VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1978 Suzuki GS1000 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1978 Suzuki GS1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 997 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 87 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 has the edge thanks to more power (87hp vs 34hp) and a higher top speed. The 1972 Honda CB350 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 Four Profile →About the 1978 Suzuki GS1000
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 features a 997cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 87hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1978 Suzuki GS1000 Profile →