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 B44 Victor Special, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 441cc of OHV single power, delivering 28hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 156.0kg (344 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 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 B44 Victor Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 441 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 28 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 34.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 156.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 168.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 10.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four's 50hp trumps the 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special's 28hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1971 Honda CB500 Four if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special for off-road capability and adventure riding. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special — 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 B44 Victor Special
A dual-sport from 1970, the 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special delivers 28hp from its 441cc OHV single engine.
Full 1970 BSA B44 Victor Special Profile →