Photo: Joe Tordiff · CC BY-SA 2.0
Honda CB400F
78/100 Overall
70 On the road85 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB400F vs Honda CB550 Four
Honda CB400F scores 78/100 overall against Honda CB550 Four on 85/100. On the road: 70–82. As classics: 85–88. Overall result: Honda CB550 Four.
Honda CB550 Four
85/100 Overall
82 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB400F | Honda CB550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 8 | Honda CB550 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 7 | Honda CB550 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB550 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB550 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 8 | Honda CB550 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Honda CB550 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 8 | Level |
Choose the Honda CB400F if…
you want jewel-like engineering, light controls, a beautiful four-into-one exhaust and an engaging small-capacity Honda four.
Choose the Honda CB550 if…
you want classic Honda-four refinement in a lighter, friendlier and often sweeter package than the CB750.
Background
History
Honda CB400F
The Honda CB400F was produced from 1975–1977 and used a 408cc air-cooled SOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB550
The Honda CB550 Four was produced from 1974–1978 and used a 544cc air-cooled SOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, reliability, ownership appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB400F
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 408cc air-cooled SOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, reliability.
Honda CB550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1974 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 544cc air-cooled SOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, ownership appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB400F
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB400F. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB550 Four. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda CB400F
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda CB550
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CB400F
Rivals to the Honda CB550
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB550 Four wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB550 Four wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB550 Four takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.