Honda CL200

1974 Honda CL200

The Honda CL200 Scrambler motorcycle was produced only in 1974, colored Candy Riviera Blue, with a 198cc 4-stroke OHC parallel twin cylinder engine mated to a 5 speed transmission. It was similar to the Honda CB200; unlike the exhaust system of the CB200, which was mounted under the transmission gearbox on either side of the bike, the exhaust system of the Scrambler was mounted above the gearbox with both pipes on the left side of the bike. The exhaust pipe and heat shield were chrome. The "CL200" side cover emblem was yellow and white. The serial number began CL200-1000001.

The 1974 CL200 marked the end of the evolution of the smaller Honda twin scramblers that began with the CL160 in 1965. In 1968, the CL175 was introduced and ran a full production line until 1973. As many other motorcycles were ever increasing in size, the 1974 CL200 was introduced and marked the end of the line as it was not continued into a second year.

Today, the 1960s and 1970s Honda twins are showing a remarkable comeback with the increased price of gasoline and the avoidance of Chinese motor scooters. Ever increasing numbers of younger riders are taking a liking to vintage bikes both for the lower than new bike cost and the increased curb appeal. The CL/Scrambler models are regularly turned into café street bikes with the higher exhaust pipes. The increased ground clearance allows for a range of adjustable frame heights when customizing for the individual rider.

Honorable mention: The CL200 is the smaller cousin to the CL350 Honda Scrambler used in the movie “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”.