VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1958 Norton Dominator 99 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 1958 Norton Dominator 99, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 597cc of OHV twin power, delivering 31hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 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 1958 Norton Dominator 99, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 597cc of OHV twin power, delivering 31hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 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 | 1958 Norton Dominator 99 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 597 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 31 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 40.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 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 31hp) and a higher top speed. The 1958 Norton Dominator 99, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 — 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 1958 Norton Dominator 99
Introduced in 1958, the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 features a 597cc OHV twin engine producing 31hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1958 Norton Dominator 99 Profile →