Clymer Manuals Honda CB450 On The Lift Classic Bomber Test Cafe Racer CB 450 vjmc

[cazuza29]

this is not a motoccicleta, art is a wow!

[MrDGonzalez5]

do you know what can be wrong with mine? i have a 1972 cb 450..

and when you release the clutch at the very end is ike it slipped from your fingers and you fill like a pull... all gears goes up and down with no problem is just on the starting from static position

thanks

[ClymerManuals]

@MrDGonzalez5

Your cable goes in on the left side. If you remove the left side cover, you have an eccentric type actuator that pushes on the pushrod to operate the pressure plate in the right side cover. Start here on the right. Make sure the adj bolt for the eccentric is tight. Consider removing this assembly and servicing it. It needs to be clean and greased. Once you've elimintated the clutch and the eccentric, you'll have to consider items in the clutch basket assembly on the right.

[MrWiringguy]

classic bike, still rollin

[circusgirlee]

Clymer should make more of these videos. The short vids about show bikes are far less interesting. Keep this up.

[ClymerManuals]

@circusgirlee

We are working on this very thing. More On The Lifts coming soon.

[Ministryoflove1984]

Forever the sickest bike

[ClymerManuals]

@Ministryoflove1984

Sick is right! Thanks!

[magna59]

Great vid. It just shows how far the British Industry had dropped behind. So it's not allowed to racing 'cos its go twin cams ? Nothing like ensuring you head is pushed firmly into the sand !

[paniciao]

are you riding near Council Bluff?

[ClymerManuals]

@paniciao

Nope, near Desoto Kansas. North of the Kansas (Kaw) River.

[paniciao]

@ClymerManuals Oh okay real nice bike my brothers and one of their son ride Harleys. they tell me these bike aren't made for cross country and should get a big twin. I don't wanna. I would rather have something like this. really cool bike. Thanks for the reply

[ClymerManuals]

@paniciao While i wouldn't recommend it or do it again, but I rode the Bomber from KC to Valentine Nebr, 550 miles, in a day. Buzzed along, and I mean buzzed, for many miles at a ton on those long stretches south of Bassett.

[scobaru]

what speedo is that?

[ClymerManuals]

@scobaru

That is the original tach and speedo used for the KO 450s.

[rallenfontenot]

James, Thanks again for this piece! I am still dreaming about a Bomber and because of you, this is definitely my best reference. When the urge hits me , I look this up. Thanks again. Rallen (want to sell cheap) :)

[magacb450k]

GOODDDDDDDDDD  HONDA CB 450 K !!!! MAGA_PA

[spoddog1]

very british looking. nice.

[ClymerManuals]

@spoddog1

Yes, but much smaller. This was/is a shortcoming.

[TechMaven]

It turns 5k rpm at 50 in top gear? No wonder they were buzzy. Then again Honda always geared their bikes short.

[ClymerManuals]

@TechMaven

Needed a 5 speed. I read an interesting article on a CP450 with a four speed. And the speedo was setup already for a 5 speed. The speedo guys didn't communicate with the tranny guys. Wow! Honda wasn't always perfect?

[THEAUDIOCONSTRUCT]

Beautiful restoration for a now 45 year old antique! Excellent job on the CB450!

[ClymerManuals]

@THEAUDIOCONSTRUCT

Thanks. But more of a rehab. For example, the tank paint is original. Of course the fenders and side covers were redone in a modern paint/clear coat. The seat cover is original. Yep! But get this trick. I took high density foam. Cut it up in small inch by inch pieces and stuffed the seat through the pan by pushing it in and moving it around with a pencil. The original foam, as to be expected, was loosing it shape and falling out/apart. It worked. Held up real well over time.

[god409]

i have a qestion and iv had a couple bikes but i recdently bought a 1972 honda cl 450 with only 2500miles on it it set for 20 years before i got and i reset the points and they timing and syncronized the carbs and fired right and it looks like to me the 65 black bomber has the same motor did they not change the design of the motor for that long

[ClymerManuals]

@god409 Minor changes from 65, but same basic DOHC engine.

[god409]

@ClymerManuals thanks u got beautiful bike i love it o and do you know any place to buy replacemnt parts because i need to get the butterfly for the carb and the cross over for the choke so i can choke bolth carbs all i can choke right know is the left

[ClymerManuals]

@god409 If it were me I'd source a pair of used carbs for those parts. Western Hill Honda and David Silver Spares came in handy on the refurb of this Bomber. James

[god409]

@ClymerManuals ok and thanks agian

[sambo2566]

so whats wrong with the electric start

[ClymerManuals]

@sambo2566 Nothing, kickin' it is cool.

[sambo2566]

@ClymerManuals dont get me wrong these are great bikes but electric start was a selling point this bike was the death nell of the british motorcycle industry

[ClymerManuals]

@sambo2566

Starter is shot.

[sambo2566]

@ClymerManuals still a great bike

[barkulator]

yeh I had an early 70's CB450, always ran good. It lacked the soul (macho approval) of a Brit twin tho and was a tad small, so I felt like a dweeb on it. Nowadays they are collectible and I wish I still had it, it was a perfectly fine bike and never left me stranded.

[ClymerManuals]

@barkulator Don't know about the soul. But yes you are correct, the bikes overall were on the small side, especially the KO models. If Honda had made the bike larger and been able to bump up the displacement the 450s would have all the historical cache of the Brit twins (well not quite, much of that comes from their death!). Of course Honda was onto the development of the revolutionary 750 four, which we all know was the final nail in the Brit coffin.

[triton550]

Nice video! It´s a pity though that the electric starter doesn´t work!

[ClymerManuals]

@triton550 Why is everyone down on me using the kick start?

[triton550]

@ClymerManuals Well it was a signum for the japanese motorcycle industry to equip their bikes with a sophisticated electric starter in those days, which the brititish, italian or german motorbikes didn´t have. The only manufacturer that I know of , that had an electric starter on a motorcycle apart from the japanese , was the Harley Davidson Electra Glide. That´s why I think it´s a must using the electric starter on an early Honda. And of course it must be serviceable....

[ClymerManuals]

@triton550 Yes, the starter was certainly a big selling point for Honda throughout the 60s. Think CB72 and CB77 Superhawks with impeccable reliability and electric start.

[ClymerManuals]

@ClymerManuals

I've still got a starter overhaul on my to do list. The KO starter is kind of unique in its cover/shape. Otherwise I'd just bolt on a salvage unit from a later 450. I've got a few of those that will hopefully supply the parts I need.

Anyone overhauled an early KO starter?

[ClymerManuals]

@triton550 My leg works! And it starts one kick.

[harmageden]

hold on to your socks ..these beautiful bikes will go the way of the Vincent Black Shadow ..grab one while u can ..cheers

[ClymerManuals]

@harmageden Absolutely!!!

[MrStubat]

yeh just listen to the motor sound at around 6 minutes and compare that to a black shadow....NOT.....these were buzzy little wannabees in their day and to compare it to a Black Shadow...well what can I say

[ClymerManuals]

@MrStubat

Really we are comparing a CB450 to a Black Shadow?

[MrStubat]

Hold on to you socks because they'd be vibrated off..and compare the sound of the motor at around minutes to a Black Shadow.....

[KHearse87]

Man I just love the K0 "Black Bomber" models. I have a '73 CB450, not as cool looking, but a pleasure to ride with the 5 speed and sounds awesome through "opened up" mufflers. I have a big color picture of your K0 on my Clymer manual! Too cool mate, keep up the good work and ride on!

[ClymerManuals]

@KHearse87 Thanks! Your 72, while "not as cool" is a better rider. Bigger bike overall and the 5 spd makes more use of the power.

[Davidsfarm]

check out my gokart restoration series with my 1973 cb 450 hellcat motor.

[Bullettube]

My first 450 was in 1969, I worked at a Honda Dealer and eventually owned 7 different models. My favorite was a 1970 CL450 that I made into a cafe racer that weighed 310 lbs and ate up everything in sight under 750cc. It wasn't until I got a 1985 Interceptor 700 that my love for these wonderful bikes diminished.

(but only just a little bit!) Thanks for posting!

[BMAN294]

all of hondas motor have that same distinct sound

[ClymerManuals]

@BMAN294

The sound rocks!

[drizzetsrevenge]

I wish my CB175 looked this good! I need to finish her.

[whynotpenguins]

Great video! I used to live in Overland Park and had no idea your manuals were made there. The road shots looked familiar. I'm currently playing with a CL450 K4. I've got 'er apart in the garage, but hopefully she'll run this summer.

[ClymerManuals]

@whynotpenguins

Thanks! Get her own the road. Lots of fun!

[atreewithnolife]

thats crazy ay roadrash ? !!

[atreewithnolife]

90 mph right ?

[ClymerManuals]

@atreewithnolife

What you don't think it will? Sorry nolife, it will pull the ton all day long. James

[atreewithnolife]

this was the meanest bike when i was 15 in england every one wanted one !!

[roadrash998]

@atreewithnolife Hey tree, my dad used to have this bike. Cheers mate.

[austntexan]

JB, it just clicked for me, it's your bike on my Clymer cover Ha! I put drag bars on mine too but the throttle cable is so curved, it's pretty tight to run it up and down the middle of the bars, I've run mine like yours too.

At some point, I'd love to clean it up with an internal throttle cable, that'd really look clean.

Did you have any issue with the engine racing when you turn the bars due to the tight curve in the throttle cable?

[ClymerManuals]

@austntexan

I cut the cable to length after measuring and redoing it a couple times.

[xLesPaulGibsonx]

Clymer has the best repair manuals

[erdnaxela488]

LOVE OLD BIKE

<3

[suckaniggasdick]

Top notch video, sir!

Great bike too, my father owned many Hondas in the 60's and 70's.

[Transane]

GREAT bikes...

consider a cb350- a bit easier to ride and maintain.

[ClymerManuals]

I agree. If you want to start with a 450, find a K1 or later 5 spd bike. More well rounded than the early 4 spd bike. And yes the SOHC is easier to work on than the DOHC 450s. JB

[sporty05]

Gorgeous bike!

[danemeul]

Great video James. Thanks.

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks!

[tinycat06]

72 CB450 all org...Mine will not go faster than 62 mph in 4 also 5th,it will rap out in 4 but not 5 tach works ok...

[tullebukk24]

does it excist a 450 four?

[andyth0mps0n]

a 350 four does.

[tullebukk24]

i know :)

[stagesixx]

Great video! Narrative, personality, informative, mic in the helmet or did you fake it?? Enjoyed it very much. Looking for a Norton but sure do miss my 1972 cb 450 from high school, and have a 1966 ca95 benley for 35 years now.

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks, more to come. JB

[NickBlais88]

a little monotone but great information ^_^

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks. I need to work on my radio jock voice. JB

[callofdutyscout32]

will any parts from a 1985 nighthawk cb 700 fit on a 1972 cb450? i mean anything, like the master cylinder or the handlebars, brake lines, throttle cables or anything? bc i have the opportunity to buy a non running parts nighthawk for $100 and i am trying to get the cb 450 running, and minor parts like i just described are needed to be replaced.

[ClymerManuals]

Oh theoretically anything can be made to work and some might be a bolt on, but you are a few years off. I'd wait for another DOHC cb to show up. JB

[peterlittle34]

great bike man!

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks, need to take it for a ride. Been awhile. JB

[asupara4418]

Yours is so beautiful. Everything OK!!

Great keeping.

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks. Hey for the most part it is pretty solid runner.

[youhaveamonkey]

More more more more "on the lift!" Don't care what models just more! they are great, thank you so much!

[callofdutyscout32]

i have a 72 cb450. it was my grandfathers btu he passed away 2 years ago and my grandma gave me the bike. i replaced the tires and battery bc it actually has been sitting in a garage for 20 years lol. it turns over very well however, it wont catch. Any suggestions on getting this thing started? its in good condition despite being put up since 1988 lol, just a lil dirty

[ClymerManuals]

Great project. First start by checking for spark at the plug. If that is ok, you may have a fuel problem. Was it drained, including the carbs back in 88? If not, your going to need to remove them for overhaul/cleaning. Good luck and keep your grandpa's bike.

[callofdutyscout32]

thanks. the plugs are getting spark but i am going to replace them anyway. i was acually going to clean the carbs today as a matter of fact so hopefully that will get things going.

[ricosworlds]

I have a cb450 ko also Love riding it. Mine infact is the best runnimg bike in the stable....Along with cb72 cb77 cr72 td1-b.

Later

[ClymerManuals]

Yes the 450 Hondas are often overlooked. I have a CB77 also and hope to do a feature on that model also. Great history and a huge bike for Honda! Thanks!

[spargett]

Yeah, a CB77 would be much appreciated by the community.

[zenandmm]

More!

[ClymerManuals]

You got it. Great handle! What is quality?

[ManxAce500]

It's got more horses than my 75' CB550F!

[spargett]

What kind of mirrors are those? First tasteful grip-end set I've seen on flat bars.

Great video.

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks. They were in a box of stuff from a swap. I'll see if their is a manufacturer name stamped on them. JBG

[spargett]

Aweome. I'd really appreciate that. I picked up a 62' CB77 with flat bars that I'd like to get looking top notch, on top of ridable.

[ClymerManuals]

I also have a 67 CB77. I hope to put it back together this winter and do an "On the Lift" with it also. Great machine.

[circusgirlee]

I am impressed with the "On the lift videos".  I think you could make an excellent series out of these. Keep going and they will catch on. I promise to buy a manual if you make another - no joke!

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks! We do plan on continuing them as a series. The more views we get, the more we will do, so spread the work. Remember to subscribe and have a chance to win a free manual of your choice. JBG

[100010100010]

Now this is top of the line type of YouTube video. This is what I wanna see. Its was very well prepared nicely shot, and the overlay voice was easy to understand (hear).

I cant waite untill you get to the CB500 (the new twin model).

*Elite video*

[ClymerManuals]

Thanks! Spread the word so we can make more.

JBG

[guitartec]

I'd kill for that front drum brake. My 74 CB200 has a cable-operated front disk. I think it works well, but everyone I talked to says a CB175's front drum is a good upgrade for my bike. Any opinion?

[guitartec]

Hey, turn that headlight on!

[ClymerManuals]

I agree, however, it affected the camera when in close for the tight shots. James

[Brough1111]

Vintage bike, humm makes me feel old, I bought one when I got out of HS, it was an

awsome bike they failed to mention that this bike handled excellent and tracked in the twisties as if on rails, nothing could hang with me at the time not even a bike double it's displacement, only maybe a Norton Commando.

[jbmorse]

Awesome! I absolutely love that bike.  It sounds excellent. Please make more of these videos, it was very well done. I love vintage bikes, especially those old honda twins!

Thanks

JBM

[roadrash998]

That's a nice video and nice bike. My dad had one of those new back in the day. This is the first good look at one that I've seen. I'll be waiting for your next "On the Lift".

[ClymerManuals]

Hey roadrash, thanks! Pass it on to all the vintage guys. JBG

[dadsvintageads]

Great Channel!

[ClymerManuals]

Anybody have a K1 for sale or know where one is? I have tank and need the rest of the bike! :-)

JBG

[vprovera]

Hi. I have the rest of the bike (cb 450 k1) and need just the fuel tank. May I ask if you ever considered selling tour tank?

[ClymerManuals]

Hey everyone make sure to click "watch in high quality" under "Views." And please rate this video. Thanks, JBG.

[ClymerManuals]

Your Welcome! Were you in Winfield Sat? I am planning to post more. JBG aka ClymerManuals

[greenecycle]

Hey, Thanks! Very nice video with the quality production I've been looking for on YouTube. VJMC member and collector, CB92, CB77, etc. Hoping you post more similar vintage.

JG

[SlickInks]

I just love classic Jap bikes. They are way light, fast, cheap and more reliable than the English junk.

This Hodna is reely gourdjis. Wonder where they found on that old in that kind shape. Video quality pretty good to, especially for riding around shots. Maybe they used a video profeshunal?

I bet this bike is one the big reasons why Honda took over motorcycle market from Brits in the mid-to-late '60s.

Honda . . . it's the beginning of the end for the British twin?!

Cheers,

Slick

[ninjatronica]

It seems reminiscent of what is happening to the American auto manufacturers now. They were lackidazical in their design and engineering and imports (not just Honda and the Japanese, but also the Koreans) are delivering cheaper, better built cars with better fuel economy. Could Ford, Chevy and Chrysler be on the way out like Triumph, Norton and BSA? An interesting hypothesis to consider.

[ninjatronica]

That's cool. That motorcycle looks amazing. And that road makes Kansas look almost picturesque :-)

And don't keep us waiting. That's definitely a sweet ass BMW in the background. Do a video on that. There's also some other motorcycles and stuff around that shop. So cool!!!!