VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 by contrast offered 624cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 by contrast offered 624cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 624 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 49.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 Four Profile →About the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650
Kawasaki released the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 in 1966 with a 624cc OHV vertical twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 Profile →