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2013-2023 Honda CB500F: Shift detent spring fracture

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EVIDENCE: REPAIR-INDUSTRY CONSENSUS

What goes wrong

The 471cc parallel twin is a good engine, but the shift detent spring can fracture. When it does, the shift star loses the tension that clicks the drum into gear and you get false neutrals or a bike that won't shift past second.

A note on the federal record for this bike
NHTSA's recall index does not recognise the model string "CB500F" , which happens constantly with motorcycles, because recalls are often filed under a model code rather than the marketing name. That is not the same as "no recalls."
Look this VIN up directly at nhtsa.gov/recalls before you assume it is clear.
Rough cost: Parts are cheap; labor means draining oil and pulling the clutch. Broad estimates , motorcycle labor rates and parts vary widely.

What to do about it

Before you hand over cash: On the test ride, run through every gear repeatedly, including upshifts under load and downshifts. Any false neutral or vague engagement is your cue. Budget-conscious first-bike buyers get caught by this repair bill.

On any used motorcycle, check the tire DOT date codes, ask for the valve service receipt, and look for drop damage on both sides before you talk about price.

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General reference information only , not a mechanical inspection, appraisal, or vehicle history report, and not specific to any individual motorcycle. Failure patterns describe documented tendencies across many machines; any single bike may be better or worse. Cost figures are rough estimates , verify locally. The absence of a warning is not a statement that a motorcycle is safe. Always verify recalls directly with NHTSA and have a used bike inspected. Not affiliated with any manufacturer, dealer, or reporting service. No affiliate links, no commissions, no ads. © Used Car Informer, operated by MCC LLC · v3.1