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The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and 1985 Honda XBR500 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 1985 Honda XBR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 161.0kg (355 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 1985 Honda XBR500 by contrast offered 499cc of SOHC single RFVC power, delivering 44hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 161.0kg (355 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 | 1985 Honda XBR500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 239.0 kg | 161.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 176.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 14.0 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 1985 Honda XBR500 pushed output to 44hp. 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.
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 1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1985 Honda XBR500 Profile →