The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 158km/h (98 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
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 158 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 180.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 193.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 34hp) and a higher top speed. The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T
The 1949 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T Profile →