VS
The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster are both iconic 1980s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1985 Honda XBR500 from Japan was powered by a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 161.0kg (355 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1985 Honda XBR500 | 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 1100 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster has the edge thanks to more power (60hp vs 44hp) and a higher top speed. The 1985 Honda XBR500, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 and good for the 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1985 Honda XBR500 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 →