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 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 340cc of SOHC single power, delivering 27hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 140.0kg (309 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 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 | 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 340 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 27 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 25.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 140.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 153.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 13.0 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 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp trumps the 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler's 27hp, 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 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler for off-road capability and adventure riding. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and moderate for the 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler — 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 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler
The 1968 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler is a 340cc single-cylinder dual-sport that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1968 Ducati 350 Scrambler Profile →