VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V 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 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 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 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 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 744 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 180.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 49hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V
Introduced in 1971, the 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V features a 744cc OHV twin engine producing 49hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1971 Triumph Tiger TR7V Profile →