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The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1974 Honda CB550 Four represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1974 Honda CB550 Four | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 544 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 43.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 211.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1972 Honda CB350 Four laid the groundwork with 34hp, 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 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 →