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The 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator and 1989 Honda GB500 TT represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
The 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator from Japan was powered by a 644cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 163.0kg (359 lbs) and with a seat height of 860mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1989 Honda GB500 TT by contrast offered 498cc of SOHC single power, delivering 40hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator from Japan was powered by a 644cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 163.0kg (359 lbs) and with a seat height of 860mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1989 Honda GB500 TT by contrast offered 498cc of SOHC single power, delivering 40hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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
| 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator | 1989 Honda GB500 TT | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 644 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 51.0 Nm | 39.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 163.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 181.0 kg | 184.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 860 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator laid the groundwork with 44hp, while the later 1989 Honda GB500 TT pushed output to 40hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1989 Honda GB500 TT holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is good for the 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator and moderate for the 1989 Honda GB500 TT — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1989 Honda GB500 TT
The 1989 1989 Honda GB500 TT packs a 498cc SOHC single engine with 40hp into a cafe racer package from Honda.
Full 1989 Honda GB500 TT Profile →