The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber from Japan was powered by a 444cc DOHC twin producing 43hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 187.0kg (412 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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
| 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber | 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 444 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 187.0 kg | 320.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 345.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber 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 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber's 43hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead for long-distance touring with passenger comfort.
About the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber
Born in 1966, the 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber is a 444cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 43hp from Honda.
Full 1966 Honda CB450 Black Bomber 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 →