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 NS400R
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Honda NS400R on 85/100. On the road: 58–72. As classics: 90–98. Overall result: Honda NS400R.
Honda NS400R
85/100 Overall
72 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Honda NS400R | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 9 | Honda NS400R |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 7 | Honda NS400R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 6 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 5 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Honda NS400R |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 10 | Honda NS400R |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FLH if…
you want relaxed long-distance presence, unmistakable American V-twin character and traditional Harley styling.
Choose the Honda NS400R if…
you want a compact, beautifully balanced Honda race replica with unusual V3 character and strong 1980s collector appeal.
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 NS400R
The Honda NS400R was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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 NS400R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and 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 NS400R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NS400R. 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.
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 NS400R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- 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 NS400R
Final result
The verdict
Honda NS400R wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda NS400R wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda NS400R takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.