HONDA CB500T (1974-1975) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1975, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Honda CB500T, a standard machine part of the CB series, based on the five-speed CB450 bike that was discontinued in 1974, which also shared its appearance.

The CB500T model packed a 498cc DOHC vertical parallel-twin engine with dual CV carburetors, a torsion bar valve spring, and a five-speed manual transmission. It was a lightweight machine with classic Cafe Racer styling and a slim profile that made it popular among riders who wanted a nimble and agile motorcycle.

It also came equipped from the factory with standard features, such as wire-spoked wheels, a chromed exhaust system, a wide handlebar, an analog instrument panel, a round headlight with a chromed ring, a one-piece dual seat, a black-finished steel frame, and a center stand.

All the bike parts were mounted on a semi-double-cradle steel frame that also housed a telescopic fork on the front with 121 mm of wheel travel and dual shock absorbers on the rear with 79 mm of wheel travel for optimum suspension performance and handling.

As for the stopping power, the bike packed a single disc with a hydraulic caliper on the front wheel and a drum braking unit on the rear wheel that provided optimum braking performance.

In the performance department, the 1975 Honda CB500T was set in motion by a 498cc four-stroke parallel-twin air-cooled engine fitted with two Keihin carburetors that helped deliver an output power of 34 hp at 8,500 rpm and 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque at 7,000 rpm.