1974 Honda CB500 Four K2

Traditional

4-cyl. 498cc/48hp

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$6,300 CAD*

+6.8%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Value Graph07/2310/2301/2404/24$2k$4k$6kJun 2024
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1971-1978 Honda 350, 400, 500, 550 Fours stats
Highest sale
$22,438 CAD
Lowest sale
$1,304 CAD
Most recent sale
$7,761 CAD
Sales
160

Photos

1 photoImage may not reflect selected vehicle.

1971 Honda CB450 Super Sport 450 Motorcycle
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**Figure based on a stock 1974 Honda CB500 Four valued at $6,300 CAD with ON rates with $100/300K liability/UM/UIM limits. Actual costs vary depending on the coverage selected, vehicle condition, province and other factors. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance.

Model overview

Model description

Honda’s CB750 raised the bar so high when it was launched in 1969 that it changed the bike industry forever. Finally, a cheap, fast motorcycle with bulletproof reliability was a reality for riders.

The four was so successful that a number of new, smaller versions was a natural next step. The CB500 debuted in 1971, the CB350 in 1972, the CB 400 in 1974, and the CB550 Super Sports in 1975.

All models shared the same engine block but had different bores. The single overhead cam design was replaced across the range in 1979 by a DOHC unit, with only a single cam CB650 continuing until 1985 as the Nighthawk.

The smaller Honda fours are admirable designs with admirable performance. The 350/4 was capable of 97 mph, the Super Sport “F” models feature four-into-one pipes and the CB400F had a six-speed gearbox, though the others did not. All shared mechanical failings, however, that weren’t corrected until the 50-bhp CB550 (Blame Suzuki’s GT 550 for the extra 50 cc. Honda wasn’t going to lose any sales for 50 cc).

The public gradually warmed to the models, and sales reflect that. The CB350 sold 33,000 units, the CB400 34,000, the CB500 80,000 and the CB550 sold 135,000. All the bikes have 1970s styling cues and metal flake colors like Flake Sunrise Orange, Freedom Green Metallic or Candy Jade Green that would be equally at home on a Meyers Max dune buggy or a ski boat.

Though they are small, none of these bikes are ideal for beginners. The power comes on suddenly, and the single front disc brake is best described as wooden. It wasn’t drilled, and rain was a problem. The pad didn’t grab quite right until it warmed up, at which point it could grab and pitch the rider. Therefore, dual drilled discs are an ideal upgrade.

Tires are narrow, frames flex if the bikes are ridden hard, and head shake is easy to provoke. Forks are also tiny by modern standards. The CB350 units are only 31 mm and CB550 forks are 35 mm.

The CB550 introduced welcomed and vital design changes. It has bigger valves, the clutch basket was finally beefed up from the 350 unit, and the shift linkage improved so it would no longer jump out of second gear. The CB550’s clutch was moved to the right side, so a long rod wasn’t required to operate it. Clutch plates are stamped to retain oil, which mean there are divots on the other side that should be ground off. Pre-1976 rockers are just pressed onto the shaft and when the bore in the rocker box wears, the rockers can twist and rub the chrome off the cam follower. At best it is noisy, and at worst it eats the camshaft.

Exciter coils should be up-graded to 1977 units, along with a high output alternator, as earlier bikes do not charge the battery until 3,500 rpm. A solid state ignition is recommended and the original metal plug caps are notorious for shorting when wet.

With so many bikes built, spares are not a problem at all, although there are two notable exceptions. Honda discontinued the cam chain tensioner, and exhausts are known for rusting out.

Fork tubes can also rust, so check under the boot, by the lower triple clamp. Oil leaks around the head are usually due to oil passage o-rings and not the gasket, but pulling the head can be quite difficult.

The intimidating complexity of these bikes means it is vital to buy the best example available. All the 4-cylinder models are relatively affordable, but it’s wise to make sure to get all the badges and both side covers, as they aren’t available.

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Common Questions

The value of a 1974 Honda CB500 Four K2 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $4,600 USD for a 1974 Honda CB500 Four K2 in good condition with average spec.

Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.

Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.

Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.

The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.

All prices shown here are representative of stock condition vehicles only and based on various data sources, as detailed in About Our Prices. Value adjustments for optional equipment are in U.S. dollars. More information on how forecast models are calculated can be found on Forecasted Values page. For additional information and a complete description of benefits, visit hagerty.CA/legal. Purchase of insurance not required for membership in HDC. Hagerty, Hagerty Valuation Tools & Hagerty Drivers Club are registered trademarks of the Hagerty Group LLC, ©2024 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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