Photo: www.mgaylard.co.uk and thanks for looking · CC BY 2.0
Honda CB750 K0
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB750 K0 vs Suzuki GS550
Honda CB750 K0 scores 83/100 overall against Suzuki GS550 on 81/100. On the road: 70–82. As classics: 95–80. Overall result: Honda CB750 K0.
Photo: NESR 1978 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Suzuki GS550
81/100 Overall
82 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB750 | Suzuki GS550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki GS550 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB750 |
Choose the Honda CB750 if…
you want landmark engineering, strong usable performance, dependable electrics and easy classic ownership.
Choose the Suzuki GS550 if…
you want smooth four-cylinder performance, good reliability and a well-balanced Japanese middleweight that is easy to enjoy.
Background
History
Honda CB750
The Honda CB750 K0 was produced from 1969–1970 and used a 736cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GS550
The Suzuki GS550 was produced from 1977–1986 and used a 549cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, styling, performance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1969 to 1970.
- The recorded engine description is: 736cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, styling.
Suzuki GS550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 549cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, styling, performance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB750 K0. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki GS550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GS550. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda CB750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki GS550
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CB750
Rivals to the Suzuki GS550
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GS550 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB750 K0 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB750 K0 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.