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HOTEL DES VENTES DE SAINT OMER
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HONDA CB 450 K1 – 1969
See original version (French)
3
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HONDA CB 450 K1 – 1969
See original version (French)
Estimate €3,000 - €5,000
Voluntary lot
Description
HONDA CB 450 K1 – 1969
Parallel twin – Twin overhead camshafts – 5-speed
Model year: 1969
Date of first registration: 01/01/1970
Fuel: Petrol
Body style: Single-seater
Registration number: GB-972-QJ
Tax power: 5 CV
Odometer reading: 29,685 km – not guaranteed
Colour: Black with chrome trim
French classic car registration document
MOT: requires re-test
Model history
Unveiled in 1965, the Honda CB450 marked a significant milestone in the Japanese manufacturer’s history. Whilst Honda was still primarily associated with small and medium-displacement models, the CB450 was designed to compete directly with the larger-displacement British twin-cylinder bikes that were then dominating much of the European and North American markets.
Its engine was one of its key technical features: a four-stroke parallel-twin with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), a particularly sophisticated design for a production motorbike in this class in the mid-1960s. Honda also adopted an original valve return system using torsion bars.
The first CB450 is notably known by the nickname ‘Black Bomber’, a reference to its black finish and its performance, which was unusual for a Japanese machine at the time. Subsequent models retained the basic mechanical layout whilst refining the chassis, transmission and styling.
From the generation introduced in 1968, the CB450 was fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, replacing the four-speed gearbox of the early versions. The twin-cylinder engine then produced power in the region of 43 to 45 ch, depending on the market and the manufacturer’s sources at the time, with a displacement of approximately 444 cm³. Motorcycle Specifications
Thanks to its mechanical sophistication and performance, the CB450 played a key role in Honda’s move upmarket prior to the arrival, a few years later, of the famous CB750 Four.
Our example
This particular example is identified as a 1969 Honda CB450 K1, first registered on 1 January 1970.
It is finished in black with chrome-plated fuel tank side panels, a black seat, spoked wheels and chrome-plated mudguards.
The odometer currently reads 29,685 km; this mileage is not guaranteed.
A visual inspection reveals, in particular, the air-cooled DOHC twin-cylinder engine, two carburettors, a twin exhaust system, a front drum brake and a foot-operated manual gearbox.
The motorbike is in a general state of age, showing various signs of wear, oxidation and deterioration of the chrome and metal parts, as visible in the photographs.
Compliance with the original specification, as well as the match between the engine and frame, has not been verified by the auction house.
French vehicle registration document marked ‘vintage vehicle’.
MOT
MOT pending re-inspection.
The MOT report will be made available to buyers so that they may review the faults identified.
TERMS OF SALE
BUYER’S FEES: 14% including VAT
Interencheres Live Véhicules fee: €72 including VAT per lot, in addition to the hammer price.
MOT test: €72 including VAT, in addition to the hammer price and payable by the buyer.
VAT is non-recoverable.
PLEASE NOTE: It is the buyer’s responsibility to arrange the appropriate means and equipment for collecting the vehicle. The auction house does not guarantee that the motorcycle will be roadworthy upon conclusion of the sale.
Collection must take place before Wednesday 14 October 2026. After this date, storage charges of €50 per day per lot will apply.
For the collection and transport of your vehicle in France or anywhere in Europe, please contact:
Transport Leclercq Automobiles
📞 06 79 38 00 53
📧 [email protected]
A personalised quote can be provided based on the destination and the vehicle’s specifications.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Lot description modified on 09/27/2026 at 5:01 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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