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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
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 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 178.0kg (392 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 178.0kg (392 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 | 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 178.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 191.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 46hp) and a higher top speed. The 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt — 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 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt
A standard motorcycle from 1970, the 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt delivers 46hp from its 654cc OHV twin engine.
Full 1970 BSA A65 Thunderbolt Profile →