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 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. 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 Shovelhead | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 320.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 345.0 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 Shovelhead, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary and good for the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead — 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 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 →