Early '70's CB500-750 Daily Commuter 35mi one way - Anyone using it for one?

G

grancuda

Active Member
I am trying to decide what bike to get and I want a old CB500 or CB750 for my only/primary bike and just not sure. I have 35 miles one way of 60-65mph divided 4 lane that is not stop and go at all. I had a Buell S1 Lightning that I rode for some time and a Ducati 750SS, both of those bikes did great. I liked them both and just really like the older CB's set up like a cafe racer. I just don't know about the gearing for highway speed and the seating position. I have only ridden one '73 CB750 around the block but that is it. Any of you guys use these for Highway Commuters? If so what are your thoughts on this?
I daily drive a '72 GMC truck and maintain it so I am not afraid to work on stuff. I personally don't care for any of the newer cars/trucks so I just keep my old one and like it.
 
Im building a cb350 and I plan to ride it on the highway on occasion, and I know others ride theirs on the highway. So with a 500 and definitely with a 750 youd be fine. As for riding position that depends on if you change over to rear sets or not and where you place them.
 
The CB500/CB550 and the CB750 will both cruise 65+ comfortably for a long stretch of time. I've had both bikes and if I had to choose I would choose the CB500 or the CB550. They have a smaller tighter look, they weigh less and feel more balanced, and they make a better all around daily rider type of bike.

When you're thinking about a daily rider you have to factor in all types of riding. If you want to hop on your bike to go to the convenience store, back in and out of parking spots all day, split lanes, jump curbs, park on sidewalks, and push it when it breaks down or runs out of gas, the smallest bike that will meet all of your needs is the best choice.



grancuda said:
I am trying to decide what bike to get and I want a old CB500 or CB750 for my only/primary bike and just not sure. I have 35 miles one way of 60-65mph divided 4 lane that is not stop and go at all. I had a Buell S1 Lightning that I rode for some time and a Ducati 750SS, both of those bikes did great. I liked them both and just really like the older CB's set up like a cafe racer. I just don't know about the gearing for highway speed and the seating position. I have only ridden one '73 CB750 around the block but that is it. Any of you guys use these for Highway Commuters? If so what are your thoughts on this?
I daily drive a '72 GMC truck and maintain it so I am not afraid to work on stuff. I personally don't care for any of the newer cars/trucks so I just keep my old one and like it.
Click to expand...
 
I have a reprint somewhere of a review of a than new 72' cb500 four that Cycle World magazine wrote. They describe the 500 as the "perfect motorcycle". Its 80lbs lighter than a 750, easier to wrench on, more reliable, runs a wet sump so no external oil tank, is only 15 mph slower top speed wise, and has nearly as much tourqe. Its narrower, and handles a tad better as well. The only issue they had with the bike is that the stock rear shocks are junk. The best part is though, that you can usually find em' a bit cheaper than the 750.
 
brianokc said:
The CB500/CB550 and the CB750 will both cruise 65+ comfortably for a long stretch of time. I've had both bikes and if I had to choose I would choose the CB500 or the CB550. They have a smaller tighter look, they weigh less and feel more balanced, and they make a better all around daily rider type of bike.

When you're thinking about a daily rider you have to factor in all types of riding. If you want to hop on your bike to go to the convenience store, back in and out of parking spots all day, split lanes, jump curbs, park on sidewalks, and push it when it breaks down or runs out of gas, the smallest bike that will meet all of your needs is the best choice.
Click to expand...

Don't forget tire wear! Nothing compensates for the embarrassment of huffing and puffing your bike out of a parking spot like a nice long burnout. 8)
 
I've used my past bikes a CB550 and CB750 for 60+ mile round trip commutes to work. The only real issue is traffic. Your brakes need to be in tip top shape. Also, I did once get caught in a 2 hour traffic jam in 90 degree heat. There's no lane splitting in Ohio, so I roughed it for a while. I eventually pulled over and let my bike cool off just out of paranoia. If you're well prepared, these machines would be great commuters.
 
I have used my Cb 500 as my primary mode of transport for over four years now. Freeways, the mean streets of ATL. ....the thing kicks ass! Even on the
freeways, it's no problem keeping up with traffic. Even with clubmans or clip ons, the bike is kind of small so it's not so much of a reach to the bars, unless
you're short I guess. I've done 300 mile days on mine and have never been uncomfortable.
Just ride!
 
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