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 1990 Honda CB-1 by contrast offered 399cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 57hp at 12000rpm. Tipping the scales at 168.0kg (370 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
| 1988 Honda NX650 Dominator | 1990 Honda CB-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 644 cc | 399 cc |
| Power | 44 hp | 57 hp |
| Torque | 51.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 163.0 kg | 168.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 181.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 860 mm | 770 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1385 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -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 1990 Honda CB-1 pushed output to 57hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1990 Honda CB-1 holds the edge with a 5/10 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 1990 Honda CB-1 — 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 1990 Honda CB-1
Introduced in 1990, the 1990 Honda CB-1 features a 399cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 57hp, establishing itself as a notable naked bike.
Full 1990 Honda CB-1 Profile →