The '79 CBX is on my short list of "Bikes I will own before I die". The '79 is the most desirable to me.
Reasons:
I prefer the "standard" Comstar instead of the reverse comstars.
150MPH Speedo. The rest all had the retarded Federal 85MPH speedo.
Hottest cam
Working ignition advance mechanism ('80 model bikes ignition advance was identical, but units malfunctioned, dropping the bike 20hp. If the factory recall has been done, it's supposedly a non-issue, but some folks still maintain that the '79 advance is hotter.)
Five-circuit carbs versus four-circuit.
From what I gather, the '79 and '80 bikes, (but ESPECIALLY the '79), were max-HP hot-rods with tons of power (105hp), iffy brakes and marginal suspensions. It was all about that incredible engine.
The later '81-'82 (touring) bikes were detuned down to 85-90hp, but "broadened in the mid-range" to be more "driveable". However, they got MUCH better suspensions, with the Unit Pro-Link monoshock rear end, and a vastly improved front fork. The brakes were internally vented as well, like a car's, and were also improved. The fairing and luggage also made them livable daily.
The faired bikes are arguably better riders, but screw all that, make mine a '79. However, prices reflect that taste, (EVERYBODY wants a '79) and good, clean, original, low-mile, unmolested (is there any other way to buy a bike?) '79s command a premium, even compared to the "similar-spec" 1980 bikes.
