Author Topic: how much of a beating can a 77 550 take  (Read 1327 times)

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Offline neil young

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how much of a beating can a 77 550 take
« on: June 03, 2007, 03:38:30 AM »
i'm going to be doing a lot of highway travel in Toronto this summer where it is hot and humid most of the time . from what i have read cruising speed of 70 mph should not be a problem with this bike.most people around these parts drive a steady 80 mph which is about 7000 rpm's on my bike.so i'm wondering whats the max rpm's you figure you could ride this bike and for how long before trouble rears it ugly head :-\
1972 CB500 k1
1974 CB550
1977 cb 550
82 suzuki GS 750tz.......16  valves  baby
2008 Triumph Scrambler

Offline bryanj

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Re: how much of a beating can a 77 550 take
« Reply #1 on: June 03, 2007, 07:09:52 AM »
Back in 77 i had a 75 500 four (500 lasted longer in UK) and for two years i reved it right through the red band in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear just to see what it would take---never did go bang!
Semi Geriatric ex-Honda mechanic and MOT tester (UK version of annual inspection). Garage full of "projects" mostly 500/4 from pre 73 (no road tax in UK).

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Offline TwoTired

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Re: how much of a beating can a 77 550 take
« Reply #2 on: June 03, 2007, 10:33:18 AM »
Don't run it without oil.
Change the oil at 1500 mile intervals.
Don't run it with advanced timing.
Keep the chain lubed.
Keep stock sprocket ratio.
It will run 80 MPH without complaint for years.

The 77 K model has lean burn carbs, which makes the engine run a bit hotter than prior years.  Stock paper air filter and exhaust are still fine with these bikes.  But, pod filters and aftermarket exhaust can make the engine even leaner and hotter.  The extra heat will shorten it's life.  An oil cooler may help extend the oil's life expectancy, but won't help the engine cylinder temps from a lean burn engine.

If your test runs at 80 mph leave chocolate brown spark plug insulators evenly across the cylinder bank, ride it and don't worry.

If your plug temperatures are elevated (white/near white), you should consider an oil that has higher breakdown temps as well.  Blend your own if cost is a factor. A little PAO base oil will still lube at high temps and the extra lubrication will keep friction down, resulting lower temps and increased engine life. Even a one quarter blend will help extend endurance.

Cheers,
Lloyd... (SOHC4 #11 Original Mail List)
72 500, 74 550, 75 550K, 75 550F, 76 550F, 77 550F X2, 78 550K, 77 750F X2, 78 750F, 79CX500, 85 700SC, GL1100

Those that learn from history are doomed to repeat it by those that don't learn from history.

Offline crazypj

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Re: how much of a beating can a 77 550 take
« Reply #3 on: June 03, 2007, 10:38:36 AM »
Depends if its an F or a K.
K had different (leaner jetted) carbs, at least in Britain.
The rings will wear out if your constantly using most of the RPM (mine revved to 13,500 max instead of stock 9,300, or to put it another way, 82mph in second  :o)
Still did over 105,000 miles, needed rings every 10 thousand miles or so. ( but didnt always get them) ;D
PJ
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'you can take my word for it or argue until you find out I'm right'

Offline neil young

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Re: how much of a beating can a 77 550 take
« Reply #4 on: June 03, 2007, 12:17:51 PM »
my plugs are chocolate brown acrooss the board with a bit of black at the threads
1972 CB500 k1
1974 CB550
1977 cb 550
82 suzuki GS 750tz.......16  valves  baby
2008 Triumph Scrambler