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+--- Thread: Looking at a 1983 Honda CB550SC tonight, what should I check? (/showthread.php?tid=650658)
Looking at a 1983 Honda CB550SC tonight, what should I check? - MotoMike - 09-23-2026
So I found this 83 CB550SC on marketplace for $900. Guy says it ran last year but the carbs need cleaning and the tank has some rust. Ive restored a couple old Hondas before so Im not scared of carb work, but I wanted to ask you guys what specific stuff to look for on this model. I know the Nighthawk 550s had that hydraulic clutch thing and I think some had cam chain tensioner issues? Also the rear shock on these is that odd single shock setup right? Any known electrical gremlins with the 83s? Im bringing a compression tester and a flashlight, going to try and get him down to 700 if the compression is good. Main thing Im worried about is parts availability honestly, seems like the 650s got way more aftermarket support. Anybody here own one or wrenched on one? What am I walking into lol. Thanks in advance.