The first Honda XR model was the ’79 XR500, which was notable for a 23″ front wheel. Here’s an example that’s got a smaller front wheel…and a whole bunch of other modifications, like a C&J Racing frame.
A period Cycle World review of the first year XR500 was headlined with, “At Last. A Big Bore Four-Stroke Dirt Bike That Lives Up To Its Promise.” The 497cc four-stroke engine was good for 36 horsepower and the bike weighed 288 pounds ready to ride.
This example has been heavily customized so several of the above numbers are no longer relevant – weight has been saved with the C&J frame (which has been powdercoated), the exahust header was cerakoted, the engine was rebuilt with a fresh top end and the bottom end was split to powder the cases and install a few new parts: seal, oil pump, and bearings. Other goodies include Ohlins shocks and the front end from a ’86 Honda CR250. It’s sold on a Bill of Sale only.
Find this XR in Scottsdale, Arizona with a BIN of $8,000 or best offer here on eBay.