Honda CB 550 SS vs NSU 601 OSB (1975)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda CB 550 SSstacks up against the NSU 601 OSB. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda CB 550 SSNSU 601 OSB
Model year19751941
Price
Engine544 cc562 cc
Horsepower50 hp26 hp
Weight150 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed
Front brakesSingle discExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brakeExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.25-19 / 3.75-18 3.50-19 / 3.50-19

Honda CB 550 SS vs NSU 601 OSB — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda CB 550 SS and the NSU 601 OSB usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda CB 550 SS brings 50 hp, while the NSU 601 OSB counters with 26 hp at 150 kg.

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: