Honda 450

HONDA 450

W. B. SWIM

Exclusive Details:

HONDA, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles, has invaded the big bike market with a 43 horsepower 444cc double overhead camshaft vertical twin claimed to do more than 110 mph.

The new machine, which had been reported under development exclusively in CYCLE WORLD as long ago as the October, 1964 issue, was officially unveiled to some ten selected members of the motorcycle press in Japan early in March. It is a deluxe full size motorcycle with performance to give 500cc class machines, and even some 650ccs, a run for their money. Although the export price had not been announced by press time, the Honda 450 Condor is expected to retail in the United States for less than $1,000.

With a curb weight of 411 pounds, the twin carburetor machine claims a quarter mile from a standing start in 13.9 seconds. Tachometer and special jeweled speedometer are mounted.

Technical innovations on the motorcycle include double-cradle pipe frame, torsion bars instead of valve springs, and a unique device to adjust valve tappets from the outside by moving the overhead cam, which is turned by an automatically tensioned center cam chain.

The crankshaft outer bearings are bolted to the crankcase with a holder, and roller bearings are used at stress points throughout the engine.

Long stroke telescopic fork and swinging arm are hydraulically damped and incorporate coil springs. Tires are 3.25/18 in front and 3.50/18 on the rear. Fdectrics are 12 volts, with a 12 amp-hour battery. Headlight is 35/25 watt, stop-light 25 watt and taillight 8 watt.

A seven-plate wet clutch is mounted and the transmission is enclosed in the crankcase, with primary reduction by gear train with a 3.305 ratio. Final drive is by chain with a reduction ratio of 2.333.

Gear ratios are 2.411 for low, 1.400, 1.034 and 0.903 for top. The four-stroke engine has a compression ratio of 8.5:1 and pressure of 22 kg/cnr @ 7.000 rpm.

Bore and stroke of 70 x 57.8mm (2.73 x 2.25 inch) give a displacement of 444cc. Top output of 43 hp is claimed at 8.500 rpm. Torque is listed as 27.6 ft./lb. @ 7,250 rpm.

A 5.22-gallon fuel tank is mounted and fuel consumption was announced as 83 miles per gallon at 37Vi miles per hour. Braking distance is 48 feet at 31 mph. Climbing ability is listed at 20°.

Dimensions are: length 179.6 inches, width 31.2", height 40.9", wheelbase 52.6" and handlebar length 27.9 inches. A rubber mounted dual saddle is fitted. Twin paper elements for the air cleaner are housed in a single case under the seat. The saddle can be raised to one side to check electrical equipment installed under it.

The Honda 450 engine weighs 146 pounds. Weight distribution of the motorcycle is 186 pounds on the front wheel and 225 on the rear.

An electric starter as well as kick pedal is fitted. Tgnition is by battery. A plunger type oil pump lubricates inside the engine, and the oil tank holds 3 quarts.

Steering is 40° right and left, caster 64° and trail 3.66 inches. Semi-raised handlebar is standard, with a single rear view mirror and four turn signal indicators for the machines to be sold in Japan. Both center and side stands are fitted.