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| | 1976 CB400F SS
The CB400F was a milestone model for Honda Motor Company. Awesome handling characteristics paired with a no-frills approach at a time when Café style racers were not yet nostalgic, made the Honda CB400F an instant classic.
Canada’s Honda website also has a dedicated classic model display. This is what they had to say about the CB400F:
“Design and development of the CB400F model commenced in 1973 as a step up from the CB350. The aim was to achieve better performance, and to create a distinctive style for the smaller fours while also reducing weight and cutting costs.
Enlarging the 350’s bore increased the engine’s displacement, a six-speed gearbox was used and a handsome chromed 4-into-1-exhaust system gave the 400 a striking and original look.
The CB400F was an instant hit, as it was a masterpiece of subtle styling that drew many enthusiastic riders to Honda when finally revealed in 1975.
Leading a trend towards uncluttered European-style 'cafe racer' machines, the CB400F had the lean looks of a competition bike.
For the first time on a Honda Four, low-set handlebars and rear set footrests were standard. Attractive and simple primary color schemes were offered, with decals replacing badges on the tank.
Despite its modest capacity, the sheer riding pleasure the four offered made it much a loved model very soon thereafter to be ranked as a classic.”
Magazines were saying:
"Obviously, we're dazzled by the first major manufacturer's 4-into-1 exhaust concept. It's light, maneuverable and quiet. This is the coming of a new kind of motorcycle--fast, silent and fun."--Motorcyclist, April 1975
"Honda has carefully tailored the 408 into a true mid-displacement sporting motorcycle."--Cycle World, July 1976
"The Honda CB400F is a marvel: It handles remarkably well, stops with authority, snaps through the gears precisely--and motors along smartly. The bike feels all of a piece, as if a hundred separate design systems fell into perfect synchronization. Yet the attraction of the 408cc transcends its obvious competence. Even a card-carrying Anglophile would agree that the CB400F has real character. If you can't respond to the CB400F's electrifying mechanical presence, you should immediately switch your sport to checkers."--Cycle, March 1975
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