History
The Honda XL350 K0 and K1 were identical except for the colour scheme (K0 was silver and blue and K1 was red and black) and were produced between 1973 and 1975. They replaced the ageing SL350 which was based on a CB350 twin cylinder 4 stroke engine and was 95% road and 5% trail. The XL350 was a true dual sport with 50/50 useability on the tarmac or in the woods. The big 4 valve single cylinder 4 stroke was recognised for its power, reliability and reasonable handling for it’s era.
This particular bike was purchased from its original owner and imported from the US with less than 4,600 miles on the odometer. It was unrestored, running, in excellent condition and with its original under-frame exhaust system and original Bridgestone Trail Wing tyres fitted. The tyres were still 70% but I replaced them as they were 37 years young. The Honda needed the fuel tank cleaned and carburettor needed a kit due to sitting so long. It appears the engine has never been opened or worked on.
This Honda runs like a “Swiss Watch” and is a pleasure to ride on the back trails, through narrow bush tracks and on the bitumen. It is a true dual sport machine, no trailering required here.
I purchased this XL350 as I nearly purchased a new silver and blue XL350 K0 back in 1974, but chose a Yamaha DT360A instead as I thought the Yamaha would be a “Better Machine” at racing in the Hattah BP Desert Rally and other competition events. How wrong was I. When this K1 was advertised I couldn’t resist it’s beautiful red and black colour scheme which was not available in Australia until the release here of the boxy looking XL350 K2.
The Honda XL350 is a bike that is ready to go at any time day or night.
After only travelling 600 miles in the 12 years of ownership I sold this XL350 in 2024.
Modifications
The original muffler needed rust repairs so we took the liberty of gutting it slightly to remove the majority of restrictions. The bike breathes and exhaust gasses are now exited more efficiently with little increase in noise level.
