Topic: New CB550k - What to do for first maintence

[BuffaloFunk]

So I just picked up a '77 CB550. It was a bit tricky to get started, but I'm mostly chalking that up to old gas. What should I do right off the back to ensure everything is in good shape and start me off for a good summer? This is my first bike, but I'm a pretty handy fella.

I know it needs new tires, plugs could use a change and crabs could probably use a cleaning. So where to get started?

[Bankerdanny]

Do everything shown at 3,600 miles.

[BuffaloFunk]

Awesome. Tank isn't original, I don't think, and looks a bit out of place but is rust free.

I've been trying to research tires, but finding more info on 750s than 550s. Tire sizes the same? Currently has:

Front 1.00/90-19
Rear 1.00-18

[Bankerdanny]

The 750 tires are slightly larger.

I ran 100/90-19 on the front and 110/90-18 on the rear of my 550.

[BuffaloFunk]

Thanks again.

One last question. I need tubes, right? The spoked wheels aren't tubeless are they?

[Stev-o]

Currently has:

Front 1.00/90-19
Rear 1.00-18

Congrats. BTW - you are reading your tires wrong. the front is 100/90-19 not 1.0     These are metric sized tires, measured in millimeters, except the rim size [19"]

+1 on the Avon Roadriders, great tire.

I also like Bridgestone and Dunlop, I just stay away from Cheap Chinese Crap.

[eastyork1977]

That check list is key for sure.
Off the top, I would say oil change and oil pump rebuild. If you listen to the bike before and after you switch up the oil and pump, you should notice an audible difference.
Cleans up with gas and works better with new seals than flat hard ones.

[BuffaloFunk]

Loads of help already! One last question: What valve stem on tubes works with these wheels? Never knew there were so many choices.