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 1971 BSA B50MX, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV single power, delivering 34hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 149.0kg (328 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 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 | 1971 BSA B50MX | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 38.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 149.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 161.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 10.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1971 BSA B50MX targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four's 50hp trumps the 1971 BSA B50MX's 34hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1971 Honda CB500 Four if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1971 BSA B50MX for off-road capability and adventure riding. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1971 BSA B50MX — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1971 BSA B50MX
Introduced in 1971, the 1971 BSA B50MX features a 499cc OHV single engine producing 34hp, establishing itself as a notable dual-sport.
Full 1971 BSA B50MX Profile →