VS
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1964 Norton 650SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 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 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 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
| 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | 1964 Norton 650SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 has the edge thanks to more power (60hp 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. For collectors, the 1964 Norton 650SS commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and moderate for the 1964 Norton 650SS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 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 →