Honda CB 550 SC vs Honda XL 600 RM (1987)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda CB 550 SCstacks up against the Honda XL 600 RM. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda CB 550 SCHonda XL 600 RM
Model year19831987
Price
Engine572 cc591 cc
Horsepower75 hp44 hp
Torque37 Nm
Fuel capacity3.2 L3.4 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle discSingle disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake
Tires3.00-21 / 5.10-17

Honda CB 550 SC vs Honda XL 600 RM — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda CB 550 SC and the Honda XL 600 RM usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda CB 550 SC brings 75 hp, while the Honda XL 600 RM counters with 44 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: