Honda CR 500 vs Honda XL 500 R (1999)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda CR 500stacks up against the Honda XL 500 R. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda CR 500Honda XL 500 R
Model year19991984
Price
Engine491 cc497 cc
Horsepower69 hp27 hp
Fuel capacity2.8 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake
Tires3.00-21 / 4.60-17

Honda CR 500 vs Honda XL 500 R — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda CR 500 and the Honda XL 500 R usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda CR 500 brings 69 hp, while the Honda XL 500 R counters with 27 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: