VS
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and 1964 Norton 650SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | 1964 Norton 650SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 59 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 37.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 141.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 155.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1355 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS has the edge thanks to more power (59hp vs 49hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1964 Norton 650SS, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority.
About the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS
The 1985 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS is a 347cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS 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 →