VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL 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 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 40hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 40hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 | 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1460 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 40hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating.
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 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
Introduced in 1957, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL features a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 40hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Profile →