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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 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 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 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 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 53 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 53.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 53hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference.
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 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 →