Naked Motorcycles
1983Honda FT 500
18 fields on record
The 1983 Honda FT 500 is a lightweight naked bike powered by a modest 497cc single-cylinder engine producing 27 horsepower. Built for novice and commuter riders seeking simplicity and manageability, this air-cooled machine is best known for its reliability, affordability, and easy-to-master handling characteristics that make it ideal for learning fundamental motorcycle skills.
- Capacity
- 497.0 ccm
- Engine
- Single
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 175.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's best suited to relaxed city riding, short jaunts, and simple back-road cruising rather than performance riding.
- Built for
- It has the raw, thumping character of a classic air-cooled single, favoring simplicity and mechanical charm over outright speed.
- Not ideal for
- It's not for riders seeking high-speed touring, serious off-road capability, or two-up long-distance comfort.
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
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM
- Engine type
- Single
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1543 HP/kg (wet)
- Compression
- 8.6:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 147.0 km/h (91.3 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wet weight
- 175.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 13.50 litres
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.50-18
- Rear tyre
- 4.25-18
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 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 497 cc | 497 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 13.5 L | 13.5 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 FT 500?
The 1983 Honda FT 500 has a Capacity of 497.0 ccm (30.33 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Honda FT 500 have?
The 1983 Honda FT 500 has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM.
How many gears does the Honda FT 500 have?
The 1983 Honda FT 500 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Honda FT 500 weigh?
The 1983 Honda FT 500 has a Wet weight of 175.0 kg (385.8 pounds).
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