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The 1985 Honda XBR500 and 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator 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 NX650 Dominator by contrast offered 644cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 163.0kg (359 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 NX650 Dominator by contrast offered 644cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 163.0kg (359 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 NX650 Dominator | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 499 cc | 644 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 51.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 161.0 kg | 163.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 176.0 kg | 181.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 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 NX650 Dominator pushed output to 44hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 4/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Honda XBR500 and good for the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator — 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 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 →