VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 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 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 172.0kg (379 lbs) with a top speed of 177km/h (110 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 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 172.0kg (379 lbs) with a top speed of 177km/h (110 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 | 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 177 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 172.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 185.0 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 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 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 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120
The 1959 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 packs a 649cc OHV twin engine with 46hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 Profile →