VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
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 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 58hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 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 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 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 58hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 750 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
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 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH
A standard motorcycle from 1970, the 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH delivers 58hp from its 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine.
Full 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH Profile →