The 1970 Honda CB100 from Japan was powered by a 99cc SOHC single producing 10hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 87.0kg (192 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 748cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 90hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 145.0kg (320 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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
| 1970 Honda CB100 | 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 145.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 10.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1970 Honda CB100 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750's 90hp trumps the 1970 Honda CB100's 10hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1970 Honda CB100 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is moderate for the 1970 Honda CB100 and very difficult for the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1970 Honda CB100
Introduced in 1970, the 1970 Honda CB100 features a 99cc SOHC single engine producing 10hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1970 Honda CB100 Profile →About the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750
Born in 1970, the 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 is a 748cc twin-cylinder racing machine producing 90hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1970 Harley-Davidson XR750 Profile →