Cruisers
1981Honda CX 500 C
19 fields on record
The 1981 Honda CX 500 C is a lightweight touring motorcycle ideally suited for commuters and novice riders seeking reliable, fuel-efficient transportation. Its liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers smooth, manageable power, while the shaft drive and comfortable ergonomics make it excellent for everyday riding and moderate distance touring.
- Capacity
- 497.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 216.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 9000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A relaxed custom-cruiser built for easy boulevard cruising and light shaft-drive touring rather than outright speed or cornering thrills.
- Built for
- A quirky, mechanically distinctive machine with its transverse liquid-cooled V-twin and shaft drive, appealing to riders who value character and low maintenance over performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp handling, high-speed touring comfort, or any serious off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 497.0 ccm
- Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 9000 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2315 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 78.0 x 52.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.0:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 159.0 km/h (98.8 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.50-19
- Rear tyre
- 130/90-16
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 | 497 cc | 497 cc | 497 cc | 497 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 11 L | 11 L | 11 L | 11 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 CX 500 C?
The 1981 Honda CX 500 C has a Capacity of 497.0 ccm (30.33 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Honda CX 500 C have?
The 1981 Honda CX 500 C has a Power of 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 9000 RPM.
How many gears does the Honda CX 500 C have?
The 1981 Honda CX 500 C has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Honda CX 500 C weigh?
The 1981 Honda CX 500 C has a Wet weight of 216.0 kg (476.2 pounds).
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