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 XJ650
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Yamaha XJ650 on 80/100. On the road: 70–82. As classics: 95–78. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.
Photo: Peprovira · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha XJ650
80/100 Overall
82 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 | Yamaha XJ650 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha XJ650 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha XJ650 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 8 | Yamaha XJ650 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha XJ650 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha XJ650 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Choose the Yamaha XJ650 if…
you want smooth shaft-drive practicality, strong four-cylinder performance and a capable everyday 1980s road bike.
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 XJ650
The Yamaha XJ650 was produced from 1980–1985 and used a 653cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, styling, performance. 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 XJ650
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: 653cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, styling, performance.
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 XJ650
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XJ650. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. 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 XJ650
- 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CB750
Rivals to the Yamaha XJ650
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha XJ650 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.