Honda’s GB500 was an homage to classic British singles but there was a twist – it was reliable! The average American rider shopping for a Japanese bike at the time was more interested in the bigger supersport replicas, but the Tourist Trophy has become a cult classic. The GB (Great British) was offered with a 400cc engine in Japan and a 500cc motor in the US. The 498cc air-cooled single produced 33 horsepower at the rear wheel through a five-speed transmission and a wet clutch. A stellar example of “more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow”, the GB was easy to ride and one of the most stylish machines that Honda has ever built.
For more on what it’s like to ride the GB500, check out this fantastic 1989 Cycle World review from Peter Egan. He concludes it by saying “Simplicity and grace are never out of style, and the GB is a simple, handsome bike. It’s not a Velocette Venom Clubman, but I don’t care. We already have Venom Clubmen if we want them. This is a new motorcycle that looks good and is fun to ride, and there are never enough of those.”
Manufactured in June 1989, this example is VIN: JH2PC1614LK100209. The seller acquired it five years ago from a private collector.
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 300 miles. The odometer shows 23,188 miles.
“Bike was purchased from a vintage motorcycle connoisseur who owned at least 30 motorcycles, many of which I lusted after. He had “inherited” it from a friend who had passed away of a heart attack. I purchased it to ride to monthly local vintage car and motorcycle events on Whidbey Island where I live. These events are held monthly about ten miles from my home. My other three motorcycles were too generic to stand out at these events. I am 81 years old and starting to have trouble moving my motorcycles around the garage and paved parking area. Plus my driveway is gravel and I’m always concerned that if I were to fall I would do too much cosmetic damage to a bike of this quality.”
Maintenance:
“Since the previous owner was meticulous with maintenance, and the oil appeared to be clean, I have not done any oil or filter changes. I have replaced the two front turn signal stalks as they had gotten bent before I owned the bike.”
Modifications:
“I have replaced the stock exhaust system with a Jack Batson stainless steel system, and re-jetted the carburetors to match the mixture to the exhaust.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon RoadRider tires with date codes of 2708 and 4208.
The sale includes 1 ignition key and a cover.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“There is a light scratch on the tank that may or may not be visible in the pictures.”
Currently located in Clinton, Washington, this Honda is offered on a clean Washington title.
Have any GB500 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
