Photo: bikebound.com · Public domain
Honda XL500S
77/100 Overall
70 On the road83 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda XL500S vs Yamaha XT500
Honda XL500S scores 77/100 overall against Yamaha XT500 on 80/100. On the road: 70–72. As classics: 83–88. Overall result: Yamaha XT500.
Photo: JokielGram · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha XT500
80/100 Overall
72 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda XL500S | Yamaha XT500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha XT500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Honda XL500S if…
you want a simple, torquey and charismatic big trail bike with straightforward Honda engineering.
Choose the Yamaha XT500 if…
you want simple, durable all-road ability and the relaxed pulse of a landmark big single.
Background
History
Honda XL500S
The Honda XL500S was produced from 1979–1981 and used a 498cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, ownership appeal and reliability. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Yamaha XT500
The Yamaha XT500 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda XL500S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1981.
- The recorded engine description is: 498cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, ownership appeal and reliability.
Yamaha XT500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, reliability, ownership appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda XL500S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda XL500S. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha XT500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XT500. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Honda XL500S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha XT500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda XL500S
Rivals to the Yamaha XT500
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha XT500 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha XT500 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha XT500 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.