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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1978 Honda CX500 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 CX500 by contrast offered 497cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 50hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 CX500 by contrast offered 497cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 50hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 CX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 497 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1440 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1978 Honda CX500 pushed output to 50hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four holds the edge with a 6/10 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 CX500
The 1978 1978 Honda CX500 packs a 497cc OHV V-twin engine with 50hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CX500 Profile →