VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1947 Indian Bonneville both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1947 Indian Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 1200 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 40hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1947 Indian Bonneville, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and very difficult for the 1947 Indian Bonneville — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 Four Profile →About the 1947 Indian Bonneville
Indian released the 1947 Indian Bonneville in 1947 with a 1200cc SV V-twin powerplant making 40hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1947 Indian Bonneville Profile →