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 1974 Norton John Player Norton, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 828cc of OHV twin power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1974 Norton John Player Norton | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 828 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 65.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -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 1974 Norton John Player Norton targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1974 Norton John Player Norton's 70hp 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 1974 Norton John Player Norton for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is moderate for the 1970 Honda CB100 and very difficult for the 1974 Norton John Player Norton — 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 1974 Norton John Player Norton
The 1974 1974 Norton John Player Norton is a 828cc twin-cylinder racing machine that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1974 Norton John Player Norton Profile →