The 1965 Honda CB160 from Japan was powered by a 161cc SOHC twin producing 16hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 120.0kg (265 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1964 Norton 650SS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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
| 1965 Honda CB160 | 1964 Norton 650SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 161 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 16 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 12.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 132 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 120.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 133.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1965 Honda CB160 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1964 Norton 650SS targets aggressive cornering and track-day performance. On paper, the 1964 Norton 650SS's 49hp trumps the 1965 Honda CB160's 16hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1965 Honda CB160 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1964 Norton 650SS for aggressive cornering and track-day performance.
About the 1965 Honda CB160
A standard motorcycle from 1965, the 1965 Honda CB160 delivers 16hp from its 161cc SOHC twin engine.
Full 1965 Honda CB160 Profile →About the 1964 Norton 650SS
The 1964 1964 Norton 650SS is a 646cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1964 Norton 650SS Profile →