Honda VT 500 E (reduced Effect) - 1983 Specifications and Reviews
The 1983 Honda VT 500 E is an accessible middleweight cruiser designed for riders seeking comfortable, reliable everyday riding. Its liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers manageable 27 horsepower with excellent fuel efficiency, while shaft drive and forgiving ergonomics make it ideal for commuters and touring enthusiasts. Best known for dependable Japanese engineering and low maintenance requirements.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 1983 |
| Model | Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Bore x stroke | 71.0 x 62.0 mm (2.8 x 2.4 inches) |
| Compression | 10.5:1 |
| Power | 27.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 491.00 ccm (29.96 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 204.0 kg (449.7 pounds) |
Honda VT 500 E (reduced Effect) dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 120/80-18 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-18 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 137.0 km/h (85.1 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
27 hp
Peak Power
9.5s
0-60 mph
85.1 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City60%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding60%
Touring45%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This is a beginner-friendly machine, well suited to new riders or those wanting a restricted-power learner bike, noting this appears to be a reduced-power (learner-legal) variant of the VT500E rather than a full-power version. |
| Purpose | It's built as an approachable, practical middleweight for learning the ropes of riding and handling everyday commuting and short rides rather than performance riding. |
| Rider Fit | A moderate 204 kg curb weight with a shaft drive makes it manageable and low-maintenance, though the shaft drive adds slightly more heft and a different feel in corners compared to chain-driven rivals. |
| Character | The liquid-cooled V-twin gives a smooth, torquey, easygoing character typical of Honda's 1980s V2 middleweights, prioritizing rideability and low-end usability over outright thrills. |
| Not Ideal For | This is not the bike for riders seeking high speed thrills, aggressive cornering performance, or any serious off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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