Post Listing Update: This Ascot did not meet reserve despite 5 bids up to $1,202 on eBay.
No matter the definition, a “thump” evokes something rather violent and loud. From that word came the name “thumper”, a term used to describe a single cylinder bike, typically displacing 350-500cc, a specialty of British manufacturers with bikes like the Norton Manx or the BSA Gold Star. Thumpers were easy to maintain, had a lot of torque and were recognizable by their beautiful sound. While the war of power between bike makers was retaining the attention of every rider in the world, Yamaha (which was not the best player in that war) decided to use that concept of thumper and released in 1975 the XT500. Three years later, thanks to the success of the XT for dirt riders, Yam decided to adapt the bike to the road and used the same engine to create the SR500. Honda for once appeared as a follower, releasing its XR500 in 1979 and later the XL500. Adding one major component to their model, an electric starter, Honda released their version of a thumper, the FT500 Ascot – it was named after a flat track near Los Angeles.
The goal of the Ascot for Honda was to create a bike usable by commuters wanting something easy to start and maintain and something attractive for sport riders looking for something light and powerful with good handling. The Ascot was equipped with few nice components such as dual-piston disc brakes (front and rear) and a 35mm constant-velocity carb. The 375 pound bike could reach an approximate top speed of 95mph thanks to its 33hp single developing 498cc. The Ascot was very good for what she was supposed to be. It had very good handling, good throttle response at mid-range, and a very attractive sound. All of that made it perfect for twisty roads and in-town commuting. Obviously, the single 500cc was not the best as far as straight line speed and highway cruising. It only sold for 3 years in (1982-1984) and was replaced by the VT500, which used a v-twin engine. The VT itself was not a success at all and was removed from dealerships one year after it had been introduced. For more information about the FT Ascot, check out Motorcycle Classics.
The Ascot presented here has just 5,667 miles. The paint seems to be in great shape as well as the seat. As you will see, despite its nice overall condition, the bike is offered at a rather low price because of a dent on the right side of the tank and the need for new tires and a fork lock tab.
Find this Ascot in Lexington, Kentucky with a unmet opening bid of $1,200 or a BIN of $1,625