Photo: Tspooncl65 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Honda CX500
81/100 Overall
78 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CX500 vs Suzuki GT550
Honda CX500 scores 81/100 overall against Suzuki GT550 on 77/100. On the road: 78–73. As classics: 83–80. Overall result: Honda CX500.
Suzuki GT550
77/100 Overall
73 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CX500 | Suzuki GT550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GT550 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | Honda CX500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 7 | Honda CX500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Honda CX500 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GT550 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Honda CX500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Honda CX500 if…
you want unconventional engineering, exceptional durability and one of Britain's most recognisable courier and commuter motorcycles.
Choose the Suzuki GT550 if…
you want smooth two-stroke triple character, useful road manners and an appealing alternative to the better-known GT750.
Background
History
Honda CX500
The Honda CX500 was produced from 1978–1983 and used a 497cc liquid-cooled transverse V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GT550
The Suzuki GT550 was produced from 1972–1977 and used a 543cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CX500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 497cc liquid-cooled transverse V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance.
Suzuki GT550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 543cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CX500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CX500. 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.
Suzuki GT550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT550. Its library score for character 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 CX500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- 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 GT550
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- 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 CX500
Rivals to the Suzuki GT550
Final result
The verdict
Honda CX500 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CX500 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CX500 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.