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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1978 Honda CBX represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
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 1978 Honda CBX by contrast offered 1047cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 105hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 247.0kg (545 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1978 Honda CBX by contrast offered 1047cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 105hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 247.0kg (545 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1978 Honda CBX | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 1047 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 85.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 247.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 272.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1978 Honda CBX pushed output to 105hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Honda CBX holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
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 1978 Honda CBX
The 1978 1978 Honda CBX packs a 1047cc DOHC inline-6 engine with 105hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CBX Profile →