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 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 320.0kg (705 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 161 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 16 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 12.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 132 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 120.0 kg | 320.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 133.0 kg | 345.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1270 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 19.0 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 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead targets long-distance touring with passenger comfort. On paper, the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead's 60hp 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 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead for long-distance touring with passenger comfort. Parts availability is moderate for the 1965 Honda CB160 and good for the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
The 1966 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead is a 1207cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead Profile →