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 MV Agusta 750S, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 743cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 69hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 220.0kg (485 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 MV Agusta 750S | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 743 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 69 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 238.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 18.0 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 1969 MV Agusta 750S targets aggressive cornering and track-day performance. On paper, the 1969 MV Agusta 750S's 69hp 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 1969 MV Agusta 750S for aggressive cornering and track-day performance. Parts availability is good for the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber and very difficult for the 1969 MV Agusta 750S — 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 MV Agusta 750S
Introduced in 1969, the 1969 MV Agusta 750S features a 743cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 69hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1969 MV Agusta 750S Profile →