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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 by contrast offered 1101cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 95hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 268.0kg (591 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1979 Yamaha XS1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 1101 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 89.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 290.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 has the edge thanks to more power (95hp vs 80hp) and a higher top speed. The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and moderate for the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1979 Yamaha XS1100
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 features a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1979 Yamaha XS1100 Profile →