The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber from Japan was powered by a 444cc DOHC twin producing 43hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 187.0kg (412 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV single power, delivering 42hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 145.0kg (320 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber | 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 145.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 156.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp trumps the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34's 42hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and difficult for the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber
Born in 1966, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber is a 444cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 43hp from Honda.
Full 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber Profile →About the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34
Introduced in 1956, the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 features a 499cc OHV single engine producing 42hp, establishing itself as a notable racing machine.
Full 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34 Profile →