Photo: NESR 1978 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Honda CB750 F2
79/100 Overall
75 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 F2 vs Kawasaki ZXR750 H1
Honda CB750 F2 scores 79/100 overall against Kawasaki ZXR750 H1 on 85/100. On the road: 75–77. As classics: 83–93. Overall result: Kawasaki ZXR750 H1.
Kawasaki ZXR750 H1
85/100 Overall
77 On the road93 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 F2 | Kawasaki ZXR750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB750 F2 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 4 | Honda CB750 F2 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki ZXR750 |
Choose the Honda CB750 F2 if…
you want the later sporting CB750 with twin front discs, sharper styling and strong everyday usability.
Choose the Kawasaki ZXR750 if…
you want an uncompromising early superbike replica with distinctive styling, strong performance and serious period presence.
Background
History
Honda CB750 F2
The Honda CB750 F2 was produced from 1977–1978 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, reliability, performance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki ZXR750
The Kawasaki ZXR750 H1 was produced from 1989–1990 and used a 748cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, braking and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB750 F2
- Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, performance.
Kawasaki ZXR750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1989 to 1990.
- The recorded engine description is: 748cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, braking and character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB750 F2
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 F2. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Kawasaki ZXR750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki ZXR750 H1. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda CB750 F2
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Kawasaki ZXR750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor or fuel-injection balance, charging output, cooling and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CB750 F2
Rivals to the Kawasaki ZXR750
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki ZXR750 H1 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki ZXR750 H1 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki ZXR750 H1 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.