VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R 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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 740cc of OHV triple power, delivering 58hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 740cc of OHV triple power, delivering 58hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 218.0kg (481 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 740 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R has the edge thanks to more power (58hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R — 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 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R
Born in 1969, the 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R is a 740cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 58hp from BSA.
Full 1969 BSA Rocket 3 A75R Profile →