VS
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1978 Yamaha SR500 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 1978 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 Yamaha SR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single power, delivering 32hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 158.0kg (348 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 Yamaha SR500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 32 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 158.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 172.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 32hp) and a higher top speed. The 1978 Yamaha SR500, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package.
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 Yamaha SR500
The 1978 1978 Yamaha SR500 packs a 499cc SOHC single engine with 32hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1978 Yamaha SR500 Profile →