Topic: 76 550 steering lock?

[prov431]

I noted on my 550 there is a lock cylinder under the steering stem...I assume it's to lock the steering, however my ignition key doesn't seem to fit the cyclinder.
Is there supposed to be a different key or ignition key?
If different, can I have one made? Where? Who?

Thanks!

[05c50]

All the locks on the bike should be the same, but the ignition may have been replaced. Look closely at the face of the lock cylinder and there should be a number inscribed. If not there, check the helmet lock, it's most likely the same. With the number, you can go to a lock smith or look on ebay for "Honda motorcycle key" They are available.

...............Paul

[IndyFour]

Just in case.... make sure that you are operating the lock correctly.  With the bars at full lock to the left, insert the key, push the key in and turn it while pushing, and then remove the key....steering is then locked.  Reverse process to unlock.

When I first got my 550, I thought the lock didn't work until someone showed me how to do it....then I felt stupid for a minute....but now I know. 

[prov431]

Just in case.... make sure that you are operating the lock correctly.  With the bars at full lock to the left, insert the key, push the key in and turn it while pushing, and then remove the key....steering is then locked.  Reverse process to unlock.

When I first got my 550, I thought the lock didn't work until someone showed me how to do it....then I felt stupid for a minute....but now I know. 

This may be the issue, I need to verify!......thanks for the info!

[dave500]

you can lock them full left or right turn.

[IndyFour]

you can lock them full left or right turn.

Good to know.  I guess I never tried locking it to the right.  I usually only lock it when parked on the center stand and the bars just kind of want to swing left on their own, so that's the way I lock it. 

See...here's another one of those "I feel stupid" moments.  I seem to have them alot these days.   

[Dimitri13]

Here's a tip: My original Honda works with the steering lock, but not the replacement key I got from some website. The Honda key is slim enough to fit into the cylinder.

[prov431]

Either way I need to try it again - I probably didn't have full lock when I tried it (to the right) and I certainly didn't push in on anything; I couldn't get the ignition key to even start in. My ignition looks original, as does the funny old looking key (very skinny)

[Dimitri13]

If you still can't get it to work, post a picture of your ignition lock and steering lock, we may be able to help you out.

[thep1pe]

You need a different key for that lock. It's easy to replace, just drill out the rivet. Replacement lock is cheap.

[prov431]

well here's the deal, the igntion key did fit the steering stem lock...it had to be pushed inward as mentioned above and then rotated....now the bad news; i worked the lock a few times, it probably hadn't been used in a while, then while trying to remove it, promptly broke the key inside the lock!!! Now i have no keys to anything!!! The Honda key does have a number on it....where do i go?  ARGH!!!!!

[IndyFour]

Oh no!  Well you should be able to get a key from hondakeys.com.  I ordered from him a couple of times and he ships promptly.

[dave500]

thats worse than locking your keys under the seat?

[prov431]

Thanks for the replies - got some new keys ordered - 3 of them! Just need to visit a lock smith and have the steering lock cylinder broken key removed and cleaned up, should be in working order after that!