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The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R are both iconic 1960s standards that defined their respective markets.
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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 740cc of OHV triple power, delivering 58hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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.
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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 740cc of OHV triple power, delivering 58hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 740 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R has the edge thanks to more power (58hp vs 43hp) and a higher top speed. The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and moderate for the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R — 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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R
Born in 1969, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R is a 740cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 58hp from BSA.
Full 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R Profile →