Topic: Removing Speedometer/Tachometer - '72 cb500

[RichJr]

I'm thinking about removing the speedometer and tachometer on my 1972 cb500.  Both have been poorly repaired by a previous owner.  Thought about replacing them, but am considering removing them all together.

Does anyone have any suggestions on the best way to do this?  My concern lies in the wires that run from both to the headlamp housing.  The bike is running good now and I'd hate to 'f' something up.

Do you foresee any other issues, besides not knowing your speed or rpm!

[Markcb750]

They will unplug inside the headlight bucket without any problem. 

You will need to find a way to properly cap the connections at the front wheel and valve cover.

Have you looked at any of the replacement units? 

[jvandyke]

I redid the faces on mine ('72 CB500) this winter.  They look pretty.  Have since touched up the black housings, didn't really want to disassembly enough to redo the black entirely.  I can email or snail mail the face plates I made for the asking.  Just made a digital version and printed on photo paper, glued over the original.
before

after

[RichJr]

Markcb750 - have any suggestions on how to cap off at front wheel and valve cover?  I though I remember seeing these parts somewhere.  I looked into it replacing, but am going for a more bare-bones look.

Jvandyke - very cool method, they turned out awesome.  It's the housings that are jacked, they face plates could probably be replaced, however going for a more utilitarian look

[Markcb750]

If you are willing to sacrifice the cables I would:

!.  cut off the functional end.
2. flatten the face to be just long enough to extend outside the locating bore.
3. tap it with whatever size best fits the center hole.
4. install a nice SS fastener (too short to contact the rotating tab!).
5. reinstall with the existing cross screw.

[mrrch]

Order #44835-365-671 from Honda (it's a speedo block off plug from an XR200), trim it to length if required. There are also some members who make billet ones.Email member 754, he has some for sale.

[bryanj]

Not sure on your side of the pond but here in UK you must have a speedo that works to pass the MOT (annual inspection) and its a traffic violation to not have one as well