Topic: 73CB 500 Center Stand Length?

[PoppaT]

I just purchased and am re-habing a 1973 CB500Four,  Getting back into biking after a 10 yr absence.
The centerstand on this bike is WAAAY too long, making it nearly impossible to back the bike up on the stand.   I even tried rolling the back tire up on TWO 2x4's (3 inches) and the angle on the stand was still too shallow to rock the bike up on the stand.  I suspect a prior owner either changed it or my rims/tires are not original specs.  But the seat height is approx 31.5 inches, which is right on spec.  The stand is 13.5 inches from top of pivot to floor. Can another CB500 owner measure his/her center stand and let me know how long it is?  (I assume a 550 or 750 probably use the same stand)   Would be much appreciated.
(my apologies for initially posting this in the NOT FOR QUESTIONS section.  Rookie mistake)

[Scott S]

 Without knowing exactly how/where you're measuring, my CB500 measured 11" from the pivot straight down to the floor.

 The 750 and 550 center stands are NOT the same.

[PoppaT]

Thanks Scott.  That extra 2.5 inches is the problem!  (my wife says I have the same problem)
Upon closer inspection (scaling off the grease/grime/dirt) it looks like there are weld marks indicating that an extension of about 2.5 inches was inserted.   I may take it to a weld shop and see if they can cut it back down to the original 11 inch length.   

[754]

Yeah I was suspecting it may have been extended to be useable with extended forks.

[PoppaT]

I bet that's it!!!    Thanks a bunch.   I guess I can ball-park a length that will work. 

[PoppaT]

finally got the centerstand cut down and re-welded to proper length.  Now I'm struggling to put it back together.   How important is the "moon" clip that slips on between the spring and the frame hook?  This bike didnt come with the moonclip but with an S hook.  ...which popped off first time I used the stand.     

[jaytee-nz]

That's the purpose of the "moon clip"- to stop the spring from being popped off, so you will need it.

[PoppaT]

thanks Jaytee.  I cant visualize exactly how that works, but I'll take your word for it.   I dont assume you'd have one or two extras lying about would you?   

[jaytee-nz]

No sorry, I don't have any spares. Wouldn't be hard to make one though.

If you take a look at page 84 here you will see the clip in place - http://manuals.sohc4.net/cb500/service_manual/HSM500550_3.pdf

[Scott S]

No sorry, I don't have any spares. Wouldn't be hard to make one though.

If you take a look at page 84 here you will see the clip in place - http://manuals.sohc4.net/cb500/service_manual/HSM500550_3.pdf

 I don't have any spares, but I do have a loose one and I can make a tracing or cardboard cut out for you, for a pattern.
 PM me your address.

[PoppaT]

Very Helpful.  You guys are great.  Thanks a bunch.

[jakec]

I have a 550 with extended forks and a STOCK center stand. I can only use it if I put my bike on two 2x4's like you said. We could trade.