Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) vs Matchless G 80 K (1990)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect)stacks up against the Matchless G 80 K. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda VT 500 E (reduced effect)Matchless G 80 K
Model year19871990
Price
Engine491 cc494 cc
Horsepower27 hp34 hp
Fuel capacity4.5 L4.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle discSingle disc
Rear brakesExpanding brakeExpanding brake
Tires100/90-18 / 120/80-18 100/90-19 / 110/90-18

Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) vs Matchless G 80 K — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) and the Matchless G 80 K usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) brings 27 hp, while the Matchless G 80 K counters with 34 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: