- UK Supplied Example
- 25,032 Miles
- Desirable Parakeet Yellow
- Frame Number 1073946
“Giant Killer”
Following the release of the CB750 in 1969, Honda brought a string of smaller capacity four cylinder bikes to the table. First the CB500 in 1971, the CB350 in 1972 and then in 1974, the CB400. This bike featured more svelte styling than its predecessor, a larger bore engine, modified cylinder head resulting in a higher compression ratio and an eye catching 4 into 1 exhaust system.
The CB400 Four was aimed at the sporting market, and despite it lacking acceleration against the two stroke competition of the time, it made up for this in refinement; the small-displacement four-stroke being smoother, quieter and much more economical than the two-strokes. To help keep the engine in its power band, Honda employed a six-speed transmission—something which at the time was extremely rare, especially on small displacement bikes.
Praising the renewed focus over the CB350, reviewers cited the CB400’s sweet handling that helped Ron Haslam win the 1980 Formula 3 title and, also come third in the F3 class at the Isle of Man TT on the same machine. The CB400 was a very successful motorcycle in club and privateer racing too. Kaz Yoshima and other racers were able to take Honda’s little 408 cc engine up to 490 cc and with the addition of other racer options, this small bore was considered a giant killer.
The diminutive, nimble bike was capable of speeds in excess of 100mph, and produced a claimed 37bhp at 8,500rpm in stock form. The engine exhibited a huge willingness to rev and when all of this was combined with electric or kick start, a centre stand and lighting fast steering, this made for a usable, fun and popular bike which ended up selling over 105,000 units.
Various variants were provided by Honda, the F, F1 and F2. The F2 started at frame number 1073400, was available in Parakeet Yellow and Candy Antares Red, and featured frame mounted rear footrests as opposed to the swinging arm mounted rear footrests seen on the F, revised shortly before the release of the F1. A restyled fuel tank and decal design was also introduced for the F2 variant.
Moto Classica Limited are extremely proud to have available CB400F2-1073946, a UK supplied example finished in the most desirable colour of parakeet yellow, extensively restored to a concours standard and accompanied by a comprehensive history file. We look forward to introducing this lovely classic to its new owner.
Price: £5,400
For any additional information, please contact Ed Culwick on 07923 670737 or Paul Bentley on 07766 740 253
