VS
The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary and 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary from Japan was powered by a 497cc Wankel rotary producing 62hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary from Japan was powered by a 497cc Wankel rotary producing 62hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary | 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 62 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 75.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 340.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 365.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1485 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary has the edge thanks to more power (62hp vs 60hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary and good for the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary
Introduced in 1975, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary features a 497cc Wankel rotary engine producing 62hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary Profile →About the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide
Born in 1966, the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide is a 1207cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 60hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra Glide Profile →