Honda’s 500cc Family Explained

At the launch of the new Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, the Japanese bike maker announced that it will be looking to go big in 2020 with its performance-oriented motorcycles. The Africa Twin is the first of the lot, with more to follow. Of these new arrivals, the one we are eagerly looking forward to is its 500cc mid-displacement parallel-twin engine platform. A family of four bikes, Honda is planning to bring these bikes soon. Here’s what’s in store:

Also read: All You Need To Know About Honda’s Upcoming Adventure Bike

The Engine

At the heart of each one of these Hondas is the same 471cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled motor that in its Euro 4-compliant UK-spec state pumps out 47.6PS and 43Nm. Only the CMX500 Rebel cruiser has a different state of tune, with a lower max power rating of 45.54PS but with slightly more torque on board, 1.6Nm more to be precise. 

CBR500R

Despite having an extra cylinder and nearly 100 cee cees more than the KTM RC 390, the Ceeber doesn’t really offer more performance, at least on paper. Do not mistake this for a track-scorching supersport by any stretch (of the imagination). It is sort of like a middle ground between something hardcore like the RC 390 and a relaxed sports-tourer. The friendly nature of the parallel-twin motor will appeal to those who want a mature riding experience. Even the power delivery is likely to be smooth and mellow, like a typical Honda. 

CB500F

Probably the least attractive member of the family, the CB500F is currently one of the few naked motorcycles from Honda that has not made the transition to the Neo Sports Cafe design language. We believe that Honda could likely change its looks to the Neo Sports Cafe theme once this engine is updated to meet BS6 emission norms. Currently, the bike is virtually the same as its faired sibling sans the fairing. The only difference between the two being that the naked uses a wide straight handlebar. 

CB500X

Get latest updates on
the automobile community

Login Now

There aren’t many mid-displacement adventure tourers in India. The KTM 390 Adventure isn’t the jack-of-all-trades like we hoped it would be. The Benelli TRK 502s are quite heavy and the 650cc ADVs like the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT are pricey. Perhaps, the Honda CB500X could be the answer for those who are looking for a road-biased tourer. It gets long-travel suspension, a 19-/17-inch alloy wheel setup and road-biased dual purpose tyres. Even the seat height isn’t shockingly high, standing at 830mm. That is identical to the KTM 390 Duke. However, thanks to a slim seat, short riders will find it easier to flat foot on this bike.

CMX500 Rebel

Also read: Here's A Closer Look At The Honda Rebel 500

An urban cruiser - that is a perfect way to describe the Rebel 500. The only common element on this bike with the other three remains the engine as the Rebel 500 uses a different double-cradle frame, 16-inch rims at both ends, chunky tyres and twin shocks at the rear. The cruiser-esque ergos of the bike means it will be a comfy rider but a small fuel tank of 11.2 litres might just limit its touring capabilities.