Are Carburetors Still Relevant in Racing? The instrumentation is improved with the introduction of a fuel gauge and like the rest of the bike, a much updated appearance. They were never designed to hold that stock, so upgrading the valvetrain is usually one of the first things you want to do. For the 1983 model year, the engine of the CX500 Turbo was increased to 673 cc, together with an increase in power. The round headlight of the early bikes is also replaced with a rectangular lens which gives improved night lighting. This is where Wilson and 4 Piston Cylinder Heads specialize. The CX500 met with a good degree of success. EB, Engines: Rebuilding Ford’s 5.0L Coyote Engine, Products: Moroso Pro Mod 6-Quart Dry Sump Oil Tank. The 1981 model had a small tail trunk, which was replaced by a larger trunk in 1982. The GL500 also used Honda's Pro-Link monoshock rear suspension and was available as either a naked bike or as an Interstate model with fairing. Final drive is with a shaft. [5], The styling was radical[citation needed] and upright forks and a short engine contributed to a stubby wheelbase on a bike that was rather tall. [verification needed]. “What we are doing is making the engines stronger, and setting them up for higher output,” Wilson says. Above that is beyond normal. “We also relieve some of the back pressure with our exhaust port, which becomes important when upgrading to larger turbos that will exceed 600 hp. Like other CX customs, especially the CX400C designed for Asia-Pacific, this model was a cruiser. A lot of people opt for buying entry-level, four-cylinder cars and then put money into making those vehicles race cars. The "Deluxe" model appeared in 1979. One of those newer K series engines is the K20C1 seen in the new Civic Type R. According to Luke Wilson of 4 Piston Cylinder Heads in Danville, IN, there’s real potential behind this powerplant and they’ve been putting resources into its further development. The "Custom" variant, introduced in 1979, had a smaller, narrower tank and buckhorn handlebars. We offer replacing the OEM sleeve with a ductile iron sleeve for larger bore size and use an o-ring for additional cylinder sealing. The changes made the 500 Sports significantly better to both look at and ride, and more reliable than the previous versions. The K20C1 is a direct injected, turbocharged, 2.0L engine that produces 306 hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque from the factory. The K-series engines are equipped with DOHC valvetrains and use roller rockers to reduce friction. ", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_CX_series&oldid=1006848463, Articles needing additional references from June 2009, All articles needing additional references, Wikipedia articles needing clarification from January 2013, Articles with unsourced statements from January 2013, Wikipedia articles needing factual verification from May 2017, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 15 February 2021, at 03:33. Kelford Cams Appoints New VP of Business Development, Moroso Dart/Rocket, Spread Rail, Dirt Late Model Oil Pan, Engine Sealing Using Hoops and Receiver Grooves, Edelbrock to Leave California HQ for Mississippi. Especially now that all those motors are 20-plus years old, all the spring tension is gone now. The engine case look was retained nearly intact from the original CX500. The cylinders have cast iron sleeves similar to the B series engines. Tubular frame design, TRAC anti-dive forks, Pro-Link rear suspension, twin-pot brakes and disc front and back. Used Cars Stone Mountain GA At Southern Auto Imports, our customers can count on quality used cars, great prices, and a knowledgeable sales staff. While both the B and K-series engines are great in a turbo application, the K series is the go-to if you’re considering an all-motor application. of torque. This system forgoes the use of a conventional distributor-based ignition timing system in favor of a computer-controlled system that allows the ECU to control ignition timing based on various sensor inputs. In addition to those upgrades, most Honda engine builders suggest replacing rods and pistons too. The Interstate included a large factory fairing, hard saddlebags, and a trunk. Honda built 1,777 models, with fewer than 1,200 imported to the U.S. and Canada. The market for Honda is huge and the availability of their vehicles and engines has spread across the globe. US bikes (except GL500I, GL650I and Turbo) were equipped with a single front disc brake whereas all other bike possess dual front disc brakes. The turbocharger, at peak boost providing approximately 19 psi boost nearly doubles the power output of the engine. Most people don’t have the budget to buy a performance car and then dump another small fortune into modifying it for racing. The model shares many common features with the CX500TC. [8] Overproduction of the 1982 GL500 caused some to be sold new as late as 1984. It was initially designed as a 90 Â° V-twin. Sports model engines are identifiable via the lack of a cam chain tensioner bolt and the revised valve covers which feature black painted stripes and satin alloy flat areas. Just as with the Honda Gold Wing, the transmission spins contrariwise to the engine's rotation to help counteract the engine torque's tendency to tip the bike slightly to one side when the throttle is opened or closed. Watch Engine Builder's latest discussions and explanations. Although it has many variations, the basic design differs very little among the B series. The Honda CX series motorcycles, including the GL500 and GL650 Silver Wing variants, were developed and released by Honda in the late 1970s, with production ending in most markets by the mid 1980s. “We also bore, hone, deck and o-ring the blocks for better seal, and CNC port the cylinder head.”. The later CX650ED shared the majority of the cosmetic changes introduced by the 500EC, whilst in Japan a 400 cc version was introduced with the same styling to comply with licence rules. The dual shock models use a single tube backbone whereas the later Pro-Link models employed a triple tube backbone. The Japanese and European market saw 400 cc versions of the CX and GL, aptly named the CX400 and GL400. Other changes also meant that the standard valve clearances were reduced, possibly through tighter manufacturing control. The design included innovative features and technologies that were uncommon or unused at the time such as liquid cooling, electric-only starting, low-maintenance shaft drive, modular wheels, and dual CV-type carburetors that were tuned for reduced emissions. [9] With redundant fail-safe systems working in tandem with a separate ignition system. In general, the B series engines are cheaper to build than the K series, even though they’re becoming harder to find. Later models have minor upgrades including modifications to the intake valves, ports and piston tops, along with individual cylinder oil injectors. We’re designing the engine to be able to handle about 800 horsepower.”, No matter what series Honda engine you have your hands on, competent engine builders will be able to deliver big horsepower out of that small engine! However, that really kills flow. Instead of floating a valve, it’s best to get those replaced, no matter what.”. The GL500 engine was similar to the CX500 engine, but used the more reliable transistorized ignition system, which meant the stator would contain only charging windings and thus would put out more power for operating the lights and other devices commonly added to touring motorcycles. 1981 was the final year for the CX500 Deluxe model. The engine case is changed to accept the larger crankshaft bearings of the CX650 released in the same year, while the suspension, brakes, frame and fairing all differ significantly from the earlier CX500 and the Pro-Link rear suspension and TRAC (Torque Reactive Anti-dive Control) were used on the CX500EC (released 1982) and CX650ED (released 1983) models. It was aimed at the UK, European, Canadian, and Australian markets. Sharing many parts with the CX500 Turbo introduced the same model year, the Sport (following the release of the CX650ED 'Eurosports', many people referred to the CX500EC also as the 'Eurosports' although technically not correct) features air pre-load assisted front forks with an anti-dive mechanism, known as TRAC (Torque Reactive Anti-dive Control), and an air pre-load assisted prolink mono-shock rear suspension. The CX-based Silver Wings were discontinued after the 1983 model year. However, in a cost-cutting exercise, Honda manufactured the 650 Turbo fairing from ABS plastic as opposed to the 500 turbo's GRP. The engines use a coil-on-plug, distributor-less ignition system with a coil for each spark plug. According to Wilson, the market interested in these engines is going to be really, really excited about 400 horsepower, but his team isn’t stopping there! In that version the cylinder heads did not have the cylinder-head twist.[3]. [clarification needed], While V-twins were nothing new, as Moto Guzzi had been mounting them with the crankshaft inline with the frame with shaft drive for many years, this Honda was decidedly different. It was superseded by the CX650TD (CX650 Turbo; D=1983) for the 1983 model year, which was itself discontinued the same year. Its engaging performance that impresses lots of drivers is efficiently combined with stellar fuel economy. Honda 8th Gen Civic Si K-Series FG2 / FA5 Garrett T3 Turbo Kit 2006-2011The Full-Race K-series Turbo Kit for FA2 and FG2 chassis is proven to be the best performing and most reliable turbo kit for stock -or- built K-series engines. This engine is not only being utilized in on-road Honda Civics, but also purpose-built racecars, including F4 and F3 feeder series for the climb to Indy Car, British Touring car, IMSA, and many other forms of endurance racing. “In stock form, B series engines can range from 500 horsepower to 1,300 horsepower if it’s a fully built motor. The 1978 CX500 Standard had a large fuel tank, stepped seat, a round brake fluid reservoir and a plastic mini-fairing that was thought to look unusual at the time. The CX500TC powerplant was based on the water-cooled V-twin with four pushrod-operated overhead valves per cylinder configuration used in the CX500 introduced a few years earlier. Cosmetically, the CX650 Turbo differs little from its predecessor other than in colors and badging. Power is transferred by an enclosed splined driveshaft with one universal joint. According to 1320 DTR, the K series engines are pretty solid overall. The CX was the first V-twin motorcycle that Honda ever built. By Brian Gillespie . Either way, the K series has effectively taken over where the B series left off. They’re open deck blocks, so to strengthen those up and run the stock sleeves is fine – you can do the CSS and run over 1,000 horsepower,” he says. The Sports is also significantly restyled with a larger fuel tank, a nose fairing, side panels, seat, and tail unit that share much more modern lines. The only difference between them being the deck height – the K20 has a deck height of 8.3˝ where the K24 has a deck height of 9.1˝. There are actually two short blocks which are used for the entire series. “It is also more than 100 grams lighter than the OEM rod. The K20C1 engine also has an offset crank in relation to the bore so that the piston is straight up and down when it’s on a power stroke. “Honda’s of the past 20 years have flown 300 cfm,” he says. For the Turbo and Eurosport models the rear drum was replaced with a dual piston caliper and disc. The upgrades needed for high horsepower with this platform are similar to the B series – rods and pistons. The B series is going out the door eventually.”. At high rpm, both intake valves open fully to improve engine breathing. “They don’t guarantee that. “Not many people have seen that engine taken apart, let alone built into something substantial.”. The engine has a 10.0:1 compression ratio and 9,650 rpm redline. They produce between 126 hp and 190 hp with some models capable of a redline over 8,500 rpm. The distinction between them was the cylinder block deck height. Turn signals were now mounted along the fork tubes, below the level of the headlight. First introduced in 2001, the Honda K-series engine is a four-cylinder, four-stroke engine that replaced the B series. Stay up to date by signing up for the Engine Builder newsletter. The fuel-injection control system was substantially revised for the CX650 Turbo, and the rear shock received an update as well by adding a manually operated damping control mechanism in addition to the "air" pre-load of the previous model. Only 100 units were shipped to the UK with none being exported to Australia. Electronic system failures were reported to the driver through two dashboard displays: an issue with the fuel injection system would light a "Fuel System" light on the dashboard and an issue with the ignition would flash the "TURBO" indicator. The Honda CX series motorcycles, including the GL500 and GL650 Silver Wing variants, were developed and released by Honda in the late 1970s, with production ending in most markets by the mid 1980s. Its semi chopped fork, tear drop tank, low seat and truncated exhaust gave it a very rakish look. “Those cranks are well over 1,000 horsepower.”. That’s just because the B series obviously aren’t in production anymore and they’re starting to become a little more scarce and harder to get ahold of.”. The one used for B16 and B17 engines has a deck height of 8.03˝, while the short block used for B16B, B18 and B20 engines has a deck height of 8.3˝. In 1983 the GL500 was upgraded to the GL650. The CX650ED or Eurosport was also introduced in 1983 and was cosmetically very similar to the CX500EC Sports produced the previous year. That’s Honda’s stronghold on the market and a few of its engines stand out when it comes to building performance vehicles – the B series engines and its K20 and K24 engines. “It’s definitely going to replace all B series motors just like the B series replaced all the single cam stuff. The Honda Civic features a superior level of fit and finish as well as impressive reliability. Most guys are anywhere from 900-1,300 horsepower pretty regularly with a turbo.”. “We replace a rather fragile OEM connecting rod with our Saenz I-beam rod that is rated at over 800 hp,” Wilson says. In addition to the increase in displacement, the compression ratio was increased and the maximum boost pressure was lowered thus making for a smoother transition from off-boost to on-boost. Garrett GTX4508R Dual Ball Bearing Turbo The latest ball bearing GTX-R series of the GT45 range is here on time for the race season. Apart from the larger engine, the GL650 had a slightly different fairing mounts and front engine hanger mount than the GL500, and portions of the GL650 engine are painted black. The shaft drives a bevel gear to which the wheel is joined via a cush-drive, which absorbs and dampens driveline shocks and vibrations. The CX650's styling was different, and the engine was painted black instead of plain aluminium. Honda’s B series were a family of inline four-cylinder DOHC performance engines introduced by Honda in 1988. It’s the Honda that we’re going to be working with for the next 20 years. “To start, we sleeve blocks with ductile iron sleeves from either LA Sleeve or Darton,” Jose Bello says. Built up, they’re similar to the B series and guys are making anywhere from 900-1,400 hp. This is an even more efficient and more potent version of the which flows more HP and can handle a lot more boost. “The B series engines are turbo applications,” Cahalan says. The electronic ignition system was separate from the rest of the electrical system, but the motorcycle could only be started via the start button. The CX650 Custom was a one-year model produced in 1983 for the US market. The K-series engines are equipped with DOHC valvetrains and use roller rockers to reduce friction. Not only was the 497 cc engine water-cooled, but it had four valves per cylinder that were operated by pushrods rather than the overhead cams favored by Honda on its previous four-stroke engine designs. “The stock turbo can produce 400 lb.-ft. of torque at low rpm and over 400 hp.”. The brakes, suspension and handling were advanced in comparison to CX500 variants. It’s pretty wild for a little engine, but they’re different.”. Most guys are anywhere from 900-1,300 horsepower pretty regularly with a turbo.” K Series. “Their sleeves are a little thicker, so they’re a little stronger sleeve-wise,” he says. The CX500 Turbo was released in 1982. However, a stock crank can hold up, to a point. The included angle of the CX is 80°, and the heads are twisted 22° so that the inlet tracts do not interfere with the rider's legs. It’s a cheaper option than many other brands and the aftermarket support for Honda has always been massive. In 1981 Honda released the GL500 Silver Wing, which was a mid-sized touring bike based on the CX500 engine. The engines use a coil-on-plug, distributorless ignition system with a coil for each spark plug. Later versions had air-assisted forks and featured Honda's Pro-Link monoshock rear suspension. Although Honda generally favors OHC engines, the cylinder head twist necessitated the use of stubby pushrods to operate the four overhead valves per cylinder, with a forked rocker arm acting off each pushrod. Unlike a "boxer" flat-twin, the cylinders protrude at an angle above the horizontal. We replace the valves with Ferrea Competition Plus Super Alloy valves to handle the extra exhaust heat, and use a higher pressure Pac spring and titanium retainer for rpm use over the factory head…which runs out of steam before 7,000 rpm.”. The wheels were also modified, with an 18-inch-diameter (460 mm) restyled round hole comstar with a 100–90H18 front tyre, whilst on the rear is a 120–80H18. At JBR Engines in Tampa, FL, Jose says they opt for aftermarket sleeves in order to allow for high horsepower. The headlight and gauges were similar to the CX500 Deluxe. La serie K es una familia de motores Honda de cuatro cilindros DOHC en línea introducida en 2001. The trunk was interchangeable with the back seat—the bike is rider-only with the trunk installed, although there was an aftermarket extender available to allow the trunk to be mounted behind the passenger seat. Fog decreases visibility and makes it hard to see the road ahead of you, which can make any road trip stressful, scary, and frustrating. Honda built a prototype CX350 but it was never released to the public. They guarantee about 800 horsepower, which is pretty impressive from a stock sleeve.”. Due to the bikes technological uniqueness, many bikes were sold to motorcycle maintenance trade schools for hands on classes. Turn signals extend out through the mini fairing from the headlight's centerline. The B-series engines had the first application of Honda’s VTEC system (available in some models). Early versions had conventional suspension, consisting of hydraulically damped telescoping front forks and dual coil-over shocks at the rear. One thing Honda did differently is they gave this a big ass race port where the EcoBoost and some of these other engines are tiny, little ports going into a little sheer before the valve to tumble the air. JBR Engines uses forged pistons, aluminum rods, upgraded cranks and performance valvetrain components to get their Honda B series engines drag race ready. In Japan the GL650 SilverWing Interstate was released as the Limited Edition GL700 Wing Interstate, although it used the same 674 cc engine that was used in the GL650. Sales were lackluster due to the bikes high retail cost and expensive insurance rates. This bike looked nearly identical to the original CX500 Standard, with the exception of regular (85 mph) gauges and headlight (the mini fairing was removed) and black reversed Com Star wheels - 19 inch front and 16 inch rear. While the familiar “K” remains in this new engine’s name, these engines are not merely an evolution, but rather a completely new design. The K-series engines are equipped with DOHC valvetrains and use roller rockers to reduce friction. “These get put into a lot of street cars and drag cars. The CX500 was one of the first recipients of Honda's new Comstar wheels (and later, on B models, reverse Comstar and a square brake fluid reservoir), which measured 19 in (480 mm) in front and 16 in (410 mm) at the back. At years end, dealerships located in the Midwest began shipping unsold bikes to California where the bike was more popular and could be sold.