25 Years Ago September, 1976

25 YEARS AGO SEPTEMBER, 1976

ROUNDUP

"Is easier always better?" That was the question posed on this month's cover. The subject? Automatic transmissions, specifically Honda’s new 750A with its semi-auto gearbox. In a shootout with the CB750 Four upon which it was based, the “Hondamatic” with its smaller carburetors offered better fuel mileage but was significantly slower through the quarter-mile, in top-gear roll-ons and top speed. Nonetheless, editors “absolutely loved the 750A in Los Angeles’ rush-hour freeway traffic,” but admitted to there being “quite a difference between the 750A and the 750F.” After three years of production (and annual styling updates), however, the CB750A was discontinued.

• The British motorcycle industry was also living on borrowed time. Joe Scalzo’s special report detailed the imminent demise of Norton Villiers Triumph Ltd. “The question is,” Scalzo asked in conclusion, “does anyone still care?”

• On a brighter note, motorcycles took three out the top four spots in the annual Baja 500. Leading the way was the Husqvarna-mounted duo of Larry Roeseier and A.C. Bakken, followed by Terry Clark and Howard Utsey, also on a Husky. Yet another Swedish twostroke, this one ridden by Scot Harden and (now brother-in-law) Jack Johnson, headed the 250cc class. The accompanying image of Harden, togged up in a Bob Beampinstriped Bell Magnum helmet and Scott facemask, was the work of Cl/l/’s founding editor, the late Joe Parkhurst.

Matthew Miles