Topic: 1979 cx 500 opinion?

[Vintage Esquire]

I completed my CB 550 cafe project and I have been looking for a new cafe project.  I have been interested in a cx500 because of the horizonally mounted pistons (cool).   

I have found a complete 1979 cx 500 for $100.  Unknown runner, but good shape overall.  I will rebuild the engine first myself so no big deal on the fact that its a non runner as long as the pistons aren't seized.

Does anyone know any differences between a 1979 cx500 and an '82 or '83 cx500 that I should consider?  The only thing I have noticed is that the 79 has one front rotor and the rims are different between the two.  Any other info would be helpful.

Thanks

[78whiteorbs]

Buy it!
cafe build_0001.wmv

S1050923.AVI

great bikes and good power to weight ratio,liquid cooled is a big plus in the heat of summer . The one you see I got few years back and the dude I got it from used a screwdriver clamped to a jumper cable hooked up to his truck t start it (no battery, and the carbs where leaking!) was a wonder the sparks and the gas didnt go KABOOM! Still for 200$ bux ,twas a legit deal

I have a build thread on hear you can check ,also choppercharles.com is a great website . There is a dude there called Blindstitch that knows everything there is to know about CX's-  If you wanted a really cool one look for an 80's TURBO model ! Oddball cafe? YES!!!!! 

[MoMo]

The CX/GL 500 are bulletproof motors, a bit slow but reliable as can be.  My daily rider is a 1981 GL500I, I would not hesitate to ride it anywhere.  The water pump seal is notorious for going bad-somewhere on the internet there is a step by step thread on using a Yamaha seal to cure the problem...Larry

[78whiteorbs]

forgot to mention the charging systems are know weakness the stators go bad and you have to drop the engine to replace them which isnt a big deal because there is no  subframe so unbolt and roll away. definately easier than wrestling a 750 out of a frame ! Also water pump seals leak replace those when you remove engine and enjoy- They really are great bikes. The steed of choose of English Mail Carriers back in the day. Affectionately refered to as "plastic maggots" for the fugly fairings.

[Vintage Esquire]

Thank you for your advice.  I enjoyed the videos.  I forgot to mention that the VIN does not indicate it is a "custom" model, but the tank is the tank off of a custom.  IF it is a custom model, do you still think go for it?  I figure I can switch out the tank anyways.

[MoMo]

Thank you for your advice.  I enjoyed the videos.  I forgot to mention that the VIN does not indicate it is a "custom" model, but the tank is the tank off of a custom.  IF it is a custom model, do you still think go for it?  I figure I can switch out the tank anyways.

Doesn't matter for 100 you cannot go wrong.  My .02...Larry

[78whiteorbs]

+1   ^