VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star 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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 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 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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 36.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 34hp) and a higher top speed. The 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star — 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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star
Born in 1967, the 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star is a 499cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 34hp from BSA.
Full 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star Profile →