Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 K0 vs Kawasaki KLR650
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Kawasaki KLR650 on 75/100. On the road: 70–77. As classics: 95–73. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.
Photo: Carsamar · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kawasaki KLR650
75/100 Overall
77 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 | Kawasaki KLR650 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 7 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Choose the Kawasaki KLR650 if…
you want durable, practical long-distance trail-bike ownership with excellent parts support and uncomplicated character.
Background
History
Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 K0 was produced from 1969–1970 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KLR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 was produced from 1987–2007 and used a 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1970.
- The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, styling.
Kawasaki KLR650
- Its production span in this library runs from 1987 to 2007.
- The recorded engine description is: 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability and character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 K0. Its library score for historic importance 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.
Kawasaki KLR650
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KLR650. Its library score for ownership appeal 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
- 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 KLR650
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- 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
Rivals to the Kawasaki KLR650
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KLR650 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.