Honda Cbx 550
The Honda Cbx 550 has a top speed of 185 km/h, produces 50 hp and weighs 209 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Honda CBX550F was introduced in 1982 as a mid-range inline four-cylinder sportbike, designed to offer accessible performance in the 550cc class. It featured a DOHC engine with 8 valves and was sold in several markets as a successor to the CB550, bridging the gap between entry-level and performance bikes. It was notable for its strong mid-range power delivery and reliable Honda engineering, though it was relatively short-lived as the market shifted toward the CBR sportbike lineup in the mid-1980s.
50 hp
Power
44 Nm
Torque
209 kg
Weight
185 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Smooth Six-Cylinder Power
The CBX550 features an inline six-cylinder engine that delivers exceptionally smooth power and a distinctive exhaust note rare in its class. This unique configuration makes it a standout collectible among vintage Honda enthusiasts.
Watch the Carburetors
The six carburetors require careful synchronization and are prone to gumming up from ethanol-blended fuels if left sitting. Always inspect for a recent carb service and ensure all six cylinders fire cleanly before buying.
Rising Collector Value
Clean, well-maintained CBX550s have steadily appreciated due to their rarity and novelty factor, making them a smart buy for collectors. Low-mileage examples in original condition command the strongest premiums.
Generations & Specs by Year
Inline four-cylinder 572cc engine, DOHC, introduced as sole generation with no significant redesigns throughout production run.
"Revvy, characterful middleweight that rewards patient, mechanical owners."
The CBX550 pulls hard above 7,000 rpm with that DOHC four singing a genuinely addictive note — it's a bike that wants to be ridden with commitment, not coddled. At 209 kg it's no lightweight, and you'll feel every kilo in slow parking-lot maneuvers, but once moving it carries its mass with surprising composure through sweeping bends. The air-cooled engine throws real heat at your legs in summer traffic, and finding good carburetor sync after 40 years of neglect can consume entire weekends. Still, when it's right, that silky top-end rush and solid mid-corner stability remind you exactly why Honda owned the early-80s middleweight class.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"A rewarding classic if you find an honest, well-kept example."
$2,500-$6,500 usedThe CBX550 is one of Honda's most underrated middleweights from the early eighties, and finding a clean one is genuinely worth the effort. That inline-four pulls smoothly from about 4,000rpm and keeps building to a satisfying 9,500rpm redline — it's not a screamer, but it's got real character that modern bikes struggle to replicate. The handling is period-correct, meaning it feels a bit soft compared to today's standards, but it's forgiving and predictable. Here's the honest part though — these bikes are 40 years old, and most survivors have been neglected, modified badly, or crashed. Carburetors are the biggest headache. Four Keihin CV carbs that have sat with old fuel turn into expensive paperweights fast. Budget for a full carb rebuild immediately. Cam chain tensioners are another known weak spot, so listen carefully at idle for any rattling. Wiring harnesses get brittle at this age too. If you find a genuine low-mileage example with service history, don't hesitate. If you're buying a project, go in with realistic expectations and a decent tool budget.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Honda Cbx 550 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALUneven idle, flat spots, rough running at mid-throttle
Rattling on startup, listen cold before warmup
Inspect tank interior, petcock flow, carb bowls
Check voltage at idle and rev, battery health
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent if maintained, neglected examples are money pits
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Honda Cbx 550
Kawasaki W650
Yamaha Rd 350
Kawasaki Zephyr 550
Honda Cb550
Yamaha Xs650
Compare Honda Cbx 550 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Honda Cbx 550 vs Kawasaki W650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbx 550 vs Yamaha Rd 350
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbx 550 vs Kawasaki Zephyr 550
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbx 550 vs Honda Cb550
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbx 550 vs Yamaha Xs650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Honda Cbx 550? +
Carb sync and jetting issues: Uneven idle, flat spots, rough running at mid-throttle (moderate) | Cam chain tensioner wear and noise: Rattling on startup, listen cold before warmup (serious) | Corroded or clogged fuel system: Inspect tank interior, petcock flow, carb bowls (moderate)
Is the Honda Cbx 550 a good motorcycle? +
A rewarding classic if you find an honest, well-kept example. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Patient classic enthusiasts who enjoy light wrenching. Avoid if: You need reliable daily transport without mechanical involvement.
What is the horsepower of the Honda Cbx 550? +
The Honda Cbx 550 produces 50 hp @ 9,500 rpm, with 44 Nm @ 8,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 185 km/h.
Is the Honda Cbx 550 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Honda Cbx 550 is a reasonable choice for new riders (50 hp is manageable), weighing 209 kg. Patient classic enthusiasts who enjoy light wrenching
Is the Honda Cbx 550 reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Honda Cbx 550, notably: Cam chain tensioner wear and noise (Rattling on startup, listen cold before warmup). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Honda Cbx 550 good for daily use? +
Patient classic enthusiasts who enjoy light wrenching Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L, typical real-world average).
How fast is the Honda Cbx 550? +
The Honda Cbx 550 reaches a top speed of 185 km/h, producing 50 hp at 209 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Honda Cbx 550? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Honda Cbx 550, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/honda/cbx-550/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
