CB 500 F

1972 Honda CB 500 F Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Honda's classic motorcycle platform, the 1972 Honda CB 500 F relies on a 498 cc (30.4 cu in) air-cooled in-line four, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 48 HP (35 kW) at 9,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 45 Nm (33.2 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 96.4 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,500 rpm) and peak power (9,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the CB 500 F measures 202 kg (445 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.21 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 800 mm (31.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 179 km/h (111 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Honda archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1971 to 1977, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.