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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1974 Honda CB550 Four represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
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 1974 Honda CB550 Four by contrast offered 544cc of SOHC inline-4 power, delivering 50hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four by contrast offered 544cc of SOHC inline-4 power, delivering 50hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 | 1974 Honda CB550 Four | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 544 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 43.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 211.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1974 Honda CB550 Four pushed output to 50hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 6/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
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 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 Four Profile →