Photo: Tspooncl65 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Honda CX500
81/100 Overall
78 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CX500 vs Suzuki GS550
Honda CX500 scores 81/100 overall against Suzuki GS550 on 81/100. On the road: 78–82. As classics: 83–80. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: NESR 1978 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Suzuki GS550
81/100 Overall
82 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CX500 | Suzuki GS550 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Honda CX500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS550 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Honda CX500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Honda CX500 |
Choose the Honda CX500 if…
you want unconventional engineering, exceptional durability and one of Britain's most recognisable courier and commuter motorcycles.
Choose the Suzuki GS550 if…
you want smooth four-cylinder performance, good reliability and a well-balanced Japanese middleweight that is easy to enjoy.
Background
History
Honda CX500
The Honda CX500 was produced from 1978–1983 and used a 497cc liquid-cooled transverse V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GS550
The Suzuki GS550 was produced from 1977–1986 and used a 549cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, styling, performance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CX500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 497cc liquid-cooled transverse V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance.
Suzuki GS550
- Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 549cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, styling, performance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CX500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CX500. Its library score for reliability 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.
Suzuki GS550
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GS550. Its library score for reliability 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 CX500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- 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.
Suzuki GS550
- 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 CX500
Rivals to the Suzuki GS550
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GS550 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CX500 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.