HONDA CB500T (1977-1978) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1978, the Japanese motorcycle released the Honda CB500T, a standard motorcycle part of the CB series in Honda's range, powered by a 498cc double overhead cam (DOHC) vertical parallel-twin engine with dual CV carburetors and torsion bar valve springs coupled to a five-speed manual transmission.

In addition, the 1978 machine 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 blacked-out steel frame, and a center stand.

Overall, the model was a lightweight machine with classic Cafe Racer styling, a slim profile, nimble handling, and a reliable engine that made it popular among riders who wanted a nimble and agile motorcycle.

The bike packed a semi-double-cradle steel frame that 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.

In the braking department, 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 stopping power.

In the performance department, the 1978 Honda CB500T had at its core a 498cc four-stroke twin-cylinder air-cooled engine fed by two Keihin carburetors and delivered an output power of 42 hp with maximum strength at 8,000 rpm and 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque available at 7,000 rpm.