Description
Soichiro Honda had dubbed many of his earlier bikes 'Dream' after his dream of building complete motorcycles.
The final development of these bikes, the C72/ C77, were available from 1960. A 1960 C72/ C77 would be a very rare bike; most came out in 1961. The Honda Dream's were made until 1967, These bikes saw a completely redesigned engine: a wet-sump design with many internal differences, essentially a new motor, 4 stroke, twin cylinder SOHC with kick or electric start and a 12v system.
The C72 and C77 had pressed steel handlebars, while the CA72 and CA77 had high tubular bars. Beyond that there were only minor differences, different indicators were fitted to the non-US bikes to suit the countries laws. Bikes built up to 1963 had a different fuel tank shape to later bikes, and the pressed steel bars were discontinued at about the same time (all models using conventional tubular bars as present) but otherwise the bike stayed much the same for the rest of its run.
The C72/ C77 was exported to Europe, Britain, Australia and other markets, and sold in some numbers, although , not as well as hoped as it was comparatively expensive. Post-WW2 anti-Japanese sentiment was still rife, and in the UK, manufacturers like BSA and Triumph attempted to convince dealers not to sell Japanese bikes. Also, the style was considered to be somewhat unusual to European eyes, and by the mid-1960s quite old-fashioned. The example offered here is a 1964 C72 with matching frame and engine numbers.
Chassis: #C72-64-102*** indicating the year of manufacture and engine: #C72E-102*** correct at time of manufacture. Having spent most of it’s life in a Museum display and in a collectors storage in Japan it was imported with part of a collection into the UK in July 2024. Import documentation has been completed and taxes paid it is now ready to be registered with the DVLA should that be required.
The C72 is original and complete, the engine is free and easily tuns over. The speedometer displays what appears to be the correct reading at 3, 988 kilometres. But due to the amount of time it has been stored it will require some recommissioning.
Currently in Cambridgeshire where viewing and inspection is welcomed and indeed recommended although by appointment only. Representing a fantastic opportunity for any collection or individual at an affordable investment price. These days, these Honda models are considered collectibles, and have a strong following in the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club.
