CB 500

2001 Honda CB 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Honda for the allround motorcycle segment, the 2001 Honda CB 500 features a 499 cc (30.5 cu in) twin, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 57 HP (41.6 kW) at 9,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 46 Nm (33.9 lb-ft) at 8,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 114.2 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (8,000 rpm) and peak power (9,500 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 measures 173 kg (381 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.33 HP/kg (3.04 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 775 mm (30.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,435 mm (56.5 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 18-liter (4.8 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 10 indexed model years from 1994 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.