Topic: cb/cd 175 model differences

[catzor]

I've been trying to research small 70s Honda twins for a future project for no other reason than they just oil my camshaft in all the right ways, if you will.

My question is this: I've repeatedly come across this CB,CL, CD model distinction and I don't entirely understand what that mean. I know the CL is a dual-sport type with more ground clearance and (I'm guessing) longer suspension travel. The CB seems to be the starting point, or a "base" model, if you will. The CD is what puzzles me. It's listed as the "touring" version. What sort of "touring" accommodations  came on a 175cc twin? I'm imagining honda sticking one of those giant vetter fairings on

[kirkn]

In general: 

The CB is the basic street model - low pipes, street gearing, street styling.

The CL's were the same basic bike with off-road "styling".  They had high pipes, smaller tank, maybe a cross-bar on the handlebar and generally, that was about it.  Maybe slightly different OEM tire tread pattern.  Mostly no difference at all in the suspension department.  Generally called "scramblers".

The CD was a different beast altogether - more similar to the 'Dream' series of bikes - pressed steel frames, deep valanced fenders, sometimes a single-carb head.  Sometimes a pressed-steel, leading-link front fork.  Sometimes with a higher, wider handlebar.  All depending on year and displacement.

There are more details, sure, but that's the general gist...

Good luck with your search!

Kirk