Honda CB 500 - 1996 Specifications and Reviews

The 1996 Honda CB 500 is a lightweight naked bike ideally suited for novice and intermediate riders seeking an accessible, affordable entry into motorcycling. Its compact 499cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, manageable power while the low 775mm seat height and 172kg weight make it easy to handle. The CB 500 is best known for its reliability, practicality, and forgiving nature, making it a popular choice for commuting and learning fundamental riding skills.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year1996
ModelHonda CB 500

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Valves per cylinder4
Torque47.00
Power58.00
Stroke4
Engine typeTwin
Capacity:499.00 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Seat height775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight172.0 kg (379.2 pounds)
 
 

Honda CB 500 dimensions and frame

Rear brakesExpanding brake
Front brakesSingle disc

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.3372 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

58 hp
Peak Power
5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track30%
City80%
Cornering62%
Daily Riding85%
Touring45%
Passenger60%

Rider Profile

Best ForIdeal for beginners and returning riders; forgiving, predictable power makes it a great first big bike, yet still rewarding for experienced commuters.
PurposeA do-it-all middleweight naked built for everyday commuting, city runs and relaxed weekend rides, with enough poke for occasional highway stints.
Rider FitLow 775mm seat, upright neutral bars and light 172kg dry weight make it easy to manage and comfortable for most riders in traffic.
CharacterHonda's dependable, unintimidating parallel-twin all-rounder - smooth, reliable and friendly rather than exciting, a byword for practical value.
Not Ideal ForNot for speed-hungry riders chasing sportbike thrills, serious track days, long two-up touring, or any off-road use.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1996 Honda CB 500 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 775mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Honda CB 500, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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