The 1980 Honda CX500 is a motorcycle that was manufactured by Honda from 1978 to 1982. It was a popular motorcycle, and over 100,000 units were sold worldwide. The CX500 was powered by a 497 cc V-twin engine, and it was known for its smooth power delivery and easy handling.
The CX500 was a significant motorcycle for Honda, as it was the first motorcycle that the company had produced with a V-twin engine. The CX500 was also one of the first motorcycles to be equipped with a shaft drive, which made it more reliable and easier to maintain than motorcycles with chain drives.
The CX500 was available in a variety of different configurations, including a standard model, a deluxe model, and a touring model. The standard model was the most basic model, and it came with a simple instrument panel and a single seat. The deluxe model came with a more comprehensive instrument panel, a two-tone paint scheme, and a passenger seat. The touring model came with a full fairing, a luggage rack, and a more comfortable seat.
1980 Honda CX500
The 1980 Honda CX500 was a significant motorcycle for Honda, and it had a number of key aspects that made it stand out from other motorcycles on the market.
- V-twin engine: The CX500 was the first motorcycle that Honda produced with a V-twin engine. This engine design provided smooth power delivery and easy handling.
- Shaft drive: The CX500 was also one of the first motorcycles to be equipped with a shaft drive. This made it more reliable and easier to maintain than motorcycles with chain drives.
- Styling: The CX500 had a unique styling that set it apart from other motorcycles on the market. It had a sleek, futuristic look that was very popular at the time.
- Reliability: The CX500 was known for its reliability and durability. It was a well-built motorcycle that could withstand a lot of wear and tear.
- Versatility: The CX500 was a versatile motorcycle that could be used for a variety of purposes. It was a good choice for commuting, touring, and even light off-roading.
- Popularity: The CX500 was a popular motorcycle, and over 100,000 units were sold worldwide. It was a popular choice for riders of all ages and experience levels.
- Historical significance: The CX500 was a significant motorcycle for Honda, as it was the first motorcycle that the company had produced with a V-twin engine. It was also one of the first motorcycles to be equipped with a shaft drive.
- Legacy: The CX500 is still remembered today as a classic motorcycle. It is a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts, and it continues to be ridden by riders all over the world.
These are just a few of the key aspects that made the 1980 Honda CX500 such a significant motorcycle. It was a well-built, reliable, and versatile motorcycle that was popular with riders of all ages and experience levels. The CX500 is still remembered today as a classic motorcycle, and it continues to be ridden by riders all over the world.
V-twin engine
The V-twin engine was a significant innovation for Honda. Prior to the CX500, Honda motorcycles had been powered by inline engines. Inline engines are simpler to design and manufacture than V-twin engines, but they can be less smooth and balanced. The V-twin engine design used in the CX500 provided a number of advantages over inline engines, including smoother power delivery, reduced vibration, and improved handling.
- Smooth power delivery: The V-twin engine design used in the CX500 provided smoother power delivery than inline engines. This was due to the fact that the pistons in a V-twin engine fire at different times, which helps to reduce vibration and create a more linear powerband.
- Reduced vibration: The V-twin engine design also helped to reduce vibration. This was due to the fact that the pistons in a V-twin engine are arranged in a V-shape, which helps to cancel out vibrations.
- Improved handling: The V-twin engine design also helped to improve handling. This was due to the fact that the V-twin engine is more compact than an inline engine, which reduces the overall weight of the motorcycle and makes it easier to maneuver.
The V-twin engine was a major factor in the success of the CX500. It provided a number of advantages over inline engines, including smoother power delivery, reduced vibration, and improved handling. These advantages made the CX500 a more enjoyable and easier-to-ride motorcycle.
Shaft drive
The shaft drive system used in the CX500 was a significant innovation for Honda. Prior to the CX500, Honda motorcycles had been equipped with chain drives. Chain drives are less expensive to manufacture than shaft drives, but they require more maintenance and are less reliable. The shaft drive system used in the CX500 provided a number of advantages over chain drives, including increased reliability, reduced maintenance, and improved handling.
- Increased reliability: The shaft drive system used in the CX500 was more reliable than chain drives. This was due to the fact that shaft drives are enclosed in a sealed housing, which protects them from the elements and from dirt and debris. Chain drives, on the other hand, are exposed to the elements and can be easily damaged by dirt and debris.
- Reduced maintenance: The shaft drive system used in the CX500 required less maintenance than chain drives. This was due to the fact that shaft drives do not require regular lubrication or adjustment. Chain drives, on the other hand, require regular lubrication and adjustment to ensure proper operation.
- Improved handling: The shaft drive system used in the CX500 provided improved handling over chain drives. This was due to the fact that shaft drives are more compact and lighter than chain drives. The reduced weight and size of the shaft drive system helped to improve the overall handling of the CX500.
The shaft drive system was a major factor in the success of the CX500. It provided a number of advantages over chain drives, including increased reliability, reduced maintenance, and improved handling. These advantages made the CX500 a more enjoyable and easier-to-ride motorcycle.
Styling
The 1980 Honda CX500 was a motorcycle that stood out from the crowd. Its unique styling was a major factor in its popularity, and it helped to make the CX500 one of the most recognizable motorcycles of its era.
- Sleek and futuristic design: The CX500 had a sleek and futuristic design that was unlike anything else on the market at the time. Its sharp lines and angular bodywork gave it a distinctive look that made it stand out from the competition.
- Innovative features: The CX500 was also equipped with a number of innovative features that set it apart from other motorcycles. These features included a digital instrument panel, a shaft drive, and a single-sided swingarm. These features gave the CX500 a modern and high-tech look that was very appealing to riders at the time.
- Variety of colors and graphics: The CX500 was available in a variety of colors and graphics, which allowed riders to customize their motorcycles to their own personal style. The most popular colors were red, black, and silver, but there were also a number of other colors available, including blue, green, and yellow.
The styling of the CX500 was a major factor in its success. It was a motorcycle that looked different from anything else on the market, and it appealed to riders who wanted a motorcycle that was both stylish and functional. The CX500 is still remembered today as one of the most iconic motorcycles of the 1980s, and its styling continues to inspire motorcycle designers to this day.
Reliability
The 1980 Honda CX500 was known for its reliability and durability. This was due to a number of factors, including its well-built engine, sturdy frame, and high-quality components. The CX500 was also designed to be easy to maintain, which made it a popular choice for riders who wanted a motorcycle that was both reliable and affordable.
The reliability of the CX500 was one of its most important selling points. In an era when many motorcycles were unreliable and prone to breakdowns, the CX500 was a welcome exception. Riders could count on the CX500 to start and run reliably, even after years of hard use.
The CX500’s reliability was also important for its success in racing. The CX500 was a popular choice for endurance racers, who valued its durability and reliability. The CX500 was also successful in road racing, where its reliability and handling made it a competitive choice.
The reliability of the 1980 Honda CX500 is still remembered today. It is one of the reasons why the CX500 is still a popular choice for riders who want a classic motorcycle that is both reliable and fun to ride.
Versatility
The 1980 Honda CX500 was a motorcycle that was designed to be versatile and capable of handling a variety of riding conditions. This was due to a number of factors, including its comfortable ergonomics, powerful engine, and sturdy chassis.
- Commuting: The CX500 was a good choice for commuting due to itsThe upright riding position and wide handlebars made it comfortable to ride for long periods of time, while the powerful engine and smooth power delivery made it easy to navigate through traffic.
- Touring: The CX500 was also a good choice for touring due to its comfortable seat, large fuel tank, and ample storage space. The comfortable seat and upright riding position made it easy to ride for long distances, while the large fuel tank and ample storage space allowed riders to travel long distances without having to stop for fuel or supplies.
- Light off-roading: The CX500 was also capable of handling light off-roading due to its sturdy chassis and long-travel suspension. The sturdy chassis and long-travel suspension allowed the CX500 to handle rough terrain and bumpy roads without bottoming out or losing control.
The versatility of the CX500 was one of its most important selling points. It was a motorcycle that could be used for a variety of purposes, from commuting to touring to light off-roading. This made it a popular choice for riders who wanted a motorcycle that was both practical and fun to ride.
Popularity
The popularity of the 1980 Honda CX500 can be attributed to a number of factors, including its unique styling, reliable performance, and versatility. The CX500 was a motorcycle that stood out from the crowd, and it appealed to riders of all ages and experience levels.
- Styling: The CX500 had a unique and futuristic styling that set it apart from other motorcycles on the market. Its sleek lines and angular bodywork gave it a distinctive look that made it stand out from the competition.
- Reliability: The CX500 was known for its reliability and durability. This was due to a number of factors, including its well-built engine, sturdy frame, and high-quality components.
- Versatility: The CX500 was a versatile motorcycle that could be used for a variety of purposes. It was a good choice for commuting, touring, and even light off-roading.
- Price: The CX500 was priced competitively, which made it a good value for riders of all ages and experience levels.
The popularity of the CX500 is still remembered today. It is one of the reasons why the CX500 is still a popular choice for riders who want a classic motorcycle that is both reliable and fun to ride.
Historical significance
The 1980 Honda CX500 was a significant motorcycle for Honda, as it was the first motorcycle that the company had produced with a V-twin engine. It was also one of the first motorcycles to be equipped with a shaft drive. These two innovations made the CX500 a more reliable, smoother, and easier-to-ride motorcycle than its predecessors.
- V-twin engine: The V-twin engine design used in the CX500 provided a number of advantages over inline engines, including smoother power delivery, reduced vibration, and improved handling.
- Shaft drive: The shaft drive system used in the CX500 was more reliable and required less maintenance than chain drives. It also provided improved handling over chain drives.
The CX500 was a popular motorcycle, and over 100,000 units were sold worldwide. It was a popular choice for riders of all ages and experience levels. The CX500 is still remembered today as a classic motorcycle, and it continues to be ridden by riders all over the world.
Legacy
The legacy of the 1980 Honda CX500 is a testament to its enduring popularity and significance in the world of motorcycling. Several factors have contributed to the CX500’s lasting appeal, including its unique styling, reliable performance, and versatility.
- Styling: The CX500 had a unique and futuristic styling that set it apart from other motorcycles on the market. Its sleek lines and angular bodywork gave it a distinctive look that made it stand out from the competition. This styling has continued to appeal to riders over the years, and it is one of the reasons why the CX500 is still considered to be a classic motorcycle.
- Reliability: The CX500 was known for its reliability and durability. This was due to a number of factors, including its well-built engine, sturdy frame, and high-quality components. The CX500 was also designed to be easy to maintain, which made it a popular choice for riders who wanted a motorcycle that was both reliable and affordable.
- Versatility: The CX500 was a versatile motorcycle that could be used for a variety of purposes. It was a good choice for commuting, touring, and even light off-roading. This versatility has made the CX500 a popular choice for riders who want a motorcycle that can do it all.
The legacy of the 1980 Honda CX500 is still being written today. The CX500 is a classic motorcycle that continues to be enjoyed by riders all over the world. It is a testament to the enduring popularity of the CX500 that it is still considered to be one of the best motorcycles ever made.
FAQs about the 1980 Honda CX500
The 1980 Honda CX500 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. It is known for its reliability, versatility, and unique styling. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the CX500:
Question 1: What is the CX500’s engine size?
Answer: The CX500 has a 497 cc V-twin engine.
Question 2: What is the CX500’s top speed?
Answer: The CX500 has a top speed of approximately 110 mph.
Question 3: What is the CX500’s fuel economy?
Answer: The CX500 has a fuel economy of approximately 50 mpg.
Question 4: What are the CX500’s dimensions?
Answer: The CX500 has the following dimensions:
- Length: 83.5 inches
- Width: 32.7 inches
- Height: 45.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 58.3 inches
- Seat height: 30.7 inches
Question 5: What are the CX500’s main features?
Answer: The CX500’s main features include:
- 497 cc V-twin engine
- Shaft drive
- Upright riding position
- Comfortable seat
- Large fuel tank
- Ample storage space
Question 6: What are the CX500’s most common problems?
Answer: The CX500’s most common problems include:
- Carburetor problems
- Electrical problems
- Oil leaks
- Clutch problems
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1980 Honda CX500. If you have any other questions, please consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
The 1980 Honda CX500 is a great motorcycle for riders of all ages and experience levels. It is a reliable, versatile, and fun-to-ride motorcycle that is still popular today.
Tips for Riding the 1980 Honda CX500
The 1980 Honda CX500 is a classic motorcycle that is still popular today. It is known for its reliability, versatility, and unique styling. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when riding the CX500.
Tip 1: Be aware of the CX500’s weight. The CX500 is a relatively heavy motorcycle, weighing in at over 500 pounds. This can make it difficult to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Be sure to practice riding the CX500 in a safe environment before taking it out on the open road.
Tip 2: Be careful when braking. The CX500’s brakes are not as powerful as modern motorcycles. This means that you need to apply the brakes gradually and smoothly. Avoid sudden stops, as this can cause the motorcycle to skid.
Tip 3: Be aware of the CX500’s handling. The CX500’s handling is not as nimble as modern motorcycles. This means that you need to be careful when cornering. Avoid leaning the motorcycle too far, as this can cause it to lose traction and crash.
Tip 4: Be sure to maintain the CX500 regularly. The CX500 is a reliable motorcycle, but it still requires regular maintenance. Be sure to follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. This will help to keep your CX500 running smoothly and safely.
Tip 5: Be aware of the CX500’s limitations. The CX500 is a great motorcycle, but it is not perfect. It is not as powerful as modern motorcycles, and it does not handle as well. Be aware of these limitations and ride accordingly.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience riding the 1980 Honda CX500.
Summary of key takeaways:
- Be aware of the CX500’s weight, braking, and handling characteristics.
- Be sure to maintain the CX500 regularly.
- Be aware of the CX500’s limitations and ride accordingly.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience riding the 1980 Honda CX500.
Conclusion
The 1980 Honda CX500 is a significant motorcycle that played a key role in the history of Honda. It was the first motorcycle that Honda produced with a V-twin engine, and it was also one of the first motorcycles to be equipped with a shaft drive. These two innovations made the CX500 a more reliable, smoother, and easier-to-ride motorcycle than its predecessors.
The CX500 was also a popular motorcycle, with over 100,000 units sold worldwide. It was a popular choice for riders of all ages and experience levels, and it is still remembered today as a classic motorcycle. The CX500 is a testament to the enduring popularity of the V-twin engine and the shaft drive, and it continues to be enjoyed by riders all over the world.