| Production Years | 1976 – 1977 |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | SAE 10W-40 (API SE / JASO-MA) |
| Oil Capacity | 2.0 Liters |
| Tires (F/R) | F: 3.00-18 / R: 3.50-18 |
| Tire Pressure | F: 1.8 bar (26 psi) / R: 2.0 bar (28 psi) |
| Battery | 12N6-3B |
| Spark Plug | NGK B8ES (Gap: 0.7 – 0.8 mm) |
Unlike its more common sibling, the CB360, the Honda CJ 360 T was engineered with a strict philosophy of weight reduction and mechanical simplicity. A unique engineering highlight of the CJ360 is the factory deletion of the electric starter and the sixth gear found in the CB variant. This resulted in a significantly lighter machine that offered a more visceral, ‘purist’ connection to the road, often cited as Honda’s first true production-line tribute to the British café racer aesthetic.
Technical Engineering Overview
The heart of the CJ360 is a 356cc air-cooled parallel twin. By utilizing a 5-speed gearbox and a kick-start only mechanism, Honda shed nearly 10kg of weight compared to the CB360. The long, sweeping 2-into-1 exhaust system was not just a stylistic choice; it was tuned to provide a broader torque curve in the mid-range, making it an ideal urban commuter and a favorite for custom builders today.
Maintenance Essentials
Lubrication System
For the CJ360 to maintain its longevity, high-quality SAE 10W-40 oil is mandatory. Given the vintage nature of the engine’s internal seals and the wet clutch system, we recommend a JASO-MA rated oil to prevent clutch slippage. The total capacity is 2.0 Liters. Regular oil changes are critical as this model lacks a modern spin-on filter, relying instead on a centrifugal oil cleaner and a mesh screen.
Ignition and Electrical
The electrical system is simplified but requires precision. The 12N6-3B battery must be kept at a full charge to ensure consistent spark across the rev range. For the ignition system, the NGK B8ES is the standard plug. Ensure the gap is set strictly between 0.7 – 0.8 mm to avoid misfires under high compression.
Chassis and Tires
The CJ360 features 18-inch wheels front and rear. For optimal handling and to prevent uneven wear on vintage-style rims, maintain tire pressures at 1.8 bar (26 psi) for the front 3.00-18 tire and 2.0 bar (28 psi) for the rear 3.50-18 tire. Over-inflating can lead to a harsh ride, while under-inflating will sluggishly impact the bike’s nimble steering geometry.
MotoSpecsLab Verdict
The Honda CJ 360 T remains a standout example of 1970s Japanese engineering where ‘less is more.’ While it was marketed as a budget alternative during its release, today it is prized for its clean lines and mechanical transparency. For collectors and enthusiasts, maintaining these specific tolerances is key to preserving the distinctive character of this parallel-twin classic.