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The 1970 Honda CB100 and 1975 Kawasaki KH500 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1975 Kawasaki KH500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 has the edge thanks to more power (52hp vs 10hp) and a higher top speed. The 1970 Honda CB100, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating.
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 1975 Kawasaki KH500
The 1975 1975 Kawasaki KH500 is a 498cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Kawasaki KH500 Profile →