The Honda CB400 is a 399 cc (24.3 cu in) DOHC, 16-valve, inline-four. 6-speed manual gearbox bike built in the early '90s. This bike has an impressive scream. The sound of the engine and its exhaust is very distinct. You would know the bike coming from afar just by listening.
I've been wanting to own one since I started to ride a motorcycle enthusiastically. It's the perfect combination of science, mechanics, and art. It is so stable and reliable yet nimble on the road.
Riding a bike built in the '90s is very nostalgic. I remember the first time I learned how to ride a bike. I was in grade school and the bike is Kawasaki HD-II. It's a 2-stroke low displacement bike that my dad owns.
I learned to ride the motorcycle before I learned how to bike. (someone is riding with me which maintains the balance). I remember when my cousin picks me up from school. He's the one stepping on the brakes and clasping the clutch while changing gears, and I twist the throttle and blow the horn.
Fast forward to 2019 I was able to own my first motorcycle. I've been riding it almost every day for the past few years. It ain't a CB 400, but it is still reliable. It takes me to and fro, makes my commute way better than riding the public transport.
Recently, an old colleague asked me to take some photos of his bike and to my surprise, it is my dream bike. He let me ride it and the experience is outstanding. The bike's performance is way better than my own, given that the bike is older than me. I really appreciated the experience.
Up until now, the CB 400 is still my dream bike. I am hoping that in the near future, I am going to be able to acquire one for myself. This bike is already in rarity here in the Philippines. The ones that are available are either surplus bikes with no registration or garage bikes that are not in running condition. In spite of that, the sellers jack up the price because they know the demand for these bikes. However, I am motivated to have one in my garage and ride it around.
In frame: CB400 Super four with owner Tian Go
Camera: Nikon D90
Photographer: yours truly!