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Technical Help Forum
Started by dbilik at 07-15-2010 10:06 AM. Topic has 4 replies.
  
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 07-15-2010, 10:06 AM
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dbilik
Joined on 07-15-2010
Chicago, IL
Posts 25
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Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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I am pretty excited, got my first motorcycle yesterday. It is a 1980 CX 500 Custom for $180 because it needs a little work. First gear grinds, so I am planning on replacing the transmission. Also need to get a new throttle switch/assembly, new side covers, a battery, front fender, and I would like to get different handlebars. Overall though I am petty mechanically inclined and looking forward to fixing it up.
The two parts that seem to be harder to track down than the other are side covers and handlebars. Any suggestions on part sources, or just keep on scouring ebay for a deal I like? And has anyone ever done mini apes on a bike like this?
1980 CX500 CUSTOM
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07-15-2010, 10:21 AM
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Blindstitch
 
Joined on 03-14-2009
Greenfield Wisconsin
Posts 9,863
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Re: Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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Ebay is a pretty good source.
What do you mean that the transmission grinds in first gear? Is it constant?
1979 CX500 Supertanker
ATGATT makes riding a bike like a sled easier.
Quick Reference
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07-15-2010, 10:24 AM
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RichNCT
Joined on 03-02-2006
Connecticut, USA
Posts 3,463
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Re: Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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Concerning the tranmission 1st gear grind, check that the clutch is fully disengaging. Maybe just ride it a bit, even around the yard or a nearby vacant lot, clutching and shifting a lot. Change the crankcase oil, this can improve drastically tranny operation. The trannys on these bikes seldom wear out or break. It is likely not a serious problem. Delay buying tranny parts or disassembling until you know more about the malfunction. Check idle rpm too, 1100-1200 is spec, over 1500 and you will be more likely to have 1st gear engagement issues. My bet? New oil and lower rpm and you'll be grinning down the SkyLine Drive before you know it. Ride Safe, new riders are at increased risk due to not having developed the increased awareness of their own mortality yet.
Refueling on The James Bay Road, 2009
Born to be relatively wild (for a grampa x 3)
GL650I, CX650E, CX650T
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07-15-2010, 10:52 AM
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dbilik
Joined on 07-15-2010
Chicago, IL
Posts 25
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Re: Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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Based on what I have seen so far with the bike the short time I have had it and what the previous owner shared with me, the trans only starts to grind once it is warmed up, and then it is constant while in first. Glad to hear the trannies are solid though. I will change out the oil first and see how it runs.
Will also check the RPM at idle.
I plan to drive safe and defensively, I signed up and passed the motorcycle safety class my state offers, learned a lot. I definately need to practice as much as I can to get better, some good low traffic areas by me to use. I want to be around to enjoy this bike.
By the way, thanks for all of the help everyone, I bought this bike because it seemed like parts were readily available if you looked, after finding this forum I am super happy with my purchase. Great forum.
1980 CX500 CUSTOM
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07-16-2010, 1:16 PM
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Mothman52
Joined on 09-23-2008
Berkeley, CA
Posts 785
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Re: Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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Congrats on the new purchase. These are really fun bikes and easy to work on...more or less;-)
I'd only add that when you change your oil, be sure to check for any impurities or metalic chunks in it; it's a good indication if something more serious is going on with your tranny...
1982 CX500C in Metallic Black & Gray
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Honda CX500 & G... » CX500 GL500 Tra... » Technical Help ... » Just got my first bike, a 1980 CX 500 Custom
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