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 XLCR Cafe Racer, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 998cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 61hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 XLCR Cafe Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 998 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 61 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 13.0 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 XLCR Cafe Racer targets spirited café-racer style riding. On paper, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer's 61hp 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 XLCR Cafe Racer for spirited café-racer style riding.
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 XLCR Cafe Racer
A cafe racer from 1977, the 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer delivers 61hp from its 998cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine.
Full 1977 Harley-Davidson XLCR Cafe Racer Profile →