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The 1986 Honda VFR750F and 1987 Kawasaki EX500 are both iconic 1980s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1986 Honda VFR750F from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 105hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 209.0kg (461 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 by contrast offered 498cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 60hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 173.0kg (381 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 1986 Honda VFR750F from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 105hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 209.0kg (461 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 by contrast offered 498cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 60hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 173.0kg (381 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
| 1986 Honda VFR750F | 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 209.0 kg | 173.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 228.0 kg | 189.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1986 Honda VFR750F has the edge thanks to more power (105hp vs 60hp) and a higher top speed. The 1987 Kawasaki EX500, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1986 Honda VFR750F commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1986 Honda VFR750F
A sport bike from 1986, the 1986 Honda VFR750F delivers 105hp from its 748cc DOHC V-4 engine.
Full 1986 Honda VFR750F Profile →About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 Profile →