VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1963 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 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 | 1963 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 | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 184.0 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
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 46hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 commands more attention with a 8/10 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 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120
The 1963 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 packs a 649cc OHV twin engine with 46hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 Profile →