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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1979 Suzuki GS550 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 1979 Suzuki GS550 by contrast offered 549cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 50hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 202.0kg (445 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1979 Suzuki GS550 by contrast offered 549cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 50hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 202.0kg (445 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1979 Suzuki GS550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 549 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1979 Suzuki GS550, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. 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 1979 Suzuki GS550
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 features a 549cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 50hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1979 Suzuki GS550 Profile →