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The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing and 1978 Honda CX500 represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 Honda CX500 by contrast offered 497cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 50hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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.
The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1978 Honda CX500 by contrast offered 497cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 50hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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
| 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing | 1978 Honda CX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 497 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing laid the groundwork with 80hp, while the later 1978 Honda CX500 pushed output to 50hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection.
About the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
The 1975 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing packs a 999cc SOHC flat-4 engine with 80hp into a touring motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing Profile →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 →