Enduro Bikes
1981Honda XL 185 S
19 fields on record
The 1981 Honda XL 185 S is a lightweight enduro motorcycle ideal for novice and recreational riders seeking versatile on-road and off-road capability. Its air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers reliable 16 horsepower with excellent fuel efficiency, while the durable 118 kg chassis provides nimble handling. Best known for dependable performance and user-friendly character, it remains a classic beginner-friendly dual-sport.
- Capacity
- 180.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 118.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 16.0 HP (11.8 kW) @ 8000 RPM
What’s new for the 1981 Honda XL 185 S
vs the 1980| Spec | 1980 | 1981 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 10.0 HP (7.4 kW) @ 6500 RPM | 16.0 HP (11.8 kW) @ 8000 RPM |
| Top speed | 93.0 km/h (57.8 mph) | 115.0 km/h (71.5 mph) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A lightweight dual-purpose machine meant for trail exploring, light off-roading, and simple commuting rather than outright speed.
- Built for
- An honest, no-frills enduro-styled all-rounder that rewards simplicity and mechanical ease over performance thrills.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking highway cruising comfort, high top speed, or two-up touring capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 180.0 ccm
- Power
- 16.0 HP (11.8 kW) @ 8000 RPM
- Engine type
- Single, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1356 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 63.0 x 57.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.2:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 115.0 km/h (71.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Expanding brake
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 2.75-21
- Rear tyre
- 4.10-18
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 | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 180 cc | 180 cc | 180 cc | 180 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 7 L | 7 L | 7 L | 7 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Honda XL 185 S?
The 1981 Honda XL 185 S has a Capacity of 180.0 ccm (10.98 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Honda XL 185 S have?
The 1981 Honda XL 185 S has a Power of 16.0 HP (11.8 kW) @ 8000 RPM.
How many gears does the Honda XL 185 S have?
The 1981 Honda XL 185 S has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Honda XL 185 S weigh?
The 1981 Honda XL 185 S has a Wet weight of 118.0 kg (260.1 pounds).
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