1973 Honda XR75
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1973 HONDA XR75
Spectacular Example Of The First-Year Model
Museum-Quality Concours Frame-Off Restoration
139 Hours Shop Labor Invested
No Expense Spared
"The Finest 1973 Honda XR75 We Have Ever Restored."
Offered for sale is what we believe to be one of the finest 1973 Honda XR75s in existence.
This is the iconic first-year, one-year-only model featuring the distinctive oversized fuel tank that made the original XR75
legendary among collectors and vintage Honda enthusiasts.
This motorcycle underwent a complete concours-quality frame-off restoration with one goal in mind: build the best XR75 we have ever produced,
regardless of time or cost.
We Invested 139 hours of professional restoration shop labor @ $150 Per Hour is $20,850 Plus $2,786 in parts into this project, representing over $23,636 in restoration costs alone—not including the purchase price of the motorcycle, shipping, taxes, paint materials, or countless hours of research sourcing impossible-to-find NOS components.
This was never intended to be a profitable project.
It was built simply because we wanted to create the finest XR75 restoration we had ever accomplished.
Restoration Highlights
This motorcycle was completely disassembled to the bare frame.
Every component was inspected, restored, rebuilt, refinished, replaced, or refurbished to concours standards.
There isn't a single nut or bolt on this motorcycle that wasn't removed and addressed during the restoration.
The project consumed 139 Hours Shop Labor over six months of time.
Engine
The original engine was completely dismantled to the last fastener.
Work performed includes:
-
Complete engine disassembly
-
Cases thoroughly cleaned
-
Cylinder and head serviced
-
Valves professionally lapped
-
Brand new piston
-
New piston rings
-
New intake
-
New clutch assembly
-
Complete carburetor rebuild
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New top-end gasket kit
-
New clutch cover gasket
-
New stator cover gaskets
-
New spark plug and plug boot
-
New fuel lines
-
New fuel filter
-
New OEM-style air intake boot
-
Original airbox professionally restored
-
New NOS cam chain tensioner installed
-
Original engine covers professionally polished
From the intake to the exhaust, virtually every mechanical component has either been restored or replaced.
The engine runs exactly as it should.
Frame & Chassis
The frame was professionally:
-
Sandblasted
-
Primed
-
Painted in the correct factory gloss black
The swingarm received the same treatment.
Additional restoration work includes:
-
Restored kickstand
-
Restored foot pegs
-
New peg springs and pins
-
Triple clamps restored and refinished
-
New steering bearings
-
New control cables throughout
Suspension
Originally, the bike was assembled using its factory fork tubes.
After completion, we noticed minor pitting in the original fork uppers.
Although they were perfectly serviceable, they simply did not meet the standards of this restoration.
So we disassembled the front end again and installed:
-
Brand new Honda chrome fork tubes
-
Professionally polished lower fork legs
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
Complete fork rebuild
This is the level of detail that defines this motorcycle.
Wheels
Finding NOS wheels for a 1973 XR75 today is nearly impossible.
Fortunately, we located genuine New Old Stock Honda rims in the United Kingdom—still wrapped in the original Honda packaging.
They were imported specifically for this restoration.
The wheels feature:
-
Genuine NOS Honda rims
-
Genuine NOS Honda spokes and nipples
-
Vapor-honed original hubs
-
New wheel bearings front and rear
-
Restored brake assemblies
-
Polished brake backing plates
-
New rim strips
-
New tubes
-
New front tire
-
New rear tire
The wheels alone required a big investment in both time and sourcing.
Bodywork
The original body components were carefully restored—not replaced with reproduction pieces.
Original components include:
-
Fuel tank
-
Front fender
-
Rear fender
-
Side number plates
-
Front number plate
-
Triple clamps
-
Seat
-
Frame
-
Engine cases
The fuel tank was professionally restored inside and out.
The exterior received:
-
Professional bodywork
-
Primer
-
Correct paint
-
Correct Honda graphics
-
Factory decals
Every painted component on the motorcycle was refinished to concours standards.
Original Components
One feature that makes this XR75 especially desirable is how many original Honda components remain with the motorcycle.
To the best of our knowledge, the following are original Honda pieces:
- Frame
- Engine cases
- Fuel tank
- Seat
- Seat cover
- Triple clamps
- Fenders
- Number plates
- Airbox
- Handlebars
The original seat was exceptionally well preserved and remains on the motorcycle today.
New OEM & NOS Components
An incredible number of genuine Honda parts were sourced during the restoration, including:
-
NOS brake lever
-
NOS clutch lever
-
NOS Honda grips
-
NOS kill switch
-
NOS fork dust caps
-
NOS chain guide
-
NOS chain tensioner
-
NOS wheel components
-
New Honda fork tubes
-
New crossbar pad
-
New throttle tube
-
New clutch cable
-
New front brake cable
-
New gas cap
-
New kickstarter rubber
-
New warning decals
-
New frame decals
-
New shifter rubber
-
New exhaust bracket
-
New OEM-style stock exhaust
The exhaust alone cost nearly $500.
Several individual NOS Honda components are virtually unobtainable today.
Every Detail Matters
Every aluminum component has been professionally polished.
Every painted surface refinished.
Every bearing replaced where needed.
Every fastener inspected.
Every control restored.
Every inch of this motorcycle reflects an obsessive attention to detail.
Even the original shocks were carefully restored.
The front & rear sprocket is new.
A new gold chain has been installed simply because we feel it enhances the presentation of the motorcycle.
If the winning bidder prefers a traditional black chain, we will gladly install one prior to delivery at no additional charge.
Investment
Professional Restoration Labor:
139 Hours @ $150/hour = $20,850
Parts:
$2,786
Total Restoration Investment:
$23,636
This figure does not include:
-
Purchase price of the motorcycle
-
Shipping
-
Taxes
-
Paint materials
-
Countless hours sourcing rare NOS components
The actual investment exceeds $25,000.
We fully understand we will never recover our investment.
That was never the objective.
The objective was to build the finest XR75 restoration we have ever produced.
Mission accomplished.
Why We Built It
At Kaplan Cycles, we restore motorcycles because we love preserving motorcycle history.
Some restorations can be completed in 60–70 hours.
This one required 139 hours because shortcuts were never considered.
If something wasn't absolutely perfect, it was done again.
That philosophy is what produced the motorcycle you see here.
Tomorrow, the manager of Honda's HRC National Racing Team will be visiting our facility.
Projects like this are why.
We build motorcycles that people remember.
Auction Information
This motorcycle is being offered for sale on eBay Auction.
The reserve is set well below our investment, and the market will ultimately determine its value.
If you've been searching for the ultimate first-year Honda XR75 to display in a private collection, museum, or ride sparingly at vintage events, you would be hard pressed to find another restored to this level.
Additional high-resolution photographs, restoration documentation, and our complete three-page parts invoice and three-page work order are available upon request.
Questions are always welcome.
Kaplan Cycles
📞 860-454-7024
Thank you for your interest, good luck bidding, and as always...
God Bless America.
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”
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
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.
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.
Wheels
1973 HONDA XR75
Spectacular Example Of The First-Year Model
Museum-Quality Concours Frame-Off Restoration
139 Hours Shop Labor Invested
No Expense Spared
"The Finest 1973 Honda XR75 We Have Ever Restored."
Offered for sale is what we believe to be one of the finest 1973 Honda XR75s in existence.
This is the iconic first-year, one-year-only model featuring the distinctive oversized fuel tank that made the original XR75
legendary among collectors and vintage Honda enthusiasts.
This motorcycle underwent a complete concours-quality frame-off restoration with one goal in mind: build the best XR75 we have ever produced,
regardless of time or cost.
We Invested 139 hours of professional restoration shop labor @ $150 Per Hour is $20,850 Plus $2,786 in parts into this project, representing over $23,636 in restoration costs alone—not including the purchase price of the motorcycle, shipping, taxes, paint materials, or countless hours of research sourcing impossible-to-find NOS components.
This was never intended to be a profitable project.
It was built simply because we wanted to create the finest XR75 restoration we had ever accomplished.
Restoration Highlights
This motorcycle was completely disassembled to the bare frame.
Every component was inspected, restored, rebuilt, refinished, replaced, or refurbished to concours standards.
There isn't a single nut or bolt on this motorcycle that wasn't removed and addressed during the restoration.
The project consumed 139 Hours Shop Labor over six months of time.
Engine
The original engine was completely dismantled to the last fastener.
Work performed includes:
-
Complete engine disassembly
-
Cases thoroughly cleaned
-
Cylinder and head serviced
-
Valves professionally lapped
-
Brand new piston
-
New piston rings
-
New intake
-
New clutch assembly
-
Complete carburetor rebuild
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New top-end gasket kit
-
New clutch cover gasket
-
New stator cover gaskets
-
New spark plug and plug boot
-
New fuel lines
-
New fuel filter
-
New OEM-style air intake boot
-
Original airbox professionally restored
-
New NOS cam chain tensioner installed
-
Original engine covers professionally polished
From the intake to the exhaust, virtually every mechanical component has either been restored or replaced.
The engine runs exactly as it should.
Frame & Chassis
The frame was professionally:
-
Sandblasted
-
Primed
-
Painted in the correct factory gloss black
The swingarm received the same treatment.
Additional restoration work includes:
-
Restored kickstand
-
Restored foot pegs
-
New peg springs and pins
-
Triple clamps restored and refinished
-
New steering bearings
-
New control cables throughout
Suspension
Originally, the bike was assembled using its factory fork tubes.
After completion, we noticed minor pitting in the original fork uppers.
Although they were perfectly serviceable, they simply did not meet the standards of this restoration.
So we disassembled the front end again and installed:
-
Brand new Honda chrome fork tubes
-
Professionally polished lower fork legs
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
Complete fork rebuild
This is the level of detail that defines this motorcycle.
Wheels
Finding NOS wheels for a 1973 XR75 today is nearly impossible.
Fortunately, we located genuine New Old Stock Honda rims in the United Kingdom—still wrapped in the original Honda packaging.
They were imported specifically for this restoration.
The wheels feature:
-
Genuine NOS Honda rims
-
Genuine NOS Honda spokes and nipples
-
Vapor-honed original hubs
-
New wheel bearings front and rear
-
Restored brake assemblies
-
Polished brake backing plates
-
New rim strips
-
New tubes
-
New front tire
-
New rear tire
The wheels alone required a big investment in both time and sourcing.
Bodywork
The original body components were carefully restored—not replaced with reproduction pieces.
Original components include:
-
Fuel tank
-
Front fender
-
Rear fender
-
Side number plates
-
Front number plate
-
Triple clamps
-
Seat
-
Frame
-
Engine cases
The fuel tank was professionally restored inside and out.
The exterior received:
-
Professional bodywork
-
Primer
-
Correct paint
-
Correct Honda graphics
-
Factory decals
Every painted component on the motorcycle was refinished to concours standards.
Original Components
One feature that makes this XR75 especially desirable is how many original Honda components remain with the motorcycle.
To the best of our knowledge, the following are original Honda pieces:
- Frame
- Engine cases
- Fuel tank
- Seat
- Seat cover
- Triple clamps
- Fenders
- Number plates
- Airbox
- Handlebars
The original seat was exceptionally well preserved and remains on the motorcycle today.
New OEM & NOS Components
An incredible number of genuine Honda parts were sourced during the restoration, including:
-
NOS brake lever
-
NOS clutch lever
-
NOS Honda grips
-
NOS kill switch
-
NOS fork dust caps
-
NOS chain guide
-
NOS chain tensioner
-
NOS wheel components
-
New Honda fork tubes
-
New crossbar pad
-
New throttle tube
-
New clutch cable
-
New front brake cable
-
New gas cap
-
New kickstarter rubber
-
New warning decals
-
New frame decals
-
New shifter rubber
-
New exhaust bracket
-
New OEM-style stock exhaust
The exhaust alone cost nearly $500.
Several individual NOS Honda components are virtually unobtainable today.
Every Detail Matters
Every aluminum component has been professionally polished.
Every painted surface refinished.
Every bearing replaced where needed.
Every fastener inspected.
Every control restored.
Every inch of this motorcycle reflects an obsessive attention to detail.
Even the original shocks were carefully restored.
The front & rear sprocket is new.
A new gold chain has been installed simply because we feel it enhances the presentation of the motorcycle.
If the winning bidder prefers a traditional black chain, we will gladly install one prior to delivery at no additional charge.
Investment
Professional Restoration Labor:
139 Hours @ $150/hour = $20,850
Parts:
$2,786
Total Restoration Investment:
$23,636
This figure does not include:
-
Purchase price of the motorcycle
-
Shipping
-
Taxes
-
Paint materials
-
Countless hours sourcing rare NOS components
The actual investment exceeds $25,000.
We fully understand we will never recover our investment.
That was never the objective.
The objective was to build the finest XR75 restoration we have ever produced.
Mission accomplished.
Why We Built It
At Kaplan Cycles, we restore motorcycles because we love preserving motorcycle history.
Some restorations can be completed in 60–70 hours.
This one required 139 hours because shortcuts were never considered.
If something wasn't absolutely perfect, it was done again.
That philosophy is what produced the motorcycle you see here.
Tomorrow, the manager of Honda's HRC National Racing Team will be visiting our facility.
Projects like this are why.
We build motorcycles that people remember.
Auction Information
This motorcycle is being offered for sale on eBay Auction.
The reserve is set well below our investment, and the market will ultimately determine its value.
If you've been searching for the ultimate first-year Honda XR75 to display in a private collection, museum, or ride sparingly at vintage events, you would be hard pressed to find another restored to this level.
Additional high-resolution photographs, restoration documentation, and our complete three-page parts invoice and three-page work order are available upon request.
Questions are always welcome.
Kaplan Cycles
📞 860-454-7024
Thank you for your interest, good luck bidding, and as always...
God Bless America.
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”
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
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.
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.
