Topic: CB500 four. New in Texas

[laxbro]

Fixing up a 1973 CB500 four.  6000 original miles, totally complete, now with new paint, to match the original color.  (That was a real project in itself).
I loved the original bikes when they were new, so I want to keep this one as stock as possible.  I looked all over for a really clean bike, and with a little work, this one now shines.  It rides great too, and I fire it up several times a week. 

[Stev-o]

Welcome bro! The bike looks great, who painted it?

[Greggo]

Very nice looking 500!

[laxbro]

Thanks.  The tank and side covers were painted by a local guy here that was recommended by the big Dallas Honda dealer (Al Lamb Honda).  He did a great job using a multi-step process that began with a metallic base then a candy coat then clear coat.  All done with House of Kolor paints.  I did a lot of research to get a candy color system that matches the original color and technique. 
I really like the stock look of all the CBs, especially the 500.  Everything on this bike is original, except for one replacement pipe on the left side. I looked all over for a period NOS pipe that was otherwise unused. I'm not sure the turn signals are original, but they are fine with me.  I drooled over this bike as a kid, and no way could have afforded it then.  Now that I have it, I intend to ride it...and polish it...a lot.
 

[MoMo]

Very nice   The front t/s are from a later model, to the best of my knowledge  all earlier 500s used the smaller ones(like your rear signals).  Welcome....Larry

[laxbro]

Thanks for the info about the turn signals.  I'll look for some that are appropriate for the 1973.  Again, I'm not too crazy regarding absolute originality, but if it's easy, I'll do it.  I also have a tiny seam tear in the seat, and I think I can get this fixed, since replacements are hard to find. 

[laxbro]

P.S. for MoMo:  Judging from your motorcycle history, you know a thing or two about a lot of bikes!  I appreciate your input.

[MoMo]

Thanks for the info about the turn signals.  I'll look for some that are appropriate for the 1973.  Again, I'm not too crazy regarding absolute originality, but if it's easy, I'll do it.  I also have a tiny seam tear in the seat, and I think I can get this fixed, since replacements are hard to find. 

An easy fix and would look much better.  If you cannot get the seat repaired there is a company in Canada(cannot remember the name) that sells excelllent repros-at least the ones I got for two of my 400f were well fitted and easy to install....Larry

[laxbro]

Thanks!

[jackseattle]

Nice bike, and the paint job is sweet. welcome!

[hoodellyhoo]

Beautiful 500!!! One of these days I'm going to have to find me one.

[laxbro]

Thanks.

Honda really did it right when they came out with the CBs.  Beautiful styling, reliable engineering, all at an approachable price point.  They came out when I was in my early teens and I was really taken over by them.  A lot of motorcycles have come and gone, but for sheer beauty, nothing can match the graceful lines of the Honda CB500.