The 1989 Honda GB500 TT from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC single producing 40hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 170.0kg (375 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at cafe racer riders.
The 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade by contrast offered 893cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 124hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 260km/h (162 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
| 1989 Honda GB500 TT | 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 893 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 124 hp |
| Torque | 39.0 Nm | 86.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 260 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 170.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 184.0 kg | 206.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1405 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1989 Honda GB500 TT laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade pushed output to 124hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1989 Honda GB500 TT and good for the 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade
The 1993 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade is a 893cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade Profile →