VS
The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic and 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 47hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 47hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic | 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 736 cc | 740 cc |
| Power | 47 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 232.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 2 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R has the edge thanks to more power (58hp vs 47hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic
Honda released the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic in 1976 with a 736cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 47hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic 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 →