Harley-Davidson WLA
74/100 Overall
53 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson WLA vs Honda CB750 K0
Harley-Davidson WLA scores 74/100 overall against Honda CB750 K0 on 83/100. On the road: 53–70. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.
Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson WLA | Honda CB750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 4 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 5 | 6 | Honda CB750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 3 | 5 | Honda CB750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 7 | Honda CB750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Harley-Davidson WLA |
Choose the Harley-Davidson WLA if…
you want unmistakable wartime history, rugged simplicity and one of the world's most recognisable military motorcycles.
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson WLA
The Harley-Davidson WLA was produced from 1940–1952 and used a 739cc air-cooled side-valve V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 K0 was produced from 1969–1970 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, 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 WLA
- Its production span in this library runs from 1940 to 1952.
- The recorded engine description is: 739cc air-cooled side-valve V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, character, styling.
Honda CB750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1970.
- The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson WLA
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson WLA. Its library score for historic importance 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 CB750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 K0. Its library score for historic importance 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 WLA
- 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 CB750
- 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 WLA
Rivals to the Honda CB750
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB750 K0 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.