Honda XL500 R Scrambler By Purpose Built Moto

The 1981 Honda XL500 holds a unique place in the realm of vintage dirt bikes, celebrated for its character and rugged versatility. This VMX-style scrambler arrived at the Purpose Built Moto workshop courtesy of a loyal client seeking a perfect companion to a previously crafted Yamaha XT500. The mission was clear: preserve the essence of the XL while enhancing its performance and style to create a machine that truly stands out.

Retrocross Reimagined

This build represents a continuation of a refined approach to vintage motocross, enduro, and dual-sport classics. Purpose Built Moto specializes in blending timeless design with modern touches, balancing authenticity, capability, and style to craft motorcycles that honor their heritage while embracing contemporary performance.

Retrocross: Purpose Built Moto’s Design DNA

Retrocross embodies a unique design philosophy crafted through standout builds like the DT400, XT500, and now the XL500 showcased here. This design direction taps into a sense of nostalgia, reigniting the excitement of the teenage years spent admiring or riding the iconic bikes of the past. Drawing inspiration from the motorcycles that defined an era—machines ridden, spoken of, or revered—each build is reimagined with a focus on clean aesthetics and cutting-edge performance upgrades.

The Engine Build

The XL500’s engine received a full overhaul with no corners cut. A 95mm big-bore piston, running at 10.5:1 compression, boosts displacement to approximately 570cc. Oversized valves, new seats, and guides were added to ensure optimal performance, all fed by a TM40 pumper carb sourced from Mikuni Oz. To manage the increased power, a strengthened clutch was installed, providing durability to match the engine’s enhanced output.

Starting the bike now takes some effort due to the increased compression, but the payoff is undeniable. The upgraded XL delivers freight train-like torque and a sound that matches its commanding performance.

Custom 12-Volt Conversion

Modernizing the electrical system of the vintage XL500 presented unique challenges, especially with limited off-the-shelf solutions. The conversion to a 12-volt system involved rewinding the charging coil, installing a specialized regulator/rectifier, and integrating Purpose Built Moto’s proprietary black box under the seat. This upgrade powers 12-volt LED lighting, a streamlined aftermarket dash, and the PBM Black Box and Switch setup, ensuring modern functionality and reliability while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

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