1974 Honda CB550 K0, Frame no. CB550-1004099 Engine no. CB550E-1004190

1974 Honda CB550 K0
Frame no. CB550-1004099
Engine no. CB550E-1004190
• Two owners from new
• An excellent, original, low mileage survivor

Honda followed its sensational CB750 with a range of smaller fours, the first of which - the CB500 - appeared in 1971. The half-liter newcomer was just as well specified as its larger brother, boasting an air-cooled, wet sump, (single) overhead-camshaft, two-valve engine, five-speed gearbox, electric starter and disc front brake. 50bhp at 8,500rpm and 30.4lb-ft of torque at 7,500rpm. Bike magazine reckoned there were several reasons for preferring the smaller four: 'For starters the 500 is a lighter machine with a shorter wheelbase. It therefore has a better power-to-weight ratio than its bigger brother and, significantly, it handles better through the curves. In fact, the 500 is faster up to 60mph in a straight line and its 80mph only a fraction of a second behind the 750.' Upping the engine capacity by 10 percent, the CB550 offered the same blend of performance and civility when it first arrived in the USA in late 1973.

The CB550 was actually 544cc and one of Honda's standard four-cylinder motorcycles or UJM (universal Japanese motorcycle), although the term UJM was not in common usage at the time, built from 1974 to 1978 in the Suzuka factory, Honda's oldest. It was a development of the CB500, and like its predecessor, the CB550 K0 had four exhaust pipes and silencers. Shortly after the CB550K was introduced, Honda launched a 4-into-1 exhaust, less chrome, and 'lightweight' version, the CB550F Super Sport – to help fill out Honda's 'low bar range' in between the CB400F and CB750F. Both K and F series were sold alongside each other, sharing the same engine, tank, instruments, lights, wheels, brakes and frame. The whole package weighed about 425lb wet.

This example has been under the care of two owners since new. Carefully maintained by both since it was picked up at an Arizona dealership in 1974, (its '74 plate is still on the bike), it has covered less than 4,000 miles. Preserved in wonderful condition including its original (and cutely named) Boss Maroon Metallic paint. Easy to ride and own, this CB550 is a great way to jump into the motorcycle hobby or further your passion for riding.

Should I buy a 550 Four? 'You bet. And you'll love it' so said Cycle magazine in December 1973.