Auto123: Unveiling the Secrets of the 1973 Honda CL350: A Motorcycle Odyssey

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a classic motorcycle known for its reliability, versatility, and affordability. It features a 325cc parallel-twin engine, a five-speed transmission, and a shaft drive. The CL350 was marketed as a dual-purpose bike, capable of both on-road and off-road riding. It quickly became a popular choice for commuters, weekend riders, and adventure seekers alike.

The CL350's engine is smooth and powerful, with plenty of torque for both city riding and highway cruising. The five-speed transmission provides a wide range of gears for different riding conditions, and the shaft drive is low-maintenance and reliable. The bike's suspension is well-tuned for both on-road and off-road use, and the brakes are strong and progressive. The CL350 is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and handle.

Overall, the 1973 Honda CL350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a great combination of performance, versatility, and affordability. It is a popular choice for both new and experienced riders, and it remains a sought-after classic today.

1973 Honda CL350

Reliable: The CL350's engine and drivetrain are known for their durability and longevity.
Versatile: The CL350 is capable of both on-road and off-road riding, making it a great choice for a wide range of riders.
Affordable: The CL350 was one of the most affordable motorcycles in its class, making it a great value for the money.
Parallel-twin engine: The CL350's engine is a smooth and powerful parallel-twin, providing plenty of torque for both city riding and highway cruising.
Five-speed transmission: The CL350's five-speed transmission provides a wide range of gears for different riding conditions.
Shaft drive: The CL350's shaft drive is low-maintenance and reliable, making it a great choice for long-distance riding.
Dual-purpose: The CL350 is a true dual-purpose bike, capable of handling both on-road and off-road riding conditions.
Classic: The CL350 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular with riders today.
Popular: The CL350 was a popular motorcycle in its day, and it remains a popular choice for classic motorcycle enthusiasts today.
Sought-after: The CL350 is a sought-after motorcycle by collectors and riders alike.

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a great combination of performance, versatility, and affordability. It is a popular choice for both new and experienced riders, and it remains a sought-after classic today.

Reliable

One of the key factors that has contributed to the 1973 Honda CL350's enduring popularity is its renowned reliability. The CL350's engine and drivetrain are known for their durability and longevity, making it a dependable choice for riders who need a motorcycle that will stand up to the test of time.

There are several reasons for the CL350's reliability. First, Honda has a long history of building high-quality motorcycles, and the CL350 is no exception. The bike's engine is well-engineered and built to last, with a proven track record of reliability. Second, the CL350's drivetrain is also very durable, with a shaft drive that is known for its low maintenance and long life.

The CL350's reliability is a major benefit for riders. It means that they can ride their bikes with confidence, knowing that they are less likely to experience breakdowns or other problems. This is especially important for riders who use their motorcycles for commuting or long-distance riding.

In addition to its reliability, the CL350 is also a very versatile motorcycle. It is capable of both on-road and off-road riding, making it a great choice for a wide range of riders. The CL350 is also relatively affordable, making it a great value for the money.

Overall, the 1973 Honda CL350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a great combination of performance, versatility, and affordability. Its reliability is one of its key strengths, and it is a major reason why the CL350 remains a popular choice for riders today.

Versatile

The versatility of the 1973 Honda CL350 is one of its key strengths. It is capable of both on-road and off-road riding, making it a great choice for a wide range of riders. This versatility is due to several factors, including its powerful engine, sturdy frame, and long-travel suspension.

The CL350's engine is a 325cc parallel-twin that produces plenty of torque for both on-road and off-road riding. The bike's frame is also very sturdy, and it is able to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. The CL350's suspension is also very good, with long-travel forks and shocks that can soak up bumps and rough terrain.

The CL350's versatility is a major benefit for riders. It means that they can use their bikes for a variety of purposes, including commuting, touring, and off-road riding. This versatility makes the CL350 a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all.

In addition to its versatility, the CL350 is also a very reliable and affordable motorcycle. It is a great choice for riders who are looking for a well-rounded motorcycle that can handle a variety of riding conditions.

Overall, the 1973 Honda CL350 is a great choice for riders who are looking for a versatile, reliable, and affordable motorcycle. It is a bike that can handle a variety of riding conditions, and it is a great value for the money.

Affordable

The affordability of the 1973 Honda CL350 was one of its key selling points. In its class, the CL350 was one of the most affordable motorcycles available, making it a great value for the money. This affordability was due to several factors, including Honda's efficient manufacturing processes and the bike's relatively simple design.

The affordability of the CL350 had a significant impact on its popularity. It made the bike accessible to a wider range of riders, including those who were on a budget. The CL350's affordability also made it a popular choice for first-time motorcycle buyers.

The affordability of the 1973 Honda CL350 is still a major benefit today. It makes the bike a great value for the money, especially for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is both affordable and reliable.

Overall, the affordability of the 1973 Honda CL350 is one of its key strengths. It makes the bike accessible to a wider range of riders, and it is a great value for the money.

Parallel-twin engine

The parallel-twin engine is a key component of the 1973 Honda CL350. It is a smooth and powerful engine that provides plenty of torque for both city riding and highway cruising. This makes the CL350 a versatile motorcycle that is well-suited for a variety of riding conditions.

There are several advantages to using a parallel-twin engine in a motorcycle. First, parallel-twin engines are relatively compact and lightweight, which makes them easy to handle and maneuver. Second, parallel-twin engines are very efficient, which means that they get good gas mileage. Third, parallel-twin engines are relatively inexpensive to produce, which makes them a good value for the money.

The CL350's parallel-twin engine is a well-proven design that has been used in a variety of Honda motorcycles over the years. It is a reliable and durable engine that is known for its smooth power delivery and good fuel economy.

Overall, the parallel-twin engine is a key factor in the success of the 1973 Honda CL350. It is a smooth, powerful, and efficient engine that makes the CL350 a versatile and enjoyable motorcycle to ride.

Five-speed transmission

The five-speed transmission of the 1973 Honda CL350 is a key component that contributes to the bike's versatility and performance. It provides a wide range of gears that allows riders to select the optimal gear for different riding conditions.

Smooth shifting: The CL350's five-speed transmission is known for its smooth and precise shifting. This makes it easy for riders to change gears, even while riding at high speeds.
Wide range of gears: The five gears provide a wide range of ratios, from low gears for climbing hills to high gears for cruising at highway speeds. This makes the CL350 a versatile motorcycle that is well-suited for a variety of riding conditions.
Improved fuel economy: The fifth gear allows riders to cruise at highway speeds while keeping the engine RPMs low. This can help to improve fuel economy.
Reduced engine wear: The fifth gear also helps to reduce engine wear by keeping the engine RPMs low at highway speeds. This can help to extend the life of the engine.

Overall, the five-speed transmission of the 1973 Honda CL350 is a key component that contributes to the bike's versatility, performance, and fuel economy.

Shaft drive

The shaft drive on the 1973 Honda CL350 is a key component that contributes to the bike's low-maintenance and reliable nature, making it an excellent choice for long-distance riding. Unlike chain or belt drives, which require regular maintenance and adjustment, a shaft drive is enclosed and lubricated, requiring minimal attention from the rider.

Low maintenance: Shaft drives are known for their low maintenance requirements. They do not require regular lubrication or adjustment, making them ideal for riders who want to spend more time riding and less time wrenching.
Reliability: Shaft drives are also very reliable. They are less likely to break down or fail than chain or belt drives, making them a good choice for riders who need a motorcycle that they can count on.
Durability: Shaft drives are also very durable. They can withstand the rigors of long-distance riding and are less likely to wear out than chain or belt drives.
Efficiency: Shaft drives are also more efficient than chain or belt drives. They lose less power through friction, which can help to improve fuel economy.

Overall, the shaft drive on the 1973 Honda CL350 is a key component that contributes to the bike's low-maintenance, reliable, and durable nature. It is a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that they can ride long distances without having to worry about breakdowns or major maintenance.

Dual-purpose

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a true dual-purpose motorcycle, meaning that it is capable of handling both on-road and off-road riding conditions. This versatility is due to several factors, including its powerful engine, sturdy frame, and long-travel suspension. The CL350's engine is a 325cc parallel-twin that produces plenty of torque for both on-road and off-road riding. The bike's frame is also very sturdy, and it is able to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. The CL350's suspension is also very good, with long-travel forks and shocks that can soak up bumps and rough terrain.

The CL350's dual-purpose nature makes it a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all. It is equally at home on the highway, on back roads, or on trails. This versatility makes the CL350 a great choice for commuting, touring, or off-road riding.

Classic

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular with riders today. There are several reasons for this, including its timeless design, its versatility, and its reliability. The CL350's classic design is one of its most appealing features. The bike has a retro look that is reminiscent of the classic British motorcycles of the 1960s and 1970s. This design appeals to many riders who appreciate the classic styling of older motorcycles.

Another reason for the CL350's popularity is its versatility. The bike is capable of handling both on-road and off-road riding conditions. This makes it a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all. The CL350 is also a very reliable motorcycle. It is known for its durability and longevity, and it is a great choice for riders who need a motorcycle that they can count on.

The combination of classic design, versatility, and reliability makes the 1973 Honda CL350 a popular choice for riders today. It is a great bike for riders who want a classic motorcycle that can handle a variety of riding conditions.

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a significant motorcycle because it represents a time when Honda was producing some of the best motorcycles in the world. The CL350 is a well-rounded motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain. It is a great choice for riders who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is still relevant today.

The popularity of the 1973 Honda CL350 is a testament to its enduring appeal as both a classic motorcycle and a versatile performer. Introduced in 1973, the CL350 quickly gained a reputation for its reliability, affordability, and fun-to-ride nature. These qualities made it a popular choice for riders of all ages and skill levels, and it remains a sought-after classic today.

One of the key reasons for the CL350's popularity is its timeless design. The bike's clean lines and classic styling have stood the test of time, and it continues to turn heads wherever it goes. The CL350's versatility is another major factor in its popularity. The bike is equally at home on the highway, on back roads, or on trails, making it a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all. The CL350's reliability is also a major selling point. The bike is known for its durability and longevity, and it is a great choice for riders who need a motorcycle that they can count on.

The combination of classic design, versatility, and reliability makes the 1973 Honda CL350 a popular choice for classic motorcycle enthusiasts today. It is a great bike for riders who want a classic motorcycle that is still relevant today.

Sought-after

The fact that the 1973 Honda CL350 is a sought-after motorcycle by collectors and riders alike is a testament to its enduring appeal and significance. This desirability is rooted in several key factors that have made the CL350 a standout motorcycle over the years.

Firstly, the CL350's classic design has stood the test of time, with its clean lines and timeless styling continuing to attract enthusiasts. Its versatility as both an on-road and off-road motorcycle further enhances its appeal, making it a popular choice for riders seeking a do-it-all machine.

Moreover, the CL350's reputation for reliability and durability has solidified its status as a sought-after motorcycle. Its robust construction and proven performance have earned it a loyal following among riders who value dependability and longevity in their machines. The CL350's affordability and ease of maintenance further contribute to its popularity, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.

In the collector's market, the CL350's historical significance and rarity make it a prized possession. Its association with Honda's rich heritage and its status as a classic motorcycle contribute to its desirability among collectors seeking to own a piece of motorcycling history.

Overall, the CL350's enduring popularity and sought-after status stem from its unique combination of classic design, versatility, reliability, and historical significance. These qualities have made it a cherished motorcycle for both riders and collectors, solidifying its place as a significant and desirable machine in the world of motorcycling.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 1973 Honda CL350

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a classic motorcycle that continues to captivate riders and enthusiasts. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this iconic machine:

Question 1: What are the key features of the 1973 Honda CL350?

The CL350 is renowned for its versatility, reliability, and affordability. It boasts a powerful 325cc parallel-twin engine, a smooth five-speed transmission, and a low-maintenance shaft drive. Its sturdy frame and long-travel suspension make it capable of handling both on-road and off-road adventures.

Question 2: How does the CL350 compare to other motorcycles of its era?

The CL350 stands out for its well-rounded performance and value for money. Compared to its contemporaries, it offered a combination of power, versatility, and reliability that made it a popular choice for riders seeking a do-it-all motorcycle.

Question 3: What makes the CL350 a sought-after classic today?

The CL350 has become a sought-after classic due to its timeless design, enduring reliability, and historical significance. Its classic lines and versatile nature continue to appeal to riders, while its reputation for dependability and longevity make it a prized possession for collectors.

Question 4: What are some of the common maintenance considerations for the CL350?

Regular maintenance is essential to keep the CL350 running smoothly. This includes routine oil changes, air filter cleaning, and brake inspections. Additionally, the shaft drive requires periodic lubrication, and the valve clearances should be checked and adjusted as needed.

Question 5: How does the CL350 perform in different riding conditions?

The CL350 is a versatile motorcycle that excels in a variety of riding conditions. Its powerful engine and sturdy frame provide ample performance for highway cruising, while its long-travel suspension and dual-purpose tires make it capable of tackling rough terrain and off-road adventures.

Question 6: What are some of the modifications and upgrades available for the CL350?

The CL350 has a dedicated following among enthusiasts who enjoy customizing and upgrading their machines. Popular modifications include performance exhaust systems, upgraded suspension components, and custom bodywork. These modifications can enhance the CL350's performance, aesthetics, or both.

In summary, the 1973 Honda CL350 remains a highly regarded classic motorcycle due to its timeless design, versatility, reliability, and historical significance. Its well-rounded performance and affordable nature make it an excellent choice for riders seeking a classic motorcycle that can handle a variety of riding conditions.

This concludes the frequently asked questions about the 1973 Honda CL350. For further information and insights, refer to reliable sources and engage with experienced riders and enthusiasts.

Tips for Maintaining and Enjoying Your 1973 Honda CL350

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a classic motorcycle known for its reliability, versatility, and affordability. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your CL350 running smoothly and enjoy riding it for many years to come.

Here are a few tips to help you maintain and enjoy your CL350:

Tip 1: Perform regular maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your CL350 running at its best. This includes routine oil changes, air filter cleaning, and brake inspections. Additionally, the shaft drive requires periodic lubrication, and the valve clearances should be checked and adjusted as needed.

Tip 2: Use high-quality parts and fluids

Using high-quality parts and fluids is crucial for the longevity of your CL350. This means using genuine Honda parts whenever possible and using high-quality oils and lubricants that meet the manufacturer's specifications.

Tip 3: Store your CL350 properly

When storing your CL350 for extended periods, take steps to protect it from the elements. This includes storing it in a dry, well-ventilated area and using a motorcycle cover to protect it from dust and moisture.

Tip 4: Ride your CL350 regularly

Regular riding is one of the best ways to keep your CL350 in good condition. This helps to circulate the fluids, lubricate the moving parts, and prevent the battery from draining.

Tip 5: Find a good mechanic

If you are not comfortable performing maintenance on your CL350 yourself, find a good mechanic who is familiar with classic motorcycles. A good mechanic can help you keep your CL350 running smoothly and safely.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your 1973 Honda CL350 continues to provide you with many years of riding enjoyment.

Remember, regular maintenance, using high-quality parts and fluids, and storing your motorcycle properly are key to preserving its performance, longevity, and value.

Conclusion

The 1973 Honda CL350 is a classic motorcycle that has stood the test of time. It is a versatile, reliable, and affordable machine that is still enjoyed by riders today. Its timeless design, combined with its proven performance and ease of maintenance, make it a sought-after classic.

For those who are fortunate enough to own a CL350, regular maintenance and care will ensure that it continues to provide many years of riding enjoyment. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your CL350 running smoothly and safely.

As the years go by, the 1973 Honda CL350 will undoubtedly continue to be cherished by riders and collectors alike. Its unique combination of classic style, versatility, and reliability make it a motorcycle that will always be remembered fondly.