Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
74/100 Overall
58 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead vs Honda CB900F
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Honda CB900F on 81/100. On the road: 58–83. As classics: 90–78. Overall result: Honda CB900F.
Photo: Jon1234567 · Public domain
Honda CB900F
81/100 Overall
83 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Honda CB900F | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 9 | Honda CB900F |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 8 | Honda CB900F |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 8 | Honda CB900F |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 9 | Honda CB900F |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FLH if…
you want relaxed long-distance presence, unmistakable American V-twin character and traditional Harley styling.
Choose the Honda CB900F if…
you want a fast, practical Honda superbike with endurance-racing style and straightforward classic ownership.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson FLH
The Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead was produced from 1966–1984 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB900F
The Honda CB900F was produced from 1979–1983 and used a 901cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, performance, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Its production span in this library runs from 1966 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
Honda CB900F
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 901cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, performance, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson FLH
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB900F
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB900F. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda CB900F
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson FLH
Rivals to the Honda CB900F
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB900F wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB900F takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.