Honda CB1300 Super Four and Yamaha XJR1300 compared on Japanese-spec figures
Honda's CB1300 Super Four produces more torque than Yamaha's XJR1300, while the Yamaha weighs 22 kg less, according to a comparison of the two Japanese-market models.
The Honda CB1300 Super Four and Yamaha XJR1300 are the two Japanese representatives of the classic naked motorcycle segment, both with a four-cylinder engine, round headlight and twin rear shocks. A recently published comparison looks at them not only on horsepower but also on low and mid-range pulling power, weight, cooling system and long-distance features.
To avoid confusion over model years, the comparison uses two versions from close to the same period: the 2014 Honda CB1300 Super Four Japan model and the 2015 Yamaha XJR1300 Japan model. Data for European versions has not been merged into this comparison.
Technical specifications and performance gaps
In the Japanese-spec versions used as the reference, the power difference is only 1 PS. The Honda's peak torque is 7 Nm higher than the Yamaha's, roughly 6.5 percent more, and arrives 500 rpm earlier. The Yamaha, however, is 22 kg lighter. Calculated on dry weight, the power-to-weight ratio is about 0.378 PS/kg for the Honda and 0.408 PS/kg for the Yamaha, giving the Yamaha an advantage of roughly 7.9 percent. Even so, without measurements taken under identical conditions, it cannot be said which one is faster.
Yamaha's 2015 European technical data sheet lists the XJR1300 at 1,251 cc, 98 PS, 108.4 Nm and 240 kg kerb weight. Peak torque comes at 6,000 rpm, and the fuel tank holds 14.5 litres. Honda's 2025 Final Edition is quoted at 113 PS, 112 Nm and 266 kg.
Cooling and transmission
The Honda's engine is liquid-cooled, while the Yamaha's is air-cooled. That is the main engineering difference between the two. Air cooling alone does not mean less maintenance or greater durability.
Honda raised the CB1300's gearbox from five to six speeds in its 2014 update. The manufacturer says the aims of the change included better comfort on long rides and quieter running at high speed. The Yamaha versions in the comparison have a five-speed gearbox.
Price and used market
A search conducted as of 20 October 2026 found no current, verifiable used listings in Turkey for either model that would allow a meaningful comparison, so no lira price range is given. At launch in Japan, the Honda was 138,000 yen more expensive than the Yamaha, about 13.4 percent higher. Buyers looking at used bikes are advised to check the model year, country version, service records and any modifications together.
This article was compiled with the help of AI from information published by Motosiklet Sitesi.
