
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 TZR250 on 84/100. On the road: 70–77. As classics: 95–90. Overall result: Yamaha TZR250.

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

Photo: Kuro8124 · CC BY-SA 3.0
The numbers
| Category | Honda CB750 | Yamaha TZR250 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha TZR250 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 10 | Yamaha TZR250 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 9 | Yamaha TZR250 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 7 | 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 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha TZR250 |
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
you want race-replica handling, a thrilling powerband and genuine late-1980s two-stroke character.
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 TZR250 was produced from 1986–1990 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for handling, character, styling. 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 TZR250. Its library score for handling 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 TZR250 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha TZR250 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.