Honda CD175. Not exciting, but sweet.

Before motorcycles became lifestyle items (like a second wife, racing bike, sloop, convertible, Burgundian or healthy eating out, and yes, also a motorcycle), they were primarily means of transportation for people who could afford more than a bicycle, but did not have enough for a car.

Until 1969, entire tribes of people were happy with motorcycles. From that year on, a laborer or construction worker could also afford a car. The trade in condemned German damaged cars flourished; These cars were refurbished and sold to people who were very proud of them. These import cars had striking letter combinations on the license plates. The masses came up with nicknames for these combinations, such as 'German Deuk' for DD, and 'ex-auto' for EX.

Despite the increased popularity of cars, many motorcycles remained on the market that simply functioned as motorcycles. They had improved considerably in the meantime. Japan, with its CD line, also played an important role in this.

The Honda CD175, produced from 1967 to 1979, is a good example of this. With 174 cc, this motorcycle was described by Honda as a “great new all-rounder, suitable for both city and highway”. It was the touring model in Honda's 175 cc motorcycle range, which also included the sportier CB175 and the off-road CL175. The CD175 shared a number of components and design elements with other Honda models, including the early model's pressed steel backbone frame, also known as “T-bone”.

The twin had an electric starter (except in Britain), turn signals, deeply flared fenders and mirrors. The slanted air-cooled engine was a further developed version of the older Honda CB160 engine, including many identical components.

The 1967 models (product code 237), starting with serial number CD175-1000001, were also known as the CA175, CD175A or CD175 K0. The styling of these early CD models resembled that of the larger CB450K0 “Black Bomber”, especially the British version with flat handlebars.

The 1968 models (also product code 237) started with serial number CD175-10017136 and included changes for export to the US, such as a different fuel tank, larger battery and tool covers, and improved lighting. The frame was a hybrid of welded tubes and pressed sheet metal parts.

The 3 “K1969” models (product code 302) introduced a vertical cylinder block and all-tube frame, with some minor bodywork changes lasting until the end of production in 1979.

Many CD175s were produced, and many eventually 'died of exhaustion'. Their role and period in history has ensured that they have not been changed, rebuilt or cut up much. Therefore, there is still a good chance of finding an original copy. The prices are reasonable; think of not much more than two thousand euros for a top model, but for a thousand euros you can already set high standards.

We found our photo model in Loods 8 in Arnhem, where a big sale will be held soon.