Honda CX 500 Turbo - 1981 Specifications and Reviews
The 1981 Honda CX 500 Turbo suits riders seeking innovative, distinctive machines with real character. This turbocharged V-twin pioneer delivers 82 horsepower from just 497cc, making it best known for being one of the first production turbo motorcycles. Its shaft drive and liquid cooling provide practical touring comfort alongside performance.
General information | |
| Category | Classic |
| Year | 1981 |
| Model | Honda CX 500 Turbo |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Turbo |
| Bore x stroke | 78.0 x 52.0 mm (3.1 x 2.0 inches) |
| Compression | 7.2:1 |
| Power | 82.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 497.00 ccm (30.33 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 263.0 kg (579.8 pounds) |
Honda CX 500 Turbo dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Dual disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 120/90-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 3.50-19 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 200.0 km/h (124.3 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 20.00 litres (5.28 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
82 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph
124.3 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track45%
City50%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding55%
Touring75%
Passenger65%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This machine suits an experienced rider comfortable managing turbo lag and a heavy, torque-surging powerplant unlike anything in a typical naturally aspirated bike of its era. |
| Purpose | It was built as a technological flagship grand tourer, blending shaft-drive touring comfort with a shot of turbocharged straight-line performance. |
| Rider Fit | At 263 kg it demands solid physical strength and confidence at low speed and when maneuvering it off its stand or through tight spaces. |
| Character | It has a quirky, engineering-showcase personality, delivering a smooth V-twin burble that suddenly wakes up into a turbocharged surge as boost comes on. |
| Not Ideal For | It is not the right choice for new riders or anyone seeking a light, playful bike for tight technical cornering or off-road use. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Shop This Bike
Rider Reviews
Add a Comment
Related Motorcycle Specifications
More Honda Motorcycles
- Motorcycles in database: 45863
- Technical specifications: 1490298
- Images of motorcycles: 72681
- Videos: 339
- Manufacturers: 501






































Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.