Honda CB550 Four (1974-78)
The perfect middleweight SOHC inline-four, balancing performance, size, and Honda reliability.
Engine
544cc Inline Four
Power
~50 HP @ 8,500 RPM
Carbs
4 Keihin (22mm)
Weight (Dry)
~198 kg
The Core Difference: K-Series vs. Super Sport (F)
The CB550 was split into two major style lines. Use the buttons below to highlight the key visual and functional differences that define these two iconic models.
Core Styling Comparison
- ⚡Exhaust:
- Fuel Tank:
- 🏍Handlebars:
- 🖊Side Covers:
The F-series was Honda's factory customization, giving riders a sportier, cafe-style look right out of the box.
Engine Architecture: The Quad Carb Challenge
The beauty of the inline-four lies in its smoothness, but this complexity requires four independent carburetors. This visual shows the fundamental challenge of synchronizing the air/fuel delivery across the four cylinders.
Each cylinder (1-4) is fed by its own dedicated Keihin carburetor. Synchronization ensures that each cylinder operates with the same vacuum and air/fuel mix, essential for smooth four-cylinder idle and power delivery.
Family Benchmarks: Where the CB550 Sits
The CB550 occupied the "Goldilocks" spot: bigger than the agile smaller fours but lighter and more manageable than the flagship CB750. This chart compares key metrics across the CB Four lineage.
The Middleweight Champion:
The CB550 offered 70% of the horsepower of the legendary CB750 but weighed significantly less, providing an excellent power-to-weight ratio for everyday riding.