Honda VT 500 C (reduced effect) vs Honda CX 500 C (1987)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda VT 500 C (reduced effect)stacks up against the Honda CX 500 C. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda VT 500 C (reduced effect)Honda CX 500 C
Model year19871983
Price
Engine491 cc497 cc
Horsepower27 hp50 hp
Fuel capacity3.0 L2.9 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle discDual disc
Rear brakesExpanding brakeExpanding brake
Tires3.50-18 / 130/90-16 3.50-19 / 130/90-16

Honda VT 500 C (reduced effect) vs Honda CX 500 C — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda VT 500 C (reduced effect) and the Honda CX 500 C usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda VT 500 C (reduced effect) brings 27 hp, while the Honda CX 500 C counters with 50 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: