VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1100cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 60hp at 5600rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1100cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 60hp at 5600rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 | 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 1100 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
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 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster
Introduced in 1986, the 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster features a 1100cc OHV V-twin Evolution engine producing 60hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster Profile →