Topic: 1975 Honda CB550F or K, which model is this?

[sitrinh87]

Hi guys, I'm new to this forum and does not own a bike YET. I'm currently looking at a 1975 CB550 and I'm not sure if it's a K model of a F model. Can you guys help me figure out which model it is before purchasing. I'm attaching some pictures of the motorcycle below. The VIN# CB5501225780

[Scott S]

 Looks like a K.

[harisuluv]

I just see the one picture..  It does look like a K but that's just based on the tank and side cover.  It could be a F and have a swapped K stuff.  If you want to know, you would have to ask the seller.  See what the Vin plate says, look up the serial numbers, for the engine and the frame, etc.

[sitrinh87]

Thanks guys, I asked the owner but he doesn't know, he bought it from a shop that works on vintage bikes. I do have a picture of the title, but I try looking up the VIN and engine #, still doesn't let me know what it is  . I'm a newbie to motorcycles, I appreciate it if you guys can tell me what it is exactly or have any other guesses?

[Stev-o]

My money is on it's a K model.  The vin is the engine number, the bike may have come from WI, very common for them to use the engine number.
Ask the seller for the frame number, it is stamped on the left side of the neck or located on the tag on the R side of the neck. 

[seanbarney41]

those sidecovers will not fit the F frame or the 77k...so it is definitely a k.  If you want further evidence, post pictures of the brake side riders footpeg, kickstarter, and brake pedal, and the swingarm axle adjusters.  Also the vin number tag will confirm that nothing has been modified.

[goldarrow]

Looks like K

[jonda500]

I can see by the pillion peg subframe that it is definitely a 'K' model and by the frame number that it is a 'K1'.
John

[flatlander]

yes, certainly k.
it's also got pods and an aftermarket exhaust. make sure you know how it runs before buying.

[Glenn Stauffer]

This might help. http://www.sohc4.net/cb550-model-guide/

[strynboen]

no problem..   .both bikes is fine.and have only few diff parts...

.just test it. gear must thange problemless...both up i gear...and dovn gear shift(give often some problems)..on hard load..falce free gear...
.and thek the valve train for Wear...rattel in cam/valvets..is a common problem in erly 500/550
small oil leakes is no problem...most bikes leakes a bit..
.if idel is stabil..and it takes rpm fine..all good...pods often give some flat spots in acceleration..