This was a bragging achievement. It was spewing smoke and starting fluid out the head from the lack of gasket. Honed the cylinder wall with sandpaper. My man's the Merlin of bike maintenance
I know right. I just pulled the battery out of my 2023 Yamaha MT 10 to throw it on the battery tender and I actually thought I was doing something lol Craig could probably rebuild that entire motorcycle and the length of time that it takes me to remove my battery and put it on the tender lol.
Back in 2000, I took a chance and bought my first bike, a not-running 1979 GL1000 I was told just needed a starter. Turned out it needed carb work and had rust in the tank. My neighbors watched me fool with it for weeks. Then one day I'll never forget, they were over talking to my wife in the driveway while I'm working on it in my garage. It was time. I pushed that button and it coughed, a truly thrilling moment. My neighbors looked over and said, "whoa!". I hit that button again, gave her some gas, she sputtered then fired to life. I was out there in a cloud of smoke, fist pumping and celebrating like it was a football game. I probably looked like a fool, but the excitement was real. Not a big deal for a seasoned mechanic, but it was for me. I rode that bike for nearly 2 years after before I sold it to get a Harley. Your video brought that day back for me. Thanks.
As a birthday present, I´ve got a 1978 Honda CX500 which was sitting in a garage for the last 24 years. I changed the oil, rebuilt the carbs, cleaned the tank and took it for a four day trip to Italy. It still runs perfectly without any further service done to it. These bikes run forever. Greetings from Germany
SMOOTHEST, that's what I think of when I think of mine. Powerful enough and fast enough. With that high compression engine it was so superior to chain motorcycles, Chain will beat you to death this thing is Smooth.
Guys, you two are the best! I love Dan's little comments that he throws in! Nothing like hanging out in the garage with you guys! Thanks for putting these videos up for our entertainment and education!
Man, your videos make my week! I’ll be stressing out about life, then I get a new video to watch! It’s like when I was a kid and my pops would be watching “New Yankee Workshop”
I feel ya different stuff I watched though with my pops, we use to tune into tnn before it turned into spike and we'd watch the motor block hot rod TV Stacey David gears I think it was a 4x4 show I can't think of the name but every Saturday I'd wake up get my cereal sit down in the living room and watch like 4hrs of stuff with motors. Most episodes wasn't even driving it might be tire swaps and brakes but boy would I be glued to that tv lol.
I owned a 1978 CX500. I put 68,000 miles on that bike. Some additional fun facts about the bike: 1. It took Honda three tries to get the cam chain tensioner system right (I rebuilt the cam chain system on mine twice, using different part numbers each time - which is how I knew it took 3 tries). 2. You could drop the engine out of the frame in less than 5 minutes (the carbs stayed with the frame; there were no frame rails under the engine, so you just had to remove the frame bolts between the cylinders, loosen the carb spigots, remove the clutch cable, put a transmission jack under the engine and wiggle it front off the final drive splines and carb spigots). 3. The original ComStar wheels had stamped steel spokes, bolted to an aluminum hub and riveted to an extruded aluminum rim. This was (and in my opinion, still is) a superior design to modern cast wheels (extruded aluminum is stronger and less porous than cast aluminum - so it didn't need to be sealed on the inside of the rim to hold air - and the additional strength of the extrusion meant the rim thickness could be less, resulting in lower rotating inertia; and the steel spoke provided more "flex" than the later ComStar aluminum spokes or cast spokes. In fact, with the current Adventure Bike craze, I'm shocked no one has "re-introduced" this original ComStar design - combining the advantages of a modern cast wheel and a traditional wire-spoked wheel.
@@mebeasensei extruding refers to a manufacturing process, where a material is forced at very high pressure through a die (the shape of the cross-section of the finished item). Most alloys of aluminum can be extruded (along with many other malleable materials). The extrusion process results in a smoother finish (and typically higher density) than casting. Cast aluminum is typically very porous (i.e. it leaks air)... this is why cast aluminum rims always have a painted finish (the paint is not only for beauty, it keeps the rim from leaking which results in flat tires)!
@@davefrench3608I didn't sell the CX500 because it was worn-out - I sold it because I wanted a Honda V45 Interceptor (and could only afford one bike at the time). Agreed regarding easy servicing of the CX500!
Long time CX 500 owner here. Don't strip that engine down. Couple of oil changes, it'll be running fine. Already sounds good! Couple of things. Search for "Triple Bypass". Three common things that go wrong with these bikes. Carbs. Don't separate them. They need to be cleaned very well. There are emulation tubes that need to be pulled and cleaned before they run properly. I used a 4-40 bolt and nut. Thread the top part of the tube, screw the bolt in. Use the nut to jack the tube out. A dpiral extractor will work, but I prefer the bolt and nut. All of this stuff can be found on forums. You got a new subscriber
I like most London Motorcycle dispatch riders owned a CX500 in the 90,s. It was great,The cooling fan was held on with self tapping screws and i wore the foot pegs off of it on roundabouts. And in winter when you stopped at traffic lights you could put your hands on each cylinder head to warm them up
I rode one too, never did like it round town much. Did most of my despacthing on a cb250rs, got through three of them, and then a VT500, fantastic bike.
I've got an 82 CX Custom in my shed. (Owned it since 86) Parked it after It blew the second stator. (Requires engine removal). My buddy is dropping by tonight. You just inspired me to discuss a restore. 😎 Enjoy your channel. Cheers
Hey Lancer, I had an issue with the stator on my CX500 a few years ago and I tried electronic ignition that is wired to the brake light circuit and this fires the bike up everytime real easy too. Just thought it may save the headache of having to drop the engine to remove the stator. Can't remember what the name of the company was but they were based in poland or somewhere like that. Safe riding from the Dave in the uk.
@@TheDavedadd Thanks Dave I will have a look. Much appreciated. Wiring to the brake light circuit sounds a little sketchy. I think I'd wire a direct fused wire to the ignition. I'm thinking the 2nd alternator was a cheap aftermarket one Thanks again. Lance in Canada
I went through a stator replacement on my 1980 CX500. There is a great CX500 forum online with a walkthrough on how to do it. Lots of great resources on that site. Follow the guide and you'll be fine.
Circa 1989, my landlord in Southampton UK bought one of these Hondas 2nd-hand. He hadn't ridden for some time and needed to muster courage to take it for a first spin. I'm guilty of being one of a small audience that gathered to make him extra nervous. No biggie though; he made it round the block without mishap. Happy days.
I had a 79 cx500custom when I lived in colorado. Best 500 bucks I ever spent. ❤️ rode it all over the front range from Fort Collins down to the springs and everywhere in between. Such rad bikes
OMG!!! 😢 I want one so bad. It was my dad's first bike. His last bike before he passed was an 85 CB1000 Custom. I'd LOVE to own either one of those bikes. This is awesome, though! U guys are awesome! AND funny coincidence - my dad was an "electricken"! Lol Did some more looking and realized my dad also had the CB500!
Wow i remember my dad had a blue one in the late 1970s such good memories. I remember waiting till he came home after work every day so he could take me for my ride around the block . Thanks for the memory
I'm currently running the absolute BAJEEZUS out of a 650 Ninja, with part of the cylinder liner chunked out on the right side, used head gaskets, and no torque value assigned to the head bolts. I just made 'em tight. We're learning to wheelie on it. This spirit of slapping an engine back together just to make it run, is just beautiful. I love it.
I used to have an '80 CX500. I was young and didn't have a lot of tools, knowledge or resources. It wouldn't idle to save its life. Found I had a bad spark plug boot and fixed it by cutting the finger off of a rubber glove and taping it around the boot with some electrical tape. Best fix ever!
I have a 1982 GL 500 that I bought brand new 41 years ago. The GL is the CX but with the Honda Fairing, trunk and saddle bags. I still have it. That thing is bullet proof. Rode it all over North America and all over Europe. It's no longer my primary ride but it still runs and I can't bear to part with it. I'll probably keep it until I'm in the ground.
The first real bike I rode was an 81' GL. Two brothers bought bikes, one the GL and the other a CX. Years later, I bought that very CX. Still have it. Been sitting way too long!
Bro, while working at a campground near the Grand Canyon we had a well-fed couple roll in on a GL 500, towing a trailer. At 7,000 feet elevation. Gawd I felt for that 500!
The Motorcycle Whisperer right here! You clearly have the knowledge and that in turn makes you patient! You would be a great great shop teacher!!! Fantastic fantastic as always!
I just bought a 1983 Silverwing GL650 with 7,000 original miles. It has the engine from the cx models. It's smooth and I can really lean in the turns, I love it.
This bike had my favorite method of mounting stuff, shoe string, parachute cord, zip ties and electric wire. I missed superglue and double sided sticky tape... You just cannot do without this stuff. 😎
Most redneck thing I'd ever seen. My Dads had a coworker Who had a motorcycle trophy attached to the crossbar on his bike sliver rattle can paint everywhere.on the bike im riding a ltd 1000 evey hot rod goddie on it. See this bike. Say .You actually ride that.?
Had a 1980 model CX500 Custom. Bought used in 87, fully bagged. Fairing, hard bags and trunk. King, queen seat. Two years later I had it knocked down to a hard-tail, straight pipes with fishtail exhaust on each side, tombstone tail light... man, it was cool!!! Nobody could stand riding behind me for any length of time. Said it sounded like a powered up Cessna that never got cleared for take off!😅 Fun video guys! Thanks.
Can you believe they actually made a turbo charged factory version of that bike. It had the smallest turbo that has ever been produced for a production vehicle,
Youre really a great mechanic and Dan makes a great videographer and partner in crime. As an old one time rider (82 Kawasaki 1000CSR) it makes me feel good being still connected in at least this way seeing hurt bikes find healing and running again with your cheerful and positive attitude and capable hands. Thank you for your very enjoyable videos!
OMG YES! that was my first motorcycle back in 2018 when i got my license. It was working but needed work. did all the work with my brother and I. loved it. I put over 15k miles on it in less than 6months. Such a great bike. My current 2014 honda fury is also chaft driven. i love it. wish more brand would do it
I'm not gonna lie, I'm getting in love with your work, with mechanical stuff thanks to you and your charisma, Craig. Thanks for your content. Keep on it. Note: awesome edits lol, good job.
I had a 1982 GL500I. Every spring it wanted new sparkplugs and fresh break fluid. It knocked down a steady 55 mpg. Air ride was nice. A bit top heavy but smooth at highway speeds. I put 40k on it and sold it for what I bought it for. I would consider buying another for a long term ride.
Brings back memories and left me smiling. I had a maroon CX 500. Put about 10k on it and sold it at 28k miles. Never had any issues, other than a starter and a couple batteries over about 5 years.
OMG - I LOVE THIS! I'm just getting into working on bikes and love to see pros not only tear into them but get em running again. Well Done! I hope one day to be able to do what you guys do.
You should look into 3D printing an adapter for the sparkplug hole so you can hook up an air line and "pressurize" the combustion chamber.... That might help your special sauce soak in better. 😉😁👍
My uncle had one of these in the 70s also, loved it so much, even the police used it for a while. So happy to see ya'll get this up and running again, I love these kinda vids. :)
My first bike was the yamaha rd80, and the second, a cx500. The only drama I ever had was the chain spitting its dummy into a corner. The beauty, ran without fault for 5 years until I sold it (in a little dark corner of my mind, I kind of regret doing that). In '92, I bought my gixxer brand new and still ride her daily. I hope someone restores this honda, it's a gem once it's running again.😊 Living in germany (was in the british army), I found out that the locals call it 'die gullenpumpe', roughly translates to 'the ditch pump' 😊 Thanks for posting and bringing back some memories mate, and a tear or two (I'm not crying, just got a fly in my eye 😊) 🤟
The CX500 is one of the 3 favorite bikes I've had. It was a '79 I got in '84. It had class, was a workhorse and my girlfriend enjoyed riding with me (finally). But in '87 I found myself unable to care for it and someone actually traded me a '74 Chevelle straight across. (another story from the shores of poverty) Nice to see you bring that one back to life.
I can’t wait to watch this. I bought a brand new 1978 CX500 Deluxe, such as you have there. I outfitted it with a Vetter fairing and added saddle bags. I live in Michigan and drove it to Florida several times, West Virginia, Kentucky several times and loved every minute of it. That bike Never let me down! My brother had one that we used to race. Up at Blackhawk Farms racetrack in Wisconsin it won the endurance race they had. These are awesome bikes!!!! Edit: my brother’s bike had 30,000 miles on it when we took it to the track.
I love these videos. I grew up riding these bikes with my friends in the late 70s. To hear one start up again that's been out of action, priceless. My stable of bikes began with a Yamaha RD125a (twin 2 stroke) a Honda CB400 Hawk, a Honda 750 supersport, a Honda CB900F, then a Honda CB750K1. I also owned a Kawasaki 350 Mach ? 2 stroke triple and a Suzuki 750 water bottle :). They don't make em like they used to!!... Thank goodness LOL.
I needed a project. There was a '79 Honda Twinstar CM185 for sale across town. It sat outside for years. Had 5k on the odo. Bought it for $200. It was missing some small parts, was NOT locked up. A month later my wife and I were traveling through Mew Hampshire and on the side of the road was another Twinstar for sale. Bought it. I spent the winter putting the two together. That was 2015. I registered it that spring and rode it daily until 2023. I then bought a Shadow RS. I sold the Twinstar because I really didn't want to put it into storage. Vintage Hondas have always interested me.
I'm 21 got an 82 and an 83 one of these. Didn't even know people loved these bikes so much that's awesome I love the way my 82 looks there's chrome bars everywhere and it's a devil it keeps up with my 82 seca 750 love these bikes!
Great laugh, you guys are great. Thanks for the entertainment. I was a 17 yr old apprentice at a Honda dealership in the UK (in 1977) tasked with doing many cam chain tensioner modifications as discussed. I remember lifting these lumps out of the frames with my eyes popping out of my head in order to fit the mod kits. I never recall having to punch the 3 dots on the frame though! First time I’ve heard of that! Great bikes, many fond memories. Someone said that this engine was originally designed by Honda for a generator……??
Thank u for working on a Honda , i got a old CB 750 from 74 my father own and i wish i could have a great mechanique like u , i did give it to one guys and he left it outside in the rain ... Bike Run but spit a lot of oil from botom end i try to learn mechanic and watching u is a bless .
I had a '79 CX500C that I was very fond of. That engine lent a lot of character to the bike. Probably was the influence that led me to getting an '08 Moto Guzzi Norge in '09. Fun video, thanks!
I love your use of the T-handle wrench. One of my favorite tools. I used it as much as I could instead of a ratchet. It give you fine control of bolts.
I remember a UA-cam channel where a British guy put a Honda silver hawk engine , one that looked similar to that engine, on an old riding mower , it was awesome, good video Craig, and Dan 👍
I had one in high-school in 1980. I rode that thing everywhere. Ortega hwy over the mountain and down into Elsonor. Up and down P.C.H. It was a great little bike. You could lay on the tank and wrap your arm around one of the jugs to keep warm.
Grew up West SFV back then...80 I was 12. Loved the 750s 1000s even smaller bikes with a proper header and even cam in them KNow those roads well, dailied my 69 SS camaro and ran those roads a lot, From sfv to zuma or ventura beach to hit the waves every single day. God I miss being young, cheap musclecars, bikes and no responsibility.
So happy to see the CX500 getting some love. I am the proud owner of a near mint condition, bone stock, all original 1980 Custom and a 1981 Deluxe parts bike with over 100k miles. Bought them off a family member who bought the deluxe new. First bike I ever owned. Learned to ride at 40 years old on a 40 year old bike. Put over 10k miles on the custom in my first year and a few months. It's a good reliable bike. What you've got could be a decent parts bike, save everything you can and pass it onto someone like me who is restoring or keeping alive these old cruisers.
That ATF and Acetone mix I have used for years over here in Scotland to get bolts loose its the ultimate trick! Great to see it in the clip. Every bike I used this on it worked.
I spent my childhood riding around on the back of my dad’s cx500 (he didn’t plate his car in the summer). It’s the first bike I learnt to ride, first bike I dumped first bike I rode to another city to chase a girl… So many memories. He’s been gone 5 yrs this week and just seeing one brings back so many memories. Thanks for the video.
Great video Craig and Dan. Even a lost cause can bring great excitement if you know where to look. My nephew has a Silverwing sitting in his garage that I may need to liberate! Keep up the great work!
Hey Craig. I bought a ratty 78-ish CX 500 with just 5000 miles showing for 400 bucks from Jeff Kahn in Seymour Wisconsin and shipped it back to the Uk with 16 other bikes. It sat in my storage for about a year until I got round to having a look at it. When I got it on the stand it too was seized. I put some "Marvel Miracle Oil" in the cylinders and rocked it carefully back and forth in 5th gear every morning. On the 3rd morning it freed up ( Woohoo!) so I put a battery on it and it wouldn't turn. Just like yours the starter was also seized. I stripped it and it was just a mass of rust ( though the brushes were hardly worn) as it it had been immersed in a lake, but with a clean and grease up it worked. So I put it back on the bike and spun her over...great spark..we're in business. The carbs were stuck too so I popped them off and gave them a sonic clean. When I put the carbs back on, the bike started after about 15 seconds of spinning . It was VERY smoky and I thought it was maybe damaged inside but after about 10 minutes of running it cleared. The tyres were shot-they were the originals- and it had a seized master cylinder so no brakes ...but I snagged a new Chinese master cylinder for £13( maybe 16 bucks) and the brakes came up a treat. All the electrics except the starter relay worked as if it had run yesterday I then cleaned the bike up and it came up really nicely. It rides so well I never liked the CXes but for some reason I really like this old gal and will probably restore it properly due to the the low miles. Everything tells me the miles are genuine and we have almost no CXes left here. Here's a vid I did about it that shows it starting for the first time. ua-cam.com/video/npoOAYneTU4/v-deo.html Thanks for the videos, they're fun
Craig, I really hope you and Dan will be the next UA-cam sensations in the world of motorcycle mechanics. Newbies could learn so much from y'all, and that's no joke. Hell, even I learn a thing or two from y'all every now and then, and I've been a shadetree mechanic for the last 8 years 😂. But for real though y'all rock, and I hope y'all reach more folks in the moto community!
LOL... the brake caliper is just swinging in the wind and, "It looks like the front brake is not working." I always loved the CX500 and you do amazing things with these bikes. Love your videos!
Love watching this show, it keeps me happy considering the time an money i have put into a few projects an ended up broken again for one reason or another (I find it annoying that places wont repair starters as i have an older bike and let a friend borrow the starter for his an now i have 2 cooked ones and replacement is probably 1/4 of the cost of a replacement engine) Keep doing your thing
My brother had this bike, sold it to my neighbor... was an excellent smooth running bike. But pretty weak and slow. Awesome seeing it again. Thanks Craig!
I bought a CX500 and it was the first street bike I owned after several motocross bikes. It was a fun ride. Me and my-now-wife took it on a 2000 mile road trip and had a blast. It had some cam chain vulberablities, but manageable. I wish I never sold it. I love your videos.
Back in 1989 or so, I helped get a friends CX-500 running. Thought we had everything fixed except the stator. Took it for a test ride and about 5 miles from his house, the engine suddenly just locked up at speed. No warning, no sound. Nothing. Just suddenly locked. Skidded until I got on the clutch.
Wow, does this bring back memories. I purchased a used CX500 Custom in 1982, it had only 500 miles on it (owner had gotten a new address in confinement) the seller (his mother) was happy to see it go. Great bike, smooth and fast to about 90MPH then it ran out of lungs. Proved to me to never own another air cooled or chain drive bike, and lastly its a Honda, the best in my opinion.
I had a nearly identical CX500 (no fairing or sissy bar) for a few years. It was a 1980 that I bought from the original owner for $500.... with 500 miles on it. He had bought it for his wife, but she was afraid to ride it and so it ended up sitting unused for many years on a covered patio. I think I bought it around 2004 or 2005. The engine was gummed up with old oil, the carbs full of varnish, and the tires needed replacement. I bought some clutches for it, but never got around to putting them in. Despite being out of the California weather (such as it is), the mufflers had rusted out from the inside and there was some pitting on the chrome. I couldn't find OEM mufflers (or they were ridiculously expensive... I forget), so I installed some similar looking generics that worked pretty well. I got it cleaned up, fixed most of whatever else needed fixing and put it back on the road. Frankly, it ever felt comfortable to me (seemed top heavy) and had to run at too high revs on California's 70mph+ freeways. So over a couple years I only put another 1000 miles on it riding back roads or around town. I liked the wheels (no spokes to loosen!) and the shaft drive (except when changing tires or wanting to change the drive ratio). Something I didn't like was the cost of Honda parts! As I recall, the plastic floats for the carbs cost $40 each! In 2009 I ended up selling (for $750) to a guy who brought along a certified Honda tech buddy, who was stunned to see a nearly 20 year old bike with so few miles.
Had three of these. The cam chain tensioner bolt always comes loose then the timing chain starts slapping around. Otherwise it is a tank!! And runs forever with a great cooling sustem and an awesome thumping sound!
I had this exact model. I have had many other motorcycles including Harleys - BUT - this Honda was my favorite. Fantastic handling , great sound , extremely reliable , fast for a 500 CC motor. I have always wanted to own a 650 special cousin of this featured CX 500 but could never find one .
I have a donated CX500 sitting in my garage. Rebuilt the carbs but now think i should check the engine before moving on. Thanks for the inspiration. Oh and mine needs plenty of wire work too...
My dad has an 81 GL500, same engine. Fun little bike, have to keep the RPM's way up there, it's like a heavy two stroke lol. Awesome content as always.
I'm convinced that Craig can bring almost any motorcycle from the dead
This was a bragging achievement. It was spewing smoke and starting fluid out the head from the lack of gasket. Honed the cylinder wall with sandpaper. My man's the Merlin of bike maintenance
This Honda is more dead than alive ie it's a Zomda
He is Craig the Corroded, Motorcycle Necromancer 😂
I know right. I just pulled the battery out of my 2023 Yamaha MT 10 to throw it on the battery tender and I actually thought I was doing something lol Craig could probably rebuild that entire motorcycle and the length of time that it takes me to remove my battery and put it on the tender lol.
I got one that might challenge him
Back in 2000, I took a chance and bought my first bike, a not-running 1979 GL1000 I was told just needed a starter. Turned out it needed carb work and had rust in the tank. My neighbors watched me fool with it for weeks. Then one day I'll never forget, they were over talking to my wife in the driveway while I'm working on it in my garage. It was time. I pushed that button and it coughed, a truly thrilling moment. My neighbors looked over and said, "whoa!". I hit that button again, gave her some gas, she sputtered then fired to life. I was out there in a cloud of smoke, fist pumping and celebrating like it was a football game. I probably looked like a fool, but the excitement was real. Not a big deal for a seasoned mechanic, but it was for me. I rode that bike for nearly 2 years after before I sold it to get a Harley. Your video brought that day back for me. Thanks.
As a birthday present, I´ve got a 1978 Honda CX500 which was sitting in a garage for the last 24 years. I changed the oil, rebuilt the carbs, cleaned the tank and took it for a four day trip to Italy. It still runs perfectly without any further service done to it. These bikes run forever. Greetings from Germany
Oh yes, I also changed the brake fluid.
@@MotoButscherglad you added that.
That sounds awesome!
@@davefrench3608😅
SMOOTHEST, that's what I think of when I think of mine. Powerful enough and fast enough. With that high compression engine it was so superior to chain motorcycles, Chain will beat you to death this thing is Smooth.
I'm now convinced Craig could get a 47 year old rotten potato to run.
😂
Perfectly good mashed potatoes
😂😂
“It never gets old”.
No, it doesn’t boys.
Keep up the good work.
Ofcourse, because it's a copy of the Moto Guzzi 🙂
😊😊@@bustjanzupan1074
My ears are ringing.... let's do it again 😂
Classic Dan quote of the day. The good ATF not the one that's gonna come after us for our hammer. Priceless. 😂😂😂😂
Hammer By Glock.
Guys, you two are the best! I love Dan's little comments that he throws in! Nothing like hanging out in the garage with you guys! Thanks for putting these videos up for our entertainment and education!
Man, your videos make my week! I’ll be stressing out about life, then I get a new video to watch! It’s like when I was a kid and my pops would be watching “New Yankee Workshop”
I feel ya different stuff I watched though with my pops, we use to tune into tnn before it turned into spike and we'd watch the motor block hot rod TV Stacey David gears I think it was a 4x4 show I can't think of the name but every Saturday I'd wake up get my cereal sit down in the living room and watch like 4hrs of stuff with motors. Most episodes wasn't even driving it might be tire swaps and brakes but boy would I be glued to that tv lol.
Awesome content, got me a smile and the adrenaline pumping 💪💪💪
I love this guy. This is what I wish I was doing with my life instead of sitting at a damn desk everyday. This is what men are made for.
Agree!
Exactly man!
I owned a 1978 CX500. I put 68,000 miles on that bike. Some additional fun facts about the bike:
1. It took Honda three tries to get the cam chain tensioner system right (I rebuilt the cam chain system on mine twice, using different part numbers each time - which is how I knew it took 3 tries).
2. You could drop the engine out of the frame in less than 5 minutes (the carbs stayed with the frame; there were no frame rails under the engine, so you just had to remove the frame bolts between the cylinders, loosen the carb spigots, remove the clutch cable, put a transmission jack under the engine and wiggle it front off the final drive splines and carb spigots).
3. The original ComStar wheels had stamped steel spokes, bolted to an aluminum hub and riveted to an extruded aluminum rim. This was (and in my opinion, still is) a superior design to modern cast wheels (extruded aluminum is stronger and less porous than cast aluminum - so it didn't need to be sealed on the inside of the rim to hold air - and the additional strength of the extrusion meant the rim thickness could be less, resulting in lower rotating inertia; and the steel spoke provided more "flex" than the later ComStar aluminum spokes or cast spokes. In fact, with the current Adventure Bike craze, I'm shocked no one has "re-introduced" this original ComStar design - combining the advantages of a modern cast wheel and a traditional wire-spoked wheel.
what is extruded aluminum?
@@mebeasensei Sort-of squeezed into a shape, as opposed to cast into shape. Think pasta versus jelly/jell-o.
@@mebeasensei extruding refers to a manufacturing process, where a material is forced at very high pressure through a die (the shape of the cross-section of the finished item). Most alloys of aluminum can be extruded (along with many other malleable materials). The extrusion process results in a smoother finish (and typically higher density) than casting. Cast aluminum is typically very porous (i.e. it leaks air)... this is why cast aluminum rims always have a painted finish (the paint is not only for beauty, it keeps the rim from leaking which results in flat tires)!
Only 68,000?
These things given fresh oil and daily hard use do 200,000.
One of the easiest bikes to service.
@@davefrench3608I didn't sell the CX500 because it was worn-out - I sold it because I wanted a Honda V45 Interceptor (and could only afford one bike at the time). Agreed regarding easy servicing of the CX500!
Long time CX 500 owner here.
Don't strip that engine down. Couple of oil changes, it'll be running fine. Already sounds good!
Couple of things. Search for "Triple Bypass". Three common things that go wrong with these bikes.
Carbs. Don't separate them. They need to be cleaned very well. There are emulation tubes that need to be pulled and cleaned before they run properly. I used a 4-40 bolt and nut. Thread the top part of the tube, screw the bolt in. Use the nut to jack the tube out. A dpiral extractor will work, but I prefer the bolt and nut.
All of this stuff can be found on forums.
You got a new subscriber
I like most London Motorcycle dispatch riders owned a CX500 in the 90,s.
It was great,The cooling fan was held on with self tapping screws and i wore the foot pegs off of it on roundabouts.
And in winter when you stopped at traffic lights you could put your hands on each cylinder head to warm them up
... is the most oft' repeated thing folk say to you when they see you're on a plastic maggot 😁 (zero plastic on mine)
One of the first things I did when I started riding (early 90's), was follow you guys around London. Sure learned how to filter!
Rented mine from Chaz Bikes before I bought my own. Best despatch bike ever.
If it had a sheepskin seat cover it was probably my old one!
I rode one too, never did like it round town much. Did most of my despacthing on a cb250rs, got through three of them, and then a VT500, fantastic bike.
I've got an 82 CX Custom in my shed. (Owned it since 86) Parked it after It blew the second stator. (Requires engine removal). My buddy is dropping by tonight. You just inspired me to discuss a restore. 😎 Enjoy your channel. Cheers
Hey Lancer, I had an issue with the stator on my CX500 a few years ago and I tried electronic ignition that is wired to the brake light circuit and this fires the bike up everytime real easy too. Just thought it may save the headache of having to drop the engine to remove the stator. Can't remember what the name of the company was but they were based in poland or somewhere like that. Safe riding from the Dave in the uk.
@@TheDavedadd Thanks Dave I will have a look. Much appreciated. Wiring to the brake light circuit sounds a little sketchy. I think I'd wire a direct fused wire to the ignition. I'm thinking the 2nd alternator was a cheap aftermarket one Thanks again. Lance in Canada
No problem glad I could help @@lancerbiker5263
I went through a stator replacement on my 1980 CX500. There is a great CX500 forum online with a walkthrough on how to do it. Lots of great resources on that site. Follow the guide and you'll be fine.
My Gl 1000 Gold Wing is on its 4th stator.
A favourite with Motorcycle Couriers in the UK for many years.
I sold them water pump seal kits by the boat load .....ex Fowlers parts counter ....
And widely known as the Maggot!
I thought that was the kwak gt550 - had one once lol@@paintedblue1791
@@cedhome7945 cam chain tensioners were another regular replacement too
Circa 1989, my landlord in Southampton UK bought one of these Hondas 2nd-hand. He hadn't ridden for some time and needed to muster courage to take it for a first spin. I'm guilty of being one of a small audience that gathered to make him extra nervous. No biggie though; he made it round the block without mishap. Happy days.
I had a 79 cx500custom when I lived in colorado. Best 500 bucks I ever spent. ❤️ rode it all over the front range from Fort Collins down to the springs and everywhere in between. Such rad bikes
OMG!!! 😢 I want one so bad. It was my dad's first bike. His last bike before he passed was an 85 CB1000 Custom. I'd LOVE to own either one of those bikes. This is awesome, though! U guys are awesome! AND funny coincidence - my dad was an "electricken"! Lol Did some more looking and realized my dad also had the CB500!
I've had a CB900 Custom and they are a dream!
Wow i remember my dad had a blue one in the late 1970s such good memories. I remember waiting till he came home after work every day so he could take me for my ride around the block . Thanks for the memory
This brought back memories of restoring my 79 cx500. Man, I loved that bike
I'm currently running the absolute BAJEEZUS out of a 650 Ninja, with part of the cylinder liner chunked out on the right side, used head gaskets, and no torque value assigned to the head bolts. I just made 'em tight. We're learning to wheelie on it.
This spirit of slapping an engine back together just to make it run, is just beautiful. I love it.
I used to have an '80 CX500. I was young and didn't have a lot of tools, knowledge or resources. It wouldn't idle to save its life. Found I had a bad spark plug boot and fixed it by cutting the finger off of a rubber glove and taping it around the boot with some electrical tape. Best fix ever!
That's awesome! Taking notes😅
did similar to my CT70
I owned two NEW CX500 bikes, 77 and 81. They were GREAT dependable bikes that were ahead of their time.
I have a 1982 GL 500 that I bought brand new 41 years ago. The GL is the CX but with the Honda Fairing, trunk and saddle bags. I still have it. That thing is bullet proof. Rode it all over North America and all over Europe. It's no longer my primary ride but it still runs and I can't bear to part with it. I'll probably keep it until I'm in the ground.
Ive got a honda cb1 from 1989 it still goes fast
Used to be called the baby wing
The first real bike I rode was an 81' GL. Two brothers bought bikes, one the GL and the other a CX. Years later, I bought that very CX. Still have it. Been sitting way too long!
My understanding is the GL is a bit more relaxed frame wise.
Bro, while working at a campground near the Grand Canyon we had a well-fed couple roll in on a GL 500, towing a trailer. At 7,000 feet elevation. Gawd I felt for that 500!
The Motorcycle Whisperer right here! You clearly have the knowledge and that in turn makes you patient! You would be a great great shop teacher!!! Fantastic fantastic as always!
Whisperer? What in the world are you talking about
Yeah.. He can show how hammering on a piston that is at TDC can destroy , not only the piston , but the crank bearings and damage the crank as well.
I just bought a 1983 Silverwing GL650 with 7,000 original miles. It has the engine from the cx models. It's smooth and I can really lean in the turns, I love it.
Sweet, those are rare.
Ah the Honda-Guzzi! I had an 81 Gl 500 with factory fairing and radio. Great bike!
This bike had my favorite method of mounting stuff, shoe string, parachute cord, zip ties and electric wire.
I missed superglue and double sided sticky tape...
You just cannot do without this stuff. 😎
Most redneck thing I'd ever seen. My Dads had a coworker Who had a motorcycle trophy attached to the crossbar on his bike sliver rattle can paint everywhere.on the bike im riding a ltd 1000 evey hot rod goddie on it. See this bike. Say .You actually ride that.?
My Yamaha road trail has both side covers held on by cable ties 😂 they’ve been holding up well in this hot Australian summer.
If it works, USE IT, right?@@chevaryan2082
at 24.41 --- love how all the knowledge just starts flowing out at times!
Had a 1980 model CX500 Custom. Bought used in 87, fully bagged. Fairing, hard bags and trunk. King, queen seat. Two years later I had it knocked down to a hard-tail, straight pipes with fishtail exhaust on each side, tombstone tail light... man, it was cool!!! Nobody could stand riding behind me for any length of time. Said it sounded like a powered up Cessna that never got cleared for take off!😅 Fun video guys! Thanks.
Had a 1978 CX for 6 years here in the UK used it every day for work...great bike
It's Alive! Dr. Frankenstein would be proud!
Can you believe they actually made a turbo charged factory version of that bike. It had the smallest turbo that has ever been produced for a production vehicle,
I have two of these old gals and they just keep running. Honda knocked it out of the park with the cx engines. Well done bringing her back to life.
Youre really a great mechanic and Dan makes a great videographer and partner in crime. As an old one time rider (82 Kawasaki 1000CSR) it makes me feel good being still connected in at least this way seeing hurt bikes find healing and running again with your cheerful and positive attitude and capable hands. Thank you for your very enjoyable videos!
OMG YES! that was my first motorcycle back in 2018 when i got my license. It was working but needed work. did all the work with my brother and I. loved it. I put over 15k miles on it in less than 6months. Such a great bike.
My current 2014 honda fury is also chaft driven. i love it. wish more brand would do it
I’d love to see you rebuild just the engine, so iconic.
Just wait.....
There has to be some financial incentive or you're throwing money to the wind.
I'm not gonna lie, I'm getting in love with your work, with mechanical stuff thanks to you and your charisma, Craig.
Thanks for your content. Keep on it.
Note: awesome edits lol, good job.
I absolutely enjoy the enthusiasm you bring. Even when it looks the worst, you keep on trucking. Best one yet!
I had a 1982 GL500I. Every spring it wanted new sparkplugs and fresh break fluid. It knocked down a steady 55 mpg. Air ride was nice. A bit top heavy but smooth at highway speeds. I put 40k on it and sold it for what I bought it for. I would consider buying another for a long term ride.
That's awesome Craig you want to donate that bike to somebody that doesn't have one that can rebuild it
good god , have some pride and self respect. Its embarrassing when people beg for free things in public
Brings back memories and left me smiling. I had a maroon CX 500. Put about 10k on it and sold it at 28k miles. Never had any issues, other than a starter and a couple batteries over about 5 years.
OMG - I LOVE THIS! I'm just getting into working on bikes and love to see pros not only tear into them but get em running again. Well Done! I hope one day to be able to do what you guys do.
Love that you got that engine to spin from totally frozen!
You should look into 3D printing an adapter for the sparkplug hole so you can hook up an air line and "pressurize" the combustion chamber.... That might help your special sauce soak in better. 😉😁👍
We used to use the line from a compression test kit to pressurize and keep the valves up for spring/retainer changes.
My uncle had one of these in the 70s also, loved it so much, even the police used it for a while. So happy to see ya'll get this up and running again, I love these kinda vids. :)
My first bike was the yamaha rd80, and the second, a cx500. The only drama I ever had was the chain spitting its dummy into a corner. The beauty, ran without fault for 5 years until I sold it (in a little dark corner of my mind, I kind of regret doing that). In '92, I bought my gixxer brand new and still ride her daily.
I hope someone restores this honda, it's a gem once it's running again.😊
Living in germany (was in the british army), I found out that the locals call it 'die gullenpumpe', roughly translates to 'the ditch pump' 😊
Thanks for posting and bringing back some memories mate, and a tear or two (I'm not crying, just got a fly in my eye 😊) 🤟
Wow! That bike is minty!!!
( in Deutschland Güllepumpe genannt)Hondas schönstes motorrad die laufen immer
The CX500 is one of the 3 favorite bikes I've had. It was a '79 I got in '84. It had class, was a workhorse and my girlfriend enjoyed riding with me (finally). But in '87 I found myself unable to care for it and someone actually traded me a '74 Chevelle straight across. (another story from the shores of poverty) Nice to see you bring that one back to life.
Beloved of we old London despatch riders
How many water pump seal kits did you put in it?
@@cedhome7945 I just took it to Chasbikes 🤣
Craig, tell your editors to lay off the damn jump cuts! These videos are unwatchable. Going to need to put a damn seizure warning at the beginning.
Thanks so much for doing the CX500! I happen to be working on one right now. You offer a lot of VERY helpful info. I have never missed an episode
I can’t wait to watch this. I bought a brand new 1978 CX500 Deluxe, such as you have there. I outfitted it with a Vetter fairing and added saddle bags. I live in Michigan and drove it to Florida several times, West Virginia, Kentucky several times and loved every minute of it. That bike Never let me down! My brother had one that we used to race. Up at Blackhawk Farms racetrack in Wisconsin it won the endurance race they had. These are awesome bikes!!!!
Edit: my brother’s bike had 30,000 miles on it when we took it to the track.
I really enjoy watching your videos man. Entertaining and informative, can't get better.
I love these videos. I grew up riding these bikes with my friends in the late 70s. To hear one start up again that's been out of action, priceless. My stable of bikes began with a Yamaha RD125a (twin 2 stroke) a Honda CB400 Hawk, a Honda 750 supersport, a Honda CB900F, then a Honda CB750K1. I also owned a Kawasaki 350 Mach ? 2 stroke triple and a Suzuki 750 water bottle :). They don't make em like they used to!!... Thank goodness LOL.
I needed a project. There was a '79 Honda Twinstar CM185 for sale across town. It sat outside for years. Had 5k on the odo. Bought it for $200. It was missing some small parts, was NOT locked up. A month later my wife and I were traveling through Mew Hampshire and on the side of the road was another Twinstar for sale. Bought it. I spent the winter putting the two together. That was 2015. I registered it that spring and rode it daily until 2023. I then bought a Shadow RS. I sold the Twinstar because I really didn't want to put it into storage. Vintage Hondas have always interested me.
The master at work. Thanks for bringing us along.
I'm 21 got an 82 and an 83 one of these. Didn't even know people loved these bikes so much that's awesome I love the way my 82 looks there's chrome bars everywhere and it's a devil it keeps up with my 82 seca 750 love these bikes!
Great laugh, you guys are great. Thanks for the entertainment.
I was a 17 yr old apprentice at a Honda dealership in the UK (in 1977) tasked with doing many cam chain tensioner modifications as discussed. I remember lifting these lumps out of the frames with my eyes popping out of my head in order to fit the mod kits. I never recall having to punch the 3 dots on the frame though! First time I’ve heard of that! Great bikes, many fond memories.
Someone said that this engine was originally designed by Honda for a generator……??
Thank u for working on a Honda , i got a old CB 750 from 74 my father own and i wish i could have a great mechanique like u , i did give it to one guys and he left it outside in the rain ... Bike Run but spit a lot of oil from botom end i try to learn mechanic and watching u is a bless .
I had a '79 CX500C that I was very fond of. That engine lent a lot of character to the bike. Probably was the influence that led me to getting an '08 Moto Guzzi Norge in '09. Fun video, thanks!
There’s nothing more satisfying than bringing one back to life! Great video.
I love your use of the T-handle wrench. One of my favorite tools. I used it as much as I could instead of a ratchet. It give you fine control of bolts.
I remember a UA-cam channel where a British guy put a Honda silver hawk engine , one that looked similar to that engine, on an old riding mower , it was awesome, good video Craig, and Dan 👍
I had one in high-school in 1980. I rode that thing everywhere. Ortega hwy over the mountain and down into Elsonor. Up and down P.C.H.
It was a great little bike. You could lay on the tank and wrap your arm around one of the jugs to keep warm.
Grew up West SFV back then...80 I was 12. Loved the 750s 1000s even smaller bikes with a proper header and even cam in them
KNow those roads well, dailied my 69 SS camaro and ran those roads a lot, From sfv to zuma or ventura beach to hit the waves every single day. God I miss being young, cheap musclecars, bikes and no responsibility.
I have seen many mechanics work.
But rare seen one that is actually, really, sincerely happy working.
Have a goldwing that was in similar shape. Running now and have put over 3000kms on it. so glad to see this one up and running now too!
A fantastic rewarding watch you guys. Thanks!
So happy to see the CX500 getting some love. I am the proud owner of a near mint condition, bone stock, all original 1980 Custom and a 1981 Deluxe parts bike with over 100k miles. Bought them off a family member who bought the deluxe new. First bike I ever owned. Learned to ride at 40 years old on a 40 year old bike. Put over 10k miles on the custom in my first year and a few months. It's a good reliable bike. What you've got could be a decent parts bike, save everything you can and pass it onto someone like me who is restoring or keeping alive these old cruisers.
You hit the first piston at TDC so it wasn't going to turn. Then you tried #2 at a better rod angle, with success.
I really like to see the reactions when Craig gets a junker running…makes the whole video. Love this channel!
By far my favourite channel at the moment. Thanks for brightening up cloudy times 👍
That ATF and Acetone mix I have used for years over here in Scotland to get bolts loose its the ultimate trick! Great to see it in the clip. Every bike I used this on it worked.
I spent my childhood riding around on the back of my dad’s cx500 (he didn’t plate his car in the summer). It’s the first bike I learnt to ride, first bike I dumped first bike I rode to another city to chase a girl… So many memories. He’s been gone 5 yrs this week and just seeing one brings back so many memories. Thanks for the video.
Craig is turing into a Orange County Chopper guy now. Just chopping up that pristine 1 of 1 cx500.
Great video Craig and Dan. Even a lost cause can bring great excitement if you know where to look. My nephew has a Silverwing sitting in his garage that I may need to liberate! Keep up the great work!
Craig, I enjoy your process of diagnosing mechanical or electrical issues with these older bikes. Right up my alley. Nice work.
Hey Craig. I bought a ratty 78-ish CX 500 with just 5000 miles showing for 400 bucks from Jeff Kahn in Seymour Wisconsin and shipped it back to the Uk with 16 other bikes. It sat in my storage for about a year until I got round to having a look at it. When I got it on the stand it too was seized. I put some "Marvel Miracle Oil" in the cylinders and rocked it carefully back and forth in 5th gear every morning. On the 3rd morning it freed up ( Woohoo!) so I put a battery on it and it wouldn't turn. Just like yours the starter was also seized. I stripped it and it was just a mass of rust ( though the brushes were hardly worn) as it it had been immersed in a lake, but with a clean and grease up it worked. So I put it back on the bike and spun her over...great spark..we're in business. The carbs were stuck too so I popped them off and gave them a sonic clean.
When I put the carbs back on, the bike started after about 15 seconds of spinning . It was VERY smoky and I thought it was maybe damaged inside but after about 10 minutes of running it cleared.
The tyres were shot-they were the originals- and it had a seized master cylinder so no brakes ...but I snagged a new Chinese master cylinder for £13( maybe 16 bucks) and the brakes came up a treat. All the electrics except the starter relay worked as if it had run yesterday
I then cleaned the bike up and it came up really nicely. It rides so well
I never liked the CXes but for some reason I really like this old gal and will probably restore it properly due to the the low miles. Everything tells me the miles are genuine and we have almost no CXes left here.
Here's a vid I did about it that shows it starting for the first time.
ua-cam.com/video/npoOAYneTU4/v-deo.html
Thanks for the videos, they're fun
Awesome Craig! So looking forward to firing up my GT750 which turns over but hasn't run in decades. So many useful tips. And plain fun.
Craig, I really hope you and Dan will be the next UA-cam sensations in the world of motorcycle mechanics. Newbies could learn so much from y'all, and that's no joke. Hell, even I learn a thing or two from y'all every now and then, and I've been a shadetree mechanic for the last 8 years 😂. But for real though y'all rock, and I hope y'all reach more folks in the moto community!
That radio was the height of technological advancement back in 77. Plastic Maggots rule! Great sounding engine and so smooth to ride.
Well done Craig - It’s always FUN watching you guys 🫡👍🏼🍻
It's a pleasure watching a master mechanic do his work.
LOL... the brake caliper is just swinging in the wind and, "It looks like the front brake is not working." I always loved the CX500 and you do amazing things with these bikes. Love your videos!
Guyz
That was a blast
Loved that whole process
Gr8 effort.
Thanks
Love watching this show, it keeps me happy considering the time an money i have put into a few projects an ended up broken again for one reason or another (I find it annoying that places wont repair starters as i have an older bike and let a friend borrow the starter for his an now i have 2 cooked ones and replacement is probably 1/4 of the cost of a replacement engine)
Keep doing your thing
My brother had this bike, sold it to my neighbor... was an excellent smooth running bike. But pretty weak and slow. Awesome seeing it again. Thanks Craig!
Subscribed!
Did the same thing with a VTR 250. One cylinder rusted..... got it freed up and put it back on the road. Ran great....It's a Honda!!!
I had a 78 cx500. rode it for 10 years in every weather, even snow. constant electrical issues, but awesome bike. the 3 punch marks are on the motor.
I bought a CX500 and it was the first street bike I owned after several motocross bikes. It was a fun ride. Me and my-now-wife took it on a 2000 mile road trip and had a blast. It had some cam chain vulberablities, but manageable. I wish I never sold it.
I love your videos.
Back in 1989 or so, I helped get a friends CX-500 running. Thought we had everything fixed except the stator. Took it for a test ride and about 5 miles from his house, the engine suddenly just locked up at speed. No warning, no sound. Nothing. Just suddenly locked. Skidded until I got on the clutch.
Wow, does this bring back memories. I purchased a used CX500 Custom in 1982, it had only 500 miles on it (owner had gotten a new address in confinement) the seller (his mother) was happy to see it go. Great bike, smooth and fast to about 90MPH then it ran out of lungs. Proved to me to never own another air cooled or chain drive bike, and lastly its a Honda, the best in my opinion.
I had a nearly identical CX500 (no fairing or sissy bar) for a few years. It was a 1980 that I bought from the original owner for $500.... with 500 miles on it. He had bought it for his wife, but she was afraid to ride it and so it ended up sitting unused for many years on a covered patio.
I think I bought it around 2004 or 2005.
The engine was gummed up with old oil, the carbs full of varnish, and the tires needed replacement. I bought some clutches for it, but never got around to putting them in. Despite being out of the California weather (such as it is), the mufflers had rusted out from the inside and there was some pitting on the chrome. I couldn't find OEM mufflers (or they were ridiculously expensive... I forget), so I installed some similar looking generics that worked pretty well.
I got it cleaned up, fixed most of whatever else needed fixing and put it back on the road.
Frankly, it ever felt comfortable to me (seemed top heavy) and had to run at too high revs on California's 70mph+ freeways. So over a couple years I only put another 1000 miles on it riding back roads or around town.
I liked the wheels (no spokes to loosen!) and the shaft drive (except when changing tires or wanting to change the drive ratio).
Something I didn't like was the cost of Honda parts! As I recall, the plastic floats for the carbs cost $40 each!
In 2009 I ended up selling (for $750) to a guy who brought along a certified Honda tech buddy, who was stunned to see a nearly 20 year old bike with so few miles.
Had three of these. The cam chain tensioner bolt always comes loose then the timing chain starts slapping around. Otherwise it is a tank!! And runs forever with a great cooling sustem and an awesome thumping sound!
Great video love the joy you get when it runs
Awesome!! Great stuff, I enjoy the excitement and the step by step knowledge
Love the videos and all the education you put out.
Love this channel! These guys are awesome. Great work Craig! And I love the banter that these guys have.
I had this exact model. I have had many other motorcycles including Harleys - BUT - this Honda was my favorite. Fantastic handling , great sound , extremely reliable , fast for a 500 CC motor. I have always wanted to own a 650 special cousin of this featured CX 500 but could never find one .
I have a donated CX500 sitting in my garage. Rebuilt the carbs but now think i should check the engine before moving on. Thanks for the inspiration. Oh and mine needs plenty of wire work too...
I bought a 79 CX 500 as a project bike. Looking forward to the warmer weather so I can get started on it.
My dad has an 81 GL500, same engine. Fun little bike, have to keep the RPM's way up there, it's like a heavy two stroke lol. Awesome content as always.