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 1972 Honda SL350 by contrast offered 325cc of SOHC twin power, delivering 33hp at 9500rpm. 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 | 1972 Honda SL350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 325 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 33 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 27.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 149.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 163.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1350 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 10.5 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1972 Honda SL350 pushed output to 33hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1972 Honda SL350 — 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 1972 Honda SL350
The 1972 1972 Honda SL350 is a 325cc twin-cylinder dual-sport that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1972 Honda SL350 Profile →