VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1978 Yamaha SR500 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 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 Yamaha SR500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 32 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 172.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1972 Honda CB350 Four has the edge thanks to more power (34hp vs 32hp) and a higher top speed. The 1978 Yamaha SR500, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package.
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 Yamaha SR500
The 1978 1978 Yamaha SR500 packs a 499cc SOHC single engine with 32hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1978 Yamaha SR500 Profile →