Topic: Honda twins

[SKTP]

I'm in the thinking about stage of my second build. My 1978 cb750k was my first bike and first build ever. I am now thinking that a Yamaha XS650 might be my next build...I'm just curious if I'm missing out on the Honda equivalent of the XS (and the triumph and BSA) 650 twin. Was there anything in this class from Honda?

Sorry if this is totally random and not a SOHC question

[70CB750]

CX?

[seanbarney41]

CX?

not really the same charm as an xs imo, although probably more dependable...I don't think Hpnda had any  twin with the same kinda grunt and raw vibratory energy...I guess the closest thing would be cb450?  It seems all the cheap XS's have been hiding from me though...I can't even find one of those ugly Specials...

[Stev-o]

CX?

not really the same charm as an xs imo...

+1.  The XS's are very popular and collectable, which makes them not cheap.
 A buddy has three of em.


This one looks pretty cool...


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Yamaha-XS-1976-yamaha-xs-650-/331119373078?forcerrptr=true&hash=item4d1840ab16&item=331119373078&pt=US_motorcycles

[Rgconner]

Shh.... I got a 72 XS for $300.

Been sitting on a lift since 95, still trying to wake her up.

[Garage_guy_chris]

+1 for the 1965-1974 CB450. I have one and its a fun around town bike. They are smaller then the 650 class bikes but are rated at 44hp output. they are a reasonably good engine but can suffer from top end oiling problems (cam followers and cam). Parts arent quite as readily available as the 750 but they arent too bad.

[krusty]

There was the much unloved CB500T

[martin99]

I'd have an XS650 over a CX or CB450 any day, although admittedly I've got no experience of the 450. I've had two XS's, one a hardtail, one in standard trim, both good strong bikes. All the looks of the classic Brit twin, twice as reliable.

[70CB750]

I like the guzzi look of CX and somebody here - Whiteorb maybe?? - built a really nice cafe from one.

[Maurice]

I like my XS650, was a great deal. Waiting for less cold days so I can re-do the wiring and empty the triangle under the seat.



Handles surprisingly well, doubling up the front disk is all it needs, rear locks up too easily already.

Vibrations are an issue (unless you're female I guess...), picked up that rear light half a dozen times already and lost a plate tag once, now it's bolted up to heavy gauge steel.

[Tugboat]

I was gonna say as well: CB500T. Rattles about as much!!!

[SKTP]

Thanks for all the input. XS 650 it is...the search and "real" research begins.

Is there an "ideal" year range? Like how most CB folks would say 70 to 76...

[Maurice]

There's one year where they went to CDI (or something like that). '80 I think. I would personally stay away from it they're allegedly hard to find and generally a pain in the butt to convert back to points or (available) electronic. One way to know is to pop the points/advance unit cover ends open and see if there's anything in there, CDI will be empty.

Simplest for you is to head over to xs650.com it's quite good.

[Doggie]

What about a CM400T?  I have one waiting in line to be restored or made into a cafe racer.  How do you guys feel about it?

                                                     Doug

[Johnie]

Had a number of CM400's. Nice bike, just got a little cramped on it. Could have got some highway pegs, but when I was on the CM400 I could not wait to get off and then on a CB750.

[Doggie]

I have a 1978 CB750K and its too big for me. I'm only 5' 7", so I fit nicely on the CM400t and my '76 CB550F SS. What's your feelings on what to make the 400 into?
                                               Doug