1989Honda XBR 500

19 fields on record

The 1989 Honda XBR 500 is a lightweight naked bike that appeals to novice and budget-conscious riders seeking reliable, approachable motorcycling. Its air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers modest but sufficient power for urban commuting and weekend cruising. The XBR is best known for its simple engineering, low seat height, and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an ideal learner bike.

Capacity: 498.0 ccm
Engine: Single
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 182.0 kg
Seat height: Not on record
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Power: 44.0 HP (32.4 kW) @ 7000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail20%

Cornering60%

City riding65%

Daily riding60%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track30%

Best for: It's built for relaxed road riding and classic-style commuting rather than track work or long-distance touring.
Built for: The XBR 500 has a charismatic thumper personality, delivering character-rich, mechanical feedback over sheer performance.
Not ideal for: It's not for riders seeking high-speed thrills, serious off-road capability, or comfortable two-up long-distance touring.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 498.0 ccm
Power: 44.0 HP (32.4 kW) @ 7000 RPM
Engine type: Single
Power/weight ratio: 0.2418 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 92.0 x 75.0 mm
Compression: 8.9:1
Cooling system: Air
Valves per cylinder: 4
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Performance

Top speed: 171.0 km/h (106.3 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wet weight: 182.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.00 litres
Seat height: Not on record - add it
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Expanding brake
Front tyre: 100/90-18
Rear tyre: 110/90-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1984	1986	1987	1989	1990
Capacity	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)	498.00 ccm (30.39 cubic inches)
Fuel capacity	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)	20.00 litres (5.28 gallons)