The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 47hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard 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
| 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic | 1978 Honda CX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 736 cc | 497 cc |
| Power | 47 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 232.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 222.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 2 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic laid the groundwork with 47hp, while the later 1978 Honda CX500 pushed output to 50hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic and good for the 1978 Honda CX500 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic
Honda released the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic in 1976 with a 736cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 47hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic 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 →