Honda CB500 & CB550
The Honda CB500 and CB550 offered a more agile and approachable alternative to the mighty CB750, defining the mid-size Japanese four-cylinder market. It remains a highly popular and affordable entry point for vintage motorcycle enthusiasts thanks to its classic looks and proven reliability.
Find one with Spotter →Honda CB500 & CB550 sold for a median of $5,200 over the last 12 months, based on 8 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $3,733 and $6,375. 14 currently for sale.
Introduced in 1971, the Honda CB500 Four was a scaled-down version of the revolutionary CB750. It was lighter and more nimble, offering a balanced package that many riders found more manageable than its larger sibling. In 1974, Honda bored the engine out to create the CB550, which came in two main flavors: the CB550K with its classic 4-into-4 exhaust and the CB550F Super Sport with a sleeker 4-into-1 pipe and flatter handlebars.
These middleweight Hondas are perennial favorites for collectors and riders. They embody the quintessential Universal Japanese Motorcycle (UJM) look, are known for their reliability, and have strong parts availability. Their straightforward SOHC inline-4 engines are easy to work on, making them an excellent choice for those new to vintage motorcycle maintenance. The combination of classic style, usable performance, and dependability keeps them in high demand.
The market for CB500s and CB550s is broad, with an average sale price around $5,260. The wide price range reflects the variety of conditions available, from basket-case projects to pristine original examples and tastefully modified cafe racers. Unmolested bikes with original paint and, crucially, original exhaust systems, are becoming rare and command the highest prices.
Buying Tips
- Check the exhaust system carefully. Original 4-into-4 and 4-into-1 pipes are very susceptible to rust and are difficult and expensive to find, so many bikes have aftermarket systems.
- Listen for a rattling sound from the engine, which often indicates a worn cam chain tensioner. This is a common issue that requires engine work to fix correctly.
- Inspect for oil leaks, particularly around the head gasket and cylinder base gasket. While common, these can be time-consuming to repair.
- Assume the 4 carburetors will need attention if the bike has been sitting. A full rebuild and synchronization is often required for smooth running, as a simple cleaning usually isn't enough.
- Examine the electrical system. Original wiring harnesses can become brittle and fail, so check all lights, switches, and charging system components. An upgraded electronic ignition is a common and valuable reliability improvement.
Based on 50 recent sales, prices range from around $1,300 for projects to $12,000 for concours-level examples.
174 Honda CB500 & CB550 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 14 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Honda CB500 & CB550 cost?
Over the last 12 months, Honda CB500 & CB550 sold for a median of $5,200 across 8 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $3,733 and $6,375. There are 14 currently for sale.
How many Honda CB500 & CB550 listings are for sale right now?
There are 14 Honda CB500 & CB550 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.