It bears a close resemblance to the model from which it was derived — the later 5-speed version of the CB450 which was discontinued in 1974.

The engine is an air-cooled 498 cc (30.4 cu in) double overhead cam (DOHC) vertical parallel twin with 180° crankshaft angle, and torsion bar valve springs.

The air/fuel mixture is delivered by two 32 mm Keihin Constant Velocity (CV) carburetors.

While not receiving much praise from reviewers or riders, Cycle World took note of its comfortable and roomy seat in its 1975 test, writing, "Unusual in that it is brown in color, it is long enough to carry a briefcase or passenger without crowding the rider.

Believe us, without this seat you couldn’t ride a 500T very far and get off smiling.