The Honda CB500 four, introduced early
in the 1970's, was similarly styled to
the CB750, but smaller and lighter, with
an output of 48bhp and a manufacturer's
specified top speed of 102 mph.
A number were raced in the Production
TT races on the Isle of Man in the early
1970's. Bill Smith won the 1973 500cc
TT Production race (4 laps) riding one,
by only 8.2 seconds from second place
Stan Woods mounted on a Suzuki T500 two
stroke twin.
1973 Honda CB500 Four
1973 Honda CB500/4
1974 Honda CB500 Four
Like the earlier CB750 it sported a single
front hydraulic disc brake, rear drum brake,
electric starter, and single overhead camshaft
(SOHC) 8 valve engine. The 4 into 4 exhaust
pipes made it easy to identify. It was thought
to be a better handling bike than the larger
model, although it weighed in at 420lb (dry).
