Honda CB550 Four
85/100 Overall
82 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB550 Four vs Suzuki GT550
Honda CB550 Four scores 85/100 overall against Suzuki GT550 on 77/100. On the road: 82–73. As classics: 88–80. Overall result: Honda CB550 Four.
Suzuki GT550
77/100 Overall
73 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB550 | Suzuki GT550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB550 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB550 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB550 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB550 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB550 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB550 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB550 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki GT550 |
Choose the Honda CB550 if…
you want classic Honda-four refinement in a lighter, friendlier and often sweeter package than the CB750.
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 CB550
The Honda CB550 Four was produced from 1974–1978 and used a 544cc air-cooled SOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, reliability, ownership appeal. 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 CB550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1974 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 544cc air-cooled SOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, ownership appeal.
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 CB550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB550 Four. Its library score for styling 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 CB550
- 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 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 CB550
Rivals to the Suzuki GT550
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB550 Four wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB550 Four wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB550 Four takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.