VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1958 Norton Dominator 99 both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1958 Norton Dominator 99 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 597 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 31 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 40.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1972 Honda CB350 Four has the edge thanks to more power (34hp vs 31hp) and lower weight. The 1958 Norton Dominator 99, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1972 Honda CB350 Four and moderate for the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 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 →