Positioned in Honda's allround motorcycle lineup, the 1983 Honda CB 550 SC pairs a 572 cc (34.9 cu in) air-cooled in-line four, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 75 HP (54.7 kW) at 9,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 49.5 Nm (36.5 lb-ft) at 8,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 131.1 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (8,000 rpm) and peak power (9,500 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the CB 550 SC measures 206.8 kg (456 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.36 HP/kg (2.76 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,440 mm (56.7 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.11-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.9 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 247 km (153 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 187 km/h (116 mph).
Specific Output
131.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.36 HP/kg (2.76 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
8,000–9,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~247 km (153 mi)
Engine
Displacement572.0 ccm (34.90 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power75.0 HP (54.7 kW)) @ 9500 RPM
Torque49.5 Nm (5.0 kgf-m or 36.5 ft.lbs) @ 8000 RPM
Bore x Stroke60.0 x 50.6 mm (2.4 x 2.0 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CV 26.8mm
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
CoolingAir
Max RPM10000
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed186.7 km/h (116.0 mph)
0-400m12.64 seconds
60-140 km/h10.80 seconds
Fuel Consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustDouble chrome pipes
Chassis
Frame TypeConventional steel frame
Rake29.0°
Trail107 mm (4.2 inches)
Front SuspensionAir-adjustable telescopic fork
Rear SuspensionSwingarm
Wheelbase1440 mm (56.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre2.15 -19
Rear Tyre3.00-16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.206.8 kg (456.0 pounds)
Fuel Capacity12.11 litres (3.20 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel1.89 litres (0.50 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Notes
This 550 Nighthawk, then, is a combination of glitter and glitz and solid function, providing a base of performance under all that style and chromed plastic. It´s proof that motorcyclists can have it both ways, not giving up power for the cruiser look.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
