The 1978 Honda CX500 from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1962 Norton Manx 30M, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of DOHC single power, delivering 54hp at 7200rpm. Tipping the scales at 136.0kg (300 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1978 Honda CX500 | 1962 Norton Manx 30M | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 54 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 136.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 222.0 kg | 146.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1978 Honda CX500 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1962 Norton Manx 30M targets outright circuit racing performance. On paper, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M's 54hp trumps the 1978 Honda CX500's 50hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1978 Honda CX500 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1962 Norton Manx 30M for outright circuit racing performance. Parts availability is good for the 1978 Honda CX500 and very difficult for the 1962 Norton Manx 30M — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1978 Honda CX500
The 1978 1978 Honda CX500 packs a 497cc OHV V-twin engine with 50hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CX500 Profile →About the 1962 Norton Manx 30M
A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M delivers 54hp from its 499cc DOHC single engine.
Full 1962 Norton Manx 30M Profile →