Good day to all,
I've been lurking around this site since I bought a 1977 cb550k about 6 weeks ago in Bozeman. Seems like a helluva lot of sharp folks here. I also have a Buell X1, a v-rod and a 1950 Allstate that was my dad's when he was a teenager.
The 550 did not run when I picked it up, but it was in good condition otherwise. I bought it from a college kid whose dad had bought it new. I took it home went through the electrical, found some loose wires, put in new plugs, points, condensers, set the timing, set the dwell, and got it to run. It ran rough so I pulled the carbs, cleaned them (somewhat thoroughly), and reinstalled. It runs, but it leans out when you give it a lot of throttle (will barely pull itself up the hill). I can choke it and it gets better. I did not put the air box back on yet and wonder if that would be enough to do this. I hesitate putting the box back on until I know if I need to do more work to the carbs. Good idea? The carbs looked to be in good shape, no bad pitting; just some varnish in the bottom of the bowls.
I will post some pictures soon. I'm looking forward to getting this bike in good order. I have always liked the SOHC4 Hondas. I am looking for an early 70's 750 for my next treasure. Look forward to learning from you all.