HONDA CX500 CAFE RACER

This 1983 Honda CX500 café racer was a full rescue mission, starting from a dilapidated state and rebuilt with a focus on reliability and timeless design. The CX500’s unique V-twin engine and iconic frame made it the perfect canvas for a sleek café racer build. Upgraded for performance and stripped of unnecessary bulk, this bike is built to be ridden hard and admired for its clean, functional aesthetic.

Check out the parts we used for this custom motorcycle build below!

The Honda CX500 is known for its unique transverse V-twin engine and shaft drive, earning a reputation for reliability and practicality. However, in its stock form, it has a bulky appearance and lacks agility, making it less appealing to riders looking for a sharper, sportier ride.

Purpose Built Moto stripped the CX500 down and rebuilt it with a leaner, more performance-focused design. The suspension was rebuilt to improve handling, while a custom café racer seat and clip-on handlebars gave it a sleek profile and sportier riding posture. A 2-into-1 custom exhaust was added to enhance performance and deliver a deeper, more aggressive sound. Modern Flashpoint LED Headlights and Orbit Mini Tail Lights brought the lighting up to spec, keeping the bike clean and functional.

These changes transformed the CX500 into a head-turning, road-ready café racer with a perfect blend of style and function.

READ THE BUILD BLOG
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PURPOSE BUILT
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OEM
  • Modern LED HEADLIGHT
  • Twin Torpedo Mufflers
  • 3 in 1 Indicators / Tail Lights
  • Lever Pivot Mirrors
  • Ultra Bright Front Indicators

Build Video

Experience the full transformation of this Honda CX500 café racer. From its rough beginnings to its rebirth as a custom classic, follow the entire journey.