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 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 62hp at 5200rpm. Tipping the scales at 258.0kg (569 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 | 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 62 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 258.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 278.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 15.0 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 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider targets relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort. On paper, the 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider's 62hp 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 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider for relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort. Parts availability is moderate for the 1970 Honda CB100 and good for the 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider — 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 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider
Born in 1977, the 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider is a 1207cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 62hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1977 Harley-Davidson FXS Low Rider Profile →