VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1973 Yamaha TX750 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 1973 Yamaha TX750 by contrast offered 743cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 63hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 1973 Yamaha TX750 by contrast offered 743cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 63hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 | 1973 Yamaha TX750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 743 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 63 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1973 Yamaha TX750 has the edge thanks to more power (63hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1973 Yamaha TX750 — 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 1973 Yamaha TX750
The 1973 1973 Yamaha TX750 packs a 743cc DOHC twin engine with 63hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1973 Yamaha TX750 Profile →