VS
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow represent two chapters in Honda's storied history.
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin turbo producing 82hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 239.0kg (527 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow by contrast offered 491cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 48hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin turbo producing 82hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 239.0kg (527 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow by contrast offered 491cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 48hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo | 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 491 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 48 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 39.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 239.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 208.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Honda machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow pushed output to 48hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Honda collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and good for the 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo
A touring motorcycle from 1982, the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo delivers 82hp from its 497cc OHV V-twin turbo engine.
Full 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo Profile →About the 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow
The 1984 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow packs a 491cc OHV V-twin engine with 48hp into a cruiser package from Honda.
Full 1984 Honda VT500 Shadow Profile →