By The 1974 Honda CB500 Four is one of those motorcycles that just feels special. You know the kind—powerful engine, classic good looks, and a ride that leaves you grinning ear to ear. For me, this bike holds a legendary status for good reason. It wasn’t just about getting from point A to B—it was about the experience, the thrill, and the feel of it all. Today, I want to share with you what makes this bike so iconic and why it still holds a special place in the heart of anyone who loves motorcycles.
Key Takeaways
- The CB500 Four was a game changer in the mid-size category—plenty of power, amazing handling, and just pure fun.
- Honda’s dedication to engineering excellence was obvious. They designed it to be reliable, and it truly delivered.
- The classic, minimalistic look of the CB500 Four still turns heads. I mean, who doesn’t love that vintage charm?
- This bike’s success at events like the Isle of Man TT helped cement its racing pedigree. It wasn’t just all looks and no show.
- You can see its influence today in cafe racer culture, and restorations of these bikes are everywhere.
The Birth of the 1974 Honda CB500 Four
Honda’s Vision for the Perfect Motorcycle
When Honda set out to build bikes, it wasn’t just about making something that moved. They were aiming for something that moved you. I think about Soichiro Honda—a guy who was obsessed with perfection. He was the kind of person who wanted machines that were both functional and beautiful. And with the CB500 Four, he got it right. This bike was his take on a well-rounded motorcycle that could do it all: fast enough to have fun but still practical enough for everyday use.
CB500 to CB550: A Natural Evolution
When Honda brought out the CB550 a year later, it wasn’t like they were reinventing the wheel. They just took what was great about the CB500 and added a little extra oomph. The CB550 shared a lot of the same parts but had that larger engine that gave it a bit more muscle. You could call it an evolution rather than a revolution, and people loved it. I mean, if it ain’t broke, right?
Yoshimura’s Influence on Honda
Now, here’s where it gets cool—Yoshimura joined hands with Honda in ’72. If you’re into bikes, you already know the name Yoshimura. It’s synonymous with speed and performance. Their collaboration was about pushing the envelope. These guys weren’t content with “good enough.” They were after bikes that made you say “wow.” And for a lot of folks, the CB500 was exactly that—just wow. The engine was quick, responsive, and had this beautiful hum. You could tell it had racing DNA in it.
Engine Specifications of the 1974 Honda CB500 Four
What’s Under the Hood?
The engine is the heart of any motorcycle, and the CB500 Four’s four-cylinder engine was a beauty. It was smooth, powerful, and easy to live with. Honestly, when I first learned about the transverse four-cylinder design, I thought it was pure genius. It made the bike so much more balanced. Here are the key details:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 498 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 56.0 x 50.6 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Max Power | 48 hp @ 9000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 45 Nm @ 7500 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
The CB500 Four didn’t have an insane amount of power, but that’s not what it was about. It was about being fast enough to keep things interesting, but not so crazy that you’d be afraid to twist the throttle.
How It Stacks Up
Compared to other bikes of its time, the CB500 Four was a real gem. There were bigger bikes out there, sure. But the way the CB500 delivered its power was something special. The engine was buttery smooth, and it had a sound that was just music to your ears—sort of a melodic growl. Lightweight, nimble, and with just enough grunt to keep a smile on your face.
Timeless Design & Aesthetics
Classic Sport Styling: Less is More
If there’s one thing that makes the 1974 Honda CB500 Four a classic, it’s the styling. It’s got that sleek, understated look. Nothing feels overdone. I always loved how Honda went for clean lines—sharp without being edgy. No gimmicks. Just a timeless silhouette that still looks fresh today.
Frame & Build Quality
The double-cradle frame design makes the bike look and feel planted. It’s sturdy but not bulky. And it’s lightweight, which makes all the difference when you’re flicking it around corners. Plus:
- Double-cradle frame: Gives stability without adding unnecessary weight.
- Fuel Tank Design: The tank looks beautiful—like it just belongs there, perfectly shaped to keep the whole thing balanced.
- Bodywork: Built tough, and it still holds up all these years later. You don’t see that much these days.
The Colors: Stand Out or Stay Classy
| Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Candy Blue | It’s eye-catching. People notice this one. |
| Candy Red | Classic, iconic. You can’t go wrong. |
| Black | Sleek and subtle. It’s what I’d pick if I wanted a low-profile ride. |
Handling & Ride Quality: A Joy on Every Ride
Smooth Suspension System
The suspension on the CB500 Four is one of those things you have to experience to understand. It’s got this wonderful way of absorbing bumps without feeling too soft. The front forks give you great feedback—you always know what’s happening underneath you. And those rear shocks? Adjustable, so you could set them up how you liked it. It didn’t matter if you were going for a Sunday cruise or taking it on a longer ride—it handled both with ease.
Braking Performance
Let’s talk brakes. They weren’t perfect, but they were pretty darn good. The front disc gave you strong, predictable stopping power.
| Brake Type | Performance |
|---|---|
| Front Disc | Responsive—exactly what you need for control. |
| Rear Drum | Can be a bit touchy—light pressure is key. |
I remember someone telling me they locked up the rear drum on theirs once because they got a bit too enthusiastic. Lesson learned, right?
Rider Comfort: Built for Real People
The CB500 Four isn’t just about speed or looks. Honda wanted it to be comfortable enough for the average rider. And I’d say they nailed it:
- Seat Padding: Comfy enough for long stretches, even if your butt’s not iron.
- Riding Position: Upright, relaxed, and just all-around friendly.
- Kick-start Lever: Okay, yeah, it sometimes digs into your leg, but that’s all part of the charm, isn’t it?
The CB500 Four’s Legacy
Why Enthusiasts Love It
The CB500 Four holds a special place in the hearts of so many riders, myself included. It wasn’t just about performance, it was also reliable. And let me tell you, when you have a bike that looks this good, rides this well, and doesn’t break down every other week—that’s something to celebrate.
The Cafe Racer Influence
It’s almost like the CB500 Four was made to be customized. Lightweight frame, responsive engine—it had all the right bones for a cafe racer build. You see a lot of these bikes in cafe racer builds even today. People love stripping them down, adding their personal touches, and turning them into something uniquely theirs.
The Media Loved It, Too
It’s one thing when riders love a bike, but when the media gets behind it, you know there’s something to it:
- Cycle World called it “the thinking man’s motorcycle.” Makes sense. It wasn’t just about horsepower—it was about riding smart.
- Bike Magazine highlighted its balance of performance and economy. And let’s be real, a bike that doesn’t guzzle fuel is always a win.
Racing Pedigree: The Isle of Man TT & More
Isle of Man TT Win
The CB500 Four has some racing history worth bragging about. It made its mark at the Isle of Man TT in 1973 with Bill Smith taking the win. It wasn’t a massive gap—only about 8.2 seconds—but it was enough. And that’s all you need sometimes.
Racing Modifications
For those wanting to get more out of their CB500, the common mods were straightforward but effective:
- Exhaust Upgrades: The Yoshimura exhaust systems were a popular choice to get that extra bit of horsepower.
- Suspension Tweaks: Riders would swap in stiffer shocks to handle the corners better.
- Performance Tires: Better grip meant better control, especially at speed.
Maintenance & Reliability: Built to Last
Common Issues & Easy Fixes
No bike is perfect. The CB500 Four had its quirks, but they weren’t deal-breakers.
- Carburetor Problems: Clogged carbs are the bane of vintage bikes. Clean them regularly, and you’re good.
- Electrical Gremlins: Wires and connections need a check now and then—pretty typical stuff.
- Oil Leaks: Keep an eye out for leaks. If you’re using old gaskets, they might need replacing.
Engine Longevity
Take care of the CB500’s engine, and it will take care of you. Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and good-quality fuel go a long way. Honestly, it’s just about giving it the TLC it deserves.
Rider Testimonials
The best endorsement of a bike is what the owners say:
- “I’ve had mine over two decades, and it still fires up like a dream.”
- “The engine is so smooth—you wouldn’t believe it’s a ’70s bike.”
- “With just a bit of maintenance, this bike will go forever.”
Modern Love for the CB500 Four
Restoration Projects
Restoring an old CB500 Four isn’t just about making a bike look nice again. It’s about bringing a piece of history back to life. The satisfaction of seeing an old engine roar to life again is something else.
Market Value
These bikes have climbed in value over the years:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Excellent | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Good | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| Fair | $2,500 – $4,000 |
Even in average condition, it’s worth picking up—if you can find one.
Why Collectors Love It
Collectors like the CB500 Four because it’s the full package. It’s iconic, it’s got history, and it’s still fun to ride. Unlike some other “collector’s items,” you can actually take this one out on the road.
The CB500 Four in Pop Culture
Movies & Music
You’ve probably seen the CB500 Four around—it’s one of those bikes that show up in movies, music, and even artwork:
- Steve McQueen loved his bikes. If he rode it, it was cool.
- Jay Leno has one, and he’s got quite the collection.
- It showed up in movies like “The Wild One” and “Easy Rider.” The CB500 Four was all about that sense of freedom.
My Final Thoughts on the 1974 Honda CB500 Four
The 1974 Honda CB500 Four is more than just an old bike—it’s an experience. For me, it’s one of those motorcycles that strikes a balance few others manage. It’s got the power to thrill, the looks to turn heads, and the comfort to make long rides enjoyable.
Riding one feels like stepping back in time—but in a good way. You get that raw, visceral experience that modern bikes sometimes miss. It’s not overloaded with electronics. It’s just you, the bike, and the road. And there’s nothing quite like it.
The legacy of the CB500 Four is still alive today. It’s in the cafe racer builds, in the shows, and in the rides that people still take out on sunny weekends. If you ever get a chance to swing a leg over one, take it. Because it’s not just a motorcycle—it’s a piece of history that still knows how to make your heart race.