VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan by contrast offered 492cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 47hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan by contrast offered 492cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 47hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 492 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 47 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 47hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan
A standard motorcycle from 1968, the 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan delivers 47hp from its 492cc 2-stroke twin engine.
Full 1968 Suzuki T500 Titan Profile →