1985 Honda XBR500
Honda released the 1985 Honda XBR500 in 1985 with a 499cc SOHC single RFVC powerplant making 44hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- SOHC single RFVC
- Displacement
- 499 cc
- Cylinders
- 1
- Power
- 44 hp @ 7000 rpm
- Torque
- 42.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 92.0 × 75.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- Keihin carburetor
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel diamond frame
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Pro-Link monoshock
- Front Brake
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 5-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 165 km/h (103 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 161 kg (355 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 176 kg (388 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 790 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1395 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
Honda's 1985 Honda XBR500 arrived in 1985 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Japan, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1980s.
Powering the 1985 Honda XBR500 is a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp. This single-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Keihin carburetor. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel diamond frame frame with telescopic fork up front and pro-link monoshock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 161 kg (355 lbs) dry, the 1985 Honda XBR500 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1395 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1985 Honda XBR500 achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Powering the 1985 Honda XBR500 is a 499cc SOHC single RFVC producing 44hp. This single-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Keihin carburetor. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel diamond frame frame with telescopic fork up front and pro-link monoshock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 161 kg (355 lbs) dry, the 1985 Honda XBR500 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1395 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1985 Honda XBR500 achieves a claimed top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Charging system can be weak on early models
- Rubber intake boots deteriorate with age
Fun Facts
- The 1985 Honda XBR500 was produced in Honda's Japan facilities
- The 1985 Honda XBR500 featured a steel diamond frame frame typical of 1980s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 4/10
Resources & Parts
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