you want one of Britain's most loved 1980s performance bikes, with a thrilling powerband, sharp handling and enormous nostalgia.
Background
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.
The Yamaha RD350LC was produced from 1980–1983 and used a 347cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Present-day appeal
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.
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD350LC. 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
Period opposition
Final result
Yamaha RD350LC wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD350LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD350LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.