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Honda's Scrambler-style motorcycles from the late 1960s and early 1970s are neat little bikes that still make for great in-town transportation today, and one of our favorites is the CL350.
1968 was the first year for the CL350. This 1969 model looks to be in fine shape, and according to the seller, it is bone stock down to the ignition key. The chrome front fender also features a distinctive stock reflector. According to the auction, "Honda only put these on part of the 1969 production run for several of their street scramblers, and no one seems to know why.Ā Maybe they thought they were meeting some type of US Safety requirement then found it was not necessary and stopped. The instrument faces are clear, easy to read, its seat is in excellent condition; it is very supple and has no rips or tears. The very hard to find rubber fork covers are supple like new.Ā Ā The sidecovers have excellent paint and badges."
Sounds like fun to us!Ā To visit the auction for this Honda CL350, go here.Ā
Motorcycle Classics
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The Honda 350 models helped Honda become the dominant motorcycle company in the world, with over 624,000 built 1968-1973, when the disfavored 360 model came in 1974-75. Those bikes were a full 20% of Honda's production in the day. The CL350 was only about 20% and the CB350 80%, so CL models are relatively rare in good running condition. They're excellent town or cow trail bikes, cruising at 55 mph is where they are happiest. The early years had a 10,500 rpm redline which was reduced to 9200 by 1973 as a result of emerging emission controls and leaner jetting with more back pressure. A very fun and nimble rider with adequate power and excellent drum brakes. The best year is 1970 due to chrome mufflers and candy colors.