VS
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and 1970 BMW R75/5 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1970 BMW R75/5, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 745cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 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 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1970 BMW R75/5, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 745cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 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
| 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing | 1970 BMW R75/5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 216.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing has the edge thanks to more power (80hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1970 BMW R75/5, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package.
About the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
The 1975 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing packs a 999cc SOHC flat-4 engine with 80hp into a touring motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing Profile →About the 1970 BMW R75/5
BMW released the 1970 BMW R75/5 in 1970 with a 745cc OHV flat-twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1970 BMW R75/5 Profile →