The Yamaha XS650 is a well-known classic medium displacement standard. Produced between 1968-1985 (though the US stopped getting them in 1983), they weren’t a game changer but I’m on a temporary kick for well-preserved bikes that were popular 40 years ago – I’m sure plenty of you readers used to have one and wouldn’t mind a bit of nostalgia.
2006 Honda XR400SM
Introduced in 1996, the Honda XR400R was impressively successful – Dirt Rider magazine notes that it was the only 400cc bike at the time that had any sort of low-end or mid-range power. Honda barely changed the bike until they discontinued it in 2004 and replaced it with the CRF450X. But in 2005, Honda released a new variant in just …
1983 Suzuki GS1150ES
The Suzuki GS1150ES was one of the last big standards, a line that started with the Honda CB750. This bike was rare even when new, so I’m glad to share a pretty solid example of what is now a 32 year old motorcycle.
Fizzy Days – 1973 Yamaha FS1
The Yamaha FS1 was a tiny motorcycle that had tremendous success in Europe. The 50cc two-stroke produced 4.8 horsepower, enough to get the bike up to about 45 miles per hour. It was a first motorcycle for many. For more on why it’s a “Memorable Motorcycle”, check out this article from Motorcycle USA.
Sandcast – 1969 Honda CB750
#6,655 of the 7,414 original sandcast CB750s, this bike has just 14,530 miles and looks great thanks to a NOS tank (which has never had fuel in it) and NOS side covers. The only Sandcast bike features this one is missing are the recessed ignition and the ‘rolled rim’ rear wheel. It’s a good-looking Honda.
Nice Price – 1988 Honda NX125
The Honda NX125 was the smallest of the NX’s, which were only imported for a few years. The combination of XR-roots with a slightly more street friendly composition made it an excellent all-rounder. Offered in the states in 125, 250, and 650cc versions, the NX650 was by far the most popular in the US. Here’s an example that can be …
9,740 Miles – 1982 Honda CBX
The Honda CBX only lasted five years, but it led to a new wave of sports-oriented motorcycles, and eventually to the Honda ST series. A 6.1 gallon tank was necessary as the 6 individual carbs and monster power led to just low 20’s miles per gallon. Want to learn more? Check out Motorcycle Classic’s writeup of this legendary bike here. …
1989 Yamaha DT125R
An evolution of the DT125, the Yamaha DT125R was sold until 2008 and was very popular as a entry level enduro in Europe. With that said, these are exceedingly rare in the US, so here’s your chance to pick one up that will need a service before you take it to tear up some trails.
1971 Yamaha R5
The Yamaha R5 350cc twin punched way above its weight class and was one of the best bangs for the buck of any bike in the 70s. Though Honda had moved into the world of 4-strokes, Yamaha was making great strides in two-stroke technology. Unlike the Suzuki Titan, Yamaha was looking to get every last drop of power from their …
1984 Honda VF1000F
The Honda VF1000F Interceptor (VF standing for V-Four) was launched in 1984 as the flagship of the V4 line. Featuring a DOHC 998cc engine that produced 113 horsepower, adjustable Pro-Link suspension, and triple discs, this bike was released in response to America’s demand for an even bigger Interceptor.
Trailhopper – 1971 Suzuki MT-50
Also known as the Trailhopper, the Suzuki MT-50 was a mini bike designed to fit in the trunk of your car with swing-in handlebars and a removable front wheel.
1984 Kawasaki KZ700
The Kawasaki KZ700 was a one year only bike built to get around a tax on imported bikes with a displacement of over 700 (designed to help Harley Davidson).
Nice Price – 1984 Honda Interceptor
The Honda Interceptor VF750F was the direct result of changes to the AMA Superbike rules. Because race bikes had to be production based, the VF750F was the first replica racebike to come out of Japan. Why is this important to you, the motorcycle aficionado? Because Honda kept the bikes surprisingly similar while still maintaining street legality. And why is it …
Harley-Suzuki Hybrid
Should I call it a Harzuki?
1970 Honda CB750 K0
Post Sale Update: Per the comments, this bike later sold for $13,500. Post-Listing Update: This CB750 sold for $15,000 but was then relisted and then did not meet reserve at $11,100. Built by the multiple show-winning restorers at Vintage Motorcycle Rescue, this K0 CB750 is an excellent example of an early die cast CB.