Honda CX500 & GL500 Forum

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06-10-2007, 7:00 PM Isaac Joined on 06-04-2007 Orlando, FL Posts 106 Why did you buy your CX/GL? I see a lot of guys run these bikes fully loaded with fairings and saddle bags. I've also gathered from a thread in OT that the average age of a CX/GL owner is about 50 years old - I'm 28. Those revelations, coupled with the distinct lack of interest in my hooligan bike thread while two highway peg threads continue to dominate the customization forum, leads me to ponder: Why did you buy your CX/GL? A bit o'history: I've been riding a bit over 3 years and nearly 20,000 miles on city streets, and my GL500 is my 6th bike. I started small and slow on the GZ250 (more zealously aka GN250*.*), and have had bikes ranging from a 600lb behemoth to a heavily modified 160hp GSX-R. I own four today. I bought my GL500 because I knew they were so durable that a writer has been sending dispatches to Motor Cyclist for years while circling the globe on one through often horrific environments. I also bought it because it was old, light(ish) and easily customizable, while having a great sounding engine that's torquey enough for downtown speed shenanigans. But lets not discount the fact that I essentially got it for free because I traded it for a hood and a dashboard. I love the bike as is, because it's spritely, has character, and seems like it wants to just keep on going. But I still think it looks horribly dated to a period that's not an aesthetic gold mine for motorcycles doubling as art. Therefore, my scheduled changes make no bones about injecting the bike with steroids and some of Mad Max's genetic code. Bottom line: I bought my GL500 because I could make it badass and unique for cheap. Why'd you buy yours? I create steel Frankensteins.    Report

06-10-2007, 7:21 PM chicagorandy Joined on 05-28-2007 Chicago, IL Posts 414 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? For starters, I'm 58, a Viet Vet, divorced and living my life doing what makes ME happy. Motorcycles (four years) and scuba diving (9 years) are my present amusements. After 4 years and 70,000+kms on a Ural, I took the MSF course and then bought an '88 Suzuki GN250J to begin the two-wheel phase of my motorcycling. I put over 4000 miles on that in about 5 months and was ready to move up to something a "bit" larger that could handle the superslabs. NEW 750cc cruisers are too pricey, so I figured if I could find something for under $1500 I could buy it, learn on it, ride the snot out of it and perhaps upgrade larger down the road. I searched g-bay and Craigslist, lost a bunch of bids and let others go when they went too high for my budget. Lo and behold I ended up snagging this GL500I on May 25th and as of his evening have put on about 900 trouble free miles. Hope springs eternal. My Ural is a boxer twin, the GL is a similar arrangement. The technology is newer than my Ural's but still not daunting when it comes to wrenching. I have no need for speed, and most deeds of daring-do strike me as unnecessary attempts to prove Darwin right, but to each their own, I only gotta make me happy. 2003 Ural Tourist - 80,245kms to date 1982 Honda GL500 Interstate 12,800 miles since 05/30/07 "Down the highway of life at smiles per hour, with special attention to ignorant and blind cagers"    Report

06-10-2007, 8:21 PM Isaac Joined on 06-04-2007 Orlando, FL Posts 106 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL?  chicagorandy wrote: I have no need for speed I'd believe you if you didn't own a motorcycle. I create steel Frankensteins.    Report

06-10-2007, 8:42 PM chicagorandy Joined on 05-28-2007 Chicago, IL Posts 414 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? You ever drive a Ural? lol 2003 Ural Tourist - 80,245kms to date 1982 Honda GL500 Interstate 12,800 miles since 05/30/07 "Down the highway of life at smiles per hour, with special attention to ignorant and blind cagers"    Report

06-10-2007, 9:38 PM cobrajoe Joined on 05-24-2007 Lincoln, NE Posts 39 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? That's actually a good question.  For starters, I'm only 22 (a youngun here I suppose) and I wanted a motorcycle for a long time, and the rising gas prices was the perfect excuse.  After a lengthy search, I found a decently priced CX500C and went to look.  After seeing it and it's unique engineering, I just couldn't pass it up.  I am a mechanical engineering student, and I love desigining, building, and working on things that are different than the norm. It is a beautiful machine, and most certaintly different than any of my motorcycle buddy's.         Report

06-10-2007, 9:43 PM absent_carlo Joined on 10-22-2006 Posts 18 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 29 and was inspired to pick one up after parking my SV next to a really mean looking one for about a year.  I didn't grow up wrenching and have been mainly learning via the internet so I was really looking for something I could dig in to without worry.  I'm also of the Mad Max school, shooting for more of a rat bike than a tourer or cafe.  The SV is basically my dream bike and I really couldn't see myself ever parting with it--It goes as fast as I realistically need to go and with the Pilot Roads it'll lean much further than I can handle. I like the CX because: I don't see a lot of them around The V-Twin sound and torque I'm 5'7 (a CB750 is like riding a horse in terms of seat height) The whole Mad-Max post- apocalyptic look thing I agree on the bike's aesthetics.  There are a handful of parts that didn't go back on the bike after seeing them off for the first time and your bottom line sums up my experience very well.  I have a picture below...the wheels, headlight, blinkers, radiator have since been painted flat black and I've left the side panels off for the time being.  -Carlo- St. Paul, Minnesota 1980 CX500 - 2003 SV650 - 2005 Zuma    Report

06-10-2007, 11:26 PM TechJD Joined on 02-10-2007 Posts 256 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Well not 50 yet :) got a couple of years to go Me and my son were lookin for something to beat the rising gas prices, we wanted 2 but not enough $$, so get 1 to start I figured 500cc would be enough for a start ( I had rode a 750 in my younger years for a couple of hours) we seen one advertized 150 miles away for what we had to spend so ( son had the $$$ not me ) we borrowed a trailer and went to look, it didnt look bad but bigger then the CB350 next to it he had a price tag on it $400 higher than the ad had said so I called him on it, he doubled checked the ad and said well ok if he hadnt I would have walked out with out it, we loaded it up and brought it home I called a friend who rode dirt bikes and ask him to come test it out as I hadnt been on a bike in over 25 years and it was a hondamatic , he came over rode it and said he'd give us our money back if we ended up not likein it, I rode around in the yard for a week or so learning to shift it, got my temps and took it on the road. My son tried moveing it around and desited he wanted something a little smaller and lighter like a CM250 (Rebel) to start. a few months later he got a 82 KZ440 and he gave me the GL solely 7000 miles later and a year and a half I took it on my first Poker Run Oh the friend who test rode it for me, who had never had or rode a street bike, ended up getting a Intruder 800 and selling his dirt bike, rode it for a about a year and now has a Goldwing 1981 GL500I    Report

06-11-2007, 1:39 AM Anonymous Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? 50 years old. Bought my first two wheeler (125 cc scooter) 2 years ago and want to be able to go on the major highways.  A friend at work suggested a CX/Gl as being great learner bikes, easy to fix and very reliable. Bought a 1982 Interstate but still not comfortable on it.  Just need more seat time.  Max.

06-11-2007, 3:05 AM Anonymous Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Hi Carlo Really like that black paint. How did you do the prep and finishing work? Did you use cans or a compressor/gun etc. Has it got a clear top coat to help protect it? How many coats of under/top coat?. Brill looking bike.

06-11-2007, 3:13 AM Anonymous Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I had CX's in Africa, when I was about 25 years old. Did some big Cape Town / Jhb trips. Never any trouble. I'm 48 now and live in New Zealand. Love the 80's Jap stuff. Ride a Z200 as a commuter while finishing the CX.  Also have a Yam XZ 550 quite modified. Bought the CX as a rough runner with a spares bike. Usual stuff, seat rotted out etc. Now has braided lines, CB900 discs, I drilled myself and a fiberglassed seat base. It's going to be matt black or olive green eventually. Or maybe a tasteful 70's orange. Regards Glyn pickteam@xtra.co.nz

06-11-2007, 4:06 AM fll1441 Joined on 11-06-2006 Fort Lauderdale, FL Posts 976 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I bought my CX500 about a year ago because it was cheap, reliable, easy to work on and fun to ride. 1982 CX500 Custom    Report

06-11-2007, 4:28 AM ezexpress Joined on 06-11-2007 new york Posts 2 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I am 21 years old and own an '80 cx 500c. I personally have never heard of this bike until I was searching for a shadow on craigslist. I stumbled upon this gem by accident. I had just went to see a shadow the week earlier, but when I saw this bike I had to have it. I just love everything about this bike. I started on a '74 cb200, and this cx was just the step up that I needed. I am a larger rider and it suits my size. The greatest thing I have noticed about this bike is that for the most part, everyone of them that I have seen for sale is near mint, which means to me that this is a motorcycle worth caring for.    Report

06-11-2007, 5:02 AM studo Joined on 11-06-2006 Posts 24 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? hmm, i'm 30 and bought the cx last autumn. It was way cheaper than car, and a little cheaper than public transport for my needs. So after having the license for 12 yrs and only a few sommer rides on borrowed bikes i thought it was about time. Did not know anything about the cx-history, the maneour-pump. But have come to love it, although it is not a super bike, but reliable and easy to fiddle with yourself. Great sound and quite uniqe. For my driving the speed and acceleration is enough, althpugh i am starting to see the limitations. The first months i just thought, "wauw, what a pull for that prica and age". But still plenty to keep me covered for years. Only downside is for long rides, th eurosport is not too comfortable for someone with long legs. So a new seat or a GL?    Report

06-11-2007, 5:10 AM Len Joined on 06-07-2007 Monroe, NY Posts 12 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 44 and initially started looking at bikes because of gas prices. I had a Nighthawk S about 20 years ago, probably should have kept that one. Came across my 81 Deluxe on an auction that the owner gave up on. I'm a sucker for other people's "projects" that they grew tired of. I have about $600 total in the bike including the cost of the bike. Had to replace the water pump seal (wrong antifreeze), repair brakes etc. I must say it is an easy bike to ride, engine has a great sound thru Harley mufflers. I'm using it basically as a commuter, 41 mpg. on the first tank, hoping for more.    Report

06-11-2007, 7:01 AM b100koczur Joined on 06-12-2006 duluth minnesota Posts 172 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 33, can't afford a guzzi, wanted a cafe/ mad max project with shaft drive, cheap to insure (500 cc), same MPG as my car, routine maintenance is easily learned and supported by this sight, overbuilt like my farmall, found a cheap one to ride,  and a cheaper one for parts, and most of all, because my wife thinks it's fun to have. Brian Duluth MN    Report

06-11-2007, 7:59 AM DickInRaleigh Joined on 02-26-2006 5405 Thornhill Ct Posts 469 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I bought a NEW 1982 GL500 in 1983. The $1495 price sold it to me. Besides a good friend bought the 1st CX500 that was sold in Cleveland and he raved about the bike. I liked mine so much I sold it a year later to get a NEW 1981 GL500 Interstate for the same $ 1495 price. Should have kept the 1st one. The Interstate developed a water pump leak within a year (out of warranty) and has sat since. I can put the bike back together anytime but it is a way down the list of things to do. Don't need the bike till I can pay for a Tow Pak. I have my 1st CX500C again. Person I sold it to brought it back when he couldn't get anyone to work on it. Not a bad deal. Sold it for $600 got it back for $100 with new tires. Dick in Raleigh <>< Dick In Raleigh <><    Report

06-11-2007, 8:35 AM enriquez Joined on 03-12-2007 San Francisco, CA Posts 130 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I was looking for my first bike, I'm 27 by the way.  I really like old BMW's for thier style and reliability, though, couldn't afford one.  A guy down the road from me had a 78 CX500 that was running.  I asked him about it and he raved about it's realiability.  I read more about them and found them to be extremely reliable if taken care of, and was also attracted by the ease of maintenance.  Everything added up to a good first bike that had some uniqueness and age to it.  So, I found one on Long Island and took a drive to pick it up in a truck.  It's been a great bike so far, got it last November and have put 3000 miles on so far.  I'll be riding it out to San Diego from Maryland this December, I'm really looking forward to that! 1979 CX500 Custom, slowly becoming cafe styled    Report

06-11-2007, 8:53 AM tbyork692 Joined on 11-16-2006 Posts 51 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 33, took the safety class last September.  Before that I'd never been on a bike before in my life. I had decided on a mid/late 70's Honda because they were cheap, and seemed common enough that I figured I could find parts/etc fairly easily. Actually almost bought a CB750 from a friend at work, but it needed too much work. I found a 1979 cx500 deluxe on craigslist, and after doing a lot of research (much of it on this site), I decided I liked the cx, because as everyone else commented, it's just different. I paid $580, and cannot believe how well it runs. Just hit 2,000 miles on it Saturday, and plan to take it to Pittsburgh next weekend, so I'll get another 500 or so on it (bike had 29,900 when I got it). I know other people said people recognize them, but York Pa is Harley town (they make several lines here) so I get no comments, and the few people who have said anything tend to assume it's a old bmw (the tank and side covers are blank). Even though almost every other rider is on a Harley, I haven't gotten any shit, they still wave etc. The only guys who don't wave are the guys on gold wings, because, as someone on here noted, they're too busy changing a cd, working the nav system, and using the onboard cappuccino maker... tonyb    Report

06-11-2007, 8:55 AM NstyDevil Joined on 05-20-2007 Toronto, Ontario Posts 331 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? i've been looking for a bike since my ex kicked me out in february.  i'm 40 yrs young, and been looking at bikes, and woefully almost resigned to spending 5k on the style i wanted.  talking to a friend of mine, he told me he had this one for 1000.  needed a little bit of work, but i'm not scared of that.  never even been on a bike, and once i got the carbs cleaned out, i have only ridden this one around the parking lot of the apartment complex. new battery needed - $75 new helmet - $160 carbs all choked up with 5 yr old gas - $7 (gasket sealer) oil leak around the front cam shaft - $25 oil seal and tach housing cracked intake manifold - $25 malfunctioning temp guage - free new tires - $don't wanna know yet insurance, licensing, safety - $eeeeek the joy of getting on the road on something i brought back to life (i'm a computer tech, not mechanic) $PRICELESS   __________________ '80 CX500 Deluxe '84 V30 Magna - Wife's    Report

06-11-2007, 9:13 AM Phil in VT Joined on 03-02-2006 Lowgap,NC Posts 1,041 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Welcome you Nasty Devil, I bought my first CX because I fell in love with it at first sight.  I needed something because I was working a ten hour second shift job and with two driving age kids in the family I never would know if I had transportation when I woke up in the afternoon.     $900.00, out of a cow barn. Black with the red tank accent, a Black Vetter Windjammer fairing, Vetter luggage, a small black plastic trunk KG I think.  I took it for a ride and was instantly smitten. Two Hondaline matching helmets came with it.    Except for a brief love affair with a GL1100 I have always had a CX or GL in my stable.  I'm currently having a relationship with a Suzuki S50 Boulevard but the GL 500 is still handy, and being converted to a trike for my old age ride. 06 Suzuki S 50 Boulevard Cruiser ANY WARM DAY ABOVE GROUND IS A GOOD ONE (unknown senior citizen) Springfield, VT    Report

06-11-2007, 10:06 AM scoty777 Joined on 05-29-2007 Des Moines Iowa Posts 58 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? When I was 16 years old, I owned a 125 Suzuki dirt bike, street legal. Did a little hill climbing with it. Drove it for a couple of years, bought a 350 Honda CB; (This would have been 1977 or so. I sold it after jumping 2 cars with it and fractured my wrist. Street bikes don't land the smoothest. Felt like riding the bull at "Gilley's", which I have done also.) Then purchased a 1976 Honda 550-4, Just after I got married, about 1979-1980, drove it for a year or two to work and back. Sold it. Now, here I am 50 years old. Went looking for a Shadow. Started to do research on quality, longevity, reliability. I had been reading about this motorcycle that has great reliability and longevity called the CX500. I never heard of it nor did I remember seeing one before. At first I didn't really like the way it looked. I thought I always wanted a twin-V. I thought it should be going front and back to the bike, not transverse. (Boy did that term start up an argument earilier.) After reading, looking; I always liked things that were unique, so here I am. The proud owner of a 1981 Honda CX500-Deluxe with fairing, hard bags and trunk. Radio that don't work and speakers, well not sure since the radio won't turn on. Anyway, 1000 miles down the road since last month, I really like it. Great bike. Would like to hang on to it for some time. I originally went looking because of the gas prices also. I purchased my new helmet and away I went. Dropped the nice new helmet on the pavement the next day. Now I have a nice new scratched helmet. 1981 CX500-D Here is a test to see if your life mission is over; if you are alive, it isn't.    Report

06-11-2007, 11:03 AM Timothy_D Joined on 04-22-2006 Santa Rosa, CA Posts 1,585 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? My dad bought a 1979 CX500 Deluxe when I was nine. I sat on it and knocked it over. Damn near pissed myself, but managed to pick it back up and get it on its side stand. (Amazing how adrenaline can give a 9 year old enough strength to pick up a 400 lb bike!) I now (at 38 years old) own one '81 deluxe model (my second of that year and make), as well as an '80 deluxe parts bike. One turbo weekly rider, and one turbo in the shop for . . . I don't know, months. Liked the CX500 engine design so much that I bought a GL500 for my best friend for $600.00. Other than a bad thermostat & 7V regulator, his bike has pretty much been maintenance free. The more I learn about the bike , the more I'm happy with my decision to stick with the model. As much or more horsepower as modern 750CC (and 883) V-twin cruisers, for FAR less insurance and maintenance cost, you can keep up with the big boys. Fun to customize. Being a standard model, you can modify the crap out of it to your liking. I built a baby wing out of mine complete with king queen seats, fully faired, saddlebags, trunk. . . . but, as many of you have seen (or tried), it also makes a pretty amazing cafe racer. And then, there are the turbos! CX500 Turbo, GL650I, Two CX650E's, and one Crown Jewel of the CX line- CX650T. Why do I own five CX/GL bikes? Ask an alcoholic why he drinks. Donating Member. Sold: 1981 CX500D, 2- 1982 CX500T's, 1983 CX650C.    Report

06-11-2007, 11:44 AM lanispet Joined on 10-10-2006 Meggett, SC Posts 206 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL?  Isaac wrote: Bottom line: I bought my GL500 because I could make it badass and unique for cheap. Me too i'm 30... bought my first bike in Y2K, an '85 CB450SC Nighthawk... About a year later, decided i wanted something quicker and more nimble that i could buy more stuff for, and sold it for an '01 SV650 naked. About a month afterwards, i saw somebody with a cafe'd/ratbike CB450 and started kicking myself for selling the 'hawk (although i broke even on it, and needed the money for the SV purchase). So, last year, i was browsing through the auction listings for cheap, local bikes, saw a CX500 with no reserve at $600, and said "What the heck is that?" Looked at it, and immediately had a mental picture of what i wanted to do with it. Road Warrior Did some research, and discovered that it had a reputation for reliability, and some pretty decent numbers for what it was. Cool. It was a bit scabby, so i didn't feel bad about hacking and slashing, but it ran well, the seller seemed like a nice guy, and it came with a bunch of spare parts. Picked it up for less than $700, rode it for a month, then took it apart... and haven't ridden it since. Funny how there are a bunch of late 20s/early 30s guys all seeing these bikes and immediately thinking "Mad Max"... i blame it on the cylinder heads sticking out in the breeze. ...dave Considering Verizon Business service? Perhaps you'd like to consider a nice drain cleaner enema instead?    Report

06-11-2007, 12:02 PM Tippy Joined on 04-19-2007 KS Posts 173 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Well i'm Half way to 50 and i just started riding 2 years ago.  my father -in-law gave me a Yamaha XT 350 for Christmas one year.  I rode that around the farm for a year then got it tagged and insured and got my lisence.  i rode it around to work and such for another year and decided i wanted something that could handle a little more road.  i started looking for something fairly small but that could still handle highway.  while looking for a KZ650- or KZ750 i ran across my CX.  Having previously wished i could get a Guzzi i instantly liked it.  i wanted something that looked 60's or 70's era (i prefer the older style).  i'm still trying to work out a few kinks, but i like the bike and have put 1,200 miles on it in just over a month.  89 Yamaha XT 350 CX500 Custom Cafe My CX500    Report

06-11-2007, 12:07 PM Abes_CW Joined on 04-17-2007 saskatoon Posts 3,036 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? 36.  Bought this bike because it was cheap.  $1k bikes in this neck of the woods are impossible to find.  I did a bit of google research ahead of the purchase, but it was pretty much spur of the moment, the rest was bonus. I have had it now 2 months, it needed TLC, and as of now it is very functional and servicable for commuting to and from work.  Fork seals and front brakes, and some repaint on the tank trunk and side panels.  I plan to paint the fairing and luggage yet this year, and need to get the windshield replaced and rear brakes (have shoes already). I do have a slow drip from the mechanical seal when hot which keeps me from long trips, but for the 7 km to work and back it doesn't leak. A clean interstate sold up here for $3k last month.  Initially, this bike was temporary, put some lipstick and blush on 'er and flip next spring and double my money, but it's growing on me hard, and it may have found a permament home with me.   1983 GL650i Had 4 CX/GL's at one point this year, down to one, next spring is another adventure! age 38 (29 plus tax)    Report

06-11-2007, 3:42 PM jim from Michigan Joined on 12-27-2006 Holland Michigan USA Posts 164 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? This is starting to sound like a support group... "I'm Jim and I'm 51 and I first knew I had a CX problem when...", I progressed from a CB750 Nigthhawk 4 years ago (first bike ever, loved it) to my current 76 GL1000, which I love (when it runs right), but wanted a small rat bike. Considered the Honda CBs (as I love Honda) and somehow ran across a CX (what the heck are those??) on eBay, read the glowing durability write ups (way different than a CB!) and won the bid for a 78 CX. The first one turned into a cafe project, but is now for sale. I currently have 2.5 of them and just bought the CX650e last weekend. I just hope this one is as good, as I can't wait to ride it! Plus, one can own a couple of these and they are cheap to run and own, and I like the "standard" style, don't get into the cruiser look. Long-term project is to build my "adventure CX" along the lines of a KLR. It seems like the CX is a bike that you can do about anything with.. adventure bike, cafe bike, touring, commuter... all from the same platform. I like that! Jim in SW Michigan (home)/Evanston IL (office) 78 CX500 91 ST1100 00 VTR1000    Report

06-11-2007, 3:48 PM WayneDW Joined on 07-28-2006 Minneapolis Posts 1,655 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Good question, Isaac, interesting read. I guess I'm old but I still think I'm young (51). I bought my first GL500 Silverwing Interstate a handful of years ago because my bro-in-law had one for a number of years and I realized how nice a one-man touring bike it was and how extremely reliable it was. Every year when we'd take a trip to the mountains we'd spend one day working on my Kawasaki and never any time working on his Honda.... "duh, I want one a those!" Two years after buying the 500 I traded up to the 650 version because it was a good deal and I wanted just a little more power. Wayne Wayne 1983 GL650 Silverwing Interstate WWW.fossilapostles.com    Report

06-11-2007, 4:44 PM chip Joined on 03-15-2006 Woodford, VA Posts 194 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 48 ... and spent 26 of those years trying to convince my wife that I 'needed' a bike. She finally tired of my whining and on 7/08/04, bought my first and only bike, an '82 GL500I. The two years prior to that day, I spent google-ing different motorcycle's dependability and maintainence reviews. I focused on Hondas ( I learned to ride when I was 15 on my brother's '73 CB350F ) and I wanted something that would be small enough for a novice but large enough to use for my work (I do sales / merchandising and need room to haul paperwork/ computer/ etc.). I thought a small version of a Goldwing would be perfect, and low and behold, Honda made one. I found the old Swedish site first and read how these CX/GL's were a favorite of the couriers in England during the 80's ... they were strong, easy to work on, and wouldn't die easily. Then I found this forum (old version) and saw there was an active and equally enthusiastic group of CX/GL owners in the states. I was sold. I watched eBay for two months and watched them sell between $1200 and $1600. That was NOT going to fly with my bike budget or my wife. Then I saw one advertised in our local newspaper for $900. I went that afternoon to look and test drive ( that was a funny sight after not riding for close to 30 years ... and he lived on a gravel road). I offered him $700 ( that was my bike budget) , he said, "Sure." ...and he threw in his helmet. And now I'm hooked.    Last week, an employee at one of my accounts wanted to sell me his '88 GL1500/6 Goldwing for $2100. My wife and I rode out to see the bike, discussed it and came to the conclusion that the goldwing was a good deal, but we couldn't keep two bikes; the GL500 would have to be sold. I couldn't do it so I declined the offer...Silver' is better than Gold'!.    And Isaac, In all honesty, nowhere in my decision to buy this GL was "speed" a consideration. My son just finished having a twin turbo dropped into his Nissan 300zx convertible. He brought it by the house so he could take me for a short spin to show me what it would do. I have NEVER been in a car that quick ( we were over 60mph in under 4 seconds ) and I have never been so SCARED while in a car ( no roll bar ..... DANG, NO TOP!!!! ). No..., speed does not interest me at all ..... coming down my driveway at the end of a long day in one piece is all I desire out of my wheels.    Report

06-11-2007, 4:47 PM DaveNearAtlanta Joined on 03-03-2006 Lawrenceville, GA Posts 500 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? This has been a very interesting thread. Age here is 53.  I bought a ragged-out CB350 for my first bike and rode it for a couple of years.  I've always loved to camp and wanted a way to combine the two hobbies.  In 1982 some close friends, a couple my wife and I hung out with, were planning to buy a Goldwing and I went with them to the Honda dealer.  The Goldwing didn't really appeal to me because I thought it was much too large and heavy, but there was this silver 82 GL500I on the showroom floor that caught my eye and seemed nearly perfect in all regards - smaller/sportier than the Goldwing, liquid cooled, shaft drive, fully dressed, and with this Pro-link suspension that was supposed to be one of the greatest inventions ever made.  Somebody must have designed this bike just for me! The salesman, Ronnie C., asked me if I'd like to take a test ride on a demo bike just like it parked outside.  He tossed me the key without even checking my license and said to enjoy the ride.  I returned with a huge grin and went straight to the credit union the next day to take out a loan. Twenty five years have passed since then.  The GL500I has been on countless touring/camping trips, some outside the country, and racked up many thousands of miles.  I never sold the bike although it was completely disassembled and another bike built from the collective parts of it and several parts bikes.  My wife and I are still friends with the other couple, Ronnie C. is still selling bikes, and I still have the same huge grin. My Web Site 1982 GL500 1983 GL650 This User ID is no longer used. DaveF is my new User ID.    Report

06-11-2007, 5:18 PM Isaac Joined on 06-04-2007 Orlando, FL Posts 106 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? ^ Well done, good sir. I create steel Frankensteins.    Report

06-11-2007, 8:46 PM Jay in NYC Joined on 04-29-2007 Brooklyn, NY Posts 153 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? 35 here, and I just kind of fell on my '78 CX 500.  I was looking around for a second bike, as my wife co-opted our '82 cm450e as soon as she took her first solo ride!  I picked up my CX for a cool $1000, with a grand total of 16000 on the clock.  The previous owner had it for 15 years, and took really, really good care of it.  The only problems with it are the fact that it won't charge the battery, and a very, very slight drip from the drain plug on the radiator.(have a new plug/gasket on order!)   So far, I have added some clubmans to it, lowered the front end an inch, replaced the rear turn signals with some less protruding "bullets", and put a MAC 2-1 on it to shave some weight.  Can't wait to get those pod filters on and re-jet! 1978 CX 500 MAC 2-1 Drag Bars Cafe headlight/turn signals    Report

06-11-2007, 10:38 PM Manofyunk Joined on 07-18-2006 Malta Bend, MO Posts 143 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? The wife was on vacation and forgot to take the checkbook ;) Seriously, I purchased my CX about a year ago from that auction site. The reason that I purchased it was to give myself something to spend time on (a hobbie), and to vindicate a belief that I have that no vehicle is too far gone to be put back on the road. To test that belief I looked for a bike that was in ok shape, but had mechanical issues (in this case the carbs were screwed). What I found was a 1979 cx500 custom that had 8000 miles on it, bad carbs, messed up forks, a defective front brake assembly, rotted out mufflers, and enough rust to cause visual lockjaw. BTW, I am 35 and have been riding cycles off and on since 1987. 1987 Hurricane 1000 1984 ATC200 ES    Report

06-12-2007, 12:06 AM pathos Joined on 05-25-2007 Washington, PA Posts 10 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Well, about 6 years ago or so, I found myself really wanting to get a cycle. I went around to quite a few local people selling them in my price range.. (Under $1K) and in that time, managed to look at 3 500s, one GL500 and 2 CX500s. I liked the GL500, but it was in the worst shape of them all, ended up buying based on condition. Picked up an '81 CX500D off a gentleman who turned out to be a friend of a friend. (Funny how that happens sometimes.) So, he dropped the price, and I picked up my first bike for about $600. (19,000 on the clock) I drove it for about 4 years when I had my garage broken into, and the bike ravaged. After spending 2 years collecting back the parts I needed to restore it, as of about 4 days and 500 miles ago, I finally got it back up and running. She still needs some TLC, but I'm very happy to be back to riding. Sometimes I wish I had something with a hair more power, but even if I ever end up getting something, the CX will be ridden until the wheels fall off one day. I'm 31 now, bought the bike at 25, and I have always liked the standard style bikes.    Report

06-12-2007, 5:21 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I rode various bikes since the age of 14.Went round to a pals house just over 3 years ago.Not ridden since I was 24(50 now).He'd just bought a big yammy sports tourer.Opened his garage and said,"You used to ride yeh?" I said yes and he said do you want my old bike the CX500 known now as,"Pinky".The era these bikes were built had totally passed me by unoticed. Looked at it an just loved the absurd look of the engine and bought it for £300.Had to wait until I came back from a contract of 14 weeks before I could get it on the road.Engine blew up 3 days later.Got some compensation back off my pal and set about getting tools together and a new garage to re-learn my spanner skillz as I didn't want to discard it. 3 years down the line and now I'm E.S.N.A.B(Every Single Nut And Bolt) has been through my hands including several crankshafts etc off all my CXs. Once setup well these bikes are a joy to ride and economical and always cause good conversations wherever I go. Some simple improvements I've made are getting the best tyres to suit the bikes.In my case in the UK the Dunlop K70s are absolutley brilliant.Good mileage,great grip and feel in all weather. Change the fork oil from ATF to 20w fork oil.Damps the front end great and makes the bikes feel like you are cornering on rails. Change the standard brake/clutch levers for Power Blade levers.Gives way better response and less hand fatigue. http://motorcycleproducts.co.uk/catalogue/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=cx500+power Fitted,"Vista" cruise controls to both present CXs.Eases vibration fatigue by being able to rest throttle hand.Best thing since sliced bread. http://store.azmusa.com/viscruisform.aspx Changed standard H4 headlight bulb for Xenon Ring Blue Ice bulbs.60% brighter with no extra current draw. Fitted LED brake/Stop bulbs.Faster response time and virtually unbreakable.     My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

06-12-2007, 6:17 AM JB in SC Joined on 03-02-2006 Irmo, SC Posts 306 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 57 and had gone bikeless since 1982. A real nice CX650C sat in my neighbor's garage for years. He would take it out every spring, get it running, ride it to work for about a week and put it back. His wife is an ER Nurse and never liked the idea that her husband could wind up under her care. He was, thankfully, anal in his care for the bike. He had owned it for at least 10 years and it was in cherry condition. I finally badgered him enough to sell it to me so I could put it on the road. All I needed was a replacement front caliper and away I went. 2007 Burgman 650 1983 CX650C    Report

06-12-2007, 11:28 AM R80Dave Joined on 03-03-2006 Appleton, WI Posts 851 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I am 58 and in 1993 I bought my first GL500I to give to my brother. I had always admired the CX/GL models and I bought the bike so my brother and I could ride together. Well, the 500 was as fast as my R80 BMW (800cc) and had the same top speed. About a year later I found another GL500I and bought it as my "backup bike." I have been hooked ever since. About 10 years ago I found a GL650I and snapped that one up for the lower RPMs on the highway and the extra torque. That bike is now putting a smile on someone else's face. I bought another GL650I 3-4 years ago in baskets and have since put it together and will be riding that bike to the Amish Rally this year. My ride for touring two up is still BMW, but I have said it many times that I will be riding the GL long after touring days on the BMW are done and I will probably be willing my GL to someone when I die. David in Wisconsin    Report

06-12-2007, 1:41 PM drneo Joined on 10-20-2006 Iowa City, Iowa Posts 378 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Wonderfully great thread.. I have a long bike history for being just 22! I started riding a motorcycle when I was the ripe old age of 2 years old.. my dad had a 1974 CB750 that he strapped the car seat to. I rode that until he got busted when I was 4! My first bike was a 1972 Yamaha 125 Enduro that I got when I was 12. Had that until I was 17 and sold it and bought a collectors 1976 cl350 with 2xxx miles on it. I sold that after my freshman year of college and bought a 1993 Race-stock Suzuki GSXR 600. Beautiful bike, loved the speed, didn't like the tickets... never should have gotten rid of it, but I wanted something that I could ride for more than 100 miles. I then bought a "too loud for even earplugs" Honda cb750 chopper and sold that. So I sold that and rode my father's 1982 Suzuki GS850G (ick, never again). My dad then sold that and I didn't have anything and he had his (precious) Goldwing. So after researching for 5 months and not being able to afford a BMW or its maintenence, I decided on a Silverwing. Same reliablility, cheap parts, easy to work on ang great milage. I want it to last so I have been really keeping it up and loving it. I'll have this until the girlfriend is done with med school and then we shall see! ~Thom 1982 GL500I - "Couchy" 65,000 miles down... 35,000 to go. www.trainwiththom.com    Report

06-12-2007, 2:17 PM b100koczur Joined on 06-12-2006 duluth minnesota Posts 172 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Thom,  Did your clutch cable break on the road a while back?  Or was that yet another duluth guy with a CX/GL? Brian Duluth MN    Report

06-12-2007, 5:50 PM drneo Joined on 10-20-2006 Iowa City, Iowa Posts 378 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Brian, it wan't me! (Hopefully it won't be either...)  The only other person that I've seen, besides loneagle was R80 David's friend... but I'm always on the lookout!  Maybe they will post... hint hint 1982 GL500I - "Couchy" 65,000 miles down... 35,000 to go. www.trainwiththom.com    Report

06-12-2007, 9:36 PM puffer_nutter Joined on 12-16-2006 San Rafael, CA Posts 30 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Can't be left out of this thread! I grew up in the UK and any biker who comes from there will know the status the CX500 acquired in London during the 80s and 90s. The entire motorcycle despatch industry was based around two bikes: The CX500 and the GT550 (Kawasaki). After moving to the US and owning a Triumph for a while I decided to sell it and get myself a humble bike to get to work on that I knew wouldn't break down. Although I was never a despatch rider, I knew the CX's reputation and liked the configuration. Above all I liked the fact it was a different from everything else. My first 79 standard had a broken camchain and was a money pit but I liked it so much I set about trying to get a good one. I now have a pretty original 78 and a CX650e which is my Avatar. As Keith and Tania have proved you can tour the world on a CX. Throw it in a boat hold for six years until it is a rusted wreck and then ride it round the world again. http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/escape/epicrides/122_0104_moscow/ Now that is my kind of bike!    Report

06-13-2007, 12:59 PM taildragger-j3 Joined on 08-27-2006 College Station, TX Posts 27 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Got mine out of a barn almost a year ago. No title, just a "bill of sale" from a co-worker who wanted out of his way. After about 2-3 months hassling with the Texas DOT & local tax office I got a clean title and began sprucing it up. A co-worker had a new one about '80-82, so I knew it was a good bike. It's still got a way to go aesthetically, but I can't stop riding it long enough to work on it. BTW, I'm 57 years old. '82 GL in the process of restoration.    Report

06-14-2007, 3:21 AM DancesWithCages Joined on 06-14-2007 Tauranga, New Zealand Posts 1 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I was making a delivery for work to one of the local bike shops and it (83 GL 500) was just sitting there waiting for me. I know CXs and GLs have a great reputation, I like the less than common design, and I thought it was time to get a road bike again. I wasn't looking for a CX/GL in particular but the deal was too good to pass by and I'm pretty happy that I jumped on it. Mostly I bought the GL to ride in the weekends as I have my work hack scooter for running around town, but I've missed the open road. I was surprised to see there is another NZ local on the boards here (Matt_NZ), and he only lives 10 minutes from me.    Report

06-14-2007, 3:51 AM Matt_NZ Joined on 12-27-2006 Papamoa, New Zealand Posts 78 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? At 37 years old I bought my CX off a bloke who was getting in his late 70's and his hips were giving him problems.  It had sat in the guys garage for a number of years.  With 35000 genuine k's on it and reading about the legendary reliability I convinced my better half that it would be a good bike to get back into riding on (I sold my last bike 8 or so years ago when money was tight and she knew I missed riding terribly). Two weeks after buying, it stopped whilst going over our harbour bridge the day after Boxing Day.... our city is a holiday destination and the road was jammed with traffic! What followed was a crash course on CX mechanics, learning about CDI's, stators, carbs and other things I didn't even know about engines.  So far I've changed the CDI, stator, air cut off diaphragms, crankshaft seal, oil (a few times), fork seals, radiator fan, adjusted tappets more times than I recall, broken off a manifold stud (that was mild steel, not hardened, wouldn't easi-out and we had to tap a new thread), broken off the crankcase breather tube, replaced the temp gauge and put a new front tyre on it. I think the Previous Owners of this bike have some questions to be answered, but all in all I haven't spent more than it's worth (I think).  It still makes a ticking noise when warmed up that bugs me but I'm learning to accept that! I love riding it, find it suprisingly agile and almost always get approached when I stop by someone who has a "CX Tale". I look forward to meeting up with Dances With Cages and sharing experiences.  I have also been in touch with Glyn from Auckland, who so very kindly sent me his spare temp gauge, and Don in Oz who was invaluable helping with my stator issues.  EconoHonda in Te Aroha has also been awesome with providing me with parts after my various stuff ups lol. Matt    Report

06-14-2007, 5:44 AM chicagorandy Joined on 05-28-2007 Chicago, IL Posts 414 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? As a related aside, one of the "charms' of my other ride is what we in the Russian Iron commnunity call UDF (Ural Delay Factor). It is the extra time you need to allow for chatting with strangers who come over to talk about the sidecar rig where ever and when ever you stop. I am highly pleased to report that the phenomenon of HDF (Honda Delay Factor) is also a fun reality with my new Interstate. And the first line is OFTEN the UK mentioned "Hey, I used to have one of those:" 2003 Ural Tourist - 80,245kms to date 1982 Honda GL500 Interstate 12,800 miles since 05/30/07 "Down the highway of life at smiles per hour, with special attention to ignorant and blind cagers"    Report

06-14-2007, 8:53 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? "Dances With Cages" Gotta love that handle<BFG>   My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

06-14-2007, 10:30 AM Anonymous Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? Chicago Randy   Hey I live really close to chicago I commute from Hammond IN to Schaumburg on mine everyday I am getting 50 MPG on 294 even with commuter traffic. Hope to run into you sometime would love to see your bike

06-14-2007, 4:56 PM Flash Joined on 03-29-2007 Posts 36 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? I'm 33 years old and got it free from my elderly uncle 3 years ago. I can't ride it to work because I have to take the kids to daycare, but I get out on the weekends and tour with it. I put a big plastic box on the back and it can fit groceries, or my helmet, chaps, and jacket. I really wouldn't have bought it, but I now really like it. It has a lot of power for its weight. I really lust after a ST1100-- but that will have to wait until I get some extra money.    Report

06-14-2007, 5:31 PM beach3091 Joined on 10-29-2006 brooklyn ny Posts 112 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? hi how are you i bought my cx-650 custom 1983 in 1983 i am the original owner i am 51 and i bought the bike with out knowing to much about the cx-650 but the sales rep in long island city which is in queens in new york city the dealer is not there anymore its been there so long the rep was telling me that its almost like the 500c very reliable and a good bike after sitting on a couple of  bikes in the dealer i like the way the cx felt i fell in love with that bike right away any way i am still riding it and its running very well as i took good care of the bike it has 62000 miles on it and still going strong i love my cx and i am going to try to ride it untill i cant get on the bike any more hehehehe have a great day guys.    Report

06-15-2007, 10:58 AM vitter Joined on 04-29-2006 East of Smoke; Ontario Canada Posts 149 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL?  chicagorandy wrote: It is the extra time you need to allow for chatting with strangers who come over to talk about the sidecar rig where ever and when ever you stop. I am highly pleased to report that the phenomenon of HDF (Honda Delay Factor) is also a fun reality with my new Interstate. And the first line is OFTEN the UK mentioned "Hey, I used to have one of those:" On a related note, last night I took a short ride around the neighborhood on the naked Wing (non-Interstate GL500).  Stopped at a coffee shop (Tim's – for the Canadians reading)(for shame – in my geezerdom, I've become a coffee shop rider....) and two guys come over, say hi and remark that the Wing is in really nice shape. This happened last week at the same Tims: a guy asked what year it was & we talked for 15 mins. He had an old CB350 four.  Not like I want attention from guys (not), but I find it pleasant; No one talked to me in 20 years of riding sport bikes. Everyone thinks you’re a hooligan. The other thing was, my bike was parked between:         - A new, shiny, clean Victory cruiser (I don't get with the cruiser thing, but this one had very clean lines & had two-tone, colour matched factory saddlebags - so at least you could take a trip on it). I liked it. - A restored, British Racing Green MGB, mid 70's, with a cream colored interior and five spoke aluminum rims - awesome - I love British sports cars. In spite of having the dreaded British mechanicals - when the Brits make sports cars, they get it right. Each is its own attention getter, but people walk by, look at and compliment my old Honda with the dented fuel tank. Funny.        Report

06-15-2007, 5:35 PM VaHeader Joined on 06-14-2007 Posts 3 Re: Why did you buy your CX/GL? 37 years old and up until 3 years ago I had no interest in bikes much less ones with fairings. My brother in law bought a new sportster and his wife wanted one of her own. She said she would buy one and I could ride it when I came to visit so I took the MSA class and was ready to buy my own in less than a couple minutes of practice the first day. When I told a co-worker about the deal with my sister in law, he said he had wanted to get a bike again but had no-one to ride with so I pushed him into getting one again (an 86 450 nighthawk). once I got my licence he loaned it to me for practice, then he bought an 82 gl500I. We rode a couple times and he talked me into trying the Silverwing because it would be better for 2up with the wife. So I rode it for the rest of the season, but it developed the dreaded mechanical seal seep and he was no mechanic, I however was an auto mechanic for 12 years and figured with a service manual and a hammer, I can do it!!! Well the seal wasn't all, the fork seals had leaked - damaging the breaks and the tires were dry rotted. After a couple months of the torn apart bike staring him in the face (working in his garage) He told me to get it out of his garage and in lou of cash labor payment I could have it. So how can you beat that!! I have ridden many friends\relatives bikes (mostly Harleys) but this is the best bike I could have ever asked for.http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k147/VaHeader/bike.jpg 82 GL 500 I Silverwing    Report

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