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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1970 Yamaha R5 350 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1970 Yamaha R5 350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 145.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 36hp) and a higher top speed. The 1970 Yamaha R5 350, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 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 →