Hey guys, let's dive into the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 specs! This bike, a true classic, holds a special place in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts. It's a bike that's celebrated for its smooth ride, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance. If you're a vintage bike aficionado, someone considering adding a retro ride to your collection, or just curious about this iconic machine, then you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything from its engine details to its dimensions, giving you a comprehensive look at what made the Silverwing 500 a standout in its time. So, grab a seat, maybe a cup of coffee, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 specs. This information can be super useful, whether you're planning a restoration project, comparing it to modern bikes, or simply reminiscing about the good old days of motorcycling. We'll cover all the important details to help you understand what makes this bike so special. The Silverwing 500 was known for its innovative features and how it helped shaped the evolution of motorcycle design. Its reputation for longevity and its role in popularizing touring bikes are just some of the reasons it's still fondly remembered. We're going to explore what made this bike so successful, its impact on the industry, and the enduring appeal of the Silverwing 500, to make sure you have a deep understanding of what this machine offers. Whether you're a seasoned biker or just starting your journey into the world of motorcycles, learning about classic bikes is a fun way to understand the history of motorcycling. So let's get started and discover the specs that define this legendary motorcycle!

Engine and Performance Specifications

Okay, let's kick things off with the heart of the matter – the engine. The 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 came equipped with a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 496cc parallel-twin engine. This engine design was pretty advanced for its time, and it contributed significantly to the bike's smooth operation and efficiency. One of the standout features of this engine was its liquid cooling system, which helped maintain a consistent operating temperature, improving performance and reliability, especially during longer rides. The engine produced a respectable amount of power for its class, around 50 horsepower, which provided ample acceleration and cruising speed for both city streets and open highways. It's a classic example of engineering that balances power and user-friendliness. The engine's configuration, with two cylinders running in parallel, provided a distinctive sound and feel, contributing to the Silverwing's unique character. Fuel delivery was handled by a pair of Keihin carburetors, which are known for their reliable performance and ease of maintenance, a definite bonus for anyone who enjoys working on their own bike. The carburetors played a crucial role in providing the correct air-fuel mixture, crucial for the engine's smooth operation and fuel efficiency. The engine’s overall design was focused on delivering a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. The engineers at Honda prioritized smoothness and responsiveness, making it a great choice for both casual riders and those who enjoyed longer trips. The smooth power delivery and the comfortable riding position are key reasons why this bike was popular for touring, allowing riders to cover long distances with ease. Its power was delivered in a way that was easy to manage, making it a great bike for experienced riders and those newer to the world of motorcycling. The engine was also designed to be relatively fuel-efficient, offering a good balance between performance and economy. All these features made the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 a favorite among riders.

Detailed Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin
• Displacement: 496cc
• Bore x Stroke: 73 mm x 59.5 mm
• Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
• Maximum Power: Approximately 50 hp
• Fuel Delivery: Dual Keihin carburetors
• Ignition: Electronic ignition
• Starting System: Electric start

Chassis, Suspension, and Handling

Alright, let's move on to the chassis, suspension, and handling aspects of the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500. The bike's chassis, which is the frame, was designed to provide a stable and comfortable ride. Honda typically prioritizes balance in its designs, and the Silverwing was no exception. The frame was constructed to offer a good blend of rigidity and flexibility, which is crucial for handling bumps and imperfections in the road. It helped make the bike feel planted and composed, whether you were cruising down a highway or navigating city streets. Now, let's talk about the suspension. The Silverwing 500 featured a telescopic fork at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear. The front forks were designed to absorb impacts and offer a smooth ride, while the rear shocks helped with stability and ride comfort, especially when carrying a passenger or luggage. This suspension setup was well-suited for the bike's intended purpose as a comfortable touring machine. The Silverwing's suspension system was a crucial part of its appeal, contributing to the bike's overall comfort. The suspension setup played a key role in the bike's ability to handle various road conditions with ease. The handling of the Silverwing 500 was designed to be user-friendly, catering to both experienced riders and those new to motorcycling. The bike was designed to be predictable and easy to manage, making it enjoyable to ride in various conditions. The balance of the bike also made it a great choice for long rides, allowing riders to maintain control and comfort over long distances. The tires play a very important role in this, and the selection of appropriate tires is crucial for the overall performance of the bike. The handling characteristics, combined with the bike's comfortable riding position, made it an excellent option for both daily commuting and weekend adventures. The Silverwing 500's chassis, suspension, and handling characteristics created a riding experience that was both comfortable and capable. Overall, the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 was known for its balanced and user-friendly handling, making it a pleasure to ride. This made it a great option for both experienced riders and those who are new to motorcycling.

Chassis and Suspension Specs

• Frame: Steel frame
• Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
• Rear Suspension: Dual shock absorbers
• Brakes: Front disc, rear drum
• Tires: Front - 3.50-19, Rear - 4.25-17

Dimensions and Capacities

Let's get into the dimensions and capacities, or in other words, the size and how much the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 can hold. Understanding these specs gives you a good idea of the bike's physical presence and its practical capabilities. First off, let's talk about the overall length, which is usually around 85 inches (2160 mm). This length contributes to the bike's stable stance on the road and its comfortable riding position. Then there’s the seat height, which is an important factor for rider comfort and accessibility. The seat height on the Silverwing 500 was designed to provide a comfortable riding position for a wide range of riders. The seat height played a key role in making the bike approachable for various body types. The bike's seat height was designed to provide a comfortable riding position for most riders, making it accessible and easy to handle. The weight of the bike, typically around 480 pounds (218 kg) dry, is another key specification. This weight impacts the bike's handling and stability, and the Silverwing's weight was managed to provide a balanced riding experience. The weight of the Silverwing was a significant factor in the bike's handling characteristics, which balanced performance and ease of use. This weight helps to provide stability, especially at higher speeds, making the Silverwing feel planted and secure on the road. The fuel tank capacity is also something to consider; the Silverwing 500 typically held around 4.5 gallons (17 liters) of fuel. This capacity gave the bike a decent range, allowing for extended rides without frequent fuel stops. The fuel tank capacity provided a practical range that was essential for touring and longer rides. The fuel tank capacity was well-suited for its touring capabilities, allowing riders to cover long distances. The Silverwing's storage capacity, which was pretty standard for its class, could be increased with aftermarket accessories, making the bike ideal for touring or commuting. All these dimensions and capacities are important, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the bike. These details also influence how the bike feels to ride and how practical it is for different uses. The dimensions and capacities of the Silverwing 500 were a key part of its appeal, contributing to its functionality and ease of use.

Dimensions and Capacities in Detail

• Overall Length: Approximately 85 inches (2160 mm)
• Seat Height: Around 31 inches (787 mm)
• Dry Weight: Approximately 480 pounds (218 kg)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 4.5 gallons (17 liters)

Additional Features and Design Elements

Now, let's explore some of the additional features and design elements that made the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 stand out. The Silverwing 500 had a design that was both functional and stylish for its time, with a focus on rider comfort. The fairing, if equipped, offered wind protection, improving the riding experience, especially on longer journeys. The fairing was a key design element, and played an important role in the overall aerodynamics. It also had a practical side, helping to keep the rider protected from the elements. The Silverwing 500's design focused on rider comfort and practicality. The bike's instruments were designed to be easy to read, with clear gauges for speed, engine temperature, and other important information. The easy-to-read instruments enhanced the overall riding experience, contributing to the bike's user-friendliness. The comfortable seat was another key feature, designed to provide support and comfort during long rides. The ergonomic design elements helped reduce fatigue on longer rides, making the Silverwing 500 a great option for touring. The design's aesthetic, which was characteristic of motorcycles from the era, still appeals to classic bike enthusiasts today. The design of the Silverwing 500 also included practical elements like integrated storage options, which were helpful for carrying essentials. These features made the bike versatile and convenient for both commuting and weekend trips. The Silverwing 500 incorporated design elements that enhanced both its functionality and visual appeal. The bike's overall design was a blend of practicality and style, which was highly valued by riders. The thoughtful design contributed to its longevity in the market, making the Silverwing 500 a desirable choice. These features combined to create a motorcycle that was well-regarded for its comfort and practicality. The attention to detail and practical design elements made the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 a standout choice for riders of its time.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Silverwing 500

So, there you have it, a detailed look at the 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 specs. This bike, with its liquid-cooled engine, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance, was a true game-changer. The Silverwing 500's innovative features and design helped shape the future of motorcycle touring. Its performance and the ease of handling made it a great choice for both casual riders and those who love long trips. The Silverwing 500 continues to be an iconic motorcycle, and its legacy remains strong among motorcycle enthusiasts. Its blend of comfort, performance, and reliability made it a standout machine. Whether you're a collector, a vintage bike enthusiast, or just curious, the Silverwing 500 is a testament to Honda's engineering. Understanding these specs gives you a deeper appreciation for this classic motorcycle. The enduring appeal of the Silverwing 500 is a testament to its design and the riding experience it offers. So, next time you see a 1982 Honda Silverwing 500, you'll know exactly why it's a motorcycle worth celebrating. It’s a great example of how a bike can become a part of motorcycle history. Its design and features continue to inspire and influence motorcycle design today. The 1982 Honda Silverwing 500 is a classic that continues to earn the respect and admiration of riders.