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					Technical specifications
					
				 | 
			
				| Model: | Speed Twin 500 | 
			
				| Years: | 1959-63 | 
			
			
					
						| Engine: | Four stroke, parallel twin, OHV | 
			
					
						| Capacity: | 490 cc / 29.9 cub in. | 
			
					
						| Bore x Stroke: | 63 x 80 mm | 
			
					
						| Compression Ratio: | 7.2:1 | 
			
					
						| Cooling System: | Air cooled | 
			
					
						| Induction: | Single Amal carburetor 15/16" | 
			
					
						| Ignition: | 6 V magnetic flywheel | 
			
					
						| Starting: | Kick | 
			
					
						| Max Power: | 20.1 kW / 27 hp @ 6500 rpm | 
			
					
						| Clutch: | Wet,6 plate | 
			
					
						| Transmission: | 4 Speed, constant mesh | 
			
					
						| Final Drive: | Chain | 
			
					
						| Frame: | Singe tube frame | 
			
					
						| Front Suspension: | Hydraulic telescopic fork | 
			
					
						| Rear Suspension: | 1947-1954 sprung hub, after 1954 Swingarm with two shock absorbers | 
			
					
						| Front Brakes: | Drum, 7 in SLS | 
			
					
						| Rear Brakes: | Drum, 7 in SLS | 
			
					
						| Front Tyre: | 3.25 - 19, Dunlop Universal | 
			
					
						| Rear Tyre: | 3.50 - 19, Dunlop Universal | 
			
					
						| Wheelbase: | 1372 mm / 54 in | 
			
					
						| Saddle Height: | 749 mm / 29.5 in | 
			
					
						| Ground Clearance: | 152 mm / 6.0 in | 
			
					
						| Dry Weight: | 155 kg / 341 lbs | 
			
					
						| Fuel Capacity: | 18 L / 4.8 US gal / 4.0 Imp gal |