Photo: Matti Blume / Freisteller: Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Brough Superior SS100
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Brough Superior SS100 vs Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster
Brough Superior SS100 scores 79/100 overall against Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster on 73/100. On the road: 57–55. As classics: 100–90. Overall result: Brough Superior SS100.
Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles. · CC BY-SA 4.0
Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster
73/100 Overall
55 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Brough Superior SS100 | Harley-Davidson XLCH | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 6 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 6 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 5 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 3 | 8 | Harley-Davidson XLCH |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 4 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Brough Superior SS100 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Brough Superior SS100 if…
you want the ultimate pre-war prestige motorcycle, combining performance, craftsmanship, history and exceptional rarity.
Choose the Harley-Davidson XLCH if…
you want compact American performance, raw mechanical involvement and classic Ironhead Sportster character.
Background
History
Brough Superior SS100
The Brough Superior SS100 was produced from 1924–1940 and used a approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Harley-Davidson XLCH
The Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster was produced from 1958–1985 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Ironhead 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.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Brough Superior SS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1924 to 1940.
- The recorded engine description is: approximately 1000cc air-cooled V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Harley-Davidson XLCH
- Its production span in this library runs from 1958 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Ironhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Brough Superior SS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Brough Superior SS100. Its library score for styling 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.
Harley-Davidson XLCH
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster. 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
Brough Superior SS100
- 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.
Harley-Davidson XLCH
- 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Brough Superior SS100
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson XLCH
Final result
The verdict
Brough Superior SS100 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Brough Superior SS100 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Brough Superior SS100 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.