Positioned in Honda's touring motorcycle lineup, the 1979 Honda CX 500 Deluxe utilizes a 496 cc (30.3 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 50 HP (36.5 kW) at 9,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 100.8 HP per liter, 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 CX 500 Deluxe measures 205 kg (452 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.1 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, combined with a 1,455 mm (57.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 17.03-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.52 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 377 km (234 miles) between fill-ups.
Specific Output
100.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.24 HP/kg (4.1 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~377 km (234 mi)
Engine
Displacement496.0 ccm (30.27 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power50.0 HP (36.5 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke78.0 x 52.0 mm (3.1 x 2.0 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin 35mm CV
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
IgnitionCDI
LubricationForced Pressure and Wet Sump
CoolingLiquid
Max RPM10500
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
ClutchWet, Multi Plate
Performance
Fuel Consumption4.52 litres/100 km (22.1 km/l or 52.04 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases104.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeDiamond
Rake26.9°
Trail105 mm (4.1 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic Forks
Front Travel139 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwingarm
Rear Travel85 mm (3.3 inches)
Wheelbase1455 mm (57.3 inches)
Ground Clearance145 mm (5.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-19
Rear Tyre130/90-16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight205.0 kg (452.0 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2439 HP/kg
Seat Height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
