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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1972 Suzuki GT550 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Suzuki GT550 by contrast offered 543cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 53hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 193.0kg (425 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Suzuki GT550 by contrast offered 543cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 53hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 193.0kg (425 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1972 Suzuki GT550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 543 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 53 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 193.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1415 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 53hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1972 Suzuki GT550 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1972 Suzuki GT550
The 1972 1972 Suzuki GT550 packs a 543cc 2-stroke triple engine with 53hp into a standard motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1972 Suzuki GT550 Profile →