Honda CB 500 Twin (1974–1976): A Timeless Middleweight for the Enthusiast’s Soul

Introduction

The Honda CB 500 Twin is a motorcycle that doesn’t just occupy a spot in history—it defines it. Produced from 1974 to 1976, this air-cooled parallel twin emerged during an era when motorcycles were transitioning from utilitarian machines to symbols of freedom and individuality. As a middleweight contender, the CB 500 Twin struck a balance between approachability and performance, making it a favorite for both new riders and seasoned motorcyclists. But how does it hold up today? Let’s twist the throttle and find out.

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Design: Classic Simplicity with a Purpose

The CB 500 Twin’s design is a masterclass in understated elegance. Its silhouette is unmistakably 1970s Honda: a teardrop fuel tank, chrome-accented fenders, and a no-nonsense bench seat that’s surprisingly comfortable for long rides. The twin exhaust pipes sweep downward in a symmetrical curve, giving the bike a clean, balanced profile.

Weighing in at 210 kg (463 lbs), the CB 500 isn’t a featherweight, but its mass is distributed low, making it feel manageable at standstill. The 16-liter fuel tank offers a practical range of around 250–300 km (155–186 miles), depending on riding style—a figure that still holds up for weekend adventures.

The instrumentation is minimalist, with a single speedometer and warning lights clustered neatly. While modern riders might miss a tachometer, the engine’s audible cues and buttery-smooth power delivery make it easy to judge shifts by ear.

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Engine Performance: Smooth Operator

At the heart of the CB 500 Twin lies its 498cc air-cooled parallel twin, producing 42 PS (31 kW)—roughly 41 horsepower—at the crank. This engine is a study in refinement. Unlike the raw, buzzy character of some contemporaries, the CB 500’s powerplant is remarkably smooth, with a linear torque curve that pulls cleanly from 3,000 RPM onward.

Twist the throttle, and the bike surges forward with a muted growl, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph). While it won’t shatter any land-speed records, the CB 500 thrives in real-world riding. Its 15/33 sprocket setup and 96-link chain provide snappy acceleration off the line, making it a joy in city traffic and on winding backroads alike.

The twin-carbureted engine requires a bit of finesse when cold—Honda’s manual recommends 1–1.25 turns out on the air screw for optimal idle—but once warmed up, it settles into a steady 1,100 RPM idle. The lack of vibration at highway speeds is a testament to Honda’s engineering, though the parallel twin does emit a gentle, rhythmic thrum that becomes hypnotic over long distances.

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Handling: Confidence on Two Wheels

The CB 500 Twin’s chassis is a straightforward double-cradle steel frame, paired with a telefork front suspension (Honda’s term for telescopic forks) and twin shock absorbers at the rear. The setup leans toward comfort rather than sportiness, absorbing bumps without wallowing.

With a 2.0 bar (29 psi) front and 2.5 bar (36 psi) rear tire pressure, the bike feels planted, though the vintage-style tires (common for the era) require a gentle touch on wet roads. The 210 kg weight becomes a non-issue once moving, and the neutral riding position—pegs slightly rear-set, bars at a comfortable reach—makes it easy to carve through corners.

Braking is handled by a single drum brake at the rear and a disc brake up front, a novelty for mid-1970s bikes. While not as sharp as modern ABS-equipped systems, the brakes offer adequate stopping power when paired with period-correct riding techniques (read: plan ahead).

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Competition: How Does the CB 500 Twin Stack Up?

The mid-1970s middleweight segment was fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Honda held its own:

• Kawasaki H1 500 (Mach III): The H1’s two-stroke triple was a rocket, producing 60 HP, but its erratic handling and notorious “widow maker” reputation made it a handful. The CB 500, by contrast, prioritized stability and reliability.
• Yamaha RD350: A lighter, more agile machine with a two-stroke punch, the RD350 appealed to thrill-seekers. However, its higher maintenance needs and shorter service intervals gave the Honda an edge for daily riders.
• British Twins (Triumph/BSA): While classics like the Triumph Bonneville offered more character (and more leaks), the CB 500’s electric start, oil-tight design, and lower vibration made it a pragmatic choice.

The CB 500 Twin’s strongest selling point? It was—and still is—a motorcycle you could ride daily without constant tinkering.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owning a vintage motorcycle like the CB 500 Twin is as much about stewardship as it is about riding. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Maintenance Tasks

1. Valve Adjustments: The engine’s 0.03 mm (0.0012 in) valve clearance (both intake and exhaust) should be checked every 3,000 km (1,864 miles). Use a feeler gauge and keep the engine cold for accuracy.
2. Oil Changes: The centrifugal filter system requires 2.8 liters (3 quarts) of 10W-40 oil. Skip cheap substitutes—this engine thrives on quality lubricants.
3. Spark Plugs: The dual-plug setup uses NGK B8ES and BR8EIX plugs. Check the 0.8 mm (0.031 in) electrode gap regularly, especially if the bike feels hesitant on acceleration.
4. Chain Care: The 96-link chain and 15/33 sprockets demand frequent lubrication. A worn chain will rob power and strain the transmission.
5. Brake Fluid: Flush the system with DOT 3 or 4 fluid annually to prevent moisture buildup.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations

• Upgrade to a modern sintered brake pad for improved stopping power.
• Replace stock rubber fuel lines with ethanol-resistant tubing to handle today’s fuels.
• Consider a high-flow air filter to optimize carburetion without compromising reliability.

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Conclusion: Why the CB 500 Twin Endures

The Honda CB 500 Twin isn’t just a relic—it’s a living, breathing piece of motorcycling culture. Its blend of simplicity, reliability, and timeless style makes it a perfect candidate for restoration or customization. Whether you’re navigating city streets or chasing horizons, this bike delivers an experience that modern machines often overlook: the sheer joy of connection between rider and machine.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re passionate about keeping these classics on the road. From OEM-spec replacement parts to performance upgrades, we’ve got everything to ensure your CB 500 Twin continues turning heads—and spinning wheels—for decades to come.

Ride safe, wrench often, and keep the rubber side down.

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Specifications sheet

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