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The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 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 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 by contrast offered 647cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 60hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 179.0kg (395 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 by contrast offered 647cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 60hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 179.0kg (395 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 647 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 55.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 179.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -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 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 pushed output to 60hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
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 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647
Honda released the 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 in 1988 with a 647cc OHV V-twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive cafe racer.
Full 1988 Honda Hawk GT 647 Profile →