VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 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 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 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 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 177 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 172.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 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 46hp) and a higher top speed. The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 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 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 →