Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 K0 vs Yamaha VMAX 1200
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha VMAX 1200 on 83/100. On the road: 70–75. As classics: 95–90. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: Alfredino 246 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha VMAX 1200
83/100 Overall
75 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 | Yamaha VMAX | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 10 | Yamaha VMAX |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 7 | Yamaha VMAX |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Honda CB750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha VMAX |
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Choose the Yamaha VMAX if…
you want immense straight-line performance, unmistakable muscle-bike styling and one of the 1980s' most memorable engines.
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 VMAX
The Yamaha VMAX 1200 was produced from 1985–1989 and used a 1198cc liquid-cooled V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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 VMAX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1198cc liquid-cooled V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, character, styling.
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 VMAX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha VMAX 1200. Its library score for performance 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 VMAX
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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 VMAX
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha VMAX 1200 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.