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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1976 Suzuki GS400 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Suzuki GS400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Suzuki GS400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1976 Suzuki GS400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 31.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 36hp) and a higher top speed. The 1976 Suzuki GS400, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating.
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 →About the 1976 Suzuki GS400
Introduced in 1976, the 1976 Suzuki GS400 features a 398cc DOHC twin engine producing 36hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1976 Suzuki GS400 Profile →