VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket 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 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 43hp at 6250rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 43hp at 6250rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 | 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 43 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 180.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 193.0 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 43hp) and a higher top speed. The 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket
The 1961 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket packs a 646cc OHV twin engine with 43hp into a standard motorcycle package from BSA.
Full 1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket Profile →