1975 CB360 from Slipstream Creations…
Introduced in 1974 to succeed the highly successful CB350 twin (actually 325cc), the Honda CB360 boasted a number of upgrades over its predecessor: more displacement (356cc), along with a broader torque curve, six-speed transmission, slipper-type cam chain tensioner, trochoidal oil pump, and more.
Like the CB350, the 360 was a great all-rounder, with decent handling and plenty of charm.
“The Honda CB360 is a motorcycle that I’d probably recommend above all others as a first bike – it’s light, nimble, reliable and it does a valiant job of keeping up with the big boys when you want to take it out canyon carving…” –Silodrome
In our opinion, James Fawcett of Slipstream Creations is the best in the business when it comes to classy Honda CB builds, especially the twins and singles. James has a knack for preserving the original charm and character of these machines while updating them to contemporary standards of style, tech, and reliability.
This ’75 CB360 “Backroads Scrambler” is no exception — a perfectly balanced blend of old and new, sure to provide many smiles and miles to the new owner. Highlights include a custom streamlined subframe and saddle, 18-inch wheels with dual-sport tires, rebuilt top-end with ported head and twin Mikuni carbs, modified CL high-pipe exhaust, removable rear rack, CL360 tank with a gorgeous Baylor green and gold paint job, and more.
As with every Slipstream Creation, what sets this bike is “all the little, big details,” as James calls it. For instance, the custom-fabbed rear rack flows so well with the lines of the bike we’d probably never remove it! Below, James gives us the details on the build.
Honda CB360 Scrambler: In the Builder’s Words…
When a motorcycle enthusiast from California saw some of our previous work online, he knew we could help bring his vision for a fun vintage scrambler restomod to life. Starting with a 1975 Honda CB360 that we already had here in the shop, we planned a build incorporating Slipstream’s design sensibilities with his own functional and aesthetic preferences.
A sleek custom subframe helps tidy up this CB360 frame and serves as a streamlined foundation for the rest of the build.
Custom tank mounts allow the fitment of a slightly more compact CL350 scrambler tank.
Oversized 18-inch aluminum rims were built with stainless steel spokes from Buchanan’s Spoke & Rim, and wrapped in some dual-sport rubber from Shinko.
The gold accents on the wheels and modified Honda wing logo add a touch of class, perfectly complementing the Baylor University green and gold theme.
The low-miles, but nearly 50-year-old engine received some love, including a top-end rebuild and ported head. Twin Mikuni VM30 carburetors supply fuel.
The high-pipe exhaust headers come from a CL360 scrambler but are re-bent and modified to flow with the lines of the bike. The pipes were topped off with shorty mufflers, and the entire exhaust system was Cerakoted in a satin black finish.
A few modern touches help this vintage Honda make the most of the latest technology. The electrical system has been updated with a modern regulator/rectifier unit and a lithium battery tucked into a custom tray under the seat. Electronic ignition from Charlie’s Place replaced the old points ignition system for better performance and reliability.
The lighting has all been upgraded to use LEDs, including an integrated headlight / turn signal unit and an LED taillight / turn signal strip that is recessed for a flush fit in the custom seat hoop. With a TrailTech Vapor digital gauge unit, this custom scrambler blends vintage charm with high-tech functionality.
While all of those modifications look great on paper, the owner of this bike wanted to be sure this vintage Honda would be a fun and functional bike he could actually ride. One of his early requests was that the build included a clean and simple pillion rack that was easy to attach and remove, and that didn’t distract from the bike’s clean lines. We were able to custom fabricate a simple rack that mounts easily, and flows so well with the overall look of the bike we almost prefer the way this CB360 looks with it on.
As with all of our builds, there’s not really a single feature that steals the show. We’re always looking for ways to thoughtfully incorporate details so we end up with a nice cohesive finished product. We think we hit the mark with this custom Honda CB360 backroads scrambler.
Build Video
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One hell of a bike!