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  1. Common Motor Collective
  2. 500K / 550K/F Specific Questions
  3. Engine & Transmission

Engine & Transmission

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The Honda CB500K and CB550 family of engines was built from 1971 to 1978. The engine is a single overhead cam design, with four cylinders inline and two valves per cylinder. The CB500K used a bore diameter of 56mm with a 50.6mm stroke to make a 498cc displacement. The CB550 had an increased bore of 58.5mm while keeping the same stroke for a displacement of 544cc. The engine is joined to the 5 speed transmission via an internal primary drive chain. All of the bikes have a wet sump oiling system, wet clutch as well as a removable cartridge style oil filter. Drive chain to the rear wheel is a 530 pitch.

  • How to adjust the cam chain and valves on the Honda CB500K / CB550
  • How to change the oil and oil filter on the Honda CB500K and CB550
  • What is the valve adjustment / tappet clearance specs for the Honda CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
  • How often should I lubricate and inspect the drive chain on my Honda CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
  • What size drive chain do I need for my Honda CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
  • How often do I need to clean or change the oil filter on a CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
  • How often do I need to change the engine oil on a CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
  • How much engine oil do I need for my CB550K / CB550F / CB500K?
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