Topic: '75 550 K1

[D.WHO]

 Hey guys, just thought I'd go ahead and start a thread on my project. Now it, will be while before I can actually do anything on it, but I still can't decide which direction with this I wanna go, or what I want to call it, so this can just be a brainstorming thread. This is what I'm thinking, I want a cool, yet practical bike, that can still carve corners. I was thinking just a basic engine overhaul, replace seals, gaskets, bearings, clean it up, and paint it. I was thinking some CB750F shocks, and getting tougher sprung progressive fork springs, and doing a dual disc front brake. As far as the color, I was thinking OD green on everything, with flat black trim. And brown upholstery and grips. And I'd build this style seat pan like in this thread: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=88980.0
 And just letting you know, I don't have a lot of mechanical background, the most I've done is an engine rebuild on a Yamaha TTR125, nothing this complex. So, that's kind of my plan, if you have any suggestions, shout out.

[rb550four]

I think it looks pretty cool now.  I like the way the seat looks low and sleek,looks like someone laid down the shocks or extended the swingarm that's cool ,Rear fender  is different but also cool. This machine is on it's way to cruiser not carving the corners .  Maybe that is what makes it cool. Well I think so anyways.

[D.WHO]

See, I like it too, it's just not my style. Even if I went that route, I'd still put different shocks on it, the 550's and 500's are notoriously under-sprung. And yes, he did move the attachment points for the bottom of the shocks back, lowering it about 2 inches. I put them back to their stock posi's and brought the preloads down a bit so my spine would be a little happier. 

 I also like this bike, nice contrast, it really pops. Some people like more discreetness on their bikes, not me! 

[D.WHO]

Hey guys, how difficult would it be to put a CB750 engine in the 550 frame do you think?

[lone*X]

Guess anything is possible but the 750 engine is considerably bigger and heaver and it would take quite a bit of surgery (chassis modification) to accomplish.  In your opening post you said "I want a cool, yet practical bike, that can still carve corners".  The 550 has always been known for its balanced handling and if set up correctly will be what you wanted.  The 750 engine in a 550 frame would in all likelihood not meet either of your stated criteria.