SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB500/550

What's the difference between the CB500 K1 & K2 models ?

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McCabe-Thiele (Ted):
The CB500 seems to have a lot of model variants in a short space of years 1971-74 is there a Dummies Guide to the differences on our site here?

Do they share the same engine or frame were there any important changes to internals such as gearboxes etc?
Is the cam chain tensioner a better design than the 400?

mickwinf:
basic engine and frame the same with minor changes and improvements all through the run. also differences between different markets but no major changes until the 550 came along in 73ish in USA and 75ish in UK ( gearbox mainly )

Oddjob:
Biggest difference is the clocks, they went from the small version to the same size as the 550 later had. A good improvement in my opinion as the clocks on the 500 are frankly awful, they slope away from the rider especially if he's flat on the tank as I used to be when I was younger.

Paintwork changed as well, the black panel on the tank went and a flash appeared in it's place.

Trigger:
You also had the 500K0 1971. Differences depend on what market you are trying to compare, UK, USA, Europe, Japanese ?
Depending on markets, Clocks, indicator stems, seats, tank colours, switch gear, tail lights, rear mudguard, handlebars and so on  ;)
 

Bryanj:
All official UK bikes were K1, except the press bikes, everything else was an import plus even the K1 has different parts in other countries e.g. clocks were inclined more to rider but still small type, different holes in rear mudguard and light mounting to suit, huge rear light etc.
Only majour engine change was gear detent system as early ones were not so good and clutch but that was early on in the run. Camchain tensioner mech is better than 400 but can still be knackered by ham fistednesd and needs proper use, generator has slightly more output

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