I’ve been rebuilding bikes for a long time, but have finally gotten around to getting a CB550 project. I was actually looking for a CB400 Super Sport, but this came up on my search and it looked like a good starting point.
All of the take off parts were included. The carbs need to be cleaned and the bike looks to need a top end gasket/seal kit. The plan is to disassemble, paint the engine, vapor blast everything I can, and return it to original (but ridden) condition. I typically restore bikes to a “what if this bike was loved it’s entire life” condition.
Anyway, I suspect I will have questions at some point and I look forward to interacting with the knowledgeable regulars on the forum. One of the early things I have to sort out is the exhaust. Whoever modified it decided to cut the pipes before the collector. The pipes (especially #4) are not in great condition so I need to decide off these are restorable, or do I just go with an aftermarket set. I just love how the oem pipes collect in the front of the bike - it’s kind of the defining features of the SS.
