The 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator from Japan was powered by a 644cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 163.0kg (359 lbs) and with a seat height of 860mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1982 Triumph TSS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator | 1982 Triumph TSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 644 cc | 744 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 51.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 163.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 181.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 860 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator is built for off-road capability and adventure riding, while the 1982 Triumph TSS targets all-round versatility and everyday riding. On paper, the 1982 Triumph TSS's 50hp trumps the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator's 44hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator if you value off-road capability and adventure riding; pick the 1982 Triumph TSS for all-round versatility and everyday riding. Parts availability is good for the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator and moderate for the 1982 Triumph TSS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator
The 1988 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator is a 644cc single-cylinder dual-sport that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator Profile →About the 1982 Triumph TSS
The 1982 1982 Triumph TSS is a 744cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1982 Triumph TSS Profile →