Author Topic: CB550F vs. CB360T? (Read 1557 times)

youngerthanmybike · « **on:** April 23, 2008, 12:30:19 PM »

Okay, so here's my dilemma. I'm looking for my first bike, I'm 26 about 6' and 150lbs.
I'm pretty sure I'd like to get a 550, simply because of the size. I've gone to look a few 750's, 550's and 360's. 750 is too much for me for a first bike, but I'm wondering if a 360 is too small? I'm also not sure of some of the differences in reliability or parts availability between the 360 and 550? I will rarely, if ever, be riding with a 2nd person, so I'm not too concerned about that. I've gotten to drive a 550, but not a 360, can anyone help me make a more informed decision? All I know in the differences is this- obviously a 4cyl vs twin; about 425lbs vs 375; and about 49hp vs 32hp.

I'm not looking for somebody to tell me what bike to get, what I'd like is to understand some of the differences. I've been unable to find a decent 550 that's not a basketcase or a show piece. I have a line on a 360 in good shape for about 1200. If I get a 360 will I regret it? Any help would be greatly appreciated-

chopstar500 · « **Reply #1 on:** April 23, 2008, 12:46:23 PM »

Well... since this is a SOHC/4 forum, I'd venture to say that most will suggest the 550. You've already pointed out the obvious difference performance-wise, and depending on how you plan to ride the bike, that might make the decision for you. If you want to get out on the roads and have some fun, the 550 is your best choice. A 550 is going to hold value better, and you won't be able to participate on this cool ass site with a Honda twin.

hapsh · « **Reply #2 on:** April 23, 2008, 12:54:23 PM »

I wouldn't think you would regret getting a 360. They are one of those bikes not many people seem to know about. Honda twins are super cool. They have decent power for the freeway, and sound amazing. The parts are much more abundant for the 360 as well. If you get a 550 that is a basket case it is going to cost you way more than it is worth to fix it up. For example, I got a set of excellent tach and speedo guages for my 360 off ebay for $12. A set for the 550 could be well over $100 in the same condition. I would keep looking for a 550 over time, but I would not pass up the 360 if it is in great shape. Give it a test ride if possible.

Geeto67 · « **Reply #3 on:** April 23, 2008, 01:56:33 PM »

I liked the girlfriend's CJ360 when she had it. Not a two up or touring bike but a comfy commuter. I would rather have a 350 because they make better power and the handeling is better but the 360 is still a stout motor.

I like 550s too but the twins are nimble. Only thing is for your height they might feel a little cramped.

paulages · « **Reply #4 on:** April 23, 2008, 01:59:16 PM »

Quote from: hapsh on April 23, 2008, 12:54:23 PM

I wouldn't think you would regret getting a 360. They are one of those bikes not many people seem to know about. Honda twins are super cool. They have decent power for the freeway, and sound amazing. The parts are much more abundant for the 360 as well. If you get a 550 that is a basket case it is going to cost you way more than it is worth to fix it up. For example, I got a set of excellent tach and speedo guages for my 360 off ebay for $12. A set for the 550 could be well over $100 in the same condition. I would keep looking for a 550 over time, but I would not pass up the 360 if it is in great shape. Give it a test ride if possible.

if you're thinking of getting a 360 go with the earlier cb or cl350. parts are much more abundant, and they were bulletproof. honda didn't introduce much more than problems when they went to the 360... the cam chains routinely ate through the cases, and most people seem to complain that the 6th gear doesn't do much but make you shift more often.

that said, i'd go with a 550.

tom8Toe · « **Reply #5 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:01:44 PM »

Quote from: Geeto67 on April 23, 2008, 01:56:33 PM

I like 550s too but the twins are nimble. Only thing is for your height they might feel a little cramped.

Tell me about it. I'm 6'2 on 400F. It's sometimes difficult to get tucked down when the urge hits. I'm starting to rethink a 750K.

mlinder · « **Reply #6 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:02:20 PM »

I agree with paulages.
cb350 is a great bike.
550 is a great bike. Both are better than a 360, and 1200 is too much for a 360.

Where are you located?

youngerthanmybike · « **Reply #7 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:29:14 PM »

I'm just north of Philly, right off the PA turnpike.
Yeah, the $1200 seemed a little more than I would want to spend on a 360, but I was thinking it might hold me over til I find the 550 I'm looking for. Oddly enough, I've seen more 360's on Craigslist in my area than 550's in the last 3-4 weeks. Only one 550 was nice enough, and I didn't jump on it fast enough. That's about the price range I'm looking at though, 1000-1300 or so.

Hey paulages- what do you think of that BSA lightning? How hard are parts to find for that?

paulages · « **Reply #8 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:44:14 PM »

Quote from: youngerthanmybike on April 23, 2008, 02:29:14 PM

Hey paulages- what do you think of that BSA lightning? How hard are parts to find for that?

i think mine looks pretty cool on the floor in pieces.

i also have a '71 triumph T120, which is much closer to roadworthy. working on both make me appreciate hondas.

Gordon · « **Reply #9 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:46:38 PM »

Nothing wrong with having more than one bike!

Buy the first one of either type that comes along and that you like, and then when a decent specimen of the other type shows up, buy it too!

tom8Toe · « **Reply #10 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:49:55 PM »

Quote from: Gordon on April 23, 2008, 02:46:38 PM

Nothing wrong with having more than one bike! Buy the first one of either type that comes along and that you like, and then when a decent specimen of the other type shows up, buy it too!

Here honey, happy birthday

Gordon · « **Reply #11 on:** April 23, 2008, 02:59:24 PM »

Quote from: tom8Toe on April 23, 2008, 02:49:55 PM

Here honey, happy birthday

What's that, dear? You don't want a motorcycle? Oh well, I guess I'll just have to ride it then...

Geeto67 · « **Reply #12 on:** April 23, 2008, 03:15:01 PM »

I got $1200 for the GF's 1976 CJ360 when I sold it. This was a mint running bike needing only a few parts and had no problems (even had good tires on it) and I threw in an NOS tank. Of course I live in NYC where bike prices are somewhat inflated.

Being from philly, expcet to see a lot of NYC prices on stuff and the occasional bargain.

mlinder · « **Reply #13 on:** April 23, 2008, 03:47:43 PM »

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/mcy/627084932.html

cb650 · « **Reply #14 on:** April 23, 2008, 03:56:03 PM »

FYI by 76 they had the 360 cam chain tensioner sorted out. Enjoy the #$%* out of mine. Think there is a pic of it in my gallery.

youngerthanmybike · « **Reply #15 on:** April 23, 2008, 04:44:38 PM »

Here's the 360, it's a 74, so it might still have some cam chain issues.

I saw that ad for the 350, but I'd like something running for my first bike. i'm not afraid to do some mechanics, I've built a couple Jeeps up, but it's a heck of a lot easier to put something back together when you're the one who took it apart.

Ironically, I did just get a phone call back from the guy who owns the 550 I went and drove, he said his buyer backed out on him, he wants to know if I'm still interested. I think I just might be.....
It's got about 30k on the clock, paint is a little faded and blistered, but tank is solid, no dings and clean as a whistle on the inside. Brakes good, tires good, carbs good, seat's good. $1400. It has a set of goofy cruiser bars on it though- they'll have to go right away.

L.A. Nomad........ · « **Reply #16 on:** April 24, 2008, 09:00:52 AM »

If you bought it, get yourself a set of new stiffer fork springs! You'll never look back!

L.A. Nomad

Hope · « **Reply #17 on:** April 24, 2008, 07:14:19 PM »

+1 on the 550

I'm partial though!

nsargeant · « **Reply #18 on:** April 24, 2008, 07:25:19 PM »

I will through my 2 cents in here. I have a cb350 and a cb550. Which one do I like more? well its 2 different kinds of fun. I can ride that balls off of my 350 and its a blast around town and in the country. I just don't like to take it on all day trips. It will do it as my 350 has, I just don't like doing it. This is why I like my 550 more. I went through the same kind of things you are going through now. My decision went to the 550 over the 750 and the 350 although I still have the 350. I am only 5'7 and the 750 felt a little big and not as agile as my 550. I think the 550 would be good for you because its small enough and light enough to learn how to drive on but big enough to ride anywhere and have fun. Plus you never have to upgrade.
nathan

mark · « **Reply #19 on:** April 24, 2008, 09:35:08 PM »

.... Upgrade?

nsargeant · « **Reply #20 on:** April 25, 2008, 10:45:51 AM »

When I got my 350 I figured out real quick that I didn't want to take it out on the interstate or do any real extensive travel with it. It is a fun country bike but I don't think I would take it on an 600 mile trip by any means. Maybe I am just not crazy enough. I feel the bike just isn't big enough. Wheras the 550 I wouldn't hesitate to take it anywhere no matter how far or how long of a ride. That is what I mean by upgrade.
nathan

SHORTROUND · « **Reply #21 on:** April 25, 2008, 02:26:30 PM »

i sold my 76 360T about 2 months ago. i really liked it but it was a little underpowered. the carb diaphrams are about $90 each.

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Author Topic: CB550F vs. CB360T? (Read 1557 times)