Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time

Today’s article is about the list of the Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time. From the pioneering CB750 to today’s value-focused Hornet models, Honda’s CB family has played a defining role in shaping motorcycling for more than six decades. Few motorcycle line-ups have maintained such influence across generations, but the question remains — which CB models stand out as the most significant?

With Honda preparing to launch the retro-inspired CB1000F, arriving after the success of the CB1000 Hornet and the well-received CB750 Hornet, it prompts a closer look at the CB lineage and its most important machines.

The ‘City Bike’ range has been central to Honda’s identity for over sixty years. During that time, it has included everything from the groundbreaking 1969 CB750 — widely regarded as motorcycling’s first superbike — to modern interpretations such as the Fireblade-derived CB1000R, alongside numerous twin- and four-cylinder models. Following is the list of Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time.

Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time – Top Rated

1965 CB450

While the CB92 of 1959 was Honda’s first mass-produced CB and achieved racing recognition, and the CB72 of 1960 strengthened its performance reputation, it was the DOHC twin-cylinder CB450 introduced in 1965 that truly elevated Honda’s international standing.

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Designed primarily for the American market, its high-revving 450cc engine delivered performance comparable to the larger European 650cc twins of the time despite its smaller capacity. The CB450 gained popularity through association with prominent riders and helped Honda challenge established European manufacturers, paving the way for future larger-capacity CB models.

1969 CB750

UP next, in the list of Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time, we have the CB750. The CB750 marked a turning point in motorcycling history. It became the first mass-produced four-cylinder motorcycle and introduced innovations such as a front disc brake and electric starter. At launch, it was also the most powerful and technically advanced machine available, earning recognition as the world’s first superbike.

Unveiled at the Tokyo Show in 1968 and inspired by Honda’s Grand Prix racing developments, the CB750’s success both on the road and in competition established a new benchmark for performance motorcycles. It also set the standard configuration for future superbikes and remained in production for many years, with nearly half a million units produced.

The 1974 CB400/4

Following the CB750, Honda expanded its four-cylinder line-up with smaller-capacity models. The CB350 introduced in 1972 evolved into the CB400/4 in 1974, gaining revised styling and performance updates.

With its lively performance, well-balanced handling, and distinctive design features such as its merged exhaust headers, the CB400/4 became particularly popular in the United Kingdom. It offered accessible four-cylinder performance and introduced a generation of riders to Japanese engineering.

1978 CB250N SuperDream

The CB250N Super Dream became one of Honda’s most commercially successful learner motorcycles of the late 1970s. Designed for the growing entry-level market, it featured a SOHC twin-cylinder engine and introduced Honda’s modern ‘Euro’ styling direction.

Although it did not match the outright performance of contemporary two-stroke rivals, the CB250N combined practicality, reliability, and everyday usability. Its dependable nature helped it become the UK’s most popular learner 250 of the period.

1979 CB750/900F

Up next, in the list of Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time, we have CB750/900F. By the end of the 1970s, Honda’s original CB750 had been surpassed by competitors from Kawasaki and Suzuki. In response, Honda introduced the CB900FZ in 1979, featuring a new DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine and improved chassis performance.

This new generation reestablished Honda’s competitiveness in the segment and influenced future models such as the CB1100F and CB1100R.

1992 CB1000 ‘Big One’ (then 1300s)

Introduced during the rise of retro-inspired motorcycles, the CB1000 combined a detuned CBR1000F engine with substantial chassis components.

Although it was never a major commercial success, its strong torque delivery and distinctive positioning influenced later models such as the more successful CB1300 retro series.

1994 CB500

Up next, in the list of Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time, we have the CB500. The CB500 marked a shift toward accessible performance. Launched as an affordable middleweight roadster, it featured a responsive 57bhp engine and a straightforward twin-shock chassis.

Although understated in appearance, its engaging handling and versatility made it popular with commuters and new riders alike. Its capabilities were further demonstrated through its use in one-make racing series.

2010 CB1100

The CB1100 was designed as a tribute to Honda’s heritage. Its air-cooled 1140cc four-cylinder engine embraced traditional design at a time when most manufacturers had moved away from air cooling.

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While its relatively high price and understated styling limited widespread appeal, the CB1100 remains notable for its engineering quality and commitment to retro authenticity.

2023 CB750 Hornet

Up next, in the list of Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time, we have the CB750 Hornet. The reintroduced Hornet in 2023 adopted a modern approach. Powered by a new 755cc twin-cylinder engine producing 91bhp, it offered competitive performance, practical features, and attractive pricing.

Its affordability contributed to strong market success and reinforced Honda’s presence in the middleweight segment.

2024 CB1000 Hornet

Following the CB750 Hornet’s success, Honda introduced the larger CB1000 Hornet, using a retuned Fireblade-derived engine.

With a tubular-steel chassis, radial-braking components, and pricing below many competitors, it delivered strong performance and value. Its reception has also increased anticipation for the upcoming CB1000F retro-styled model.

Top Ten Best Honda CB Bikes of All Time – Top List