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The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and 1978 BMW R80/7 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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
| 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing | 1978 BMW R80/7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 798 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing has the edge thanks to more power (80hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1978 BMW R80/7, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
The 1975 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing packs a 999cc SOHC flat-4 engine with 80hp into a touring motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing Profile →About the 1978 BMW R80/7
A touring motorcycle from 1978, the 1978 BMW R80/7 delivers 50hp from its 798cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1978 BMW R80/7 Profile →