Topic: 1978 CB750 SuperSport

[Cold Mountain]

Hi all,

I have been thinking about getting a 70s CB 750 to work on and modify it to make it a cafe racer style.

I found a cool bike on Craigslist...it is a 1978 CB750 Supersport and seems to be in decent shape.  I think it has about 40,000 KM (25,000 miles) on it.  The gentleman selling it is asking for $1900 CDN (about $1790 US).  Assuming the bike is in good shape, do you think this is a fair price for the bike? 

Also, could someone point out the main differences between an early to mid 70s CB750 and the 78 CB750 supersport?  Which one would be better to work on?

Apologise for the newbie questions but I have no experience with this bike and am trying to do as much research as I can.

Thanks

[MRieck]

There are a lot of threads on the 77/78F2 concerning valvetrain problems. I'd recommend starting with a search.

[Cold Mountain]

There are a lot of threads on the 77/78F2 concerning valvetrain problems. I'd recommend starting with a search.

Are you saying to avoid purchasing this year model if possible?

[andy750]

I think hes saying do a search and find out the possible issues with that particular model. One issue was the valves and so you may/may not have to do some engine work eventually. Are you comfortable with that possibility? Search the archives for more info. This will then allow you to make an informed decision.

good luck
Andy

[Slayer]

I am working on a 77 750F (super sport) which is very similar to the 78. I also have an earlier model which I have not started yet. For that price, it should be running perfectly IMO.

The carbs are different, that is for sure. The super sports have an accelerator pump which gives the engine a quick shot of gas when you whip the throttle open. It is also something that gunks up and fails if you don't take care of it. It is give and take.

The older models have spokes on rims and the 77/78s have mag wheels. You can change that if you want.

The brakes vary from drum to disc to dual disc so check that out.

There is much more I am leaving out but this is whats on top of my head. I was thinking the same question when I was in the market to buy and it is about what you like. You can argue back and fourth all day. Either way if it is a SOHC Honda you have a good bike.

[Cold Mountain]

Thanks all!  I will do more research on this site.

[noahspop]

No matter what year you get, you'll have to do some work on it eventually.
That price does seem a little steep. For that price it should be a reliable bike in fair original condition. I own a 1977 750 super sport. I enjoy the stock look of the bike.
Welcome aboard.

[Slayer]

No matter what year you get, you'll have to do some work on it eventually.
That price does seem a little steep. For that price it should be a reliable bike in fair original condition. I own a 1977 750 super sport. I enjoy the stock look of the bike.
Welcome aboard.

Is it still non op? What is wrong with it?

[noahspop]

Just remember you asked.
When I bought the bike it came with a extra engine.

Everything seemed fine. I was using the bike as a daily rider since Feb. In June I decided to go over to Santa Cruz, which is 2 hrs. away. As I was going over Pacheco Pass, then I busted a valve. The valve did a lot of top end damage. (see pic)

So we (myself and a good buddie of mine) through in the extra engine. Funny thing is neither of the engines were 750F (which I believe comes with the super sport model)
they were both 750E (if i'm not mistaken is for the K models) regardless its still a 750 and I dig the design of the stock 77 super sport.

The extra engine was put in about a week ago, but it ran really rich. We got that worked out for the most part, with being able to make it run without burning extra gas.

The problem now is no power when I turn the keys on. We might of pinched a wire when putting the other engine in. Yes I've checked the battery, lots of juice there, and the fuses are all good.

Things have been hectic lately (thankfully in a good way), so I haven't had much time the chase down the gremlin.

I do know this site has been a great deal of help with its wealth of knowledge.

I have been entertaining the idea of getting a more reliable bike. (sorry I said it) I just need to be able to give my 750 the attention it needs to be road worthy, so it can make a decent day trip. Now that I have the bug (wanting to ride all the time). Plus I'm sure everyone knows nothing besides a breakdown, except an accident to ruin a good road trip. Knowing I haven't been responsible enough to get the bike in top running condition. I don't mind them rough looking.

Thanks for listening, and remember you asked.

[Slayer]

Yea, sorry I asked Good luck! Cold Mountain, don't listen to this guy 

[Flying J]

The worst part about owning a 77-78F is not the valves but all the animosity and jealousy form people who dont own a CB from the 2 fastest years. Its all replaceable but as it was put at that price it better be running good. There is a guy on here that just bought a real nice 77 from san francisco for that much. It was real real nice. look in the bikes for sale or craigslist ads.

[andy750]

Ah too bad on your busted valve. One thing about the spare engine - the 750E is the start of the engine number - the E dosent refer to model K or F, the whole engine number is needed to identify the model. Go to hondachopper.com - they have a page listing engine numbers against model year.

Once these bikes are running correctly they become very reliable. You just have to work out the kinks first. Plenty of guys use them for daily riders or long distance trips...the advantage is they are fairly cheap and you can work on them yourself. A more modern bike will cost you more and if its used, it may also have unknown issues...never any guarantees...

good luck
Andy

[Slayer]

All bikes get old eventually and will need maintenance. You have to ask yourself, "Am I going to do my own maintenance or pay someone else to do it for me." Then you can pick which bike suits you and your budget.

[noahspop]

thanks for the info andy, I'm gonna check those numbers right now. ffjmoore i admire your ride, plus you're not too far south from me.
I should have taken the time in the first place to get the kinks out. A Learning lesson I suppose.

[Cold Mountain]

Thanks all!!  I will check out the bike and see if the seller is willing to come down a few dollars... I am pretty much sold on it if its in good shape.

Regards,

[Slayer]

Make sure he starts it up for you. Don't buy it if it doesn't start or knock it down a grand. PM me the craigs list post, I promise I won't swoop in on it. I have my hands full because I was too exited to pass on a dead bike (twice).

[noahspop]

Hey Andy,
I just checked out Hondachoppers.com. You're right, my original engine was a F2 model. It gives me hope. I plan on trying to get a new top end for it and going throught the bottom end to clean it up.

Cold Mountain don't be afraid to ask the seller to redline for you once its warmed up.
at least 8000 rpm. It'll give you goose bumps.