An easy fix for the Suzuki carbs is to remove the carb needles and swap the metal and plastic washers around, putting the plastic under the top flange and the metal above. This will raise the needles just enough to help from idle to redline, and should not affect mileage while giving a much nicer performance.
In the early 80s i rode a Suzuki GS550, 2up, around 120 miles to and from a motorcyle show in Peterborough UK.And it was faultless all the way there. Going back home, it was rain rain rain, and the Suziki was still awesome, with no risk of any problems at all. Great bike.
I borrowed one of those Honda 550 super sports and drove it all the way from Longview Washington to Riverside California in the rain both ways just to see my two kiddos I haven't seen for six months!! Topspeed 115
I remember it was tested at actual 112 mph so sounds about right. unusual to have an accurate speedo back then, Yamaha's always had RTS ('race tuned' speedo 😁)
I've had several bikes. A 72 Cb500, 81 Yamaha Maxim 550, and an 06 VTX1800R. VTX was too big. The Maxim was an absolute blast but ergonomically didn't fit me. A 1 hour ride was about the limit. I still have the 72 CB500 with a rebuilt 550 engine now. The straight seat makes it more comfortable to ride with a passenger and carry a conversation. Country roads, riding about 40 mph with nowhere to be is when I have the most fun. Nice video!
I’ve wanted a CB550F since the “Gentleman’s Express” articles in Cycle magazine. I’ve been riding a 78 CB750F for 30 years now, and have a 74 CB350F project. Still looking for the 550F. Thanks for the excellent review.
I had the first CB500/4 in town ! Nice Chestnut brown and a beautiful bike to ride, very smooth but not a neck snapper. Great around town and fun on a run - even two-up. I swapped it out for a CB750/4 - young boy just wanted power. Wold love to have the CB500/4 now.
WowI I had a Honda CB550 SuperSport that I bought in 1979 exact on my 18th birthday in germany. So it was my very first "big" bike. It was one of the last new to buy of this bikes in europe that time and I got her as a "RE-Import" from England to Germany. So she was very cheap too at that time. She was coloured in blue metallic with golden stripes that I even like more than the "simple" blue one from your review. I loved the bike and I wish I had a bike out of that time now. But I'm still happy with my Kawasaki Z900RS now... Thank you for the upload!
I built GS550E for production racing. It got a 680 or 720 kit (forget which, was for a guy who got a DUI and ban) Crazy amount of porting to get best airflow plus lot of other work. Was way faster than the 'new' Honda VF750 which was same class
Currently trying to learn as much as I can about the Honda CB550 as I save up all the $ I can to hopefully get one in good condition! Thank you for this video, I love watching people ride this amazing bike and hopefully will be able to myself.
Those DOHC GS550 engines were practically indestructible with their highly robust roller bearing cranks. Probably the toughest UJM motor ever made. The late 70s GS550E was a great looking bike and so too was the 550 Katana. The Honda is cute but you'll never have cam chain issues on the GS that the Honda could suffer with...
This was an interesting and entertaining comparison that brought back memories. I used to own a 1978 GS550E back in the days. It was 10 years and 50,000 miles old when I bought it. It had triple disc brakes, which all the Suzuki inline four E-versions had here in Europe, and cast wheels. It also had the 18in rear wheel of the standard version, while the T has a 17in wheel and the L a 16in. The earlier models came with mechanically operated carb sliders. What I remember the most from my GS550, other than all the memorable trips I took on it, was how harshly it vibrated. The vibrations were at their worst in the 5000-5500 range, the range used the most. The whole bike was buzzing then, and the mirrors were useless from 3000 rpm all the way to the redline and beyond. The engine was incredibly peaky, power could only be found between 7000 and 10000 rpm. Redline was 9000 rpm, but the engine did not seem to suffer me constantly wringing it to 10 grand. And even doing that, it fell below the powerband when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear! My friend had a 1981 Yamaha RD350 L/C at the time, a peaky two-stroke with a claimed 47 hp (compared to 50 for my GS), but the RD was a massive 120 lbs lighter! Yet the little RD beat my GS in every kind of roll-on competition, in any gear - but during full acceleration, they stayed dead even! That should tell you a little how peaky my GS was - maybe someone had messed with cam timing, I wouldn't know - because the RD itself was peaky enough that it would power-wheelie in the lower gears once it hit 6500 rpm. The other thing(s) I remember well is the handling. Suspension was pretty worn, and I was too young (and poor) to know (or care), but the bike was very stable under every situation. It also took a lot of effort to change directions, although it would change directions quickly if given a stern enough message to do so. Cornering clearance was limited, as I found - and often still find today - most bikes to suffer from. It was especially bad on the GS550, since the pegs did not fold. The center stand (I removed the side stand because it was always dragging), the exhaust heat shields, the pegs and also the alternator cover was scraping around most bends. This was a problem with the whole GS-series; they had the best handling of the Japanese bikes, but typically also the least cornering clearance. If you look at old Suzuki bikes used for racing, they usually had longer shocks, lengthened forks - and the alternator and its cover removed. Just to get enough cornering clearance. I have never ridden a Honda CB550, but I did own a CB350 Four, and its engine was so smooth you had to look at the rev counter to know it was running.
Thanks for the memories! Both of the bikes in this comparison ran smoothly. The Honda had a little more mechanical noise. Suzuki also went to folding pegs by this point, thankfully! It seems like your GS may have been a little tired by the point you picked it up (given the excessive vibration, lack of mid-range power, and worn suspension. Curiously, I've run Suzuki GS bikes on the road for years without scraping or grounding out. Some were stock, others with modified suspension. I think the reason some were easy to drag pegs/pipes on was because the handling was so good. People were confident with lean angles on the Suzukis that they wouldn't attempt on other bikes. That, and as you mentioned, non-folding pegs!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I think I have only owned one bike that I never scraped something on during cornering, but that is probably down to poor style and will to take high risks. The GS was likely tired, as you say, but I found it puzzling that it had so much top end power. As to vibrations, period tests also indicated that the level could vary greatly from one bike to the other, likely due to production tolerances. For instance, my brother and I both had Honda CB1100Fs, and if you rode them blind-folded you would have sworn they were two completely different motorcycles with nothing but the riding position in common. Handling, stability, power, vibrations, brakes- all miles apart. After a 350 mile ride on mine, it took 8 - eight - days before my hands stopped tingling.
@64faffi Interesting. It's eye-opening to experience that. I don't like to quote lots of specs (1/4 mile times, etc) because of differences between bikes, test conditions, etc. I also had a CB1100F years ago, and remember it being a bit vibey. It was used when I got it. Without going through the entire bike, I can't say if that's representative of all of them.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 My brother's 1100 blew past FJ1100s as if they where 750s. It would redline 5th gear (144mph calculated) in a ¼-mile - sitting upright! With taller gearing, the speedo showed 270 kph, or nearly 170mph. Mine would top out at 132mph prone after a mile. My speedo was dead accurate. Both vibrated, but in totally different ways. His bike would wobble madly if cornered hard above 100mph - it once took him a full mile to regain control after attemting a 120mph corner. Mine was dead stable to the point that I went around a long sweeper doing 125mph while scraping peg, exhaust and centerstand. His would change directions with ease, like you described your CB750K. Mine took so much effort it would drain me if riding hard on a twisty, tight road. The bikes looked the same down to the color, but acted completely different.
yes to all that, I put my 82 GS550L on the centre stand while leaning into a corner once, it started to slide nicely but somehow didn't low or highside it. I had been riding a Ninja 500 more often then and gotten too used to harder leaning..
Fun video... My first street bike was a 1975 Honda 550 bought in 1982.. It was a good machine... After a few years I bought a 1980 Honda 750K which I liked better.
I have GS 550 T, surprisingly modern bike. Was obviously thinking of cutting it to cafe racer, but it is so beautiful that I decided to renovate it as it is. Except! Switched the wheels from '79 due to spokes. I lost the rear brake so it’s less efdicient. I can send the pics or record video in a fee weeks when it geta back from paint work. So nice you made this comparison! Thank uou, classy propper pile of data.
Just found a 100% original 1976 Honda CB550F Supersport. Looks exactly like this one and for a great price! My dilemma is, I’m currently riding a Honda GL1500 Goldwing and I’m really loving it!
It would be hard to give up a Goldwing for the 550 if you love the Goldwing. VERY different rides. If you can own both, then the 550 just gives you options. Cheers!
I had a CB 550 in the late 70s. Third owner. I still pine for it. Although I love the look of the Honda, the Suzuki does look a little bit better particularly with the two OHCs. But give me spoked wheels every time.
Jon.. these engines are so different..suzuki went w/ a roller bearing crank,geared primary drive,and shim over bucket dual cam.The Honda went w/a hi-vo chain primary,plain bearing crank and simple to adjust nut/screw adjusters on its single cam.Big thanks for posting these vids,brings back the memories..!
I have had both and the Suzuki only needed the needle raised a touch and one step larger pilot to be far better than the Honda....and I am a Honda Man.
Those headers on the Honda will probably become really nice by using phosphoric acid and a brush and a bit of time. It will also protect against new rust.
The 79 Honda DOHC 4 valve motors had a completely new design team. The earlier design teams had been moved to automotive division so Honda had a few issues with 78/79 bikes. I started in Honda/Yamaha /Triumph dealers in 78 then moved to Suzuki/BMW/Vespa dealers in 1980 so very familiar with both models (plus still have CB550 I bought new in 1977)
Back around 1987 I used to commute to Simon Fraser University on '78-ish Honda CB550. I rode down Burnaby mountain on Galardi Way. There was a big sweeper at the bottom of the hill, that I used to take at 80 mph, with the handlebars slowly wagging back and forth - completely relaxed, and completely under control. Was that the frame design or was I riding on worn out tires. I left it behind when I moved to Ontario to go to graduate school. I don't think that four into one system is stock.
Thanks for sharing the memories, Peter! The muffler is a Kerker slip-on, but the downpipes are stock. The CB550F had the 4-into-1, while the CB550 came with 4-into-4, and later ones were 4-into-2. Cheers!
I know Honda makes a great machine but I’m all in on the Suzuki I had a 77 GS550 and damn that bike and I were amazing together should have never let her go and I agree with calling it a hot Rod I always felt that way with mine cool
Wow you brought back some amazing memories of my moments on my GS I called her Zuke “pronounced ZOOK” and I was an over the road truck drive for a few years and my cb call sign was “The Zuckster” I spent a lot of miles conveying wtf it was and where it stemmed from, I had one of my local tire shops “Fulton Tire” order me the best Dunlops and stickiest tires available to me and took a week long journey to Tennessee and road the mighty dragon on her and brother your assessment of the Zuke is spot on and that bike was so amazing on the dragon, I did a few warm up laps until I was comfortable pushing to the max of our abilities as one and it was pretty impressive and you know it was an attention getter and to this day the triumph sprint rs I sold her to get was not worth it to my heart it just didn’t fit my personality and I love a triumph motorcycle I had a 78 bonneville t140 that was very cool but just didn’t offer the reliability comfort and overall riding experience I bought it with a little over 1200 miles on it and put just shy of fifty thousand and it still shined like a new bike, I sold it to a business owner who owns a little tavern that makes the most amazing chicken wings I believe in the entire northern panhandle of West by god Virginia and the entire U S for a hell of a profit damn I think Randall will be looking for his next great love in about a year and a half brother thank you for the flood of memories I love the mid 70s - mid 80 Japanese UJMs they are so well built and for the twisty turns roads in our state it’ll put a smile on your face and pure enjoyment in your heart in a new fan my friend keep up the great work bc I’m all in
This is a good comparison. The dry weight of these two bikes are identical. Again, the power delivery for both is really smooth. The GS should achieve better mpg due to the silky six speed gearbox. HP is around 50 for both bikes. 0 - 60 mph comes in just under 6 seconds for the pair. The Suzuki has a slightly faster top end speed, again, due to that sixth gear overdrive which also returns better mpg. The handling is equally good for both. The Honda definitely sounds beefier with a standard exhaust tone compared to GS standard exhaust. Back in the day I chose the Honda but, honestly...I doubt you could go wrong with either!
It seems odd to me that Suzuki sold the GS550 in the US market with a single front disc, because all the UK models I've seen (including my 1980 GS550L) have dual front discs. There are quite a lot of US models that have been imported here in recent years, and they all have single front disc.
Jon, as a fairly new rider 40+ years ago, I was in my glory on my '80 GS550E. With a Shoei FM-2 fairing and blue paint job similar to your CB550 test bike, I was convinced the UJM was king. It was a great bike but I soon fell in love with British and other European classics, and I put the UJM in my rear-view mirror. While I currently own (and love) a BMW R75/6 and a Trident T160, a funny thing happened a few years ago- I fell back in love with the UJM. I'm out of room in the garage, so I'll have to make do just watching your videos. I really like the T model- it seems to perfectly bridge the gap styling-wise between the standard E and the cruiser L. There was a 550T for sale a few months ago here in SE PA, was it this particular bike? If so, I envy the new owner. This is an awesome YT channel, keep it going!
Thank you! Yes, it may have been this GS550T. I sold it to make room in the garage for the 1983 GS1100E. At 6'-4" tall, the GS550T is on the small side for me. But, it was a really fun bike while I had it! 🙂
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Is there really that much difference between the GS550 T and GS550 L models? I thought the only difference might be the handle bar and the seat
@@markk5944 The forks are definitely different (spindle lugs on L are at front of legs instead of underneath). Caster angle is slightly different, but that may be due to different forks, which also look longer on the L, although I haven't measured them. It looks like they have combined different aspects of the E and L models (still kept the stupid tiny fuel tank from the L though, by the looks of it).
Sir, I have just found your site, being stormed indoors, now I`m pacing the floor all jacked up about getting more done on my collection. I love your enthusiam and apperication of many of the bikes I have & agree with about 99% of everything you say. My questions are do you have web site, or possably a email address where we could respectfully ask you questions, or possably interest you in vintage bikes? I suspect it would be overwhelming and time consuming on your end. Anyway keep up the great work! Please concider doing a review of a Honda cb900f ( I have 3) and cx500 (I had 2) THANK YOU!
Thanks Steven! I would love to review a CB900F if/when I get the chance. I don't currently have a website but try to answer questions/comments on this channel. Cheers and welcome to the channel!
Nice video 👍🏼 I've had my '76 CB550f for 9 years now. It's modified (don't come after me, purists 😅) and I love it. It gives me problems, as any classics do, but you've just got to keep on top of its care 😌. I might convert to dual front disc one day.
Suzuki didn't have any four strokes until 1977 where the Honda was developed from CB500f from 1971~73. Suzuki had way more potential for tuning but electrical system was pretty awful, regulator/rectifiers often burned out taking out alternator stator, but, once rebuilt with better parts they were almost bulletproof That Honda needs a carb sync, even on video you can hear it's way off. Even later at 3~4,000rpm you can hear it running as a 3+1 and not a four. Oil pressure warning is pretty worthless, it activates at 4psi and is mounted on top of pump. If it comes on, motor is already toast. Single front disc just isn't up to it dual disc is a very easy conversion though GS needs carb work as well plus sounds like cam chain tensioner is sticking? Neither should rattle like that at low rpm although the major 'clunk' going into second is about normal Your totally correct about EPA jetting, a California bike would be pretty horrible by comparison (until it got hot)
The Honda was a friend's bike. If I would have kept the GS550, I would have gone one size up on the pilots to help low rpm running and cold starting. European versions sometimes had different jets than the US bikes. Cheers!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I know, when we got USA imports in shop, first thing we did was check manual and switch jetting to something we knew would work when it's below 55 degrees 😁
Great video, the only thing would make it better would be if the Suzuki was a GS550E with twin disk and not the T. The E model came out 1978-79 would be a little closer to each other in year. But on saying that great video.
Hi Jon. really enjoyed you comparison between these two bikes, as well as the 750K compare. I remember at the time liking the look of the blue Honda. A few years later my friend bought a beautiful new sporty looking 1980 GS550E, I remember going pillion and thinking how smooth and powerful it was. Not really a fan of the custom version you have, or the swept back handlebars - sorry! Your GS looks like the speedo only goes to 80mph, is this right, as the E version's speedo goes to 120mph? Finally, living in the UK, I am very jealous of your fabulous empty roads and your beautiful countryside, where in the US are you?
I'm glad you enjoyed the comparisons! For several years in the early eighties manufacturers put 85 mph speedometers on all bikes (you'll see that on most of my bikes). I like the GS550E the best as well. I live in beautiful Lancaster (pronounced LANK-aster here) County Pennsylvania. Cheers!
Honda is already a classic that the Suzuki contender will never be. So, just because of that, for me is Honda all the way. Happy Christmas and a great riding new year, Jon. All the best from Brazil. ✌
A 1975 vs. 1981 is an unfair comparison. The Honda has a header and the Guk is puffing through a stock set of pipes among other differences that can't easily be seen.. At any rate... 6 years difference at that point in time is a lifetime in other eras.
The comparison highlights advances made to the middleweight bikes during those 6 years. Both bikes are available on the classic bike market and someone looking to get into their first classic bike should take the differences into account. Cheers!
it seems to meet price points honda cheaped out on rear brakes & instrumentation more so then suzuki.both fine bikes though.i sure do wish it was that warm again.looks like its going to be miserable in pa by friday.thanks jon, allways appreciate your videos.
I've riding since 1976 and I don't get the love for 6 speed motorcycles. 🤔 None of my 5 speeds have ever felt like they were over revving on the interstate.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 yeah, no, what I'm telling you is that (MY) 400F, Super sport "IS" a 6-speed gear box, and that I've "THOUGHT" that Honda would've done the same on the other Super Sports. It's a shame that they didn't, at the time, Honda was #1 with NO ONE close to competing .
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 iong shot but if you can find a 80-82 650es it's mind blowing the difference 100cc.makes. fun fact to for the Suzukis. You can put a 650 top end on the 550 and the 850 top end on the 750. My opinion Kawasaki was king of the small bores and tied Suzuki in 750s and up. All that said they all made great bikes except Harley that is they were turds. 😂 Btw coming from a guy who has an 82 fxwg. 😂
Disc brakes are ONLY "an advantage" because the discs are easier to replace than an entire wheel, but drum brakes tend to have less problems and last pretty well. "Constant velocity" carburetors don't allow you to drain the fuel out of the carbs for the Winter without taking stuff apart. The Suzuki doesn't have a kick start option, so it is not for me. It seems that just about every street bike made after the 1970s is missing the kick starter, and that is very stupid because a bike without a kick starter is absolutely garbage even when it is new. There is no comparison really between the two bikes in this video... the Suzuki leaves too much to be desired, and the Honda covers all the bases pretty well.
Hi John! I agree that the Honda is a desirable bike and I would like to own another one. I really liked the one I owned previously, and this one when I rode it. While the Honda is certainly simpler in some respects to the Suzuki, the Suzuki has some real-world safety, maintenance and performance advantages over the Honda. The Suzuki brakes are far superior on the road (major safety advantage). The Suzuki carbs are easily drained with a 10mm wrench - the Honda needs a screwdriver (no difference here). The Suzuki has electronic ignition (far less maintenance, and far better performance). It also has an automatic cam-chain tensioner (again, far less maintenance). Valve adjustment intervals are less frequent on the Suzuki as well. And finally, your car doesn't have a crank start unless you're really old-school and nobody complains about that. I don't mind a kickstarter but it hasn't been an option on most bikes for about 40 years now. Just my thoughts. Cheers!
Wow I've got a 74 Honda 550 supersport runs like a beast, I like it faster than most, anyway I've been commuting on it, it deserves someone to preserve it so I'll be willing to sell if anyone wants the best cafe racer.
I have, years ago owned a Honda cb 550 and wish I had it back. Thanks for the vid!
You're welcome!
An easy fix for the Suzuki carbs is to remove the carb needles and swap the metal and plastic washers around, putting the plastic under the top flange and the metal above. This will raise the needles just enough to help from idle to redline, and should not affect mileage while giving a much nicer performance.
Right on!
A few years ago I had an adjustment made on my Bandit 650 to make it run a little richer. I wonder if that's what the guy did.
why wouldn’t Honda do this from factory ?
@@AshHalls Probably emissions. Even in those days they were running them a little lean.
_
@@peterwilson8039 Correct, it was emission related. That is also why they went to CV carbs.
In the early 80s i rode a Suzuki GS550, 2up, around 120 miles to and from a motorcyle show in Peterborough UK.And it was faultless all the way there. Going back home, it was rain rain rain, and the Suziki was still awesome, with no risk of any problems at all. Great bike.
Right on! I love the Suzuki's of this era. Cheers!
thanks for the info.
I borrowed one of those Honda 550 super sports and drove it all the way from Longview Washington to Riverside California in the rain both ways just to see my two kiddos I haven't seen for six months!! Topspeed 115
Nice!
I remember it was tested at actual 112 mph so sounds about right. unusual to have an accurate speedo back then, Yamaha's always had RTS ('race tuned' speedo 😁)
I've had several bikes. A 72 Cb500, 81 Yamaha Maxim 550, and an 06 VTX1800R. VTX was too big. The Maxim was an absolute blast but ergonomically didn't fit me. A 1 hour ride was about the limit. I still have the 72 CB500 with a rebuilt 550 engine now. The straight seat makes it more comfortable to ride with a passenger and carry a conversation. Country roads, riding about 40 mph with nowhere to be is when I have the most fun.
Nice video!
Thanks JW! Country roads, nowhere to be, and a CB550 sounds like a perfect day!
I’ve wanted a CB550F since the “Gentleman’s Express” articles in Cycle magazine. I’ve been riding a 78 CB750F for 30 years now, and have a 74 CB350F project. Still looking for the 550F. Thanks for the excellent review.
Right on! You're welcome.
I worked at Honda dealers in late 70's, CB550 is a much nicer bike than the CB750, (unless you have a Rickman chassis)
The 550 comparison brings back memories. My first bike was a “79 Gs550, thanks for the informative comparison.
You're welcome!
I had the first CB500/4 in town ! Nice Chestnut brown and a beautiful bike to ride, very smooth but not a neck snapper. Great around town and fun on a run - even two-up. I swapped it out for a CB750/4 - young boy just wanted power. Wold love to have the CB500/4 now.
Right on!
My first bike bought last year is a 1978 CB550k. Running bike but decided to rebuild into a brat style. Can't wait to get that first ride in.
Right on Evelys, very cool!
Good morning, I really enjoyed the ride along. Thanks for putting in the time.
Thanks Russ, and you're welcome.
WowI I had a Honda CB550 SuperSport that I bought in 1979 exact on my 18th birthday in germany. So it was my very first "big" bike. It was one of the last new to buy of this bikes in europe that time and I got her as a "RE-Import" from England to Germany. So she was very cheap too at that time. She was coloured in blue metallic with golden stripes that I even like more than the "simple" blue one from your review. I loved the bike and I wish I had a bike out of that time now. But I'm still happy with my Kawasaki Z900RS now... Thank you for the upload!
You're welcome! Thanks for sharing the memories! I still want to ride the Z900RS. I'm sure I'll get the chance someday.
Had a 78 Suzuki GS 550E was a very nice bike . Very smooth shifting bike
and great feeling racier looking bike . Just sounds great .
Right on! I had a GS550E years ago and remember it fondly. I prefer the styling on the E but the T isn't bad either.
I built GS550E for production racing.
It got a 680 or 720 kit (forget which, was for a guy who got a DUI and ban)
Crazy amount of porting to get best airflow plus lot of other work.
Was way faster than the 'new' Honda VF750 which was same class
@@1crazypj wow, that's impressive!
Currently trying to learn as much as I can about the Honda CB550 as I save up all the $ I can to hopefully get one in good condition!
Thank you for this video, I love watching people ride this amazing bike and hopefully will be able to myself.
So cool! Make sure to take a knowledgable friend when you check one out. It takes a keen eye & ear to pick out a good one. Good luck in your search!
Those DOHC GS550 engines were practically indestructible with their highly robust roller bearing cranks. Probably the toughest UJM motor ever made. The late 70s GS550E was a great looking bike and so too was the 550 Katana. The Honda is cute but you'll never have cam chain issues on the GS that the Honda could suffer with...
Very true!
The 550 was a tough engine. You ain't lying there but it was seriously lacking in power. Now the 550 with 650 top end was perfection.
Had 2 GS 550s over the years. Great bikes. Would love another!
@@paulrollinson1305 Right on!
Just based on curb appeal I'd go cb550, that blue is awesome.
Right on Doc!
This was an interesting and entertaining comparison that brought back memories. I used to own a 1978 GS550E back in the days. It was 10 years and 50,000 miles old when I bought it. It had triple disc brakes, which all the Suzuki inline four E-versions had here in Europe, and cast wheels. It also had the 18in rear wheel of the standard version, while the T has a 17in wheel and the L a 16in. The earlier models came with mechanically operated carb sliders.
What I remember the most from my GS550, other than all the memorable trips I took on it, was how harshly it vibrated. The vibrations were at their worst in the 5000-5500 range, the range used the most. The whole bike was buzzing then, and the mirrors were useless from 3000 rpm all the way to the redline and beyond. The engine was incredibly peaky, power could only be found between 7000 and 10000 rpm. Redline was 9000 rpm, but the engine did not seem to suffer me constantly wringing it to 10 grand. And even doing that, it fell below the powerband when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear! My friend had a 1981 Yamaha RD350 L/C at the time, a peaky two-stroke with a claimed 47 hp (compared to 50 for my GS), but the RD was a massive 120 lbs lighter! Yet the little RD beat my GS in every kind of roll-on competition, in any gear - but during full acceleration, they stayed dead even! That should tell you a little how peaky my GS was - maybe someone had messed with cam timing, I wouldn't know - because the RD itself was peaky enough that it would power-wheelie in the lower gears once it hit 6500 rpm.
The other thing(s) I remember well is the handling. Suspension was pretty worn, and I was too young (and poor) to know (or care), but the bike was very stable under every situation. It also took a lot of effort to change directions, although it would change directions quickly if given a stern enough message to do so. Cornering clearance was limited, as I found - and often still find today - most bikes to suffer from. It was especially bad on the GS550, since the pegs did not fold. The center stand (I removed the side stand because it was always dragging), the exhaust heat shields, the pegs and also the alternator cover was scraping around most bends. This was a problem with the whole GS-series; they had the best handling of the Japanese bikes, but typically also the least cornering clearance. If you look at old Suzuki bikes used for racing, they usually had longer shocks, lengthened forks - and the alternator and its cover removed. Just to get enough cornering clearance.
I have never ridden a Honda CB550, but I did own a CB350 Four, and its engine was so smooth you had to look at the rev counter to know it was running.
Thanks for the memories! Both of the bikes in this comparison ran smoothly. The Honda had a little more mechanical noise. Suzuki also went to folding pegs by this point, thankfully! It seems like your GS may have been a little tired by the point you picked it up (given the excessive vibration, lack of mid-range power, and worn suspension. Curiously, I've run Suzuki GS bikes on the road for years without scraping or grounding out. Some were stock, others with modified suspension. I think the reason some were easy to drag pegs/pipes on was because the handling was so good. People were confident with lean angles on the Suzukis that they wouldn't attempt on other bikes. That, and as you mentioned, non-folding pegs!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I think I have only owned one bike that I never scraped something on during cornering, but that is probably down to poor style and will to take high risks. The GS was likely tired, as you say, but I found it puzzling that it had so much top end power. As to vibrations, period tests also indicated that the level could vary greatly from one bike to the other, likely due to production tolerances. For instance, my brother and I both had Honda CB1100Fs, and if you rode them blind-folded you would have sworn they were two completely different motorcycles with nothing but the riding position in common. Handling, stability, power, vibrations, brakes- all miles apart. After a 350 mile ride on mine, it took 8 - eight - days before my hands stopped tingling.
@64faffi Interesting. It's eye-opening to experience that. I don't like to quote lots of specs (1/4 mile times, etc) because of differences between bikes, test conditions, etc. I also had a CB1100F years ago, and remember it being a bit vibey. It was used when I got it. Without going through the entire bike, I can't say if that's representative of all of them.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 My brother's 1100 blew past FJ1100s as if they where 750s. It would redline 5th gear (144mph calculated) in a ¼-mile - sitting upright! With taller gearing, the speedo showed 270 kph, or nearly 170mph. Mine would top out at 132mph prone after a mile. My speedo was dead accurate. Both vibrated, but in totally different ways. His bike would wobble madly if cornered hard above 100mph - it once took him a full mile to regain control after attemting a 120mph corner. Mine was dead stable to the point that I went around a long sweeper doing 125mph while scraping peg, exhaust and centerstand. His would change directions with ease, like you described your CB750K. Mine took so much effort it would drain me if riding hard on a twisty, tight road. The bikes looked the same down to the color, but acted completely different.
yes to all that, I put my 82 GS550L on the centre stand while leaning into a corner once, it started to slide nicely but somehow didn't low or highside it. I had been riding a Ninja 500 more often then and gotten too used to harder leaning..
Fun video... My first street bike was a 1975 Honda 550 bought in 1982.. It was a good machine... After a few years I bought a 1980 Honda 750K which I liked better.
That's cool. The owner of the CB550 in this review bought my CB750K.
I have GS 550 T, surprisingly modern bike. Was obviously thinking of cutting it to cafe racer, but it is so beautiful that I decided to renovate it as it is. Except! Switched the wheels from '79 due to spokes. I lost the rear brake so it’s less efdicient. I can send the pics or record video in a fee weeks when it geta back from paint work. So nice you made this comparison! Thank uou, classy propper pile of data.
Thanks Konrad! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Just found a 100% original 1976 Honda CB550F Supersport. Looks exactly like this one and for a great price! My dilemma is, I’m currently riding a Honda GL1500 Goldwing and I’m really loving it!
It would be hard to give up a Goldwing for the 550 if you love the Goldwing. VERY different rides. If you can own both, then the 550 just gives you options. Cheers!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I know! The dream is definitely to own both, but it’s hard to convience the missus😝
@@vinyllova9879Just tell her it cost 50% of what you paid and you’ll be right mate.
I had a CB 550 in the late 70s. Third owner. I still pine for it. Although I love the look of the Honda, the Suzuki does look a little bit better particularly with the two OHCs. But give me spoked wheels every time.
@@jbkstafford Right on!
Jon.. these engines are so different..suzuki went w/ a roller bearing crank,geared primary drive,and
shim over bucket dual cam.The Honda went w/a hi-vo chain primary,plain bearing crank and simple to
adjust nut/screw adjusters on its single cam.Big thanks for posting these vids,brings back the memories..!
Thanks Gilbert!
Yeah, hated the nasty and fiddly Honda tappets compared to the Suzuki with shims you hardly ever had to touch!
Honda was perhaps slightly prettier, though.
@Steve Stevenson Right on! There's something to be said for low-maintenance.
I just picked up a 550f cb 1977.(super sport) . I chose it for its reliability and definitely that 70's styling. Those 4 into 1 does sound sweet 😎
Right on!
I have had both and the Suzuki only needed the needle raised a touch and one step larger pilot to be far better than the Honda....and I am a Honda Man.
@@RadioReprised Right on!
Those headers on the Honda will probably become really nice by using phosphoric acid and a brush and a bit of time. It will also protect against new rust.
I've never tried that method.
The 79 Honda DOHC 4 valve motors had a completely new design team.
The earlier design teams had been moved to automotive division so Honda had a few issues with 78/79 bikes.
I started in Honda/Yamaha /Triumph dealers in 78 then moved to Suzuki/BMW/Vespa dealers in 1980 so very familiar with both models (plus still have CB550 I bought new in 1977)
Right on!
Hello. I have a Suzuki GS550L 1980. Works very well for its age.
Right on! They're great bikes.
Back around 1987 I used to commute to Simon Fraser University on '78-ish Honda CB550. I rode down Burnaby mountain on Galardi Way. There was a big sweeper at the bottom of the hill, that I used to take at 80 mph, with the handlebars slowly wagging back and forth - completely relaxed, and completely under control. Was that the frame design or was I riding on worn out tires. I left it behind when I moved to Ontario to go to graduate school. I don't think that four into one system is stock.
Thanks for sharing the memories, Peter! The muffler is a Kerker slip-on, but the downpipes are stock. The CB550F had the 4-into-1, while the CB550 came with 4-into-4, and later ones were 4-into-2. Cheers!
I know Honda makes a great machine but I’m all in on the Suzuki I had a 77 GS550 and damn that bike and I were amazing together should have never let her go and I agree with calling it a hot Rod I always felt that way with mine cool
Right on Randall!
Wow you brought back some amazing memories of my moments on my GS I called her Zuke “pronounced ZOOK” and I was an over the road truck drive for a few years and my cb call sign was “The Zuckster” I spent a lot of miles conveying wtf it was and where it stemmed from, I had one of my local tire shops “Fulton Tire” order me the best Dunlops and stickiest tires available to me and took a week long journey to Tennessee and road the mighty dragon on her and brother your assessment of the Zuke is spot on and that bike was so amazing on the dragon, I did a few warm up laps until I was comfortable pushing to the max of our abilities as one and it was pretty impressive and you know it was an attention getter and to this day the triumph sprint rs I sold her to get was not worth it to my heart it just didn’t fit my personality and I love a triumph motorcycle I had a 78 bonneville t140 that was very cool but just didn’t offer the reliability comfort and overall riding experience I bought it with a little over 1200 miles on it and put just shy of fifty thousand and it still shined like a new bike, I sold it to a business owner who owns a little tavern that makes the most amazing chicken wings I believe in the entire northern panhandle of West by god Virginia and the entire U S for a hell of a profit damn I think Randall will be looking for his next great love in about a year and a half brother thank you for the flood of memories I love the mid 70s - mid 80 Japanese UJMs they are so well built and for the twisty turns roads in our state it’ll put a smile on your face and pure enjoyment in your heart in a new fan my friend keep up the great work bc I’m all in
@Randall Reid Thanks for sharing the memories Randall! This comment made my day. Cheers!
This is a good comparison. The dry weight of these two bikes are identical. Again, the power delivery for both is really smooth. The GS should achieve better mpg due to the silky six speed gearbox. HP is around 50 for both bikes. 0 - 60 mph comes in just under 6 seconds for the pair. The Suzuki has a slightly faster top end speed, again, due to that sixth gear overdrive which also returns better mpg. The handling is equally good for both. The Honda definitely sounds beefier with a standard exhaust tone compared to GS standard exhaust. Back in the day I chose the Honda but, honestly...I doubt you could go wrong with either!
Right on, Keith! Thanks for sharing the info and memories. Cheers!
De esa generación Suzuki GS 550 hermosa , acá en Uruguay 🇺🇾 todavía se ven , sonido maravilloso
Estoy de acuerdo. ¡Me encanta el sonido de las GS550!
I rode my Suzuki 550 gsl coast to coast one summer without a hitch .
Now that's an epic ride!
It seems odd to me that Suzuki sold the GS550 in the US market with a single front disc, because all the UK models I've seen (including my 1980 GS550L) have dual front discs. There are quite a lot of US models that have been imported here in recent years, and they all have single front disc.
It doesn't make sense to me either. I'll gladly pay a little extra for the improved stopping power of the dual discs.
Jon, as a fairly new rider 40+ years ago, I was in my glory on my '80 GS550E. With a Shoei FM-2 fairing and blue paint job similar to your CB550 test bike, I was convinced the UJM was king. It was a great bike but I soon fell in love with British and other European classics, and I put the UJM in my rear-view mirror. While I currently own (and love) a BMW R75/6 and a Trident T160, a funny thing happened a few years ago- I fell back in love with the UJM. I'm out of room in the garage, so I'll have to make do just watching your videos. I really like the T model- it seems to perfectly bridge the gap styling-wise between the standard E and the cruiser L. There was a 550T for sale a few months ago here in SE PA, was it this particular bike? If so, I envy the new owner. This is an awesome YT channel, keep it going!
Thank you! Yes, it may have been this GS550T. I sold it to make room in the garage for the 1983 GS1100E. At 6'-4" tall, the GS550T is on the small side for me. But, it was a really fun bike while I had it! 🙂
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Is there really that much difference between the GS550 T and GS550 L models? I thought the only difference might be the handle bar and the seat
@Mark K Great question, Mark. I think the frame is different, but there are a lot of common parts between the two bikes.
@@markk5944 The forks are definitely different (spindle lugs on L are at front of legs instead of underneath). Caster angle is slightly different, but that may be due to different forks, which also look longer on the L, although I haven't measured them. It looks like they have combined different aspects of the E and L models (still kept the stupid tiny fuel tank from the L though, by the looks of it).
i had both of these bikes but id pick the suzie first.
Right on David!
Sir, I have just found your site, being stormed indoors, now I`m pacing the floor all jacked up about getting more done on my collection. I love your enthusiam and apperication of many of the bikes I have & agree with about 99% of everything you say. My questions are do you have web site, or possably a email address where we could respectfully ask you questions, or possably interest you in vintage bikes? I suspect it would be overwhelming and time consuming on your end. Anyway keep up the great work! Please concider doing a review of a Honda cb900f ( I have 3) and cx500 (I had 2) THANK YOU!
Thanks Steven! I would love to review a CB900F if/when I get the chance. I don't currently have a website but try to answer questions/comments on this channel. Cheers and welcome to the channel!
it's a shame Honda didn't put out just a little more effort.
Nice video 👍🏼 I've had my '76 CB550f for 9 years now. It's modified (don't come after me, purists 😅) and I love it. It gives me problems, as any classics do, but you've just got to keep on top of its care 😌. I might convert to dual front disc one day.
Right on!
Nice Review on the 550cc . If you ever get a chance to review the 1983 Yamaha 550 Vision. Love to hear your review of it. It was only made one year.
Thanks, James! I would like to review a Vision if I get the chance. Cheers!
Suzuki didn't have any four strokes until 1977 where the Honda was developed from CB500f from 1971~73.
Suzuki had way more potential for tuning but electrical system was pretty awful, regulator/rectifiers often burned out taking out alternator stator, but, once rebuilt with better parts they were almost bulletproof
That Honda needs a carb sync, even on video you can hear it's way off.
Even later at 3~4,000rpm you can hear it running as a 3+1 and not a four.
Oil pressure warning is pretty worthless, it activates at 4psi and is mounted on top of pump. If it comes on, motor is already toast.
Single front disc just isn't up to it dual disc is a very easy conversion though
GS needs carb work as well plus sounds like cam chain tensioner is sticking?
Neither should rattle like that at low rpm although the major 'clunk' going into second is about normal
Your totally correct about EPA jetting, a California bike would be pretty horrible by comparison (until it got hot)
The Honda was a friend's bike. If I would have kept the GS550, I would have gone one size up on the pilots to help low rpm running and cold starting. European versions sometimes had different jets than the US bikes. Cheers!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I know, when we got USA imports in shop, first thing we did was check manual and switch jetting to something we knew would work when it's below 55 degrees 😁
Great video, the only thing would make it better would be if the Suzuki was a GS550E with twin disk and not the T. The E model came out 1978-79 would be a little closer to each other in year. But on saying that great video.
Right on! I would love to do that comparison if I'm given the chance. I previously owned a beautiful red GS550E, and it was a great bike. Cheers!
Hi Jon. really enjoyed you comparison between these two bikes, as well as the 750K compare. I remember at the time liking the look of the blue Honda. A few years later my friend bought a beautiful new sporty looking 1980 GS550E, I remember going pillion and thinking how smooth and powerful it was. Not really a fan of the custom version you have, or the swept back handlebars - sorry! Your GS looks like the speedo only goes to 80mph, is this right, as the E version's speedo goes to 120mph? Finally, living in the UK, I am very jealous of your fabulous empty roads and your beautiful countryside, where in the US are you?
I'm glad you enjoyed the comparisons! For several years in the early eighties manufacturers put 85 mph speedometers on all bikes (you'll see that on most of my bikes). I like the GS550E the best as well. I live in beautiful Lancaster (pronounced LANK-aster here) County Pennsylvania. Cheers!
Honda is already a classic that the Suzuki contender will never be.
So, just because of that, for me is Honda all the way.
Happy Christmas and a great riding new year, Jon.
All the best from Brazil. ✌
Thanks Felipe! Merry Christmas!
A 1975 vs. 1981 is an unfair comparison. The Honda has a header and the Guk is puffing through a stock set of pipes among other differences that can't easily be seen.. At any rate... 6 years difference at that point in time is a lifetime in other eras.
The comparison highlights advances made to the middleweight bikes during those 6 years. Both bikes are available on the classic bike market and someone looking to get into their first classic bike should take the differences into account. Cheers!
it seems to meet price points honda cheaped out on rear brakes & instrumentation more so then suzuki.both fine bikes though.i sure do wish it was that warm again.looks like its going to be miserable in pa by friday.thanks jon, allways appreciate your videos.
Thanks! Yeah, winter stinks.
I've riding since 1976 and I don't get the love for 6 speed motorcycles. 🤔 None of my 5 speeds have ever felt like they were over revving on the interstate.
Personal preference I guess. Even on some six-speed bikes I'm often wanting a taller "overdrive" gear on the highway.
With the GS550, it's more about keeping the revs in the power band by having the ratios closer together, than having a higher 6th gear.
@@rickconstant6106 Right on!
what are the 550 and 650 suzuki selling for in great shape..i quit ridding 10yrs ago.my 1700 yamaha was to much for me..
I sold the GS550 and GS650G for around $3000 each.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 thanks for the contact..im in asheville n.c. cannot find anything here..
Suzuki also had the GS 650 which was almost idenical to the Gs 550
Yes, the GS650 was essentially a shaft-drive GS550. I would like to try one out someday.
Great Bikes & Years 👍😊
Right on!
I thought that all of the supersports were 6 speeds? 400f, 550f and 750f, back in '75
Nope, they were 5-speeds on the 550 and 750 at least. I think the first 750cc Honda with a 6-speed was the Interceptor. I am not sure about the 400.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 yeah, no, what I'm telling you is that (MY) 400F, Super sport "IS" a 6-speed gear box, and that I've "THOUGHT" that Honda would've done the same on the other Super Sports. It's a shame that they didn't, at the time, Honda was #1 with NO ONE close to competing .
@@29madmangaud29 Right on!
Had a couple 550es when I was a kid. If you don't care about HP it's a great bike. The Honda is a great bike but never been a Honda fan.
I'm a bit of a jaded hp junkie, but this was a fun comparison video to make and I enjoyed riding these two great classics!
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 iong shot but if you can find a 80-82 650es it's mind blowing the difference 100cc.makes. fun fact to for the Suzukis. You can put a 650 top end on the 550 and the 850 top end on the 750. My opinion Kawasaki was king of the small bores and tied Suzuki in 750s and up. All that said they all made great bikes except Harley that is they were turds. 😂 Btw coming from a guy who has an 82 fxwg. 😂
@@thesenutz77 Did you see my latest release? It's a GS650G. th-cam.com/video/_lEJNZYWuL0/w-d-xo.html&si=GQAPTdutLt16clIK
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 no I hadn't but will check it out.
@@thesenutz77 Right on!
Wow Jon, I thought that the CB550 was a 6 speed, as is my '75 CB400F.
Only a 5-speed.
My first bike was a 76 CB400F. Would love to restore one. Great bikes!
@@dailys1979 Yeah, I'm gonna be selling mine after I get the clutch lever replaced on it. I've owned my baby for some 41 years!
the body lines on the honda though
I'm a fan. Always thought these were prettier than the CB750. Cheers!
Did I see the Suzuki on facebook for sale recently?
You may have. I sold the GS550T to make room for a GS1100E.
@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538
GS1100E. I had one many years ago and loved it. 😀👍
Disc brakes are ONLY "an advantage" because the discs are easier to replace than an entire wheel, but drum brakes tend to have less problems and last pretty well. "Constant velocity" carburetors don't allow you to drain the fuel out of the carbs for the Winter without taking stuff apart. The Suzuki doesn't have a kick start option, so it is not for me. It seems that just about every street bike made after the 1970s is missing the kick starter, and that is very stupid because a bike without a kick starter is absolutely garbage even when it is new. There is no comparison really between the two bikes in this video... the Suzuki leaves too much to be desired, and the Honda covers all the bases pretty well.
Hi John! I agree that the Honda is a desirable bike and I would like to own another one. I really liked the one I owned previously, and this one when I rode it. While the Honda is certainly simpler in some respects to the Suzuki, the Suzuki has some real-world safety, maintenance and performance advantages over the Honda. The Suzuki brakes are far superior on the road (major safety advantage). The Suzuki carbs are easily drained with a 10mm wrench - the Honda needs a screwdriver (no difference here). The Suzuki has electronic ignition (far less maintenance, and far better performance). It also has an automatic cam-chain tensioner (again, far less maintenance). Valve adjustment intervals are less frequent on the Suzuki as well. And finally, your car doesn't have a crank start unless you're really old-school and nobody complains about that. I don't mind a kickstarter but it hasn't been an option on most bikes for about 40 years now. Just my thoughts. Cheers!
Yeah, it's got that SOHC sound..... almost like a RACE CAR!
Right on!
Die Suzuki sieht nicht halb so schön aus wie die Four. 🤷🏻♂️
Mir gefällt der Honda besser, aber Schönheit liegt im Auge des Betrachters. Prost!
Suzuki is far better looking i think
Right on!
Wow I've got a 74 Honda 550 supersport runs like a beast, I like it faster than most, anyway I've been commuting on it, it deserves someone to preserve it so I'll be willing to sell if anyone wants the best cafe racer.
Nice!
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Thanks, Amir!