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The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1970 Yamaha R5 350 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 36hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 145.0kg (320 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 36hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 145.0kg (320 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1970 Yamaha R5 350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 145.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1350 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 has the edge thanks to more power (36hp vs 34hp) and lower weight. The 1972 Honda CB350 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1972 Honda CB350 Four and moderate for the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 Four Profile →About the 1970 Yamaha R5 350
Born in 1970, the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 is a 347cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 36hp from Yamaha.
Full 1970 Yamaha R5 350 Profile →