Time to talk about one of the builds in the garage—the 1978 Honda CX500. This quirky Japanese V-twin is one of my favorite projects to date, and it perfectly captures the SPEC33 philosophy of taking a solid machine and transforming it into something truly unique through bold ideas and handcrafted engineering.
SPEC33 Build: 1978 Honda CX500
This bike is a perfect example of the SPEC33 method in action. Here’s a breakdown of the build:
The Foundation
The 1978 CX500 is the first model type of Honda’s legendary “Plastic Maggot” – a bike that redefined middleweight touring when it landed. It left the factory with a 497cc liquid‑cooled 80° V-twin, producing around 50 horsepower and featuring Honda’s then‑revolutionary ComStar wheels and shaft drive. This particular example still wears its original parts and colorway in many places – a time‑capsule piece that I was lucky enough to acquire as the third owner, preserving its honest, survivor character before the transformation began.
The SPEC33 Transformation
This build is all about respecting history while reimagining performance. For this CX500, I didn’t just bolt on a cafe kit; I carried out a full rebuild and modification of the bike from the ground up. The engine was stripped and reassembled with fresh gaskets, seals, and a thorough valve job. The suspension received progressive springs and fresh oil, while the braking system was completely overhauled. But the magic lies in blending modern materials with a classic vibe.
Bold Choices & Real Mechanical Character
What makes this build special is attention to the details that other builders might ignore. The original tank was preserved but finished with a subtle two‑tone that nods to the ’70s, while the seat pan uses modern closed‑cell foam wrapped in vintage‑texture vinyl. The handlebar controls are upgraded but keep the classic switchgear look. Every weld on the custom hoop, every tucked wire in the electrical tray, every polished ComStar spoke was done with intent. This CX500 doesn’t pretend to be a race bike – it’s a rider’s machine, a conversation starter, and a testament to what happens when you treat an old platform with fresh eyes.
This Honda isn’t just another barn find. It’s a statement.