Building A Motorcycle. // Episode 4 Honda CB550

Follow me on Insta:
@kylevara
@thirteenandcompany
Parts Provided by: www.dimecitycycles.com/
In this detailed TH-cam video, we will explore the process of building the lower end of a CB550 motorcycle engine. Join me as we go through the steps of engine assembly, cylinder honing, piston ring gap adjustment, and why crankshaft lightening might be key for this little CB550, all aimed at enhancing the performance of this iconic bike. Making it the ultimate Cafe Racer.
Throughout the video, we will carefully assemble the lower end of the CB550 engine. A thorough cleaning process will ensure a fresh start for the engine rebuild.
Moving on, I will demonstrate the importance of cylinder honing. By eliminating imperfections and creating an optimal surface, we can improve piston performance. I will take you through the process step by step, explaining the significance of this critical procedure.
Piston ring gap adjustment is another crucial aspect we will cover. Proper ring gap is essential for effective sealing and preventing potential damage.I will provide detailed measurements and techniques to help you achieve the ideal ring gap, ensuring optimal engine efficiency.
Lastly, we will explore the concept of crankshaft lightening. By strategically removing excess weight from the crankshaft, we can enhance engine responsiveness and reduce rotational mass.
Whether you are an experienced motorcycle enthusiast or a beginner seeking knowledge, this video offers valuable insights into building a CB550 engine. Join me as we breathe new life into this classic machine, optimizing its power and performance. Subscribe now to stay updated on this project!

[@paulhootisn848]

Great video. I’m really enjoying watching it come together. I’ve built a handful of these and they are fun little engines. Great work!! Did you do anything with the rods?

[@kylevara]

Thanks man! I have swapped out the old connecting rod bolts with the ones from a CB750F. They’re just stronger. Other than that stock rods. 👊🏻

[@95clark]

i watched the first three episodes yesterday, the cinematography and way you explain what you’re doing and why is excellent

[@Wesvirginillo]

Loving these so far, thank you!

[@raymondwhitehead5819]

Im doing one right now but i have been riding these things since i was a kid im now 69 years old and wish i still had my sandcast 750 that i paid 400 dollars for in 1972 but its nice to see someone who does things right nice job i now have a 74 cb 350 four and 1975 cb550 that i ride every day good luck with your build its beautiful

[@kylevara]

Thanks man!

[@freefromleftwing]

You're in a different league ... in order to catch up about all the info that you delivered, I was forced to drop down the speed of youtube player :) TOP NOTCH WORK

[@marshalfrancis3353]

Great videographer!! So enjoyable

[@kylevara]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@marshalfrancis3353]

Alos love all the detailed explanations. If i ever rebuilt an engine, I'm gonna come bacl to this video

[@roodlum]

This is a great series! I'm looking forward to seeing the body work come together. May the algorithm give you its blessing 😌

[@scottmoto]

Very informative and well made video.

[@SchysCraftCo.]

It's coming along nicely so far Kyle. Can't wait to see more videos soon my friend. Keep up the great craftsmanship and hard work my friend. Fab on. Weld on. Keep making. God bless.

[@salemcitadel]

Great work..keep it up

[@kungfusing1]

Man I hope you love making these videos because I’ll watch all I can get. I really appreciate the quality of the production.
Also I don’t think it’s exaggerating to say the piston rings travel in the pistons millions of rotations

[@maxtdemsky4031]

Looks great, the way that “knife edging”helps is basically no matter what there is air inside the crank case. So if you try to wave your hand, back-and-forth fast enough, you will get some air resistance. So the smaller the surface area of the crank that has to hit the air. The less drag it has especially at higher RPMs.

[@Twin_solo_az]

Just watched 1-4. Excellent work. I’m assuming we’re waiting on 5?

[@cyrilleloreau1603]

When form meets function.
I’m about to change the piston rings on a cb750 SS. First time and you demystify the process. I realize there’s much more to it but this gives me a confidence I didn’t have before. Might actually do this first on my cb550. Thank you for this and I’ll watch the rest of this series with great enthusiasm.

[@kylevara]

Thank you! Go for it man, take the plunge and if you take your time it should be pretty straight forward. If you have any questions let me know!

[@SchysCraftCo.]

Amazing

[@calvo71086]

Beautiful video!! Great work!! I’ve played this over and over in my garage just for the cinematography. One question I have is where did you get your bearings from? I’ve downloaded your build sheet and don’t see them in there.

[@formo58]

Thanks!

[@kylevara]

You bet! Thanks!

[@spookydog6959]

👍

[@raymondwhitehead5819]

How did you get the cam chain tensioner in without lifting cylinder

[@kylevara]

Haha, nice catch. I realized that a week later when I got the head back. I had to lift it back up.

[@fmtz8746]

Where did you buy the rod journal bearings and the main bearings?

[@kylevara]

I had some ones I purchased from previous bikes but most of the time from Europe, I use davidsilverspares.com. They’re definitely getting harder to find these days.

[@fmtz8746]

Thanks@@kylevara

[@rollypoli5570]

You said the pistons came from dimecity cycles but I don’t see it on their website

[@kylevara]

Send them an email, I’m sure they can help you out!

[@rollypoli5570]

@@kylevara thanks I will. Did you get the rod bolts from them also?