Topic: Did the cb500 have more than 1 style seat?

[njcafe84]

Im wondering if the cb500 came with more than 1 style of seat because the one that is on my bike is very ugly and Im trying to find a replacement. Something that is a direct bolt on. Please any ideas?

[haill]

know the mounting and seat pan shape are different between a 71 and 72 it was changed to a slightly different style and the two do not work between years. What i did is use the hardware from my 71 and replaced it on a seat from a 72. had to modify & weld the locking shaft to the new pan seat pan to get it to work. Have a look at a microfiche from a parts seller and the difference is clear.
regards Keith

[njcafe84]

Would you happen to have a picture of the seats? Or of just one of them so I can see the different style?

[Jordan]

Bike bandit parts shows the seat for a 71 and 73 look about the same, the mounting hardware is different, early had a mechanical spring latch, later had a keyed latch.

[haill]

here's the two style of seats for the cb500/four that i know of. My bike is Canadian 71 cb500 the one seat is what came with it.  the mounted seat is a 72/73 version that spent it's life in storage.
the latch mechanism seat pan shape and cover are completely different. you can make them fit between the years but it you need to shorten the latch hook and mount the hinge plate in a different spot. takes some fiddling but it will work as shown.
regards Keith

[njcafe84]

I want that second seat. The one on the silver bike...What year is that from?

[haill]

Not exactly sure, either a 72 or 73 .
the cheapest route would be to get a replacement cover and just replace the ugliness with something that is more to your liking.
the pattern of the 71 is kinda like something found on someones grandmama's kitchen chairs.
here's a link to www.motorcycleseats.co.uk happiness, lest some knowledge.
the replacement currently on the bike was in the range of 250 but it was original factory in extremely good condition