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Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 K0 vs Yamaha RD500LC
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha RD500LC on 84/100. On the road: 70–68. As classics: 95–100. Overall result: Yamaha RD500LC.
Yamaha RD500LC
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 | Yamaha RD500LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 7 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 5 | Honda CB750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha RD500LC |
| 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 RD500LC |
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Choose the Yamaha RD500LC if…
you want genuine Grand Prix-inspired engineering, explosive two-stroke performance and one of Yamaha's most memorable road-going race replicas.
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 RD500LC
The Yamaha RD500LC was produced from 1984–1986 and used a 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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 RD500LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1984 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
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 RD500LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD500LC. 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.
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 RD500LC
- 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 system, crank seals, cooling system 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
Rivals to the Honda CB750
Rivals to the Yamaha RD500LC
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB750 K0 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD500LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD500LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.