[zx12ryder]

Does anyone know much about the cb650? Every once in a while i come across a craigslist listing or an article. Never hear too much about them....anyone?

 

[kirkn]

Weren't they an expansion of the SOHC 550, rather than a shrinking of the SOHC 750?

I've only known one who actually owned one, and it was a great machine. Ran great and was very reliable for the high mileage it had...

Otherwise, all the same strengths and weaknesses of the 550.

 

[Bird76Mojo]

I believe Kirks first statement is correct. People often use the cams out of them in CB550's.. I think it's the 550? Could be the 500four?

GB :mrgreen:

 

[zx12ryder]

seen one for sale on craigslist....it had alernator probs.....only ran off the battery till it died. $600 they wanted....didnt think that was too bad.
http://columbus.craigslist.org/mcy/1223511741.html

 

[bill440cars]

The 650's not a bad bike. As said, parts can be swapped from the 650 back to the 550 (probably 500, since the 500 and the 500 are more similar). Paulages (here and on the SOHC4) has built an engine comprised of 550 and 650 parts w/750 sleeves and some machine work and I think the displacement is 718cc or close to it. It will scream. I believe he used the 550 case with most everything else being 650. Now, the 650 doesn't have a kick starter, uses a hypo chain from the crank to the trans and, I am not sure but, I think
the trans gearing might be different. I am told that the 650s have some differences in the different models also. like the 79 and 80 are grouped together while the 81 and 82 had some differences like carbs and I'm not sure what else. I'd really have to check. I SO however have a buddy over on the SOHC4, Terry (uses the username of cb650, if that tells you anything, that knows a bit about the bikes and the pros and cons of the different year models.

 

[zx12ryder]

interesting info....i always wondered what parts can be interchanged with what years. Seems like people who know this stuff have really done their homework. a 718cc honda screamer is definately unique.

 

[66Sprint]

The earlier CB650's are an extension of the SOHC 500/550 fours.... The later ones (Nighthawk) are DOHC.... The alternator problems are well known, and the components are identical to the 79/80's DOHC 750's, 900's......