About the Honda XL500S
Honda XL500S parts for maintaining and restoring the twin-shock trail single: carburetor rebuild kits, engine gaskets, fork oil seals and drum-brake shoes.
The XL500S combined a four-valve OHC single, kick starting and long-travel suspension for road and trail use. The original 1979 model had a 23-inch front wheel and paired rear shocks. These are useful identification clues when examining a restored bike, although replacement wheels or suspension can change what is fitted today.
1979–1981 XL500S parts: where the brake applications split
The carb kit, engine gasket set and fork oil seals cover XL500S 1979–1981. The brake-shoe examples are split: rear shoes for 1979–1980 and front shoes for 1981. Those are separate applications, not a front-and-rear set for every S-model year. Record the wheel position before building a brake-parts order.
Model and year comparisonXL500S model and repair differences
Use the S/R chassis and service differences below to narrow a repair-parts search.
Carburetor and engine
1979–1981 examples
The carb kit and gasket set list all three S-model years. Each still has its own contents and quantity required.
Before ordering: Read both fitment and package details.
Brake shoes
1979–1980 rear; 1981 front
The two selected shoe listings serve different positions and year groups. Neither establishes the missing opposite-wheel application.
Before ordering: Identify the wheel before comparing shoes.
Fork service
35 mm oil-seal application
The S-model seal listing differs from the larger XL500R example. A dust seal serves a separate purpose from an oil seal.
Before ordering: Inspect the actual fork and both sealing components.
Comparing versions? Honda XL500R parts has its own model and year applications.
Prepare for the repairXL500S identification checklist
Record the model year, full factory code and installed components. Use the matching factory documentation to check frame and engine numbers.
Confirm the S model
Read the frame marking and model-year information rather than relying on an XL500 tank graphic. Keep engine markings separately if the engine has been changed.
Identify the carburetor
Photograph its stamped identification and compare the bowl gasket and listed service components with the XL500S kit.
Record chassis details
Note the installed fork-tube diameter, wheel arrangement and the front or rear brake being serviced. A wheel conversion can change the relevant service parts.
Contact PartsNMore with the model year, complete model code and clear photographs of the relevant markings and component.