Shriner Bike: 1973 Honda CB350F

The ad copy says “It belonged to a shriner and was rode (sic) in parades up until the 90’s when it was put in storeage (sic), it has just over 3000 miles.”  I was all set to make a bunch of fat guy with a fez and a bicycle reflector in his navel jokes, but after 5 minutes of research on Shriners, I won’t.  Their hospital does a lot of good work for kids.  Find this 1973 Honda CB350F once owned by a Shriner for sale in Olympia, WA for $2,500 via craigslist.

The 350F was the little engine that couldn’t (at least for Americans).  The 347cc transverse four put out about 34 hp and was good for a 98mph top speed.  It wasn’t enough in North America, despite the bike’s overall light weight and it was replaced soon after by the CB400F (see last week’s CB400F Taco Tuesday profile).  If I bought this, I’d remove the crusty aftermarket crash bar.

This bike has less than 3,000 parade miles on it and is said to retain much of its original parts, including sprockets, chain and tires.  I’d be visiting the tire store soon after handing over the cash. I’m wondering if there are some electrical issues being addressed by the toggle switch added to the headlight housing.

Everything about the CB350F was about saving weight to counter the small engine.  Even the exhaust pipes and mufflers just weighed in at 25 pounds.  Honda used very thin metal on the muffler part of the pipes to save weight, and they didn’t last long.  I’m guessing that these are aftermarket and OEM’s are very dear to unobtainable.

See a better bike for the town parade? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com

Gianni is Daily Turismo’s Pacific Northwest correspondent.  The Seafair Pirates were (still are) always his favorite part of local parades.