Trying to Tame a Clapped Out 1985 Honda CR500

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The 1985 Honda CR500 was the first year of the liquid cooled 491cc 2 stroke from Honda, and it's notoriously known as the most insane Honda factory 2 stroke ever made. The CR500 is known as the "Ping King" because of it's huge displacement, it's insane torque, and it's common characteristic of being hard to start. We bought this CR500 at a swap meet for cheap, and in today's episode we're tinkering with it to make it easier to start and ride. What a beast!
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[@CarsandCameras]

Thank you to Henson Shaving for sponsoring this video! Use code “CARSANDCAMERAS” to get 100 free blade refills at hensonshaving.com/carsandcameras

[@bobg5823]

can you turn the cc on please

[@VinzClorthokeymasterofGozer]

That ain't goin nowhere. Oh hey.

[@nafariousevildeeds6699]

FOR CR 500 ADVICE GO TO KEN KAPLAN MOTORCYCLE OF AMERICA HE HAS A YOUTU E THAT DUDE KNOWS EVERYTHING ABOUT BIKES DIRT BIKES AND MOTORCYCLES PERIOD HES THE GUY TP GO TO HE SELL THE BEST CR 500S IN THE NATION

[@Casual_BackPacking]

Put the motor on a suron or a scooter 😂

[@thegreatgali1739]

What a cool sponsor! I love to see channels like you guys get these interesting sponsors.

[@johnnyhomegrownholmgren9999]

Hi. You might heard this already, if you are low on compression the enginge will run rich. So it might be a good idea to check the piston and ring... And also, a reed valve engine should never spit back the fuel thru the carb so i’m guessing it’s time to rebuild the reed valve... Keep up the good work, boys! 👍

[@danielclements2754]

That's exactly what that bike needs it's way low on power cr 500 is a beast not recommended for rookies lol😂

[@Slane583]

They said it was nearing 150psi which is within spec. I wonder if the reeds themselves are bad. The reeds seem to get over looked quite often because they don't wear out as quickly as everything else. Even if they don't have corners chipped off they might be hanging open enough to suck air. :)

[@derpydog1008]

This👆 slap some carbon fiber reed valves in that baby

[@kenselleck2414]

I was thinking reeds too. Great minds run in the same gutter!

[@juntsmoka]

they replaced the reed valve in one of the first episodes on it @@Slane583

[@CarsandCameras]

You thought a CR500 was hard to handle? How about one that's been neglected, doesn't idle, has blown out suspension, etc😁 absolutely love this bike!

[@evilbeetlekustomscreations4965]

Watching this video will put hair on your chest 😂 the bike runs on tiger piss 🐯 and screams like an eagle 🦅

[@Cryrockracing]

You should use the engine for a kart, be a challenge for ducarti

[@Just-InTimeRepairs]

@13:39 I thought he was going to mark your forehead for Cr-ash Wednesday......

[@mhmadgenious]

​@valleyanimations no they really shouldn't. Keep it as one bike

[@evilbeetlekustomscreations4965]

@@mhmadgenious 🍻amen

[@geeksgamesandgears2369]

I remember when 500s were sometimes cheaper than 250’s because how many people would pick them up and then ride it once, scare the s**t out of themselves and then immediately want to unload it cheap. It’s crazy what they sell for now. I also love how you guys went straight from a kx65 to a cr500.

[@danrapp2497]

exactly i moved down to a 250

[@geeksgamesandgears2369]

@@danrapp2497 I believe it, can’t tell you how many ads for cr/kx500’s would say “too much bike for me, will trade for 250” lol.

[@TheCraigy83]

they're barely faster then a 250 , for 2x the cc they only gain around 8hp and 13kg more mass , throwing a small amount of cash at a 250's engine gets you a better power to weight ratio + more nimble bike.

[@Rollin_legit]

@@TheCraigy83is that for a stock comparison or true built race bikes? Had my fair share of rides on different bikes, I had a 2017 kx250 rt build and could pull ahead of most stock 250s even the most modern ones, kx500 left me like i was sitting still and I had her full beans

[@TheCraigy83]

@@Rollin_legit Cr250 = 55hp crank . Cr500 = 62hp crank both factory spec .

[@blainehale]

Charles remains the comedic relief of this channel. I love him.

[@bannoch]

Isaac is equally loved, aswell as John

[@charbokh]

is that the guy that looks like Kurt Cobain?

[@jay.mcclou1056]

That’s kinda fruity?

[@yourenemystraightwhitemale]

​@@jay.mcclou1056and repeatedly talks over the other guys and made the most idiotic comments

[@bannoch]

@@charbokh who?

[@amfk8079]

The respect is large for not taking the motor out. As a die hard life long moto fan I thank you. those cr500s are more and more rare by the day.

[@jeffreydeeds2786]

Ik I got lucky getting that bike but had to sell it because I needed a car hopefully they didn’t pay the price the guy I sold it too posted it for lmao

[@jacksonms212]

100% this bike is the hell shit when ya got er dialed inn

[@christianrios6295]

A little dicey though spinning the motor that fast without oil though, no?

[@amfk8079]

@@christianrios6295 Honestly not really, you would be surprised how little oil is in a 2stroke btm end

[@H3110NU]

Doesn’t help that Outlaw Karts on dirt ovals use the cr500 as their open motor…

[@856Dropout]

The exhaust leak is still there and will effect how it’s running. The pipe gets a donut and the flange attached to the motor gets a metal gasket as well.

[@MrMatthewb9876]

Two stroke pipes always seem to leak though

[@GPMsEVproject]

The Big CRs were always hard work, they always oiled up if you didn't have a big space to open them up, also if I remember correctly the transmission case oil also lubricates the wet clutch so they can get messy, oh yes you might want to replace the flywheel as the magnets weaken with age/heat .. and don't be surprised if it wants new rings/piston & a rebore every few hours of use ..... for all those negatives just a few moments hitting the power band are worth all the hassle. I did notice what looked like some ridging in the clutch basket, if it's not too deep sometimes a light file can help remove them and stop clutch stick/judder. One other thing you might want to check and or replace are the reed valves, they do get lazy and stick open making for hard starting and bad idle, they are also cheap and easy to replace .. just my 2c Enjoying this content very much!

[@speedyme200]

Yeah that's the Reed valves they're holding slightly open causing fuel to spit out through carburetor during the piston downstroke

[@sswain833]

A restoration series would be super cool on this bike.

[@IosuamacaMhadaidh]

Honestly I like seeing John get more confident and riding larger bikes! Nothing wrong with small bikes but seeing someone's journey into two wheels is fun for me. 👍

[@CarsandCameras]

Honestly this bike is way easier to control compared to a mini bike with 25 horsepower and 6” wheels and a 30” wheelbase. I am aware that the CR500 can fool you with how fast it’s going. So gotta be careful!

[@mikellewis2346]

When they get this bike running right, there all gonna be sacred of it most likely. The 250r an 500r have a strong powerband hit and tend to throw people off so fast its impossible to stop it. I bin riding 30+ years and I wouldn't ride one anymore. I flipped to many. Lol

[@wisecampmotorcycles8258]

Yep, John sent that thing pretty darn good 😅

[@allenmichaud1605]

I had more fun on my yz 80 than my pe 250. Suzuki pe was a ripper. Rm for the woods. But that 80 was a screamer and you could throw it all over the place. But that old 250 sure could dig a sweet trench. My brother had a yz 490. Enough said

[@mikellewis2346]

@@allenmichaud1605 I've rode a yz490 and there fast bikes. Hard to hold onto in the woods. One blip of the throttle and it throw you throw the woods so fast you better hope there's no turns. Lol

[@WaterfrontJustin]

Watching Ike effortlessly fire the bike is like the reel going around where the guy hands the racer his beer and fires the racers bike up for him and spins it around

[@DyckRyk]

Gotta say I am loving the longer video lengths since you guys went to one episode a week 💪💀 you can really get the details in there and Im here for it

[@JayC133]

Going from a 20min to 50 min video really makes me happy

[@Ratkill9000]

Next on the list, getting a Banshee and trying to tame that beast!

[@shlushe1050]

Or a Quadzilla!

[@Jimbo718Slice]

or a clapped raptor 660 with a worn out chinese 686 kit

[@aceneto9386]

If you can ride a cr500 a banshee ain’t shit no more

[@hillbillieslive69]

Quadzilla Banshees for children

[@wyatt_fairchild_]

@@shlushe1050that’s what I was think lol

[@OGbqze]

I absolutely LOVE the intro. "I'm John, I'm Isaac, and I'm Charles"

[@Donvito-vk8vq]

So?

[@OGbqze]

@@Donvito-vk8vq 💩

[@Donvito-vk8vq]

@@OGbqze your homo for them? You would wear a dress in their shop and you would be there little toy

[@theeyeti]

I'm 38 years old, starting when I was in 5th grade I rodeva 1991 CR500r that was bored over with a Wiseco piston, power reeds all sorts of tricked out. It was scary fast yeah, I added a 85g flywheel weigh to be able to ride it in the trails without flooding spark plugs. Even before the upgrades it was a pig to start. The easiest way is to cycle the Piston to top dead center using the kick-start until you hear a distinctive hollow "plunk". Once you hear that bring the kick-start all the way to the top and send it through the dirt! Almost guaranteed to fire every time! Great seeing yall have so much fun with this, making me want to bust out some tools and go find a project!

[@TNTMOTO]

Great video. I restored an 85 CR500 a few years back on my channel. The Clutch cover was repaired with jb weld and an epoxy due to being made of magnesium which eventually rots. Replace the reeds. Put new jets, air screw and a new Honda choke assembly in the carb. Starting the CR500 takes technique if you want to keep your leg. Slowly kick it through the intake stroke to where you feel the piston coming back up and compressing. Stop, do not let it come to top dead center. Let the kicker come back up. Kick it slowly about 1 to 2 inches. You will feel a little relief in compression as you slightly pass top dead center. Stop. Let the kicker come back up. Now you will be able to kick it with ease because it is on its full intake stroke. By the time your leg gets to the compression stroke you will be be well into your kick. Do not get over confident with this technique. Follow this technique and anyone can kick over the Cr500. I start mine in running shoes. Good luck i am sure you will have it starting and running great very soon.

[@dankingjr.2088]

Big bore two strokes will always be my first love. Going all the way back to my 1979 KTM 420, there is nothing quite like that level of power in a lightweight chassis.

[@jt3963]

Ktm 440 mxc in sx 250 2024 model frame here. 440cc is like 500cc but it revs alot higher and power is more usable. One of the best bikes i have ever had.

[@benwhitford5703]

So glad a pt2 came out, love what you guys do 🫡

[@roserockreptiles]

We used to install compression releases on bug bore dirt bikes JS. LOVE you guys know you make an old man happy every new video. Keep them coming n thank you all

[@lewismocaby3646]

Really enjoyed this video, brings back some good memories. Still have my 90 model 250 but it’s been a lotta years since I owned a 500. Been right at 30 years since I worked for the local Honda dealer, I was always the guy who had to test ride these after we repaired em for a customer. The other mechanic from back then still works there and a good buddy of mine, he’s not as terrified of them as he used to be. He’s only 5’6” and hasn’t had another growing spurt yet, lol. The 125 was more his size in the R model 2 smokers. Most of the 2 stroke stuff I had been tasked with fixing had been usually looked as if a blind chimpanzee had been turning wrenches on it when they arrived which is commonly the case. Usually had the air boxes drilled and 8 out of 10 wouldn’t take the time to add screens to the holes afterwards or jet them up. Adding the air box back to your bike will undoubtedly help with your idling and midrange. While you’re into it this far run another compression test after replacing your crank seal to get a better idea of what you’re dealing with for cylinder and piston. I know that I’ve been into more than a few over the years that they’ve tried to do port work on themselves and ended up running the sleeves. After that they either had to buy another cylinder or we’d have to replace the sleeve in their cylinder, then you’re left with an inefficient port that puddles fuel. If you guys have a bore scope it wouldn’t hurt to look in the cylinder to see what you’re working with for wear and timing in your stroke as far as when your piston passes the intake and exhaust for the timing. I’m not positive that’s any of the problem you all are dealing with but I know for a fact that incorrect port timing makes them hard to start and really kills the power on the two strokes. Hopefully this’ll give you guys some ideas of where to start looking for solutions to what you’re dealing with. Good luck with the bike and hope it all works out for you.

[@brianz367]

Great video guys. I really love the length of this one too. This is what we were hoping for when you guys went to 1 video a week. Longer content. I love this series. Kudos to you guys. I got my signed poster the other day. It was perfect thx👊

[@chrishoff1360]

Hey guys, check the reeds. They effect starting and performance! 85 CR500 aka the Widowmaker Always check the bottom of the frame rails for ware too!

[@JeffKopis]

"Wear".

[@GratefulEd907]

Where?

[@Elyjah1]

It also won't idle with stuck open reeds too.

[@Donvito-vk8vq]

@@JeffKopisget a shirt on.. do you send that to little girls… Chris Hansen will be after you..

[@JeffKopis]

@@Donvito-vk8vq ?? 🤔 For correcting someone's spelling error?? Guilty! 🤨

[@wimvandesteeg1353]

the dampening in the exhaust is not only sound dampening, it also creates a delay and high pressure in the end of the exhaust, only this way the expansion part of the exhaust will function like it should, its like 20% more effective with clean dampening material, also means like 20% more horsepower :)

[@kenselleck2414]

More? Oh dear God!

[@broonysaint]

😂🤣@@kenselleck2414

[@bryduhbikeguy]

'DIRT BIKE FAB' did an episode describing the Right way to start the CR500 while he was rebuilding Paul from 'Fab Rats' bike.Couple motor tips in that for you too viewers.Kevin did a series on the rebuilding,and most of the tips will work on 2-strokes of all sizes.

[@inmyopinion6836]

Order a Moose flywheel ! It makes all the difference if you're not on the power band the whole time you ride. It helps with starting too. AND ... put a tool bag on the front number plate with a cordless drill and a case of new spark plugs!!!😁But seriously, a hundred of we the CR500 owners club members must have laughed at you for not knowing about the kick-starting issue. It is endemic, all-inclusive and unavoidable. Get the cordless!

[@Slane583]

Panthera makes an electric starter setup for these CR500's. But man are they pricey, they're oh so worth it if you're gearing the bike for woods riding. I couldn't imagine having to kick start this thing every time you stall it. Your leg would either twice the size from when you left home due to gained muscle or non-existent from falling off. 😁

[@SocketSlinger]

I love the air-cooled Elsinore 500's. I've had a few and miss them.

[@Slane583]

@@SocketSlinger I have a 1981 YZ 465H that I bought off of my younger brother about two or three years ago as a long term project. But it's currently a basket case as he had it apart when I bought it. Sadly it's going to take a while before I can focus on buying parts for it. There's just too many more important things to spend money on at the moment.

[@SocketSlinger]

@Slane583 man I get that, I pray something will come about to where you can finish that beast. I generally just roll, assplop the seat while simultaneously kicking them into second on them big bore two strokes while praying I don't whiskey throttle it lmbo. I'm 43 6'1" 200 lbs and have messed up my legs at a young age trying to crank some of them big ones and many wrecks, so I have been starting them like this for over 20 years. If you are close to NC and Decide to sell it I know many people that would be interested.

[@Slane583]

@@SocketSlinger The thought has crossed my mind a couple of times, then I wipe it from my head because I don't actually want to part with it. It's more of being frustrated with the fact I have too many things to work on, no place to do it and not having never ending funds to do it with. I've priced out parts to get it going and if I hoarded parts I need a chunk at a time I'd have everything I need. But then I get distracted like a bird with the next shiny thing that shows itself. I have too many hobbies and not enough money. 😁

[@DrChickenMan23]

always hold the throttle wide open during a compression test, the number will be lower if you aren't

[@jerrywilcox9890]

They had it wide open they know how to do a compression test lol.

[@DrChickenMan23]

ligma@@jerrywilcox9890

[@wisecampmotorcycles8258]

Lovin' the CR500 videos guys. Isaac, don't be scared of it, John did great on it, but your the King of sending it, on everything 😅 😂 🇦🇺

[@MrMotome]

I've been riding & racing 500's my whole life and still have a primo 93 500. Started with an 81 CR450 then to an 85 CR500 then the 93, bought them all brand new. It took me a bit to get the starting drill down on those Bad Boys but once you get it you'll never forget it. The first thing is to lean the bike over to make sure you get a little fuel out the overflow, then open the throttle wide open hit the kill button and kick it through 4 or 5 times with the choke on to prime it, then work the kick start through till you get it tight at the very top then kick as hard as you can all the way through with the throttle cracked open. Also they are notorious for the choke circuit plugging up which makes them nearly impossible to start. a quick way to see if the choke circuit is plugged just put a small amount of fuel in the spark plug hole, if it fires up it's probably plugged. I was usually able to light er up in 2 or 3 kicks as long as the motor is in good working order. I'm 66 now and don't ride the 500 as much since I got a KTM 300 with electric start, but still love to sling a leg over the 500, especially out in the desert where you can really let er sing, there is no feeling like it. The 85 was always the hardest to start. Its really important to get the jetting spot on that helps a lot. Loved the vid and am always happy to see the old 5 hunny's being revived & restored. Short shifting them is definitely the hot ticket. They make a great woods bike if you short shift and ride the torque curve and the motors last forever. Enjoy

[@squarebodycasewademckenney6190]

When Charles said he's gonna put the muffler back together without the packing I was like "no no no no no", I could just feel my eats starting to bleed knowing how lound it will be... ya should know, remember the 670 skidoo snowmobile engine how stupid loud that was lol.... then a few minutes later the honda started and YEP its loud lol

[@jasonlt1982]

JOHN, I’ve never seen you look that comfortable on a bike and yet, you were killing it on that CR 500 brother! Keep up the great content

[@CarsandCameras]

Thanks bro🤘

[@CountryKidProductions]

Wish I had my cr250r down here on base to work on, when I’m off work, love the old 2 strokes

[@CarsandCameras]

After riding the 500 I think the 250r is the perfect bike for me

[@2000jago]

I used to have one of those! Man, that brought back memories... This bike separates the men from the boys. If you don't ride it hard, it will ride you hard. It's a monster. Of all the bikes I've owned in my life I miss this one the most.

[@richardunderwood950]

From karts to mini bikes to dirt bikes. I've gone through the same progression and just love riding the dirt bikes now and my mini bikes are collecting dust lol.

[@CarsandCameras]

The Wheels and Wings cruise in has been moved to next weekend, October 30th! See ya there!

[@Ratkill9000]

That sucks. But weather is weather. Stay safe!

[@djantix1200]

September 30th I believe you meant. Love the CR500!

[@blanchard899]

Hey what elevation and temperature are you riding in? I’m very skilled and knowledgeable on the 84-86 jetting and would like to help you getting the jetting up to par. The fmf jetting is close but is going to change as the weather gets colder.

[@alwaysbroke1976]

Would love to see a restoration of this bike. You guys got one hell of a ride there. It been a while since I've owned one, still kicking myself for ever selling the cr500 I had.

[@Greg1096]

I'm in the same boat with regretting selling mine, I raced hill climbs with mine when I was a much younger man, going from a 250 to this monster was an eye opener for sure

[@martinpanks992]

28:02, 'Did you say bigbore kit?', That made me laugh out loud for a second.😆

[@SLIMMY93]

Awesome video!! Much love, can't wait to see more!!

[@burridge911]

John looks like a ten year old trying to start that bike 😂😂

[@waynerowlinson6177]

One of the few videos out there that made my adrenalin run just by watching it. I never had the opportunity to ride a 500, but was able to ride a similar year 250 back when they were still new and that terrified me. I hate to admit it, but this bike is way too much for me, even on my best day. Great video. I can't wait for the next one!

[@setha360]

Try riding one a after a few beers like we always did, lucky im still alive,

[@colemaurer1750]

i love the cr 500 vids that thing is so cool great one guys. you are all legends!!

[@JohnHill-jm7tm]

Another awesome video guys 👍. So much detail and easy to follow. This Old Man from Washington NC looking forward to seeing y'all Saturday. Going to be a fun time if not rained out. Love You Three. 🛵🧔💝💝💝

[@hutchdoesstuff2049]

I think you guys drained a bucket of liquid clutch plates out in that oil

[@nikonordman7624]

That is my thinking too

[@pmkgamingtv]

If you can't start it don't ride it 💪

[@chrisdalebout5106]

It is really fun to watch how you three work together. John knowing when to call for help, and the way you did it. Bolt swimming pool 😅. Great video!

[@herbertbryant5203]

I had a 85 cr for years did a lot of desert riding and many memories ! Love that bike and miss it very much !

[@chevy4life203]

You said left and right. I'm assuming you saw an L and R which could and probably stands for lean and rich.

[@DividedWeFall1000]

You are correct...

[@EngineerLichLegion]

Absolutely love Issac's Advertising! Such a great sport with the comedy of sport shaving with Henson Razors!

[@thatcrazyguyjay]

love the old 500s ive still got my cr 500 but since ive owned it in last 8 years ive basically put my cr500 in Crf 450 frame and it looks awesome now love old 2 smokers and smell you cant beat it

[@johnsantos1225]

Good to see the leg is bouncing back. i felt that pain just watching. Still have dents in my chin from trying to kick start quads with tennis shoes on... Don't miss those days lol

[@LordHolley]

I'll be right there! There's nothing like a two-stroke five hundred! You gotta be in good shape, and know what you're doing to ride those things on the pipe for any length of time. I wish they still made them.

[@willierule3744]

So growing up we had a problem with our CR 450 R and it kept falling plugs. It was really hard to start and the problem is is the crank seal kept going bad and we found that the bearing had just a little bit of play in the bottom end and no matter what we did we could replace that crank seal over and over and over and it kept failing because the crank bearings were bad so maybe that something you could check in or even just a couple thousands of play is going to be rough on it so I congratulations guys I’m bringing that bike back to life is actually amazing.

[@BikerBazz793]

BEST video yet boys!! Keep them comin 😎👍🏼... from scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@andersaxelsson2196]

Awsome. I use to have a Honda 480 back in the days. It was a 1982 model.. Miss it some time. But nowadays i ride a 4 stroke enduro bike

[@mediamate426]

i think ike raging at the bike while trying to start it is one of the most relatable things ive ever seen. Great video hope you guys make more bike vids

[@craigtownsend3149]

This is awesome I rewatched the last video on this bike just last night great timing lads

[@bradauringer4873]

Great video guy's. I had an early 80's Suzuki PE 400. It to was a pain to get started. But once it got warmed up. OMG. I learned real fast that if you got didn't respect it. It would hurt you. To this day I am surprised that I never broke any bones for the number of times it threw me off. Big Bore 2 strokes are a beast. I'm curious to see if John has what it takes to truely tame the beast. Good luck and be safe. thanks guy's

[@kernelbadness]

That Leak/pressure test 😆 😂

[@loudd]

I love these new longer videos!

[@brettgl21]

2001 CR500. My favorite bike I ever owned! Have fun guys! They are more fun than anything else to ride. Remember the wise words of Dave Aldana. "You don't know how fast you can go until you fall off." I heard him say those words when I was 4 yrs old and have ridden that way my whole life. I am 56 now. I survived. HAHA! Great fun!

[@loganpace1309]

Man honda knew what they were doing in 1985. Great video😀

[@tiffanyodell5257]

Good, for some reason the zoom is stuck and your full frame right now, perfect. Love it

[@krudlumpstv7854]

YOOO GUYS these bikes are meant to run with the stock air box, air filter, and packing in the exhaust putting these things on might make it run better. It may also need new piston rings and I noticed that the clutch basket had some pretty good grooves in it so y’all might want to replace it soon too. it’s awsome to see all the new parts you guys are throwing at this thing and so far y’all have been doing it justice for sure 👍

[@crafty_customsyt]

You guys are hilarious 🤣 I would love to come hang with y'all for a day to build and rip on some machines. I just built my first drift trike thanks to your inspiration! Glad to see ya sitting on the big toys. Stay safe!

[@jazmuzz8423]

Great vid, very informative, I loved seeing the pump fown test. Im pretty sure part of the fmf tune is the needle adjustment 2nd notch from the top aswell as the jet...

[@zachlee805]

I gotta say, these dirt bike videos excite the heck out of me, any 2 stroke dirt bike 80cc's and higher yknow its gonna be a good vid. I cant wait for them to fine 3 dirt bike or a 125cc.

[@gregreelman4526]

Good work.That bike's an animal and you guys will have fun with it.I'd replace the clutch/water pump housing though.

[@eddyd.105]

Get a set of Vforce3 Reed valves there not to expensive and they will give you massive gains in throttle response and better fuel distribution going into the crankcase by far one of the best upgrades when it comes to 2 strokes.

[@BennyTygohome]

Man that thing is loud!! Nice!

[@Ds-xi2sq]

Kool Video ... Just happen to come across this on you tube...Myself i have a 89, CR500, Mint Shape. My Honda dealership where i live, has been trying to get me to sell him my CR500. And you never know i might do a trade for a VTX1300, not sure yet ! ... I'm almost 67 now and i don't ride it, Yes it was put away the right way. Most powerful bike i have ever owned was a Honda XR650R uncorked with a stage 2 HRC Kit . Just a little quicker than the CR500. The CR500 would be almost at my back rim on the XR650R all the way threw the gears. The 89 - 91 are the most sought after CR500'S on the market. Anyone interested drop me a note , comes with lots of plastic and mods i have done with this CR500. Might as well let some one have joy riding this icon motorcycle. Note: Never raced was my fun bike '' enduro '' .. Sure had fun with it...Mint Shape as all my bikes are. ( 1982 Yamaha IT465 - 1976 Honda MR250 100% restored all NOS - 1989 Honda CR500 - 1977 Yamaha XT500 - 2003 Honda VTX 1800C - 1983 Honda CB1000C )

[@twocvbloke]

"Do you want a glass of water?" - I think poor Isaac needed a pint (UK sized) of cold beer after that compression test... :P

[@Truthwarrior106]

Great content gentlemen..My old 450 Maico and '68' Bultaco 250 Pursang had a compression release lever on them..Worked great.But The Maico stripped the kick starter lever splines often!

[@brianlackie5093]

We had one of those when we were kids my brother was a big guy when he was 18 years old he had that exact 1985 CR500 but it was complete withe gold rims, it was a complete bike. It was hard to get it to start up but that thing was a monster it was really hard to crank up because it had so much compression but you put the boot on and crank and cranking once that thing came to life it was a monster 1985 CR500 was a total Beast

[@bogdeep2175]

I learned the cheap is expensive lesson with my 05 crf450x as well with similer issues and have spent close to half of what i bought it for ,into it again and its still not runing 100%.Though im getting closer it is really frustrating making supposedly the right changes and it either still not wanting to run or just getting worse. Wish you guys luck on getting it to run correctly so you can enjoy it a lot since big dirtbikes are a lot of fun

[@DIRTBIKEFAB]

Well she’s ALIVE!!!!! Love the video boys. I’m glad I could give advice where I could. Oh yeah don’t lose that air boot I had to trade a kidney and one of my big toes for that thing😂

[@churchrestored9315]

I've rode 2 strokes all my life. they always need the factory filter housing to run properly. love you guys. hope this helps.

[@Emanceo]

Hi cars and cameras I want to let you know that I am 13 years old you have have inspired me to be a mechanic and be confident Thankyou for everything you are a great teacher I have learned a lot of things I prefer cars and cameras than vice grip garage because you guys are funny ,Thank you guys so much ❤

[@nickacelvn]

Good on you "Hinson Shaving" for sponsoring (I'm already shaving with Hinson and they are great and very cost-effective.... I'm not even getting paid LOL but if you're smart and have stubble you'll do well to be using them)

[@aaronfidelisrecine]

I had a 1987 CR250 that I supermoto'd with 17's, put a new reed cage in it, fmf pipe, new chain and re-geared sprockets etc. Took it for about 3 rides and sold it. I like being alive. That thing was terrifyingly fast, especially for me a 5'5" 130lb mini man.

[@Joesfosterdogs]

I dig how you guys work together...great chemistry

[@todorow22]

John you rode that thing like a boss. Respect. 🤘

[@mattearnhardt1151]

Thanks guy's keep up the hard work

[@bjfishing9046]

one thing i suggest as i had this same issue. Check in the venturi of the carb just ahead of the slide. theirs two little ports in the bottom that allow the idle jet fuel to be drawn up into the carb. Had the same issue and thats all it was. blow through with some cleaner. If you look up a diagram of how the idle circuit works you'll see the holes im talking about.

[@WingmanJohnny]

Keep making great videos yins guys. Keep up the great work

[@chevyman2002]

I had an lt500r a handful of years ago, bored to a 560cc. I found it in my best interest to turn the ignition off while setting TDC. Turn on the ignition and kick. I was barely pressing it once and it fired, the kick start went down all the way and came back up so hard it literally took a small chunk out of my tennis shoe.

[@chrishoff1360]

Turn the choke knob in or out to adjust the idle and check the Reeds for hard starting problems they need to be ceiling nice and tight replace with boyesen reeds

[@billmyette580]

Great job putting the CR500 together. I've been wrenching and riding two strokes for about 30 years now. Here's a few thoughts: 1.) The silver-milky oil is a combination of aluminum clutch material and a coolant-oil mixture. The reason it was so runny was because water was mixing with the oil. Someone mentioned the cases being eaten out, but I'd check the water pump seal first. If the seal fails, the higher pressure coolant will push past the seal into the clutch case and mix with the engine oil. Remember that the water pump is driven off the clutch side via a reduction gear. My KX500 did that once and I had to replace the seal. 2.) Mixture Leanness: Two strokes are intensely mixture sensitive especially to leanness (i.e. too much premix will thicken up the fuel and hose the A/F mix too lean; a crank seal will suck in air, lean the mixture and hole the piston or melt the piston at the exhaust port). Make sure your mixture is spot on. Check to make sure that the bike was up-jetted for the pipe (or lean mixture results will suck (see above)). If your spark plug is oil fouling and the mixture is spot on, suspect the clutch side crank seal. Make sure your choke, throttle access to the carb, and anywhere air can enter the carb is correctly sealed. I had my choke unscrew on my KX500, which lead to a runaway motor, new piston, rings, and cylinder replating (BTW, pulling the spark plug did not stop the run away). Chances are, if that happens, you won't be able to save the piston and cylinder in time: an ounce of prevention beats a ton (rather than pound) of cure. Check the intake boot for dry rot, cracking, or tearing; again, a lean condition will lead to a bad day and costly repairs. Check the exhaust port: look for smearing of the piston onto the rings, this will indicate the A/F mixture is off. 3.) Starting the CR500/KX500: get the piston to the top of compression stroke, slowly put pressure to get the bike just over the "hump" of the top of the piston stroke. Stop, and reset the kickstarter to the top. Jump up and give it a helluva whallup downward with the MX boot on. If you do it wrong, you're leg will crumble and the kickstarter won't move (just like your video today). If the bike is running well, it should start in 2-3 kicks max. (choke on cold and no choke warmed up). 4.) Plan on replacing your rings, it's a meager price to pay for 2 stroke performance and simplicity. 5.) Transmission sliders (what the shift forks move to engage transmission gears) or gear cogs are infamous for breaking. 2nd is the worst, because 1st is mostly useless on a 500, and most people would dump the clutch in 2nd. 6.) Get V-force reeds or Boysen reeds; it'll give you much better throttle response for little $$. 7.) There's better carbs than the stock carb for a CR500, but it can get pricey. 8.) 2 strokes are not intended to be lugged like a 4 stroke. Stay in the powerband, rev it, and hang on. If you lug the bike, you're going to just foul your plugs and not get the riding experience the manufacturers designed the bike to do. 9.)The bike looks thrashed, the swingarm bushings will most likely be trashed as well as the front tire bearings. 10.) Get fork protectors: it'll keep the forks protected from moisture, rusting, and pitting and keep the fork seals working better for a longer time. 11.) Purchase the latest "Motorcross and Off-road Performance Handbook" by Eric Gorr: it has a ton of tech tips and articles as well as what specific plague MX bikes from 80-500cc engines and most popular MX manufacturers (Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, etc.). DM me or contact me, and I'll provide whatever assistance I can over the phone, via email, or in person (I'm not too far away from you on the Atlantic seaboard). Lastly, if you'd like, I can bring my KX500 by and we can do some riding (you're welcome to ride the KX500 which has a brutal punch in the balls and demands to be noticed when it gets on the powerband).

[@billmyette580]

And to sweeten the pot: I'll bring my 78 Kawasaki H2 750 Streetbike "Widowmaker" with the KX500 to your shop.

[@billmyette580]

I knew I forgot something: you clutch basket fingers are grooved. This will cause the clutches not to release properly, making the clutch both prematurely "grabby" when starting from a stop and less likely to release as fast as desired when the SHTF moment that you want the clutch to work best. Check the clutch inner hub for grooving as well. The needle bearing on your clutch shaft is silver due to the aluminum powder going into the bearing. Replace it unless you want that bearing to seize on the clutch shaft, wipe out your clutch, and won't disengage (most likely at high RPM and about when you'd want the clutch to release when the SHTF moment. If you want a more durable clutch, get a Hinson clutch basket and components. You can also get a lockup clutch (used on the Yamaha Banshees) which will apply the full clutch force when the clutch is fully engaged). The fuel spitting out the carburetor is most likely worn intake reeds. The two stroke uses pressure pulses from the exhaust to scavenge the cylinder which is supposed to be stopped by the reeds. And you really should have the airbox and boot to the carb as well. The JB Weld turns blue when exposed to the green coolant. An MX bike is designed to turn fast on dime and give 9 cents change. This makes them prone to a bad headshake at high speed. Congratulations on putting the fork protectors on it and adjusting the jets. Once you get accustomed to the powerband, you can keep the front wheel about 6-8" off the ground and steer the bike "moderately" like a unicycle on an open field.

[@XxlargemanxX]

I went from a 125 4 stroke to a 380 2 smoke, and man what a game changer, been wanting a cr 500 in a nice new aluminum 450f frame, im just too poor and dumb to work on stuff.

[@james.d.8044]

Ike killed that Henson razor Ad 😮💯💯.....but why was that shaving cream so high up on his face 😂

[@jorgedelaespriella4484]

"Taco bell will give you the same feeling" 🤣🤣 perfect timing with that punch line

[@Jacksonkellyfreak]

Man I feel for John. I've ALWAYS wanted a cr500, and at 5'9" 148 lbs, even with fairly decent leg muscle the couple I've ridden were a pain in the ass to start. Both were also clapped out heaps that you had to kick over and over.

[@michaelhutch2288]

You boys should make that thing look like the bike from winner take all!😂😂😂😂😂

[@michaelhutch2288]

Rad video bro Iv kicked a 90’s CR500 in regular shoes got it started and rode it but dam near broke my ankle…definitely tweeted it.😂💪🏻

[@Tjay0716]

Absolutely terrifying to ride but what a blast Thanks for the memories! Lol!

[@DIDDLYWAYNE]

Y’all need to take that bike to a place where you can really open it up and get through all the gears! Great content guys love to see the love for the old Hondas 🤙🏼

[@justjesse16]

a tip to help with kickstaring. squeeze the front brake. keeps the bike from rolling but also loads suspension to help kick

[@Skiridr22]

I don’t think his boots is working anymore 😂😂😂 yours worked

[@ChrisDunnMaine_420]

LOL glad to see Clifford The Big Red CR500 almost running a little bit the workout on The Kinks you'll get there you'll get it there

[@WOLFEY0812]

John you should restore that 500 I would love to see what you would do with it. They are 1 of the best bikes out there. 💯 Keep up the great work guys 💪

[@MikeRay1978]

Man it’s running. And it’s a cr500. I couldn’t live with myself without checking the top end and the bottom end play and the reeds.

[@breisch1986]

I used to have a 1985 kx500. It was also a PITA to start. It was mostly clapped out as well. It had 2 states of running, either it wouldn't start, or it tried to kill you every moment it was running. I miss that bike 😥