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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 by contrast offered 654cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 53hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 by contrast offered 654cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 53hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 53 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 53.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650
The 1970 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 packs a 654cc OHV vertical twin engine with 53hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 Profile →