The 1990 Honda CB-1 from Japan was powered by a 399cc DOHC inline-4 producing 57hp at 12000rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at naked riders.
The 1975 Yamaha RD350 by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 39hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 150.0kg (331 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1990 Honda CB-1 | 1975 Yamaha RD350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 399 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 57 hp | 39 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 33.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 150.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 183.0 kg | 163.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1385 mm | 1345 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1990 Honda CB-1 is built for versatile street riding and daily commuting, while the 1975 Yamaha RD350 targets all-round versatility and everyday riding. On paper, the 1990 Honda CB-1's 57hp trumps the 1975 Yamaha RD350's 39hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1990 Honda CB-1 if you value versatile street riding and daily commuting; pick the 1975 Yamaha RD350 for all-round versatility and everyday riding.
About the 1990 Honda CB-1
Introduced in 1990, the 1990 Honda CB-1 features a 399cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 57hp, establishing itself as a notable naked bike.
Full 1990 Honda CB-1 Profile →About the 1975 Yamaha RD350
Yamaha released the 1975 Yamaha RD350 in 1975 with a 347cc 2-stroke twin powerplant making 39hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1975 Yamaha RD350 Profile →