VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1956 Harley-Davidson KH both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1956 Harley-Davidson KH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 38hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 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 1956 Harley-Davidson KH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 38hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1956 Harley-Davidson KH | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 38 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 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 38hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1956 Harley-Davidson KH, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and difficult for the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH — 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 1956 Harley-Davidson KH
Harley-Davidson released the 1956 Harley-Davidson KH in 1956 with a 883cc SV V-twin powerplant making 38hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1956 Harley-Davidson KH Profile →