Couldn't agree more. Have my 2021 for a year now, my first bike. Fun in the city, can do touring when needed. Recently had a 3-hour long offroad experience in sand, gravel and forest roads and was able to manage it with no offroading experience, no falls, and almost no stalls. And to make things worse I had a pillion and 50 kilos of baggage (3 day bike camping trip). If that doesn't speak for itself, I don't know what does.
I have a 2022 CB500X. I find the bike a lot of fun to ride and very capable of rough, mutli surface running. I don't find the seat great, it starts to hurt after a couple of hours for me. I use a sheepskin to help the situation. I considered a replacement, but it's expensive to say the least. I run mostly country roads that are generally paved, some dirt/gravel. The suspension is the star on this bike as well as it's easy manners - clutch action and handling are stellar. In Canada - Ontario this bike is in short supply. I was lucky to get one. I ride a Harley full dresser (2014 Electra Glide Ultra) and it stays in the garage while the Honda and I ride the backroads! You gotta love a bike you can push around by yourself, in and out of the garage. I can't do that with the Harley! All in all, a great bike! Thanks Honda!
I had one new in 2014 and loved it, I sold it after a couple of years to get get something with more power. Next week I take delivery of my second brand new 2023 CB500x - like you, it was the best bike I had ever owned. I would always rather ride a slower bike fast than a fast bike slow. Great seat and riding position and the new upgrades over the past few years have made it the perfect bike for me.
Thanks. I am considering one of the Honda 500cc variants as I am finding my modern Triumph Bonneville heavy at age 77. Thanks for a short video - most are WAY too long.
I picked up my 2023 10 days ago. I mostly compare it to my Versys 650. Versys was tall and VERY top heavy. Slow speed maneuvers were difficult. The bike wanted to tip over...fast. The 500X seems much more balanced and it's easier to control. That moment where you're stopping and you put your foot down, the Versys could be hard to control. The 500X is much better. (same goes for lateral control at a complete stop) Shifter on the 500X is much better. I didn't like the Kawi-Clunk. It always felt like it was breaking.
I wish I could talk as smooth as you, good review and photography in my unprofessional opinion. I really like my CB500X and prefer it over my Goldwing because of the weight. 2015 Goldwing at 933 lb. and CB500X at 439 lb. Riding since 1988. Be safe and blessings. 5'9" at 187 lb
Hey thanks bro. I rode a Goldwing once and was so surprised it did not feel anything like its weight. It felt more like a 600 lb bike than a 900 lb one. But I also think the CB500X feels lighter than it is.
My opinion of the 2020 model CB500X. I don't like overly heavy bikes and I don't like overly powerful bikes,at 69 years old I don't have anything to prove to anyone and I don't want to get into a situation where the weight gets the better of me even if I am quite fit. I've owned a 2020 CB500X bought privately,almost new with 300miles on,from a scooter owning chap who found he didn't like motorcycles,I now have 15,000 happy miles on it. It is a great bike that ticks almost all the boxes admirably,the seat isn't one of them,which is mostly due to an old and rather boney backside,though an air Rider seat cushion solved that problem.The stock screen is terrible which a Givi D1171ST screen solved,and the gearing I found a little low for my road only use which sometimes can involve a 40mile motorway ride,a 16tooth front sprocket lowered the revs enough to make 70/75mph feel less stressful . I went with Bridgestone T31s when the OEM Dunlops wore out at 6,300miles,the T31s now have almost 9,000miles on and are I'd say good for another 2,000miles,they've been great tyres. All that said and done with some SW Motech engine bars and a large Givi tankbag the bike is now tailored to my needs and wants,it handles well,goes and stops well,with no vices or nasty surprises,in short a great easy to ride bike. I have to confess I keep thinking of swapping it but everytime I ride it the same question crops up. Why would I swap the swiss army knife of bikes that does everything I ask of it and more besides? Unless that is if the 2022 model is THAT much better it's worth the outlay? I can see me test riding the 2022 model to answer that burning question..... EDIT:- just to add that the horn is ridiculously useless,so I fitted a Denali Mini Soundbomb,a straightforward plug in in place of the standard useless one,numpties now hear it with real alarm😊
Nice reading! Had my 2023 just a few weeks. Agree with the wind screen. It is very noise to cruise highways with stock screen. If I just cramp down a little it gets calm. Maybe that Givi could be the perfect option, will have that one in mind, thanks for tips.
@@TheQuietBeast 2 years down the line my 2020 model was written off by a kind gentleman who ran me off the road.With the insurance cash I bought another 2020 one but swapped it for a DL650 Vstrom which I really like,but couldn't resist another CB500X so bought a new 2024 model which is an improvement on the previous model and I'm enjoying alongside the Vstrom. I discovered,thanks to a CB500X forum member, that a small cheap wind deflector off Ebay solved the wind buffeting problem on both the Vstrom and the new CB500X and all for under £20 each.
I got it off Amazon: a.co/d/4UGD1TR Liked it so much I got another one for my CBR650R. Can carry a couple of small water bottles and cameras, phone, etc. Yeah, perfect size.
In your case it is the 8th, in my case is the first ever and I really love it. So happy about this purchase of mine. Completed it with central stand, crash bar and handguards all original.
I like mine a lot, it's a 23 with a bunch of off-road add-ons (SW Motech bash plate, crash bars, top box, pannier racks, Barkbusters). With the right tyres it's way more capable off-road that the people buying it. If you can get the most out of a T7 or Africa Twin, then it's not for you, but many people with T7s and Africa Twins would be just fine with a CB500X...
Just rode a CB 500x on the Mae Hong Son loop in Thailand. It’s a reliable, economical machine but it drives like a small truck which took away a lot of the motorcycle fun on those 2000 plus curves. A big top box and 10kg of luggage made it feel very ungainly and prone to squirrel on the slightest bump. I longed for my old XL600.
Picked up my 22 500x a few days ago, I also have the Africa Twin, I love the 500 but man it folds you up like a pretzel compared to the AT, gonna have to either install a tall seat or lower the pegs, maybe both. BUT, so far it's a fun bike on back roads.
@@AlanMairson Yeah, it was the reviews that made me interested in the 500X, I had the Africa Twin at the same time so that probably had something to do with it. I sold the bike but did have the pegs lowered and had a tall seat kit that I never installed, I have had DR650's, XR650L's and prefer them for an adventure/dirt bike. I'm picking up a new Transalp in the next day or two, we'll see how that goes.
Do you notice a big difference when you removed the screen.I have exactly the same bike and not sure if I should remove the screen or not.Bought my bike end of January and done 2500 mile love it.
I find the bike a lot more comfortable without the screen as the air flow is consistent and not turbulent like I find it is with the screen on. The way the front of the bike is designed, the air "blast" you get is not excessive and has a better cooling effect than with the screen on.
Im selling my MT07 and thinking to get CB500X, Im into adv bike ... I do lot of comute to work and takeing longer weekend rides ... I dont ride high speeds just wondering wuld there be lack of torque and power on uphills and overtakeings? Price and gas consumption are advanteges with cb500x
I've never had a problem passing at normal speeds like 80km to 120km/ph. You still have to plan it out like you would driving a car. It hasn't got the "pass at will" power of a supersport or anything like that. This bike feels like it has more torque than it does which I think is only 30lb/ft. But the dynos I've seen shows that comes in around 3000 rpm and stays steady through the rev range. No issues with hills.
I agree with the OP, the 500X has plenty of passing power from 50-75mph or so. Now, it might be different if you are carrying a passenger, but I'm not.
I have to agree! I have a '22 500X that is my 7th bike. I began riding in the '70s, offroad for about 4 yrs before I ever did any onroad riding. (and believe me, that's the way to do it if you can!) I have two bikes now, the other being a '20 WR250R. I love the WR also, it's a great bike in its own right. I agree, the seat of the 500X is very comfortable. However, I feel the seating position cramps the legs a bit, which causes me some hip pain after an hour. A short break from the bike fixes that. In contrast, my legs can stretch out when I'm on the WR, as its seat position is much higher and the riding position is not cramped at all. Then again, it has about a foot of suspension travel so there you go. Anyhow, the 500X is fantastic overall. I'm 59 yrs now and don't ever expect to get rid of it. Btw I see you took the stock wind screen off. I replaced mine with a "Sport" model from WRS and like it a lot. It gives only minimal protection, but some is better than none, and it looks great. Safe riding!
@@OccasionallyEvil Hah! No, just think it's important if you do a bike review you provide your height and weight because it provides a lot of context for people considering a bike. Thanks 👍
Couldn't agree more. Have my 2021 for a year now, my first bike. Fun in the city, can do touring when needed. Recently had a 3-hour long offroad experience in sand, gravel and forest roads and was able to manage it with no offroading experience, no falls, and almost no stalls. And to make things worse I had a pillion and 50 kilos of baggage (3 day bike camping trip). If that doesn't speak for itself, I don't know what does.
What tyres do you have?
I have a 2022 CB500X. I find the bike a lot of fun to ride and very capable of rough, mutli surface running. I don't find the seat great, it starts to hurt after a couple of hours for me. I use a sheepskin to help the situation. I considered a replacement, but it's expensive to say the least. I run mostly country roads that are generally paved, some dirt/gravel. The suspension is the star on this bike as well as it's easy manners - clutch action and handling are stellar. In Canada - Ontario this bike is in short supply. I was lucky to get one. I ride a Harley full dresser (2014 Electra Glide Ultra) and it stays in the garage while the Honda and I ride the backroads! You gotta love a bike you can push around by yourself, in and out of the garage. I can't do that with the Harley! All in all, a great bike! Thanks Honda!
I had one new in 2014 and loved it, I sold it after a couple of years to get get something with more power. Next week I take delivery of my second brand new 2023 CB500x - like you, it was the best bike I had ever owned. I would always rather ride a slower bike fast than a fast bike slow. Great seat and riding position and the new upgrades over the past few years have made it the perfect bike for me.
Thanks. I am considering one of the Honda 500cc variants as I am finding my modern Triumph Bonneville heavy at age 77. Thanks for a short video - most are WAY too long.
Can I have the Bonnie then ?
Great bikes. I’ve had my 2013 for 3 years and it’s just a fun all around bike.
I have a new 2022 cb500x and I love it. It would be hard to say how many people have complimented me on its looks . I am enjoying it!
I picked up my 2023 10 days ago. I mostly compare it to my Versys 650. Versys was tall and VERY top heavy. Slow speed maneuvers were difficult. The bike wanted to tip over...fast. The 500X seems much more balanced and it's easier to control. That moment where you're stopping and you put your foot down, the Versys could be hard to control. The 500X is much better. (same goes for lateral control at a complete stop) Shifter on the 500X is much better. I didn't like the Kawi-Clunk. It always felt like it was breaking.
I wish I could talk as smooth as you, good review and photography in my unprofessional opinion. I really like my CB500X and prefer it over my Goldwing because of the weight. 2015 Goldwing at 933 lb. and CB500X at 439 lb. Riding since 1988. Be safe and blessings.
5'9" at 187 lb
Hey thanks bro. I rode a Goldwing once and was so surprised it did not feel anything like its weight. It felt more like a 600 lb bike than a 900 lb one. But I also think the CB500X feels lighter than it is.
My opinion of the 2020 model CB500X.
I don't like overly heavy bikes and I don't like overly powerful bikes,at 69 years old I don't have anything to prove to anyone and I don't want to get into a situation where the weight gets the better of me even if I am quite fit.
I've owned a 2020 CB500X bought privately,almost new with 300miles on,from a scooter owning chap who found he didn't like motorcycles,I now have 15,000 happy miles on it.
It is a great bike that ticks almost all the boxes admirably,the seat isn't one of them,which is mostly due to an old and rather boney backside,though an air Rider seat cushion solved that problem.The stock screen is terrible which a Givi D1171ST screen solved,and the gearing I found a little low for my road only use which sometimes can involve a 40mile motorway ride,a 16tooth front sprocket lowered the revs enough to make 70/75mph feel less stressful .
I went with Bridgestone T31s when the OEM Dunlops wore out at 6,300miles,the T31s now have almost 9,000miles on and are I'd say good for another 2,000miles,they've been great tyres.
All that said and done with some SW Motech engine bars and a large Givi tankbag the bike is now tailored to my needs and wants,it handles well,goes and stops well,with no vices or nasty surprises,in short a great easy to ride bike.
I have to confess I keep thinking of swapping it but everytime I ride it the same question crops up.
Why would I swap the swiss army knife of bikes that does everything I ask of it and more besides?
Unless that is if the 2022 model is THAT much better it's worth the outlay?
I can see me test riding the 2022 model to answer that burning question.....
EDIT:- just to add that the horn is ridiculously useless,so I fitted a Denali Mini Soundbomb,a straightforward plug in in place of the standard useless one,numpties now hear it with real alarm😊
Nice reading! Had my 2023 just a few weeks. Agree with the wind screen. It is very noise to cruise highways with stock screen. If I just cramp down a little it gets calm. Maybe that Givi could be the perfect option, will have that one in mind, thanks for tips.
@@TheQuietBeast 2 years down the line my 2020 model was written off by a kind gentleman who ran me off the road.With the insurance cash I bought another 2020 one but swapped it for a DL650 Vstrom which I really like,but couldn't resist another CB500X so bought a new 2024 model which is an improvement on the previous model and I'm enjoying alongside the Vstrom.
I discovered,thanks to a CB500X forum member, that a small cheap wind deflector off Ebay solved the wind buffeting problem on both the Vstrom and the new CB500X and all for under £20 each.
@@johnwood4448 I bought one, works wonders! Thanks mate!
I also began to ride bikes back in 2008 I am on my second one, had a GS 500 and now a 650 Bandit.
I have exactly the same bike, same year. Love it. What kind of bag is that on the back? Good size. I don't like large top boxes.
I got it off Amazon: a.co/d/4UGD1TR Liked it so much I got another one for my CBR650R. Can carry a couple of small water bottles and cameras, phone, etc. Yeah, perfect size.
In your case it is the 8th, in my case is the first ever and I really love it. So happy about this purchase of mine. Completed it with central stand, crash bar and handguards all original.
You made a good choice in getting this as your first bike. As I did as my 8th.
I like mine a lot, it's a 23 with a bunch of off-road add-ons (SW Motech bash plate, crash bars, top box, pannier racks, Barkbusters). With the right tyres it's way more capable off-road that the people buying it. If you can get the most out of a T7 or Africa Twin, then it's not for you, but many people with T7s and Africa Twins would be just fine with a CB500X...
Just rode a CB 500x on the Mae Hong Son loop in Thailand. It’s a reliable, economical machine but it drives like a small truck which took away a lot of the motorcycle fun on those 2000 plus curves. A big top box and 10kg of luggage made it feel very ungainly and prone to squirrel on the slightest bump. I longed for my old XL600.
You forgot to mention you weigh 285lbs.
Picked up my 22 500x a few days ago, I also have the Africa Twin, I love the 500 but man it folds you up like a pretzel compared to the AT, gonna have to either install a tall seat or lower the pegs, maybe both. BUT, so far it's a fun bike on back roads.
May I ask your height & inseam? (I’m 6’3” 36” inseam, and wondering if this bike would be a good fit.)
@@AlanMairson No, I'm barely 5'9" and found it cramped, I'm picking up the new transalp tomorrow, it should have better ergos
@@retrothruster2539Wow. It's amazing the range of responses I get to this question. Thanks for yours.
@@AlanMairson
Yeah, it was the reviews that made me interested in the 500X, I had the Africa Twin at the same time so that probably had something to do with it. I sold the bike but did have the pegs lowered and had a tall seat kit that I never installed, I have had DR650's, XR650L's and prefer them for an adventure/dirt bike. I'm picking up a new Transalp in the next day or two, we'll see how that goes.
@@retrothruster2539 Thanks much. And good luck with the TransAlp. (If Honda made a more road-focused version of the TA, I’d probably buy it.)
Do you notice a big difference when you removed the screen.I have exactly the same bike and not sure if I should remove the screen or not.Bought my bike end of January and done 2500 mile love it.
I find the bike a lot more comfortable without the screen as the air flow is consistent and not turbulent like I find it is with the screen on. The way the front of the bike is designed, the air "blast" you get is not excessive and has a better cooling effect than with the screen on.
Thanks.I will remove mine and go for a test ride.
Im selling my MT07 and thinking to get CB500X, Im into adv bike ... I do lot of comute to work and takeing longer weekend rides ... I dont ride high speeds just wondering wuld there be lack of torque and power on uphills and overtakeings? Price and gas consumption are advanteges with cb500x
I've never had a problem passing at normal speeds like 80km to 120km/ph. You still have to plan it out like you would driving a car. It hasn't got the "pass at will" power of a supersport or anything like that. This bike feels like it has more torque than it does which I think is only 30lb/ft. But the dynos I've seen shows that comes in around 3000 rpm and stays steady through the rev range. No issues with hills.
I agree with the OP, the 500X has plenty of passing power from 50-75mph or so. Now, it might be different if you are carrying a passenger, but I'm not.
I like that color
How would you lower the pegs?
A after market company would sell them .
I have to agree! I have a '22 500X that is my 7th bike. I began riding in the '70s, offroad for about 4 yrs before I ever did any onroad riding. (and believe me, that's the way to do it if you can!) I have two bikes now, the other being a '20 WR250R. I love the WR also, it's a great bike in its own right. I agree, the seat of the 500X is very comfortable. However, I feel the seating position cramps the legs a bit, which causes me some hip pain after an hour. A short break from the bike fixes that. In contrast, my legs can stretch out when I'm on the WR, as its seat position is much higher and the riding position is not cramped at all. Then again, it has about a foot of suspension travel so there you go. Anyhow, the 500X is fantastic overall. I'm 59 yrs now and don't ever expect to get rid of it. Btw I see you took the stock wind screen off. I replaced mine with a "Sport" model from WRS and like it a lot. It gives only minimal protection, but some is better than none, and it looks great. Safe riding!
What is your height? Weight?
If you're going to ask the color of my eyes, just don't. 6' 220lbs.
@@OccasionallyEvil Hah! No, just think it's important if you do a bike review you provide your height and weight because it provides a lot of context for people considering a bike. Thanks 👍
@@cbbeme5881how about the inseam???
I got this model , its overhyped.
You are absolutely correct.
I bought one as well, very under power
How do we know you're only occasionally evil ?
You don't.
Nah ..
Yah !