1966 HONDA CA78 DREAM 305

STUNNING ORIGINAL SURVIVOR

7,300 MILES, FULLY SERVICED & TUNED

WHITEWALL TIRES – ELECTRIC START

COLLECTOR QUALITY!

A BEAUTIFULLY PRESERVED PIECE OF HONDA MOTORCYCLE HISTORY!

Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum are proud to offer this spectacular 1966 Honda CA78 Dream 305!

Feast your eyes on one of the most iconic Japanese touring motorcycles of the 1960s! This beautiful Honda Dream 305 is a remarkably well-preserved, low-mileage example with just 7,300 indicated miles, gorgeous original character, beautiful Firestone Deluxe Champion whitewall tires, and an extensive mechanical reconditioning and cosmetic detailing.

This is not a ground-up restoration that has erased six decades of history. This is an authentic vintage Honda survivor that retains much of its original factory finish, chrome, hardware, and unmistakable character, while benefiting from the servicing necessary to make it a fantastic running and riding classic.

It starts easily, runs excellent, looks amazing, and is ready for its next caretaker!

THE LEGENDARY HONDA DREAM 305

The Honda Dream was decades ahead of its time in styling, engineering, reliability, and everyday practicality. Its distinctive European-inspired touring profile, enclosed mechanical components, and electric-start twin-cylinder engine helped establish Honda's reputation as one of the world's premier motorcycle manufacturers.

From its uniquely shaped stamped-steel frame and deeply valanced fenders to its squared-off headlight, beautifully sculpted fuel tank, enclosed rear chain, and comfortable two-up saddle, the Dream was unlike anything else on the road.

This machine showcases everything that made the Honda Dream so special:

• Legendary 305cc four-stroke parallel-twin engine

• Overhead-camshaft engine design

• Smooth and dependable electric starting

• Backup kickstarter

• Factory 12-volt electrical system

• Simple and reliable single-carburetor induction

• Beautiful original-style dual exhaust system

• Distinctive stamped-steel frame

• Classic square headlight and enclosed front fork design

• Deeply valanced front and rear fenders

• Iconic chrome fuel tank side panels with rubber knee grips

• Beautiful factory-style Honda tank emblems

• Comfortable full-length two-passenger saddle

• Original-style heel-toe shifter

• Fully enclosed rear drive chain

• Distinctive enclosed rear shocks

• Original-style center stand and side stand

• Factory-style rear luggage rack

• Gorgeous Firestone Deluxe Champion whitewall tires

This is vintage Honda engineering and styling at its finest!

BEAUTIFUL ORIGINAL PATINA – AUTHENTIC SURVIVOR CHARACTER

One of the most appealing aspects of this particular motorcycle is its remarkable originality.

The fuel tank retains what we believe to be its original factory black paint, displaying the beautiful aged finish and authentic patina that collectors appreciate. The front and rear fenders also retain their original paint with some touch up paint present.

Unlike motorcycles that have been completely stripped and repainted, this Dream retains the character and originality that simply cannot be duplicated.

The original-style chrome handlebars are in excellent condition, and the rubber Honda grips appear to be factory originals, complete with their aged finish and Honda markings.

The large chrome tank panels, rubber knee protectors, and iconic Honda emblems beautifully complement the black paint.

The original chrome wheel rims present very well overall, with some age-related pitting and patina, particularly on portions of the rear rim. These imperfections are cosmetic and consistent with a carefully preserved, approximately 60-year-old motorcycle.

The original exhaust system is in excellent condition and retains its beautiful classic appearance.

The original-style factory rear shocks, enclosed drive chain, footpegs, heel-toe shifter, kickstarter, center stand, side stand, and rear luggage rack are all present.

The engine cases have been carefully refinished, with freshly painted surfaces and polished aluminum components that present beautifully.

The side covers have also been professionally refinished and repainted to match the original factory black finish.

The original rear fender displays a small area where an old registration or inspection sticker was removed, leaving a visible outline and minor surface irregularity that was touched up. We have intentionally retained this original finish rather than repainting the entire fender and removing its historical character.

The result is an outstanding combination of vintage originality, mechanical dependability, and exceptional presentation.

EXTENSIVE MECHANICAL SERVICE AND RECONDITIONING!

At Kaplan Cycles, we understand that acquiring a vintage motorcycle is about much more than buying something that looks good in photographs.

A 1966 motorcycle may look beautiful but still require extensive mechanical attention before it can be enjoyed.

That's why our team invested approaching 40 hours of professional labor, billed at our $150-per-hour shop rate, plus parts and materials, servicing, inspecting, detailing, and reconditioning this exceptional Honda Dream.

MECHANICAL AND COSMETIC WORK PERFORMED:

• Comprehensive mechanical inspection and major tune-up

• Carburetor professionally rebuilt and serviced

• Fuel tank cleaned and inspected

• Fuel petcock rebuilt

• New fuel lines installed

• New spark plugs installed

• New spark plug wires installed

• Fresh engine oil

• New air filter

• New battery installed

• Battery tender connection installed

• Firestone Deluxe Champion whitewall tires installed

• Brake components cleaned and refinished

• Engine covers and cases refinished where needed

• Aluminum components polished

• Side covers refinished in factory-style black

• Center stand and side stand cleaned and refinished

• Extensive cosmetic cleaning and professional detailing

• Overall running and operational inspection

$6,000 in professional labor alone was invested, based on approximately 40 hours at our $150 shop rate, before the cost of new tires, battery, components, and materials!

The motorcycle now starts easily, runs excellent, and presents beautifully.

The 12-volt electric-start system is a wonderful feature on a motorcycle of this vintage, and the original-style backup kickstarter remains intact.

The engine is a particularly attractive design because, although it is a twin-cylinder motorcycle, it uses a single carburetor. This makes maintenance and tuning simpler than many comparable twin-cylinder classics.

The fuel tank is clean inside, the original-style gas cap presents well, and the motorcycle has been carefully sorted for its next owner.

GORGEOUS FIRESTONE WHITEWALL TIRES!

One of the most eye-catching features of this Dream is its set of brand-new Firestone Deluxe Champion whitewall tires.

The substantial 3.25-16 rear tire, with its classic whitewall design, beautifully complements the original black paint, deep fenders, and bright chrome trim.

These tires dramatically enhance the already beautiful profile of the CA78 Dream.

From the square headlight and classic front suspension covers to the long, flat saddle and fully enclosed rear chain, this motorcycle looks like it belongs in a vintage Honda advertisement from the mid-1960s.

It's an absolute showstopper!

ORIGINAL ENGINE – CORRECT CA77E ENGINE SERIES

This is a later-production Honda CA78 Dream equipped with its correct-type CA77E-series 305cc engine, believed to be the original engine installed in this motorcycle.

The engine starts easily and runs beautifully.

With only 7,300 indicated miles, this machine represents an increasingly difficult opportunity to acquire a well-preserved example that hasn't been neglected, heavily modified, or completely restored beyond recognition.

Its combination of original character, correct components, recent mechanical servicing, and exceptionally attractive appearance makes it a standout vintage Honda.

PERFECT FOR VINTAGE RIDES, SHOWS, AND COLLECTIONS!

The Honda Dream 305 was designed for comfortable, dependable transportation, and its styling remains as charming today as it was when new.

The comfortable flat saddle provides room for two, the factory-style luggage rack offers practical carrying space, and the smooth twin-cylinder engine makes this a wonderful motorcycle for relaxed backroad cruising.

Picture taking your significant other on a beautiful summer afternoon ride, stopping at a country store or heading to the beach with a picnic basket strapped to the back.

That's exactly the kind of experience these motorcycles were designed to deliver!

This Dream would be an excellent addition to:

• A serious vintage Honda motorcycle collection

• A classic Japanese motorcycle display

• A private motorcycle museum

• Vintage motorcycle shows and rallies

• Moto Giro-style vintage riding events, subject to event eligibility

• Local classic motorcycle cruises and exhibitions

• An enthusiast's collection of historically significant Japanese motorcycles

It would also make a beautiful centerpiece in a showroom, office, garage, or private collection.

Few motorcycles represent Honda's early success in the American market as beautifully as the Dream 305.

A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN AN ICONIC HONDA CLASSIC

Finding a Honda Dream from the 1960s isn't necessarily impossible.

Finding one that retains this much original character, has such low indicated mileage, presents this beautifully, and has already received extensive professional mechanical attention is another story entirely.

Many surviving examples have been sitting unused for decades, are missing important original components, have deteriorated chrome and fuel systems, or require extensive mechanical rehabilitation.

This particular example has already received the kind of careful attention that can make vintage motorcycle ownership much more enjoyable.

The combination of its original paint, classic black-and-chrome presentation, whitewall tires, extensive recent service, and outstanding running condition makes this a desirable collector-quality machine.

It is a wonderful piece of Honda history with lasting appeal to enthusiasts and collectors.

MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS

Year: 1966
Manufacturer: Honda
Model: CA78 Dream 305
Engine: 305cc Four-Stroke Parallel Twin
Engine Series: CA77E
Transmission: Manual with Heel-Toe Shifter
Starting System: Electric Start and Kickstarter
Electrical System: 12 Volt
Fuel System: Single Carburetor
Mileage: 7,300 Indicated Miles
Color: Classic Black with Chrome Trim
Tires: Firestone Deluxe Champion Whitewalls
Condition: Beautiful Original Survivor, Extensively Serviced and Detailed
Location: Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum – Rockville, Connecticut

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM KAPLAN CYCLES!

At Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum, vintage motorcycles are our passion.

Our team has extensive experience acquiring, servicing, restoring, and preserving important motorcycles from around the world.

This exceptional Honda Dream has been professionally inspected, serviced, detailed, and prepared for its next owner by our experienced staff.

Nationwide shipping is available!

We can assist with shipping arrangements to have this beautiful classic Honda delivered directly to your home or business.

Financing options are also available, subject to approval.

For additional information, photographs, shipping assistance, or to discuss purchasing this motorcycle, contact our team directly.

CALL KAPLAN CYCLES: 860-454-7024

Don't miss the opportunity to own this beautiful piece of Honda motorcycle history!

1966 HONDA CA78 DREAM 305 – 7,300 INDICATED MILES – EXTENSIVELY SERVICED – ORIGINAL PATINA – BEAUTIFUL WHITEWALL TIRES – RUNS EXCELLENT!

Please review all photographs and the accompanying video for a detailed representation of the motorcycle's condition. As with any vintage motorcycle, normal age-related wear and cosmetic imperfections should be expected. Originality and mileage are represented based on our inspection.

Thank you for your interest, and God Bless America!

KAPLAN CYCLES – NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM
Rockville, Connecticut
860-454-7024

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WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.

Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

 

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AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

 

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We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

 

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Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.