Just about have the CB550 dialed in.

[KenH]

1976 Honda CB550.

Finally got the suspension, wheels and tires (tubeless!), triple discs, and comfort issues (made my own seat foam, had a local upholsterer sew a cover), luggage, electronic ignition, o-ring chain, +5 teeth on the wheel sprocket, etc.

Last week took her out alone for a 600 mile ride, mostly 45-55mph posted with lots of sweepers.
Yesterday, cranked the rear preload up 2 notches and did 300+ miles 2 up. Didn't even know she was back there, but she's ~100 pounds. Still 2 more notches of preload when luggage goes on. Scraping centerstand with ease.

Everything seems dialed right where I like so far. Still down on power. Original engine only has 11,xxx miles, so shopping for a core to build a 718cc out of 650 bottom, 750 cylinders and sleeves. Rode a similar engine not long ago. Before and after dyno sheets showed 22 more peak horsepower than same RPM as stock, plus good pull to redline. Torque curve bettered stock from idle on up, but big jump at 5500rpm. Thinking about MPEFI on the build to improve fuel efficiency. Not a modern ST, but way better. 60hp beats 38hp any day.

[Orson]

You know the rules.

It doesn't exist without pictures.  

[KenH]

Come ride. Bring your camera.

[coucours grad]

 

[atadaskew]

It's nice that after 36 years you have got round to doing that.

[Carbonero]

1976 Honda CB550.

Had a few of them back in the day. Fun bikes, then.