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The 1970 Honda CB100 and 1978 Yamaha SR500 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 1978 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 1978 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 | 1978 Yamaha SR500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 99 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 10 hp | 32 hp |
| Torque | 7.5 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 87.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 96.0 kg | 172.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1978 Yamaha SR500 has the edge thanks to more power (32hp 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 1978 Yamaha SR500 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is moderate for the 1970 Honda CB100 and good for the 1978 Yamaha SR500 — 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 1978 Yamaha SR500
The 1978 1978 Yamaha SR500 packs a 499cc SOHC single engine with 32hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1978 Yamaha SR500 Profile →