Today’s featured build comes from Sydney, Australia:
The builder – John – owns XCX Customs and usually works on Harley Davidson motorcycles but when it came time to attempt a speed record he chose the Honda CX500 as a base for his build to compete in an APG class. He’s done a few CX500 builds now and says that while the stock form is not appealing to him, the engine stands out.
As you can see from the above photo there’s plenty that has been modified – an incomplete parts list:
- Tommaselli 37mm Clip-ons
- Murray’s Carbs Mikuni Carburetors (Site)
- Rear master cylinder replaced with Harley Davidson unit
- Aftermarket crankcase breather
- ISO style grips (eBay)
- Modern front brake master cylinder
- Custom controls
- Bar end mirrors (eBay)
- Custom made exhaust headers (stainless) with turned-out ends
- RFY rear shocks (eBay, most of that search seems to be RFY)
- Sandblasted and satin black painted frame
- Modified radiator with custom grille
- CX650E front and rear wheels
- Rear brake conversion to disc
- CX650E front end conversion
- Seat pad re-upholstered in Ostritch skin
- Custom cowl, footpegs, shift lever and fender
- CX500E head covers
- Ignitech (eBay)
- Aftermarket gauges
A closeup of the exhaust and pegs:
Rear disc brake conversion and RFY shocks:
Controls and gauges:
John won’t comment on any gearing or other changes necessary to make the claimed 220km/hr – as the bike is for sale and the new owner may wish to compete.
The motor was built by a New Zealand engine builder and racer and John had intended on taking the CX500 to Bonneville to compete for the world record, but lost interest after having built the bike. He did win the “Best Modified” category in the Show and Shine at Surside Garage, Brookvale in September 2016.
If you are looking for more inspirational CX builds, check out the rest of the build list.