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 CB77 Super Hawk
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Honda CB77 Super Hawk on 74/100. On the road: 58–65. As classics: 90–83. Overall result: A draw.
Honda CB77 Super Hawk
74/100 Overall
65 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Honda CB77 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 6 | Honda CB77 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 7 | Honda CB77 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 5 | Honda CB77 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 8 | Honda CB77 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 6 | 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 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 8 | 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 CB77 if…
you want an influential sporting Honda twin with lively performance, clean styling and major historical importance.
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 CB77
The Honda CB77 Super Hawk was produced from 1961–1967 and used a 305cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, styling, reliability. 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 CB77
- Its production span in this library runs from 1961 to 1967.
- The recorded engine description is: 305cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, styling, reliability.
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 CB77
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB77 Super Hawk. Its library score for historic importance 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 CB77
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 CB77
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB77 Super Hawk wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.