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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple 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 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple by contrast offered 747cc of DOHC triple power, delivering 64hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple by contrast offered 747cc of DOHC triple power, delivering 64hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 747 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 60.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple has the edge thanks to more power (64hp 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 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple — 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 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple
A standard motorcycle from 1977, the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple delivers 64hp from its 747cc DOHC triple engine.
Full 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple Profile →