LOT 499

1966 Honda CB450 Registration no. HTO 152D Frame no. CB450 1009287 Engine no. CB450E-1008609

Sold for £4,830 inc. premium

Lot 499

1966 Honda CB450

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|21 April 2024, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1966 Honda CB450
Registration no. HTO 152D
Frame no. CB450 1009287
Engine no. CB450E-1008609

The Japanese motorcycle industry first made an impact outside its homeland with small-capacity commuter bikes and lightweights, and for many years the view prevailed in North America and Europe that they were incapable of building effective large-capacity machines. The arrival of the Honda CB450 in 1965 should have dispelled any lingering doubts about Japan's intention to compete in all sectors of the market. Known affectionately as the 'Black Bomber' after its black finish, the CB450 was Honda's largest model when launched and capitalised on experience gained with a succession of smaller-capacity twins. With a top speed of over 100mph and a standing quarter-mile time in the 14-second bracket, the refined CB450 sounded the death knell, not just for the traditional British '500' but for the entire UK motorcycle industry which, ever complacent, found itself at an ever increasing disadvantage in the all-important US marketplace.

This CB450 was bought as a project by the previous owner, but in the event needed no work. Tested by Rick Parkington for Classic Bike magazine, it is said to be sweet to ride and would need only a new seat cover and a tank re-spray (and perhaps professional valeting) to restore it to 'as new' condition. Note: a spare engine is fitted , but another set of original crankcases are supplied with this lot. Kept in a garage as part of a private collection since purchased from our sale in 2016, the machine is offered with a V5C document.
Please note that the second digit of the engine number prefix on this machine is indecipherable.

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 21 April starting at 11am GMT.

Saleroom notices

Unused since 2016, the machine will require careful recommissioning prior to use. The machine is offered with a key.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
Buyers Premium and Charges
Memorabilia and Spares
For Memorabilia and Spares (Lots 1-91) the Buyers Premium is 28% on the first £40,000 of the hammer price; 27% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £40,000 up to and including £800,000; 21% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £800,000 up to and including £4,500,000 and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,000.
Motorcycles
For Motorcycles (Lots 201-272 & 301-499) the Buyers Premium will be 15% on the first £500,000 of the Hammer Price of each Lot, and 12% on the balance thereafter.
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