VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1977 Suzuki GS750 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 1977 Suzuki GS750 by contrast offered 748cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 68hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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 1977 Suzuki GS750 by contrast offered 748cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 68hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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 | 1977 Suzuki GS750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 244.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1977 Suzuki GS750 has the edge thanks to more power (68hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
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 1977 Suzuki GS750
The 1977 1977 Suzuki GS750 packs a 748cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 68hp into a standard motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1977 Suzuki GS750 Profile →