1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber

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.

Specifications

Engine

Type
DOHC twin
Displacement
444 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
43 hp @ 8500 rpm
Torque
36.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
70.0 × 57.8 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Keihin carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
170 km/h (106 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
187 kg (412 lbs)
Wet Weight
202 kg (445 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1390 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
15.0 L

History & Story

Honda's 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber arrived in 1966 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Japan, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1960s.

At the heart of the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber sits a 444cc DOHC twin engine producing 43 horsepower at 8500 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Keihin carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 187 kg (412 lbs) dry, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 15.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Honda motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Cam chain tensioner wear
  • Charging system can be weak on early models

Fun Facts

  • The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber was produced in Honda's Japan facilities
  • The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1960s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts