Honda Unveils the 2025 Honda 70th Edition HD500 2-Stroke: A Bold Tribute to Seven Decades of Innovation
Tokyo, Japan – June 8, 2025 – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has proudly announced the launch of the 2025 Honda 70th Edition HD500 2-Stroke, a limited-edition masterpiece that commemorates 70 years of engineering excellence, motorsport dominance, and innovation that has defined the Honda brand since 1955.
Designed as a homage to the company’s storied past while charging boldly into the future, the HD500 2-Stroke blends classic two-stroke power with cutting-edge technology and design. With only 7,000 units to be produced globally, the 70th Edition HD500 is more than a motorcycle — it’s a celebration on two wheels.
Honoring a Racing Legacy
Honda’s history in motorcycle racing is legendary. From its humble beginnings in post-war Japan to dominating world-class racing events such as MotoGP, the Isle of Man TT, and the Dakar Rally, Honda has continually pushed the limits of performance, design, and reliability. The HD500 2-Stroke revives the spirit of the iconic NS500 and CR500 models — beloved by purists and racing fans alike — while integrating modern upgrades that meet today’s rider demands.
“This 70th Edition HD500 is not just a bike, it’s a statement,” said Takahiro Hachigo, Executive Vice President of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “It embodies everything we’ve stood for over the last seven decades: daring engineering, innovation with purpose, and a deep passion for the ride.”
A Modern Take on Classic Power
At the heart of the 2025 HD500 is a newly developed 498cc liquid-cooled, two-stroke V4 engine, delivering an exhilarating 95 horsepower at 9,500 RPM. The powerplant features electronic fuel injection (EFI) and ride-by-wire throttle control, providing smoother, cleaner performance and dramatically improved fuel efficiency compared to its 1980s predecessors.
Complementing the engine is a lightweight aluminum twin-spar chassis, designed to deliver unmatched agility and stability on both road and track. The suspension features Showa fully adjustable front forks and a Pro-Link rear shock, optimized for aggressive riding and responsive handling.
With a curb weight of just 146 kg (322 lbs), the HD500 offers a power-to-weight ratio that rivals modern sportbikes — a feat nearly unheard of for a two-stroke in today’s emissions-conscious market.
Modern Tech, Retro Soul
The HD500 seamlessly combines vintage aesthetics with state-of-the-art features. A full-color TFT display, integrated smartphone connectivity, traction control, launch control, and three selectable riding modes bring 21st-century sophistication to a bike that looks straight out of Honda’s racing golden age.
Stylistically, the motorcycle is a masterpiece. The bodywork echoes the livery of Honda’s 1983 NS500, famously ridden by Freddie Spencer to a world championship title. Painted in a limited-edition Pearl Red and Gold Flake finish, the bike features the commemorative “70th Anniversary” badge prominently on the fuel tank, with Spencer’s signature embossed on the tail cowl of each unit.
Built for the Collector and the Competitor
While the 70th Edition HD500 is street-legal and road-ready, Honda hasn’t ignored its racing roots. The company is also releasing a track-only Race Kit version through its HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) division. This variant strips down unnecessary components, adds performance upgrades, and is tuned for maximum output — expected to exceed 105 horsepower with fewer emissions constraints.
Enthusiasts can also opt for a limited run of carbon fiber accessory packages, including an Akrapovič exhaust, carbon belly pan, and race-spec footpegs, further enhancing both performance and appearance.
Availability and Pricing
Honda has confirmed that only 7,000 units of the 70th Edition HD500 will be produced, with each bike individually numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and commemorative book chronicling Honda’s 70-year history.
The global rollout begins in September 2025, with pre-orders opening next month. Pricing is set at $14,999 USD for the base model, while the HRC Race Kit version will start at $18,999 USD.
The Spirit of 70 Years
With the 2025 HD500 2-Stroke, Honda isn’t just releasing a motorcycle — it’s delivering a time capsule of innovation, passion, and power. The HD500 serves as a reminder of where the company started and where it’s headed, offering riders a unique opportunity to experience history in motion.
As Honda continues to embrace electric mobility and carbon neutrality, the 70th Edition HD500 stands proudly as a tribute to the roar of two-stroke glory — an echo from the past, reengineered for the future.
