Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Cycle News called the CB500 “the thinking man’s motorcycle” when it debuted in 1971 because it offered up many of the pluses found in the big brother CB750 but in a package that offered better handling, smoother motor, and lower weight. For more riders, the ergonomics were better, too.
The 498cc air-cooled inline four motor was good for 50 horsepower, which was enough to get the 420-pound machine to do the ton. It was described as a “show stealer” by Motorcycle Mechanics magazine in the UK when the bike was first unveiled.
This example is VIN: CB5001042038. It came to Iconic as an import.
The odometer shows 52,620 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for this listing the seller had us clean, service, and sync the carbs, replace the spark plugs and suppressor cap, clean the tank, and replace the battery.
Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal: Marginal
Tire Year Front: 4614 / Rear: 0215
Tire Life Front: 95% / Rear: 95%
Tire Press Front: 36PSI / Rear: 36 PSI
Brake Life Front: 30% / Rear: 80%
Hydraulic Brake Fluid Front: Fail,
Master and Caliper need rebuild; Rear: N/A
Engine Oil – Quality: Poor Level: Ok
Drive Chain Condition: Ok
Suspension Leaks – Front: Right fork leaking; Rear: None
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Battery: 12.6V, New
Test Ride: None taken, front brakes not working
Notes:
-Bike starts and has spark
-Forks are leaking
-LF foot peg missing rubber, RH peg bent forward
-Light oxidation on engine, pipes
-Stator cover missing emblem
-Damage to headlight unit
-Dented ignition points cover, RH pipe at muffler, front fender
-Fuel cap lock damaged, yet functional
-No mirrors
Services Recommended:
-Tires
-Fork Rebuild
-Front Brake Overhaul
-Front Master Rebuild
-Hydro 1
-GTL tank cleaning/lining
Modifications:
This CB500 appears to be stock.
It is riding on Duro tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a clean Tennessee title. Please note that as an import, this bike lacks certain compliance and emissions stickers that the state of California would require to transfer a title. Have any CB500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!