[CARTER]

Trying to talk my cousin into a cx/gl also. I can read the different specs. I was just wondering from you guys that have ridden both what the differences are in every day driving, performance and handling. The engine looks the same. Is it a different set up? -carter

 

[Abes_CW]

Lots of differences, biggest for ride/handling will be rear suspension, GL has an air assist monoshock, which the CX has coilover dual shocks.

 

[Blindstitch]

Two totally different frames with the same powerplant.

 

[Spring Brook Rider]

They're both awesome. The GL is better used as a tourer and the CX as a day tripper. The CX is closer to the ground and feels like a smaller bike but with a ton of acceleration probably due to the lesser weight. A small windshield on the cx is the way to go.

 

[CARTER]

Same 650? What about the trans? Are the gear ratios the same throughout the 5 gears? Same top end?

 

[Blindstitch]

Same 650? What about the trans? Are the gear ratios the same throughout the 5 gears? Same top end?

Same everything I think except for output shafts and the cx has a 15 inch tire I think.

 

[Blindstitch]

http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/honda_cx_650_c_1983.php



http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/honda_gl_650_1983.php

 

[TimK]

the cx650c has a dual shock rear swing arm, and a 4 bolt to final drive



the gl650 has a monoshock rear swing arm, and a 3 bolt to final drive

... (there's quite a bit similar to the silverwing GL500 that the GL650 has too, many parts are used to upgrade the gl500)