Honda FT500
The Honda FT500 is a single cylinder, 497cc motorbike produced by Honda during the early 1980s.
Honda FT500 Ascot. FT stands for Flat Track. Imported from Japan as a 1982 and 1983 model. Did not sell well in the USA. Originally at dealerships for $2,195, by 1984 the left-over models were a steal at $1,295. About 32-horse power and 50 miles per gallon made the FT500 a very practical motorcycle.
Common Fault.
The FT500C as sold in the UK was electric start only. The lack of a kick-start caused problems when the rear support bearing of the starter pinion wore out (due to a poorly designed oil feed). Regular replacement of this white-metal sleeve bearing is vital and should be considered at every major service interval.
Car Modification.
A common engine modification for Datsun Enthusiasts was an FT500C piston upgrade in the ever-popular L28 Inline-6 engine, found in a number of 70's Datsuns. Datsun enthusiasts would overbore their engines by 3mm to accommodate the 89-90mm FT500C piston.