The Honda CB500X is a popular choice for American riders looking for a versatile and approachable adventure-style motorcycle. It strikes a fantastic balance, offering comfortable ergonomics for daily commutes and long touring rides, along with enough capability to confidently tackle gravel roads and light off-road trails. It’s known for its reliability, excellent fuel economy, and user-friendly nature.
Adventure-Ready Design and Rider Comfort
The CB500X sports a clear adventure aesthetic, designed for both looks and function:
- Distinctive Styling: It features an upright stance, a robust fairing, and a long windscreen that provides good wind protection, making it comfortable for extended journeys.
- LED Lighting: Modern LED headlights and taillights enhance visibility and give the bike a contemporary look.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and a comfortable seat (with a height around 32.8 inches) are designed for all-day riding comfort and good control.
- Adventure-Oriented Wheels: A 19-inch cast aluminum front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, paired with dual-purpose tires, contribute to its stability and capability on various surfaces.
Efficient Parallel-Twin Engine
At the heart of the CB500X is Honda’s well-regarded 471cc parallel-twin engine, known for its smooth power and impressive efficiency:
- 471cc Liquid-Cooled Parallel-Twin: This DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine is designed to deliver a broad spread of usable power and torque, making it peppy around town and capable on the highway. It produces around 46.9 horsepower at 8,600 rpm and 31.7 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm.
- PGM-FI Fuel Injection: Honda’s Programmed Fuel Injection system ensures crisp throttle response and optimizes fuel delivery for efficiency.
- 6-Speed Transmission with Slipper/Assist Clutch: A smooth 6-speed gearbox allows for easy gear changes, while the assist/slipper clutch makes the clutch lever light to pull and helps prevent rear wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifts.
Upgraded Handling and Safety Features
Recent updates have significantly enhanced the CB500X’s handling and braking performance:
- Showa SFF-BP Inverted Fork: For improved handling and feel, recent models feature a 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) inverted front fork. This premium fork setup divides damping and spring functions between the fork legs for better response and ride quality.
- Pro-Link Rear Suspension: The Pro-Link single rear shock is adjustable for spring preload, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension for different loads and riding conditions. It offers 5.3 inches of travel.
- Dual Front Disc Brakes with ABS: A significant upgrade for recent models includes dual 296mm front disc brakes with Nissin calipers, providing much stronger and more consistent stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard on both front and rear wheels, enhancing safety in various conditions.
- Revised Swingarm: The swingarm has been redesigned to be lighter yet stronger, contributing to better handling and rider feedback.
Convenient Technology
The CB500X keeps things practical with helpful features:
- LCD Instrument Panel: A clear, negative-display LCD dash provides essential information like speed, RPM, fuel level, gear position, and more.
- Emergency Stop Signal: This system can automatically activate the hazard lights during sudden, hard braking to warn following vehicles.
- Honda Ignition Security System (HISS): A theft-deterrent system that adds peace of mind.
Exceptional Fuel Economy (MPG)
One of the standout features of the Honda CB500X is its remarkable fuel efficiency:
- Riders in the U.S. frequently report real-world fuel economy figures in the range of 60-70 miles per gallon (MPG), making it one of the most fuel-efficient adventure bikes on the market.
- With its generous 4.7-gallon fuel tank, the CB500X offers an excellent cruising range, often exceeding 250 miles on a single tank, perfect for long tours with fewer fuel stops.
Price in the U.S.A. (MSRP)
The Honda CB500X is known for offering great value within the adventure-touring segment. For the 2024 Honda CB500X, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically starts around $7,299.
This price generally applies to the standard ABS model. It’s important to remember that this MSRP does not include destination charges (which are commonly around $500-$600), dealer preparation fees, sales tax, title, or registration fees, which will vary by state and dealership.
The Honda CB500X continues to be a highly recommended choice for American riders seeking an affordable, capable, and incredibly fuel-efficient adventure-style motorcycle. It’s an ideal partner for daily commuting, weekend explorations, and light touring, offering a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride for riders of all experience levels.