The 1969 Honda CB750 Four from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 67hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 218.0kg (481 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1962 Norton Manx 30M, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of DOHC single power, delivering 54hp at 7200rpm. Tipping the scales at 136.0kg (300 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1969 Honda CB750 Four | 1962 Norton Manx 30M | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 736 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 54 hp |
| Torque | 59.0 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 218.0 kg | 136.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 235.0 kg | 146.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1455 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1969 Honda CB750 Four is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1962 Norton Manx 30M targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1969 Honda CB750 Four's 67hp trumps the 1962 Norton Manx 30M's 54hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1969 Honda CB750 Four if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1962 Norton Manx 30M for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1969 Honda CB750 Four and very difficult for the 1962 Norton Manx 30M — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1969 Honda CB750 Four
A standard motorcycle from 1969, the 1969 Honda CB750 Four delivers 67hp from its 736cc SOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1969 Honda CB750 Four Profile →About the 1962 Norton Manx 30M
A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M delivers 54hp from its 499cc DOHC single engine.
Full 1962 Norton Manx 30M Profile →