1965 Honda 247cc CL72 Street Scrambler
Registration no. DSO 581C
Frame no. CL72-1006318
Engine no. CL72E-1006376

Introduced in 1960, the CB72 retained the basic layout of the preceding C70 and C71 but with wet sump lubrication and a gearbox-mounted clutch. In addition, the sporting CB changed to a 180-degree crankshaft and twin carburettors, and used a tubular spine frame instead of the pressed-steel chassis of the tourers. With a maximum power output of 24bhp at 9,000rpm and weighing just 340lbs, the CB72 possessed an excellent power-to-weight ratio endowing it with performance challenging that of many British 500s. The CB's specification: overhead-camshaft engine, electric starter, rev counter, and twin-leading-shoe brakes, was unmatched by any of its rivals. In 1962 it was joined by a CL72 'street scrambler' variant, aimed at the North American market, which boasted an upswept exhaust system, sump 'bash' plate, wider handlebars and serrated footrests among other off-road adaptations.

This restored example of what is now one of the most desirable of early Japanese classics was purchased by the current vendor in the early 1990s from a local motorcycle dealer (since closed). It was in poor condition, with many parts missing (photographs available). The rebuild commenced in the summer of 2013 and was completed in 2015. Described by the vendor as in generally very good condition, the machine is offered with VJMC dating letters, a V5C document, and MoT to July 2016.