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The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
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 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane by contrast offered 598cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 85hp at 11000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane by contrast offered 598cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 85hp at 11000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 | 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 598 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 85 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1985 Honda XBR500 laid the groundwork with 44hp, while the later 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane pushed output to 85hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 and good for the 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane — 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 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane
A sport bike from 1987, the 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane delivers 85hp from its 598cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1987 Honda CBR600F Hurricane Profile →