The 1969 Honda CB750 Four from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 67hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 218.0kg (481 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1974 Norton John Player Norton, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 828cc of OHV twin power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1969 Honda CB750 Four | 1974 Norton John Player Norton | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 736 cc | 828 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 59.0 Nm | 65.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 218.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 235.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1455 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1969 Honda CB750 Four is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1974 Norton John Player Norton targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1974 Norton John Player Norton's 70hp trumps the 1969 Honda CB750 Four's 67hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1969 Honda CB750 Four if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1974 Norton John Player Norton for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1969 Honda CB750 Four and very difficult for the 1974 Norton John Player Norton — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1969 Honda CB750 Four
A standard motorcycle from 1969, the 1969 Honda CB750 Four delivers 67hp from its 736cc SOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1969 Honda CB750 Four Profile →About the 1974 Norton John Player Norton
The 1974 1974 Norton John Player Norton is a 828cc twin-cylinder racing machine that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1974 Norton John Player Norton Profile →