Make & Model: Honda CB 500 K1                                                                        

Registration Number: JHU429N

Date Registered: 1975

Colour: Blue

Engine Size: 498cc

Frame No. CB500-2081455

Engine No. CB500E-2167937

Documents: V5C, Old MOT, Partsinvoices, Repair Invoices, Honda Parts List Book

“The thinking man’s motorcycle.” That was Cycle magazine’s take on the Honda CB500 Four. Smaller and lighter than its famous big brother, the trend-setting Honda CB750Four, the new for 1971 Honda CB500 Four took all the 750’s fine attributes and focused them into a smaller, lighter bike that in many ways was better than its much-lauded forbearer.

Handling of the new “little” four was excellent, aided in no small part by an almost 80-pound advantage over the CB750 Four, the 500 weighing at a comparatively svelte 420 pounds. Additionally, the 500’s engine was significantly shorter than its big brother, thanks to its smaller displacement and over-square design (larger bore than stroke), which kept cylinder height down, giving a lower centre of gravity.

More than just simple specification differences, those changes made the 500 quieter and easier to service, qualities Honda knew its customers appreciated.

Purchased in 2019 by the current owner from a private collector, the bike was last on the road in 2017. More recently, a full service was then carried out which included a new front tyre, new front brake pads, new battery, new fork gaiters, new speedo cable, rebuilt carburettors with new jets, a full tune and set up. The bike has been used for local runs on dry days and now rides and stops well keeping up with modern traffic and is a pleasure to own and I dare say better than money in the bank! There is evidence of some welding repairs to the exhaust pipes which is a common issue but the machine still retains its original system. The starter motor also requires some attention as it does not always engage every time. A very usable use and improve machine.

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