VS
The 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport and 1952 Norton ES2 both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport from Japan was powered by a 408cc SOHC inline-4 producing 37hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 174.0kg (384 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1952 Norton ES2, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 490cc of OHV single power, delivering 22hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 125km/h (78 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 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport from Japan was powered by a 408cc SOHC inline-4 producing 37hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 174.0kg (384 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1952 Norton ES2, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 490cc of OHV single power, delivering 22hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 125km/h (78 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
| 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport | 1952 Norton ES2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 408 cc | 490 cc |
| Power | 37 hp | 22 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 30.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 125 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 174.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport has the edge thanks to more power (37hp vs 22hp) and a higher top speed. The 1952 Norton ES2, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport and moderate for the 1952 Norton ES2 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport
Born in 1975, the 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport is a 408cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 37hp from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda CB400F Super Sport Profile →About the 1952 Norton ES2
A standard motorcycle from 1952, the 1952 Norton ES2 delivers 22hp from its 490cc OHV single engine.
Full 1952 Norton ES2 Profile →