1982 Honda FT500 Ascot Racer

The Honda Ascot, designated FT500, was introduced in 1982 in a choice of red or black. Behind its stylish rectangular headlight was a 498cc single overhead camshaft single cylinder engine – think XL500 dirtbike – knocking out a respectable 35bhp.

The motorbike offered

The first year Ascot on offer here was stripped for racing. With rearsets, dropped ‘bars, Supertrapp exhaust, oil cooler, and steering damper added and indicators and headlight removed, the bike was sparingly used on the track as a very capable, supremely fun and extremely cheap way to blow off some steam. The engine must have been recently overhauled as it feels taut and responsive. It was just gone-through by our mechanic/seller, who replaced the handlebars for something a little easier as well as checking all fuel and spark systems. A nice clean example, it comes with original indicators, but no headlight.

Sold on a clean, clear California title.