The 1990 Honda CB-1 from Japan was powered by a 399cc DOHC inline-4 producing 57hp at 12000rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at naked 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. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1990 Honda CB-1 | 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 399 cc | 349 cc |
| Power | 57 hp | 42 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 152.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 183.0 kg | 164.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1385 mm | 1360 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1990 Honda CB-1 is built for versatile street riding and daily commuting, while the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three targets aggressive cornering and track-day performance. On paper, the 1990 Honda CB-1's 57hp trumps the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three's 42hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1990 Honda CB-1 if you value versatile street riding and daily commuting; pick the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three for aggressive cornering and track-day performance. Parts availability is moderate for the 1990 Honda CB-1 and very difficult for the 1966 MV Agusta 350 Three — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1990 Honda CB-1
Introduced in 1990, the 1990 Honda CB-1 features a 399cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 57hp, establishing itself as a notable naked bike.
Full 1990 Honda CB-1 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 →