Topic: Exhaust question... 71 Cb500

[)joshf(]

So I have been looking around for a replacement exhaust for my 71 CB500. Either a 4 into 1 or a 4 into 2. All I have been able to find is systems that say they are for '72 and later CB500 s. I emailed one company about this and the only response I got was " sorry we only carry them for the 72-78". Is there some major difference between the 71 and the 72 or is this just some wierd industry thing? Have any of you guys replaced the exhaust on a  71 CB500? If so where did you get the parts?

Thanks.

[chippyfive50]

the after-market pipes that came on my 71' 500  bolted right onto my new 75' 550 motor. and therefore.....   
I know MAC makes some, and if you have the coin...  http://www.swarbrick-racing.co.uk/
don't forget to replace your header gaskets too ...

[TwoTired]

Probably the people you talked to are unaware that the 71 CB500 uses the exact same exhaust system as the 72 and 73 CB500, as well as the 74-76 CB550K.

The 77-78 Cb550 K had a different exhaust system (as well as all the F models).  But, the engine exhaust port interface is the same.  Only muffler to frame mounts differred.

There is always the issue of the center stand up-store bumper that the stock exhaust has, but aftermarket replacement usually don't.  (chain interference).

Might need some carb tweaks, too.

Cheers,

[Ted Nomura]

They're right. The CB500 and CB550 models are almost identical, because CB550 just had bigger bore. Make sure your CB500 is the original 1971 CB500 or 1972 model manufactured in 1971. In some states, they register their bikes based on the year that it was built which could get confusing when ordering parts. Go by the frame number. The original 1971 CB500 (not 1972 CB500K1), which I also have (along with 1975 CB550, so I know that swapping pipes are possible), is equipped with early CB750 type rear fender with only two bolt mount taillight unit and only the original CB500 had shorter seats. I also saw another early CB500 with late 1977 or 1978 style CB550K mufflers. It seem to fit and it almost look stock, although there may have been some mounting changes.