Photo: NESR 1978 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Suzuki GS550
81/100 Overall
82 On the road80 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki GS550 vs Honda CB500 Four
Suzuki GS550 scores 81/100 overall against Honda CB500 Four on 83/100. On the road: 82–77. As classics: 80–88. Overall result: Honda CB500 Four.
Honda CB500 Four
83/100 Overall
77 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki GS550 | Honda CB500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki GS550 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 6 | Suzuki GS550 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki GS550 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB500 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB500 |
Choose the Suzuki GS550 if…
you want smooth four-cylinder performance, good reliability and a well-balanced Japanese middleweight that is easy to enjoy.
Choose the Honda CB500 if…
you want a lighter, sweeter-handling alternative to the CB750 with classic Honda four-cylinder refinement.
Background
History
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.
Honda CB500
The Honda CB500 Four was produced from 1971–1978 and used a 498cc air-cooled 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.
Interesting details
Did you know?
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.
Honda CB500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 498cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, ownership appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
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.
Honda CB500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB500 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.
Before you buy
Buying checks
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.
Honda CB500
- 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 Suzuki GS550
Rivals to the Honda CB500
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GS550 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB500 Four wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB500 Four takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.