Lot details Registration No: DUJ 63T Frame No: CX5003002914 Engine No: CX500E2309876 cc: 495 MOT Expiry Date: T.B.A.
The early seventies were good years for Honda with machines such as the CB750 and the smaller single overhead cam fours selling well, however, resources needed to develop revised and new models were diverted to concentrate on automotive development at a critical time leaving the company with an ageing range as the second half of the decade dawned. Kawasaki and Suzuki were busy vying for top honours in the superbike and middleweight classes and Yamaha were known to be developing a number of new four stroke machines. Honda needed to respond and did so with the introduction of a range of new machines, headed by the CBX1000 but underpinned by the CX500. Whilst the mechanical tour de force that was the CBX captured the headlines and became an object of lust for riders around the world, the CX500 set Honda dealers cash tills ringing.
The new model was conceived from the outset to appeal to the European market with day long comfort being considered as important as performance. The liquid cooled, over head valve vee twin configuration was chosen for a number of reasons. It offered enough performance to be interesting; Honda claimed 50 bhp at 9000 rpm giving a top speed of 108 mph, delivered in a smooth and quiet manner. The transverse layout of the engine enabled a shaft final drive system to be employed with the consequent benefits in terms of servicing and cleanliness and the torque reaction inherent in layout that was largely negated by mounting the clutch, which rotated in the opposite direction to the crankshaft, at the front of the engine. Pushrods enabled the cylinder heads to be mounted with the carburettors facing inwards so as not to hinder the rider. The result was a machine that quickly found favour both with buyers and testers following its release in December 1977.
This example was imported from Germany in a dismantled state and subsequently restored by a previous owner between 2005 and 2006 and is described by the vendor as being in good condition throughout following the restoration. The vendor bought the machine "on impulse" in 2008 and has subsequently used it on a limited basis, housing it in-between times in a dry garage. It is offered in full working order with a complete documentary record including the original German registration documents and a photographic record of the restoration on CD. It is offered with a Swansea V5C for the age related registration number and will be MOT'd prior to the sale.
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