General Comments:
1978 CB 750 A - Produced only two years from 1976 to 1978, only 1700 made, a few survivors around, this is one of them.
Found this jewel on Craig's. After days of Internet research for reviews, parts cost (and a VIN # check of course ;-) ), drove 1:45 min. with an experienced rider and mechanic friend to see it.
Owner took really good care of it. Besides insignificant touches of rust on the chrome here and there, a broken signal light amber cover (light was good), the condition was great, acceleration, compression etc. It was cold as ice (we touched the engine and pipes) before it was started in front of us with no problems at all.
First long ride within minutes of buying it from Naples to Ft. Lauderdale Fl. to bring it home, and it rode like a dream. Stopped for gas, and in a minute there were people around it, asking questions and smiling.
A full tune up was made, front tire needed replacement, changed to Harley's Dunlop 401, back tire is a Michelin, not crazy about it, but it's almost new, so no need to replace in a long time.
Front disc brakes (first bike of the age in its category to have it) and rear drums will make you stop when you want and need. The rotor on the front tire is super thick compare with modern bikes. Again, built to last.
Semi Automatic System - Three gears, neutral, first and second (Low-High). You will shift gears normally WITHOUT a clutch. Nice power on first from total stop, shift to second and just roll for power. I ride local roads and highways (I-595, I-75, US 27, Florida's Turnpike). Enough power and weight (580 lbs dry) to feel safe and confident putting up with cars and trucks at 75-80 mph, can do more if you need it, but not necessary. Is a vintage, not a sport bike.
Had long ride from Hollywood to Fort Myers (247 miles back and forward) with a group full of Harley's and Goldwings. Put up with the rest of the pack without hesitation. It was nice also to see guys with $20-$30,000 bikes impressed and complimenting mine that cost literally 30 times less $$.
A few months as the owner of this 1978 CB 750 A semi automatic, and you like me, will be proud you are. Overall, this is a great bike. It was build to last the 33 years that it proudly has, and way more with proper care AND without destroying your pocket!!!.
Strangely, and good for you if thinking of buying one, parts are not expensive at all compared with other bikes. From mechanical to stock restoring, good basic research will save you lots of money. Easy to find parts and inexpensive, making this bike a great purchase, and extremely reliable in all aspects.
The CB 750 was the bike that changed the industry in the 70's, as one of the first super bikes. Honda dared to make a fairly powerful, well built, extremely reliable machine at a price that was and even more today, available for everybody.
If you are considering buying one (reason why you have read till now), make sure it's in good/acceptable condition, have a test ride and BUY IT!! You will never regret it.
Basic.
