25 Years Ago March, 1980

25 YEARS AGO MARCH, 1980

ROUNDUP

The coverbike Honda CB900 was billed on the table of contents as, “A Science Fiction Motorcycle: Air Suspension, Two Transmissions, Shaft Drive and More.” Two transmissions was true, as it had a five-speed with a dual range, making fora 10-speeder. But like the air suspension, it wasn’t something that really caught on in a big way.

• Another multi-cylinder Japanese bike tested was the second-generation Suzuki GS750. At a time when emissions regulations were choking the power out of bikes, the GS came to market with 5 more horsepower and quicker acceleration, leading editors to state that the engine overpowered the chassis. No way! On the practical side, the issue included an Owner Survey, which said, "Extraordinary dependability and owner loyalty characterize the GS750.”

• Singles got their due, too, with tests of the Honda XR200 (“more power, lower seat”) and Yamaha SR500 (“In exchange for lack of speed, you get a bike that’s tricky to start. But it’s worth it.”), as well as a long-term report on the Kawasaki KX250.

• In racing, the AMA Grand National Champion was privateer Steve Eklund, while Rookie of the Year Scott Parker was shown jumping a unicycle off a ramp! Husqvarna was tops in Baja, where Larry Roeseler and Jack Johnson took the overall win, 1 hour, 29 minutes ahead of second place.

Mark Hoyer