One of my all-time favorite top five vintage Hondas, and the bike I got to know pretty well starting out. Such an elemental machine, more raw than a 70s four-cylinder, more refined than Honda's smaller twins, and bearing some surprising technical features. And just a hoot to ride.

• Forty things you need to know
• CB450/500T myths
• Starter clutch woes
• The charging system
• The lubrication question
• Low speed issues
• The 450 super tune

• Rear brake danger
• Steering bearings
• The intake timing trick
• The 95/50 rule
• Adjusting the cam chain
• The gel battery
• Ignition service

• The 60/40 rule
• The ethanol issue
• Draining carburetors
• Installing the camshafts
• The ignition points issue
• The refined CB500T