VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH 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 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 55hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 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 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 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 55hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 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
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 750 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH commands more attention with a 8/10 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 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH
Born in 1962, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is a 883cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Profile →