1971 Honda CB500 Four

1971 Honda CB500 Four

The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SOHC inline-4
Displacement
498 cc
Cylinders
4
Power
50 hp @ 9000 rpm
Torque
40.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
56.0 × 50.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
4x Keihin carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Single disc
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
185 kg (408 lbs)
Wet Weight
200 kg (441 lbs)
Seat Height
800 mm
Wheelbase
1405 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four was introduced by Honda as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in Japan, it represented Honda's vision for the four-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1970s.

Powering the 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp. This four-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 4x Keihin carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.

Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four suspends its 185 kg (408 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1405 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Known Issues

  • Cam chain tensioner wear
  • Carb synchronization needed regularly
  • Charging system can be weak on early models

Fun Facts

  • The 1971 Honda CB500 Four was produced in Honda's Japan facilities
  • The 1971 Honda CB500 Four featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
6/10

Resources & Parts