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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1975 Kawasaki KH500 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1975 Kawasaki KH500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 has the edge thanks to more power (52hp vs 50hp) and lower weight. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 — 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500
The 1975 1975 Kawasaki KH500 is a 498cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Kawasaki KH500 Profile →