Description
My new "daily" bike has arrived and I would like another few feet of my garage back. I know I will regret parting with this as I will never find another as sound as this one. If you were to list the most Iconic Motorcycles of all time, then this would feature very, VERY, high up the list.
A Rare 1982 Honda CX500T Turbo - The very first Manufacturer Production bike to be Turbocharged.
I have been the custodian of this one for a couple of years now, and because I have only done less than 100 miles on it in that time, (total around 47K) I really cannot justify keeping it in the garage any longer. If the Sun is out, then I tend to be out in the Buggy instead – not enough UK sunshine to use both.
Like most of them, this is an American import version. It is correctly registered and has the added benefit of Historic Vehicle status meaning Tax and MOT exempt, (I still MOT my vehicles though and this runs out in July 2024). Those unfamiliar with this marque will know that there are a few known issues with them, namely the electrics and charging circuits. You will be pleased to know that whilst in my possession the Alternator / Stator has been replaced (that was a £1400 engine out bill) and all of the dials, lights and gauges are all working properly. Water Pump and internal seal (another favourite) have all been sorted. The Turbo pulls exactly as it should and my arms are now much longer from desperately hanging on when it kicks in. When I have ridden it, it has been great fun. Its a bit heavier than a modern bike, but once you get the hang of the weight you will appreciate why the unbelievably nimble CX500 was the choice of the dispatch riders back in the day.
Back in the 1980's there were three posters that adjourned our childhood walls, the Lamborghini Countach, That Lady tennis player scratching her Bum and the CX500 Turbo, it really was that iconic and one can even still be found today in the London Science Museum.
If you don't like chatting for hours and being surrounded by people taking pictures every time you stop to fill up with fuel though, then this may not be the bike for you.
It starts on the button every time thanks to its fuel injection system, runs, rides without any issues, and I am confident that you could happily ride it home wherever that may be. You could either leave it as is, as a genuine unmolested bike in 42 year old original patina, or restore it back to its former glory where they can fetch a hefty price if you get it right. It isn’t perfect by any means, but its an incredible contender for a full cosmetic restoration project if going down that route.
Its also a difficult one to price as there are precious few of them left to compare with. I have seen several basket cases on eBay for around £6500 (often covered in that shiny dealer showroom Gloop) and some mint ones on a few Classic sites for around £10000 - So as mine is not falsely tarted up, unrestored and original, has an MOT, and ready to jump on and ride, then realistically, this appreciating Classic is certainly worth a lot more than I am asking, but as I really want my garage back I`m keeping the price realistic in order to move it on.
Viewing in Paignton, Devon is most welcome, as are any questions, and if the the sun is out you will probably find me with it at Paignton Bike night on Wednesday Evening - but no test pilots unless you put a large wad of cash in my hand first and can show fully comp insurance for riding other bikes.
