Prices for a 1981 Honda CB750 generally range from about $3,000 to $8,000 today, with higher values for pristine or meticulously restored examples and lower values for riders needing work.
The 1981 CB750 line covers several trims, with the best-known variant being the CB750F Super Sport. Value is influenced by condition, originality, mileage, documentation, and the presence of correct factory parts. Regional demand and how quickly a seller needs to move the bike also play a role.
Market factors that influence value
Several practical factors consistently impact what a 1981 CB750 will fetch in today’s market. The following list highlights the most influential ones.
- Overall condition and running status (whether it starts, runs, and stops reliably).
- Originality and matching numbers (engine/frame VINs, original exhaust, carbs, paint, and decals).
- Maintenance history and documentation (service records, receipts, title status, and ownership history).
- Cosmetic condition (paint quality, chrome, seat, decals, and overall presentation).
- Modifications and aftermarket parts (tasteful, performance upgrades may help some buyers while others prefer stock).
- Mileage and wear (lower mileage can add value if the bike shows minimal age-related wear).
- Market trim and color preferences (certain colors or rare variants can be more desirable).
- Location and sale type (private-party sales vs. dealer listings; regional demand can shift prices).
Prices typically reflect a blend of these factors; two bikes with similar appearance can diverge in value based on provenance, reliability, and how complete the restoration is.
Matching numbers, provenance, and documentation
For collectors and serious buyers, documentation matters nearly as much as the bike itself. A clean title, verifiable service history, and confirmed engine/frame numbers that match the original build can significantly boost value. Keep receipts for parts and work, and preserve any vintage brochures or period-correct accessories to strengthen provenance.
How to verify current values and find a fair price
To gauge current asking prices and official valuations, consult credible sources and look at recent sale results. The following sources are commonly used by buyers and sellers of vintage Hondas.
- Hagerty Price Guide and Hagerty Online Valuation for specific CB750 variants.
- ClassicCars Market Value and similar price guides that cover classic motorcycles.
- Bring a Trailer (BaT) auction results to see real realized prices for similar bikes.
- eBay Motors and Craigslist listings (check completed listings to gauge actual sale prices).
- Local vintage bike shops, clubs, and regional show listings for current asking prices.
- Auction houses that specialize in motorcycle sales for high-value examples.
When assessing a bike, compare multiple sources, consider regional price differences, and pay attention to whether listings are asking prices or completed sale prices. If you’re making a high-value purchase, a professional appraisal can provide a solid, independent benchmark.
Summary
The 1981 Honda CB750 offers a broad value range that typically falls between roughly $3,000 and $8,000, with higher prices for pristine, original, or extensively documented examples. To determine a precise value for a specific bike, assess condition, originality, maintenance records, provenance, and market trends, and verify prices across several trusted sources. Being thorough in evaluation helps buyers avoid overpaying and sellers set realistic expectations.
What makes the Honda CB750 special?
Award-winning performance. Named Motorcycle.com's Best Value Motorcycle of 2025, the CB750 Hornet delivers where it counts: a torquey parallel-twin, agile and responsive handling, and a sporty-yet-comfortable riding position. Pure middleweight streetfighter energy — with Honda quality, reliability, and value built in.
How much is a 1981 Honda CB750 worth?
The average value of a 1981 CB750C is around $4,000 to $5,000, based on recent sales listings and discussions in Facebook Groups.
What is the top speed of the 81 CB750?
124 mph
Cycle World called it a masterpiece, highlighting Honda's painstaking durability testing, the bike's 124 mph (200 km/h) top speed, the fade-free braking, the comfortable ride, and the excellent instrumentation.
What year did the Honda 750 come out?
1969
The CB750 FOUR was released in the U.S. in January 1969. That year, Honda held its first U.S. dealer meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, a gathering of motorcycle dealers from across North America.