1979 Honda CX500, 498cc. Registration number FAG 568T. Frame...

Hammer

£3,800

1979 Honda CX500, 498cc. Registration number FAG 568T. Frame number CX 500 2025845. Engine number CX500E 2025905.
Sold with the V5C, keys, service book, only 2,232 miles from new.
The CX series feature a crankshaft configuration aligned longitudinally with the axis of bike, similar to the Moto Guzzi layout. Unlike a "boxer" flat-twin, the cylinders protrude at an angle above the horizontal. The included angle of the CX is 80°, and the heads are twisted 22° so that the inlet tracts do not interfere with the rider's legs. A camshaft nestles at the base of the V between the cylinders. Although Honda generally favours OHC engines, the cylinder head twist necessitated the use of stubby pushrods to operate the four overhead valves per cylinder, with a forked rocker arm acting off each pushrod. The 5-speed transmission is located below the crankshaft, with both in the same housing, an arrangement which keeps the engine short (length wise) but quite tall. The engine has a 10.0:1 compression ratio and 9,650 rpm redline. Just as with the Honda Gold Wing, the transmission rotates opposite to the engine to help counteract the engine torque's tendency to tip the bike slightly to one side when the throttle is opened or closed.
FAG was purchased by Philip Kirby in 1979 from Honda dealers Miles Kingsport of Hull. He became ill soon after and coated the bike in protective oil and dry stored it. On his passing it went to a family member who had it MOTed between 2006 and 2010, during this time the mileage went from 2,151 miles to 2,168 miles. Again it was dry stored until our vendor bought it in 2025.
He recommissioned it; it took about a month to clean off the wax, then he serviced the engine, new plugs , battery, tyres and a fluids change. It is now up and running as it should do, it is totally original and ready for someone to use it. The odometer now shows 2,232 miles.