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 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 349cc of DOHC triple power, delivering 42hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 152.0kg (335 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -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 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three targets aggressive cornering and track-day performance. On paper, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp trumps the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three'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 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three for aggressive cornering and track-day performance. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — 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 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three
A sport bike from 1966, the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three delivers 42hp from its 349cc DOHC triple engine.
Full 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three Profile →