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 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV single power, delivering 42hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 143.0kg (315 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 | 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 143.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 154.0 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 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp trumps the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman'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 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and difficult for the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman — 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 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman
A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman delivers 42hp from its 499cc OHV single engine.
Full 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman Profile →