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 Norton Manx 30M, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of DOHC single power, delivering 54hp at 7200rpm. Tipping the scales at 136.0kg (300 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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 Norton Manx 30M | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 54 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 136.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 146.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 760 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 Norton Manx 30M targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M's 54hp trumps the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp, 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 Norton Manx 30M for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and very difficult for the 1962 Norton Manx 30M — 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 Norton Manx 30M
A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M delivers 54hp from its 499cc DOHC single engine.
Full 1962 Norton Manx 30M Profile →