That's true, but some models were specifically built and marketed for different countries. For example, the CB750 had variations for USA, Germany, France and "General Export". Such variations involve things like different blinkers or taillight mount. Some other makers (as Kawasaki) installed longer mudguards in U.K.-targeted bikes.
Maybe you don't know, but Heinz ketchup doesn't taste the same depending on the country. They modify a little the taste to adapt to the local tastes. I guess the same goes with bikes; they gave them subtle details to appeal more to the potential customers.
For example, if you look at the post that I wrote recently (new stablemate for my k1), you will see that the mudguards and seat are completely different from the CB350K4 marketed in US. Even the headlight shell is black, as opposed to the US model that was in the same color than the tank. The headlight is yellow-tinted -to comply with the period french laws- and the riveted plate in the frame is in french.
Raul
