VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL 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 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 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 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -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 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 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 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 →