VS
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1973 Norton Commando 850 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 1973 Norton Commando 850, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 828cc of OHV twin power, delivering 56hp at 5900rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1973 Norton Commando 850, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 828cc of OHV twin power, delivering 56hp at 5900rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1973 Norton Commando 850 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 828 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 56 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1973 Norton Commando 850 has the edge thanks to more power (56hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four, 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 1973 Norton Commando 850
The 1973 1973 Norton Commando 850 is a 828cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1973 Norton Commando 850 Profile →