HONDA CB SERIES: THE EVOLUTION OF A MOTORCYCLE ICON
Meta Title: Honda CB Series: The Evolution of a Motorcycle Icon
Meta Description: Explore the history of Honda's CB motorcycle series, from the early CB models to the legendary CB750 and modern CB motorcycles.
Keywords: Honda CB, Honda CB series, Honda CB750, Honda classic motorcycles, Honda naked bikes, Honda motorcycle history
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The Honda CB Series: The Evolution of a Motorcycle Icon
The Honda CB series has become one of the most recognizable families in Honda's motorcycle history.
Over several decades, Honda has used the CB name on motorcycles ranging from lightweight everyday bikes to larger four-cylinder machines and modern naked motorcycles.
The result is a motorcycle family that connects Honda's early development with the company's modern lineup.
Where Did the Honda CB Begin?
Honda introduced a number of motorcycles carrying the CB name during the company's early years.
One important early model was the Honda CB92 Benly Super Sport, introduced in the early 1960s. It demonstrated Honda's growing interest in combining everyday usability with sportier performance.
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Image Alt: Honda CB92 Benly Super Sport classic motorcycle
The CB family would continue to expand as Honda developed motorcycles with different engine sizes and riding characteristics.
The Motorcycle That Changed the CB Name Forever
When discussing the history of the CB series, one motorcycle stands out:
Honda CB750 Four
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Image Alt: 1969 Honda Dream CB750 Four motorcycle
Introduced in 1969, the Honda Dream CB750 Four used a 736cc four-cylinder engine and featured a front disc brake.
Honda's historical material identifies the CB750 Four as a major milestone in the company's motorcycle development. Its four-cylinder engine and combination of performance and practicality helped establish a new direction for large-displacement Japanese motorcycles.
The CB750 became one of the motorcycles most closely associated with Honda's rise in the larger motorcycle market.
Four-Cylinder Performance
One of the most recognizable characteristics of the early CB750 was its inline four-cylinder engine.
At a time when many motorcycles used smaller two-cylinder configurations, Honda's four-cylinder layout gave the CB750 a distinctive character.
The smooth power delivery and unmistakable engine sound became part of the motorcycle's identity.
This engineering approach also influenced later Honda motorcycles.
The CB Becomes a Family
Honda did not limit the CB name to one engine size.
Over the years, the company introduced CB motorcycles with many different engine capacities and configurations.
Examples include:
- Honda CB125
- Honda CB250
- Honda CB350
- Honda CB400
- Honda CB500
- Honda CB550
- Honda CB650
- Honda CB750
- Honda CB900
- Honda CB1000
- Honda CB1100
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Image Alt: Honda CB motorcycles across different generations
This broad range allowed the CB name to be used for motorcycles intended for different riders and markets.
Honda CB and the Rise of the Naked Motorcycle
Many CB motorcycles have a relatively straightforward design: an exposed engine, upright riding position and minimal bodywork.
This configuration eventually became closely associated with what riders now commonly call the naked motorcycle.
Instead of covering the engine with extensive fairings, the motorcycle's mechanical components become part of the visual design.
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Image Alt: Modern Honda CB naked motorcycle
Modern models such as the CB650R and CB1000R demonstrate how Honda has continued this basic design philosophy while incorporating modern technology and styling.
From Classic to Modern
The appearance of CB motorcycles has changed considerably over the decades.
Classic models often feature:
- Round headlights
- Chrome components
- Simple bodywork
- Spoked wheels
- Traditional seats
- Analog instruments
Modern CB motorcycles may feature:
- LED lighting
- Digital displays
- Modern suspension
- Advanced braking systems
- Fuel injection
- Contemporary frame and body designs
Image Alt: Classic and modern Honda CB motorcycle design
Despite these differences, the basic CB concept remains recognizable.
Why the Seat Matters on a Honda CB
The seat is an important part of the CB's design.
Classic Honda CB motorcycles often use long, relatively flat seats that complement their traditional styling.
Modern CB models use different seat shapes designed around contemporary riding positions.
For owners modifying their motorcycles, replacing the seat can change both the appearance and riding position.
A custom seat can be used to create a:
- Classic café racer appearance
- Flat-track inspired look
- Minimalist naked-bike style
- More comfortable touring setup
- Custom two-tone appearance
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Image Alt: Custom seat on a Honda CB motorcycle
For riders who spend several hours on their motorcycle, seat shape and cushioning can also be important considerations.
Honda CB750: A Classic That Still Influences Custom Builds
The CB750 has
