The 1970s transformed the motorcycle scene dramatically. In 1970, the Clean Air Act shifted focus from two-stroke to four-stroke engines due to strict emission standards. Although two-strokes were faster, four-strokes began to dominate everyday bikes. Surprisingly, the decade saw motorcycles achieving speeds that surpassed many from the prior years. The fastest bike of the ’60s, the Honda CB750, reached 125 mph, but the ’70s introduced machines breaking the 150 mph barrier.
So, let’s explore some of the fastest motorcycles from this era, showcasing the remarkable engineering and design that defined the decade.
1975 MV Agusta 750S America (130 mph)
The MV Agusta 750S America was more than just a pretty face; it was a piece of art on wheels. With its sleek design, powerful 743cc engine, and an impressive 130 mph top speed, it left an indelible mark on motorcycle history. Interestingly, even with its stylish fairing, some tests recorded lower speeds, hinting at the variation depending on the bike’s setup.
1973 Van Veen OCR 1000 (132 mph)
This unique bike featured a Wankel rotary engine, which was becoming more popular in the ’70s. Producing 100 hp, the OCR 1000 reached a top speed of 132 mph. Despite its innovative design, its hefty price tag of $15,000 (about $110,000 today) limited its appeal.
1977 Yamaha XS1100 (135 mph)
The XS1100 was Yamaha’s first foray into the four-cylinder game, equipped with a 1101cc engine. It produced 95 hp, achieving a top speed of 135 mph. Beyond just speed, it was designed for comfort, making it ideal for long-distance rides—a feature that many enthusiasts appreciated.
1973 Kawasaki Z1 900 (135 mph)
The Z1 900 pushed the boundaries with a 903cc engine, managing 135 mph. Despite weighing over 500 pounds, it was praised for its performance and reliability, showing that heavy bikes could still pack a punch.
1975 Ducati 900 Super Sport (135 mph)
Ducati stepped up with its 900 Super Sport. This motorcycle combined a powerful 864cc V-twin engine with a lightweight design, achieving a top speed of 135 mph. Its beautiful design and strong performance helped Ducati stand toe-to-toe with Japanese rivals.
1978 Suzuki GS1000 (137 mph)
Using a slightly larger engine, the GS1000 marked Suzuki’s entry into the liter-class territory. It quickly showcased its prowess by winning races, reaching a top speed of 137 mph.
1978 Honda CBX1000 (140 mph)
Honda made a comeback with the CBX1000, introducing the first inline-6 engine in a production motorcycle. This powerful beast reached 140 mph and set a new benchmark in bike engineering.
1978 Bimota KB1 (140 mph)
The KB1, crafted by the Italian company Bimota, utilized Kawasaki’s engine but featured a lightweight frame that granted outstanding handling, matching its top speed.
1976 Laverda Jota (140 mph)
The Laverda Jota was designed for speed with its 981cc engine. It became the first production bike to breach the 140 mph barrier, setting the stage for future superfast models.
1979 Dunstall Suzuki GS1000 CS (154 mph)
This bike demonstrated the importance of aerodynamics. It took a Suzuki GS1000 and added custom modifications, achieving an astonishing top speed of 154 mph—making it the fastest of the decade.
The 1970s were undoubtedly a thrilling time for motorcycle enthusiasts. Each of these bikes contributed to the evolution of speed, performance, and design. As motorcycle technology advanced, the passion and innovation behind each ride only grew stronger. Today, many of these models are considered classic gems that paved the way for modern motorcycles.
If you’re curious about more motorcycle history, check out resources from places like Cycle World for in-depth reviews and articles. Their dedication to motorcycling provides insights that both new and seasoned riders will find valuable.
