GEAR USED IN THIS VIDEO: ⚡ Klim Krios Pro Helmet(RevZilla): imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM ⚡ Klim Carlsbad Jacket/Pants: imp.i104546.net/BXGB5L ⚡ Klim K Fifty 2 Jeans: imp.i104546.net/BXa310 ⚡ Klim Baja Gloves: imp.i104546.net/0Jn2GV ⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Gore Tex Boots: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS WHEN SHOPPING! ⚠️Rocky Mountain: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚠️Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚠️Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A
Totally agree on how Honda's missing a trick in the mid-size ADV market; maybe Honda agrees too, and that's why they (it?) registered the NX500 trade-mark back in 2022.
I own a cb 500 x 2022 model and im wondering which crash bars should i buy for protection. The Original crash bars from honda is the best choise? And will protect all the moto for a drop down or i need to put and the lower protection crash bars?
I love bikes like this. I think they're the perfect amount of power. It's so so satisfying riding a slow bike quickly and being able to use all of a bikes performance. Im an advanced motorbike instructor, I know how to ride, I'd pick something like this over a GS1250 or super adventure any day, they're just so much more fun and enjoyable in the real world.
Went to Vietnam back end of last year and hired a CB500 - loaded up with luggage and pillion it did start to run out of steam at higher revs. However, apart from that whinge and as it is ‘only’ a 500, it was an excellent bike and did 95% of what I asked from it - it’s got my vote as a lightweight ADV.
"Halfrica Twin" - I love it :D I must have watched this review about 10 times now and I really appreciate the enthusiasm you've brought for the smaller rides like KTM 390 ADV, the little Honda here, and the RE Himalayan. Out of these three bikes it just seems like the Honda stands apart for the money.
I have a 2015 CB500X that I built as an adventure machine with rally raid parts, spoke wheels, 19 in front wheel, revised triple-threes, rebuilt forks, tractive shock, engine protection, etc. I enjoyed the process of building it. I did all the changes myself, Rally Raid provides great instructions, and Juan Browne videos explained the process in detail (you probably heard about Juan Browne from the Blancolirio channel). And I really enjoy riding the CB500X, although it has heavy competition from my 2019 790R. I've ridden the CB500X rally raid in the Death Valley a few years in a row, and it has done Mengel pass, Lippincott grade, and Titus Canyon (and other places there as well). This new one with the USD forks will make it a breeze to update the suspension and turn it into a proper adventure machine. Halfrica Twin indeed. Now, with the Transalp 750, Honda has less incentives to follow your great suggestions of upgrading this machine themselves. But there is Rally Raid exactly for this reason, and Rally Raid upgrades are likely better than what Honda could provide, judging by what I heard about the 750 suspension from the guys who were at EICMA. If someone wants the CB500X, don't wait, buy it and upgrade it yourself. It should be a breeze. The result will be awesome.
I got mine 3 months ago ( grand prix red !) ... i agree with your comments BUT let's remember it's an entry level bike , affordable AND FRUGAL 70-80 MPG ..... I just drive it and enjoy it , a great bike !
The other killer feature of this bike I think people (and Honda) overlook is the efficiency. For ADV touring, especially long distances, efficiency becomes a major factor in your enjoyment of the ride. There is something unbelievably satisfying knowing that it only costs a couple of bucks to take the bike out for the morning, and if you're doing a long road trip the savings can come to hundreds or thousands.
Honestly chain lube, gears and good motorcycle oil(which you supposed change every approximately 2000 km) prices makes traveling not so cheap as you might think
@@kuikukui5077 you are missing the point. The costs you mention come with all bikes. and the oil change is every 12000km or every year same as almost all motorcycles... I don't know where you heard every 2000km but that is incorrect...
@@kuikukui5077Good motorcycle oil that you change EVERY 12.000KM as said in the Honda maintenance manual, not 2.000km. 👌 Transmission kit can last a long time, specially if you use an automatic chain lubricator. I was able to do more than 500km with one tank of fuel with enough left to reach the nearest gas station, more than once (tank capacity 17.7L and fuel consumption ranging from 2.8L to 3.8L per 100km). You're not making a point there, pal. 😅
Thanks for a good review. Both the 500X and the nc750x are my fav's. Someone below said it right: this bike is almost a perfect commuter, great looks, and modest ability to stray onto a dirt road. God Bless
if i change bike its going to be the cb 500x for sure im 60 and wouldnt mind the switch to this bike for an all round biking experience including some touring
Very well presented, Sir. I would like to address any viewer who is a veteran rider and may be thinking this bike is a “step down”. I live in Central Florida, so I am able (and have for over ten years) been a 7/365 rider, commuting 60 miles a day. I have owned HD’s, Triumphs, Yamahas, and my all time favorite, the Honda Valkyrie (totaled in a, “I didn’t see you!”). Point being, my full time riding history of over a decade has consisted of several very powerful, and high performance bikes. I recently bought a CB500X after the internal struggle with downsizing. I could not be happier with my decision! The CB is the most engaging bike I’ve owned. Meaning that, as you pointed out in your first review, you can actually do everything this bike is capable of doing. The versatility of the CB is also amazing. It is the consummate all-rounder. I truly believe this may be the last bike I own, as it is eminently practical for anything a daily rider would desire. Granted it is not excellent at anything (except fun), but it is satisfactory across the board, good at many things, and outstanding in a few.
I agree with your assessment of this bike. This is a very good all-around, middle of the road bike, with some off-road capability. The popularity of adventure bikes has exploded in recent years, and a few tweaks in suspension, exhaust, tires could make this the perfect mid-weight between the CRF300 Rally, and the Africa Twin. Thanks for another great, informative episode.
I agree also. My opinion is that a “Halfrica Twin” would be hugely popular. I would buy one and I really don’t need a 3rd Adv bike 😉 (with real off road capability it would have some real uses on hard routes ie a whole bunch less intimidating than a big a$$ Adv bike but yet the range is awesome and stretches of road wouldn’t be miserable like on a single cylinder thumper)
Just the fact that you actually sit on the bike tell us the seat height and your inseam is one of the (many) awesome things about your channel; you’re thoroughness is much appreciated!
I just bought a 500x a few months ago. Seems to me that part of the fun is upgrading the way it best fits the owner! You get to make it 'your bike', so to speak. I say leave it as it is and let the owners have more fun. Upgrades for me were lower / offset / wider foot pegs, engine guard, crash bars, 1-1/4" risers, front fender extender, radiator grill, and tractionator GPS tires. Now it's 'my bike'. I also saved enough money on the 500x to buy new riding gear. And that's fun too!
I love my 2022 CB500X. Its my first bike, and your review of the 2021 model and its critiques of the suspension were a large part of why i got the newer model. As a first bike, i don't think i could ask for a better bike. Its got enough power for highway speeds without needing to rev out the engine. It loves to fall over in a turn. I crashed while crossing a low water crossing a month ago, algea causing me to lose traction. I somehow managed to pierce the clutch case cover on the right hand side of the engine. Had a pea sized hole. Without any other options, i had to ride it 12 miles home and it barely noticed. Fixed the hole with some JB weld and she's good as new. I plan to slowly kit her out with some rally raid parts to make her a proficient off road explorer.
Agree with everything you said about developing this as a mid level 500 ADV bike. That from a guy who had 2 VStrom 1000's. Keep up the good info you tubes. I believe you are one of the best reviewers online these days.
2 года назад+39
As someone who bought this bike as an experienced rider (15 years), I can give my long term review. Bottom line : I sold it after 2 months. This is a great commuter, fun little bike and very approachable. Also pretty cheap to buy and run. Now, if I lived in Thailand or somewhere without highways, I would have kept the bike. But I live in Canada, and even if I hate highways, they are unavoidable to get to nice places. The bike can do 120 Km/h but you feel it struggling and it vibrates a lot. Also, you don't feel secure for passing semis and F-250s all around you. You feel tiny and vulnerable. So I sold it to a loss and bought a V-Strom 650, which is basically the same bike with a V-twin (more fun, more powerful) engine and more on road presence. I'm really happy with my choice but TBH I lost about 4k on the resale of a new vehicle and that hurt. So if you 1) live in North America or 2) sometimes have passengers, please skip that bike and get something more powerful. Also the inverted dash looks pretty but it's trash and not easy to read. Feel free to ask if you have questions.
I own a V Strom 650 and am considering selling it to buy a CB500X. I find the forks on the V Strom to be extremely basic and the biggest let down of the bike, especially when pushing it into corners, or on rough trails. Although my bike is an older version, 2009. I also find it extremely top heavy in the trails. It's great on the highway though. But if I wanted just a highway bike, why bother with an adventure style when there's so many good road bikes out there? So it's the trail worthiness that's appealing to me. As in forestry twin track, such as fire trails, not single track stuff that would suit a proper off road bike..
The max speed I've reached with my 2019 CB500X was 183km/h and I've ridden some of it's 98.000km + on the highway, a lot of them with a passenger and a full top case, she doesn't struggle to get to 150km/h, let alone 120km/h. 😅 Sometimes people just have a basic opinion on the few experience they have with something and mislead others with it. Also, if it felt tiny, doesn't your V-Strom feel tiny too? Since it's almost the same size and, in the newer versions of the Honda (2019/...), they're actually larger than the V-Strom, at least in the front (fuel tank/fairings).
Your points at the end are the most important. I'm 5'8" and am hesitant to buy something really tall and a bit expensive if there could be something out there slightly lower and slightly less pricey that would better suit my needs and desires. I agree that this seems like it would be a better platform for many rides like myself.
Totally agree that, in this platform, Honda has the core of a desirable mid-sized Adventure bike. Honda could knock it out of the park with an improved rear suspension and some adjustability for shock and forks. Wire wheels and a 21-inch front wheel would be the icing on the cake. Thanks for a fun ride on a beautiful Honda.
I think it's better like this. Who wants to upgrade it, they can, who wants to keep it as is gets a good bike for a good price. All those nice upgrades will increase the price up to a point where it will compete with bikes with a a bigger engine and that will make it a hard sell. Also there's suppose to be a transalp on the horizon.
I agree. I'll just add that it looks more like a comfy tourer with light off road capabilities, than a full off road adventure bike to me. And that's not a bad thing at all. In my country for example, it's prohibited and against the law to drive off road as those roads are reserved for agricultural and forest patrol vehicles. So there are really not many reasons to buy an adventure bike, when all you can or want to do is to drive longer distances mainly on roads (or do commuting|, which on the other hand are not that perfect so street bikes with stiff suspension are neither a good option. And that's why the CB500X is perfect as is right now IMHO.
@@taurus8422 what you said is good for your country, but not so good for other countries that do allow off-road bikes and tours. And the upgrade make sense for those countries believe me I know cuz mine is upgraded and what a difference it makes cuz I ride off road all the time. Mine is an half a African twin and it does wonderfully.
After having the CB500X with rally raid level 2, it is my favorite bike I've owned so far. The rally raid gives better protection, and 2" lift with adjustable suspension with more travel. This bike amazed me with its capability offroad, it can even go off of jumps! It lugs down low in 1st and I barely ever need to use the clutch and when crawling through terrain, but can still easily go 120km/hr on the highway. It feels easier to pick up than my dr650 was despite being a fair amount heavier. If you are considering a cb500x but want to do some real serious offroad get the rally raid level 2 kit. It turns this thing into a true adventure bike at half the cost of most of the middleweight adventure bikes out there.
You’ve grown a lot as a presenter. I knew you’re alway knowledgeable about the content but your presentation, presence and speech in front of the camera nowadays is significantly better.
Ian, you are exactly right about the scaled-down Africa Twin, or "HALF-RICA TWIN", it would be a great bike and I would definitely buy one, hope Honda is listening.
Thanks for this, Ian! It reinforces my commitment to getting a CB500x to replace the Yamaha Super Tenere I've been riding for a year. I'm a relatively new rider, having only ridden 5 years, and rode cruisers before getting the Tenere. Although I've put more than 5,000 miles on the bike (mostly highway), and gotten some ADV training, I still am intimidated by it (particularly when parking and pushing it) and need to size down. I love what I've been hearing about the CB500x from you and others online and plan to do in-state touring and longer distance touring with it as well. I love your thorough reviews and congrats on 100k subscribers! Take care, Nancy in Colorado
I’ve owned both of these bikes. I agree the super tenere is a beast to move around the garage. However you may miss the passing power and chugging at hwy speeds the S10 gives. The CBX cruises very nicely at hwy speeds just lacks the passing power. My two cents
I have come to trust your insightful reviews. Thank you for all your research, it is appreciated. I am 72 years old and bought this bike. You were right, it is wonderful, friendly and easy to ride. The bonus, I can touch the ground. As your review demonstrated. Keep doing what your doing.
Ian, thanks for posting the metric values for stuff. That's very considerate and incredibly useful for your international viewers. Best regards from Brasilia, Brazil.
The lenght of the person is soo important for the quality of the drive . Especially if you are 1.90 m , factories do not make bikes or options for screens for those people.
I think one of my new hobbies (been spending almost every night drooling over these things) is researching adventure bikes and you are one of the main channels I have been referencing. Really enjoy your reviews and the different ranking systems you come up with. Very informative and helpful. I just bought an ebike a few months ago and it made me realize that I have a large desire to go farther and faster haha. NEVER have ridden a motorcycle, but I do plan on taking classes hopefully soon to get my feet wet. Also, as a fellow RUclipsr I much appreciate the time and energy you spend on organizing and editing these videos. Not many truly comprehend how much work it takes to put a video of this quality together. Thanks again sir, and adventure on! - Shane
Honda has made the CB500 platform really attractive. I have contemplated adding one to my garage. They are fun bikes to ride, and great for the urban environment. Thanks for another great review
I agree. Honda needs to take that bike and make a full on ADV out of it. They have the NC750 as the more roadworthy offering. Give people an even better reason to not even look at a KLR.
The NC is just old, they need to phase that out and replace it with the new Transalp/Baby Africa Twin, with a new engine: nobody buys a 745cc bike that is over the A2 license limits by barely more than 10hp. edit: and it's not that it's a bad bike, far from it, I just don't see the point when the CB500X has grown to be so good. There's very little difference between them now, I think it's clear Honda wants to phase out the NC750X All the CB500X needs is a skidplate and some more engine protection. Coming from the factory, they could eat up the cost without adding anything, then they can develop an "Adventure Pack" to sell as optional with crash bars and hand guards for a correct price. People will buy the pack even if slightly overpriced
@@Galf506 I've had both. Currently have an NC. I much prefer the NC to the CB. I do agree that there needs to be a smaller Africa Twin, I would definitely change my NC for one of those. 🤞🤞
I have often thought that Honda could really capitalize on this platform by releasing a limited series of a "Rally" model every year. For maybe a couple grand more they could have a really nice small ADV bike that would appeal to many markets, simply because there would be nothing like it in the market place.
Thanks for a great review/update. For the money, this bike is about perfect. Wishing to have better this and that will easily take it into the next price class, Tenere territory. Anyone can do the aftermarket thing and make it what they want. The comfort, great mileage (you should've measured/mentioned), Honda reliability, and all-round usability make this a exceptional choice as is.
Great review 👍. I own the 2021 purchased in 2021 and am close to the 8k oil change. Absolutely flawless performance thus far. Not even had to adjust anything on the bike yet. It's a keeper.
I had a 2016 CB500X stock and now a 2017 CB500X Rally Raid . The difference between the two is night and day ... Offroad and surprisingly On road also . If I had a wish I would hope for a 550 cc ..up from the stock 471cc just to give it a bit more ease for highway driving as the 471cc is adequate for most people off road as the first gear can pull you through most anything you will ever need . I am 6' 230lbs . Both of your reviews on the CB500x are very accurate . The stock bike is a great price and alot of fun . Add the upgraded suspension ( like RR ) and you have a very capable, reliable and efficient all around bike ...just about more cc for the pavement would make it perfect ...550 cc :-)
Thank you for this video and your wise comments. I do like the seat height, the white indications on black background screen, etc. One other think I appreciate, is the low position of the exhaust (we also have it on a Ducati Desert Sled), because it allows more space and closer to the frame for the right luggage. Now Honda if you are listening, do come back to the usual placement of the horn and turn signal commands
Thank you Ian - more great coverage of the upgrades to this ‘all round’ bike. I found my cb500x too small in all the frame dimensions (6’3” and 220lbs with 34” inside leg). I found an nc700x (manual) which turns out to be very similar to the cb500x- but bigger in all dimensions. Although very few people review these m, it is 1) a Honda (indestructible) and 2) a great all round bike. Maybe you could wrap these into your comparisons some time?! Of course it is now a ‘750’ and maybe recent upgrades are leaning towards more road orientation but, with a great skid plate, TKC80s, soft panniers, Rox risers, tall screen, power outlet, top (pelican!) case…… it’s perfect for adventuring!
After having the bike for a year, there’s only two things I want for: 1. Cruise Control - I added a Break-Away throttle lock, but true cruise would be nice. 2. A little more power - It’s adequate, but would just be a little more fun if it had a bit more torque. That said, there’s not a motorcycle available that I want to trade for. The bike is that good.
For the small amount of off the beaten path I do now it’s the perfect size bike for me. 40 years in the saddle gives you a great perspective on what you want vs what you actually need. This would be a great choice for me
Great review on the CB500X. I have put about 11K miles on mine in two years. It's an awesomely fun street bike, and reasonably capable for off-pavement adventures also. You need different tires, crash bars, and a skid plate to take it off-road. Agree that it's an excellent platform for a small ADV bike.
Just subbed. Although I've only seen 4 vid's (this, 300 Rally x2, and KLX) I like the way you evaluate, but mostly I get the feeling I can trust, and that my friend is huge! Great job, keep it up!!! - Davey.
So glad you give height AND inseam. Bike reviewers really need to quit quoting their height like it matter for being flat foot or how the leg position is. A 6 foot rider with a 34" inseam is gonna be way different than a 6 foot rider with a 32" inseam. INSEAM matters for flat footing. Only giving height is useless. Props for good info!
I bought a 2015 new. about 22k miles on it, I still love it. To me, a bike needs to be comfortable. I really like the seat, and where my hands fall on the grips. Its a small bike and I'm 6ft 2in. 185lbs. I get 70mpg nearly every tank unless im on the interstate. A bike needs to be fun. Its a lot of fun, and probably the best commuter that I know of simply because of its amazing fuel economy, and very little maintenance. The single front disc is more than enough. Maybe they just wanted the look of 2 disc? It is also much easier to change a tire with one disc. The older forks might be less likely to need serviced as well. I'll likely keep this bike for many more years unless a Tenere 700 magically appears somewhere, but then again, who wants to deal with tube tires?
Thanks for the reviews Ian….completely agree that Honda is overlooking a market niche with this bike…..my 2015 is fully equipped with all Rally Raid components…..solid point A to point B “traveler” regardless of terrain 💪👍
I think you gave this bike an excellent and fair review. From what I remember they also improved the mapping for a better throttle feel. Your right on the nose with the potential for this bike and fortunately there is a ton of aftermarket support for this platform as you mentioned with Rally Raid. The bike has a stock price that appeals to new ADV riders just wanting to get to good camp locations and as their skills grow there are upgrades that can be done to accommodate without needing to buy a whole new bike. There is rumors of Honda putting out a baby AT in the next year or so but nothing substantiated as of yet. If they do I hope it’s an addition to the CB lineup and not replacing this bike. Stay safe! ✌️
Great video.i have a 2019 x which ive owned for 3 yrs.its been a great reliable bike & ive just done a tour round spain & portugal doing 2115 miles.great economy & it didnt miss a beat.
I have a 2021 500X and a Rebel 1100 DCT. Love the Rebel but have to say if I had to choose one to keep it would be the 500X. I don't see myself doing any aggressive off road riding but am thinking of upgrading to the Rally Raid level 1. Without upgrading the wheels it's just shy of $1,000 and probably more than I would need. I have added a skid plate, side and rear racks with luggage, GPS mount, heated grips, crash bars etc. so it is already a mini adventure bike! I have the 16 tooth front sprocket which I have not installed yet. Also got a 39 tooth rear sprocket which some have said is about 1/2 the difference you get with the 16 tooth front. Haven't installed that yet either as I have not had it on the freeway yet. I live not too far from you and get to access some great roads directly from my house. Great review, I have come down from larger bikes and the smaller ones are just more fun!
I have a "22 model. For me personally, the two biggest drawbacks of this motorcycle are the windshield, it causes a very strong wind buffeting and short, virtually non-existent first gear. The solution to these problems is a wind deflector, and a 16T front sprocket. I highly recommend both mods. The larger sprocket additionally lowers the revs by 100-200 at around 90-100km/h. After a few thousand kilometers, I had no problems with the motorcycle after all, it's a Honda, and the average fuel consumption is 3.4L/100km, as for me, this is a very good result, and you could easily go lower.
I have the same problem with wind buffeting. I tried a taller touring windscreen and it was still bad, then I tried a smaller one and it's tolerable but still not clean. Now I'm riding with no windscreen at all and at least it's clean air. I guess I'll have to try the deflector on the stock screen maybe next.
I added the 16T sprocket after 200km, and I haven’t missed it off road at all. First is still short enough for pretty much everything, plus, the bike is so light that you aren’t trying to overcome the weight when chugging along in rough terrain at slow speeds. I bought a 2nd hand screen off a 2013 model, painted it black and installed. The buffeting is almost gone and it looks great, I’ll keep for most of the time, although, I did a 900km trip a month ago and put the stock screen on at the highest setting, also had no problems.
Low first gear is made for those of us that take our CB offroad. the super lower first gear is perfect for this, and it doesnt really affect road drivers only because they are rarely in first anyway. The stock windshield is awful though. Even with a windshield extender I have to duck slightly to avoid buffing, which hurts my neck after awhile.
Favorite bike ,thanks for the review . with this Bike i can : - Go to Grocery store - Go to work - Go from europe to Asia Basicly this is Bike for everything and every situation .
You make a very good point in sugggesting Honda to use this platform for an affordable "Mini Africa Twin". Great Review as always. Best wishes from a fan of yours in Germany !
I think it's great value I need a bike for a backup commuter and would love to do a little dirt riding once in awhile like you just demonstrated looking for something else economical I'm getting older and want to have fun without breaking the bank and would rather buy 3 small bikes for the price of a 1300gs just purchased a NC750X and I'm blown away by the 70mpg mine is the standard transmission definitely the perfect commuter thank you for your awesome reviews got more insight into this motorcycle
Very nicely done from the factory in all categories. Sure lots of room to improve but then the price rapidly rises. Consider it a “Entry Kit”. Then build and upgrade as time finances and experience evolve. I’ve always enjoyed that part of having a new bike. The build is half the fun. You do what is right for you not the factory.
Thanks for the review, Ian. I really appreciate your approach to reviewing various models and gear. May I make a suggestion? It would be great if you could include a test on the turning circle/manoeuverability of each bike you review. This would give us all a good idea of how manageable each bike is, not only off road [which you do] but in urban settings. I also appreciate your adding links to selected items [kit and audio/video items] for us all to check out. Thank you so much for all of this. So, great job Ian, keep up the great work and don't forget to smile and ride safely. 👍
YES!!!! Thank you for uploading this. I am considering buying one in Thailand to take around here, Laos and Malaysia. They are probably the most popular big bike here now.
I didn't finish watching the video yet but already had to give it a like. I can tell you put in effort to deliver a quality video to a variety of people. You divided the video into sections, you mentioned both feet and cm, and also pounds and kilograms. This is a great experience as a viewer, thanks!
As a 2022 cb500x owner i agree the platform has allot of potensial. I have outbackmotortek crashbars and skidplate. Givi handguards. Givi trekker paniers etc. If it had 7" front and back. It would be perfect. And adjustable suspension. I have ridden downhillbikes since 96 and love being able to mod and adjust my suspension. Have sold and moded suspension for two decades. Only thing i miss on my cb is adjustable suspension. Maybe RR get something for 22 models soon. Atleast for the rear. Fuel consumption is the major reason i will keep my cb500x. Have friends with tenere 700s. They have atleast 0.45L per 10km. And i am on average around 0.3L. Witch is very good. And as you mention. It is super easy to drive. But change the pegs. Src is a very good alternative. Big and grippy. Original rubber ones can be VERY slippery if wet.
Completely agree. Too me, this is the sweet spot between weight and power for an adventure bike. The CB500X is clearly road ready. A few more refinements (e.g. more suspension travel) would make it a killer mix. Very surprised this 500cc marked is so void, while their are so many 300-400 cc adventure bike choices. I ride the Royal Enfield Scram 411. It's been modified a bit to get more power, yet still is no where close to the horse power produced by the CB500X. Soon RE will offer a 450 Himalayan, but it will not have the horsepower of the CB500X. And if RE offers a 650 Himalayan, it will surely out weigh the CB500X considerably, and probably with only similar horsepower. Luckily for me, I don't want to spend much time on the interstate, so the Scram 411 horsepower limit doesn't bother me that often. I would love to have the Honda 500cc twin engine on my Scram frame though; that and a 6th gear.
22 cb500x on back order 4wks out. 1st Order for ralleyraid for the obvious basics apx 5-6 weeks out. You're assessment spot on , Halfrica (😉 Bradshaw) twin on the way!!!
Great review. You convinced me I will get one! I have contacted dealers with in 300 miles and if they have one, it's marked up thousands $. The msrp is $7199 . I have see asking $9500. Honda yes! Honda Dealers NO !
I’m buying my first motorcycle this fall and I’ve pretty much narrowed it down to this one. Just want to get to work and maybe have a little fun on the weekends.
Personally, I have owned this bike for 2 years. 2021 version. Have done about 7000km and half of this a t least off-road. Tet rail etc. Here are a few updates I did for adventure riding which I suggest: 1. Wider foot peds 2. Windshield extension for 20 USD - Aliexpress 3. Sport exhaust. Aliexpress version for 60 USD works just great 4. Off road tires like Mites e10 for example. 5. Handguards. 6. Handlebar risers for standing up 40mm However, the big minus is that you cannot turn off the abs for the back wheel. And off-road this makes all of the difference and its basically not existing. Also the suspension has it limits and its not possible to keep up with ktm 390 Adventure on bumpy terrain and ktm is much better if you ride hard on trail. On road they are similar. This is why I have switched to ktm 890 adventure r However, this is a good bike for light off-roading and the engine is great. Good value for the money
I had a KLE 500 twin which I blinged up to make a great little adventure bike: Bar risers, pivot pegz, a staintune muffler, progressive fork springs and D606s. It already had a six speed gear-box and a 21 inch front wheel. The only thing I could not do was put a bigger tank on it, so I carried a bladder for those odd occasions when it was necessary. It was a lot of fun. My son rides it now, as an all-rounder. Lean angles with road tyres are pretty awesome. Perhaps, this is the plan, like DR650s and DRZ400s of old, to make a platform bike for people to modify to their own tastes.
I agree on the lost potential. For some reason the manufacturers equate small with cheap. I want a small, lightweight adv bike that is high quality and as off-road capable as the big bikes like the Africa twin. For now I'm sticking with my KTM 500 EXC-F adv build, but I have my eye on the 390 adventure. If they come out with an R version I'd be a buyer.
Another 100cc plus the mods to turn it into an adventure bike would make this Honda a big seller like you said. Great review, l really enjoyed your insight discussing this bike.
Totally agree with you about making it more of an adventure bike. I have a 2019 Africa Twin Sports DCT and it weighs about 575 lbs with all the accessories on it, it's a monster. I would love to have the CB500X with some modifications too it, about 1 more inch of clearance, about 5 more liters of fuel, a rack on the back, improved suspension / shocks and it would be ideal. I don't know what Honda is thinking? The Honda Transalp 750 appears to be about 90% road with it's orientation. Come on Honda get your act together.
Mostly agree with the assessment. As others have and I’m sure will continue to comment, please give me an adventure 650X (i.e., a new Transalp) with 65-80hp and a similar platform centerpiece with lower seat heights at least close to the 33 inch mark, some optional factory suspension upgrades, optional factory crash protection and skid plate, etc. And stand back for the preordering frenzy among virtually anyone looking for the mid-sized compromise that steals the market. Those unsure about other examples will be motivated... myself included. Whether it’s the challenging seat height of the T7, or the lack of dealership support in the US for Aprillia Taureg, or the weight and expense of the AT, Norton, or Tiger 900, etc. I may not even need to mention the overall relatively unavailable nature of most of these bikes for us mere mortals right now. Come through for us Honda!!! You could be rewarded with an unprecedented preorder frenzy if you do…
The absolutely only thing holding me back from Taureg is the lack of readily available dealer support and parts/repair availability. Imagine if Honda/Suzuki/Kawi would do it
I've noticed while researching for my next bike that the factory bhp specs are always considerably higher than actual. I watched a dyno run on the 2022 model of this bike and the max was 42. For example, the Kawasaki Versys 650 specs say 67 (65.7 at other source) bhp but the dyno run says 59. It' no game changer but frustrating. Great videos! Keep up the good work.
Manufacturers almost always give their BHP reading at the crank (ie. a bare engine) - once you factor in the transmission and tyre being used to dyno test on a rolling road, the result is always lower due to some power loss through those components. Even something as simple as a different tyre tread or pressure can mean the results differ widely, which is why manufacturers test their engines bare, so that there is some consistency when making any comparison.
Just wanted to say thanks to big rock moto for posting their previous review on this. I'm a first time street rider, decades long dirt bike rider and because of your previous review of the bike, I chose a barely used 2016 cb500x to use as a commuter, weekend offroader, and occasional touring bike. I think the cb500x fits all of these categories perfectly. Honda stole the engine from their sport bikes, and that means you get way smoother than expected performance, far from the buzzy single cylinder competition. Downside to that is the so called "snatchy" throttle and stupid short first gear, but with a little time it'll be a background annoyance rather than an issue. Sometimes I think I would have been better off with a single cylinder 250cc dualsport, but it wouldn't do commuting or touring nearly as well, and as you'll find out when you research the bike, lots of older/more experienced riders choose the 500x because it lines up with reality that much more time is spent on the road than on the dirt, and you'd much rather have the performance be oriented towards the road rather than the 20% or so amount of time spent offroad. If it's closer to 50/50, there are definitely other bikes, like a 250 or the new 300 rally, that would lend themselves better. But you don't see people touring on those, like you could the 500x, so it's give and take really. The 500x does so many things well enough, it really could be someone's only bike (ask my how I know!)
I think the rumoured NX500 will be what you want this bike to be. If they actually make it I think it'll be about as close to the unicorn as you can get 👍
Great video. I think that the majority of riders would not be driving as fast as you off road, if they did go offroad. So the bike is perfect for slower riders offroad........Sal : )
I waited so long for this review. Really liking your channel. I have been riding a yamaha xmax scooter and I am considering this as my first 'real' bike. I would like to explore some good gravel roads, but nothing too hectic. I also need to commute to work everyday. I tested the BMW gs310, but it was too vibey, I cant get the tenere because I am on a restricted license here in NZ and I think it might be too big for a first bike. This looks like to goldilocks bike for my requirements. Thanks for the awesome review, between this one and your one on the 2021 model I think I am sold on this bike.
It's a great bike. There's a bunch of things that can make this bike very trail worthy. It's not the shock it's the spring. The external oil filter is a common deterrent for me.
GEAR USED IN THIS VIDEO:
⚡ Klim Krios Pro Helmet(RevZilla): imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM
⚡ Klim Carlsbad Jacket/Pants: imp.i104546.net/BXGB5L
⚡ Klim K Fifty 2 Jeans: imp.i104546.net/BXa310
⚡ Klim Baja Gloves: imp.i104546.net/0Jn2GV
⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Gore Tex Boots: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx
🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS WHEN SHOPPING!
⚠️Rocky Mountain: bit.ly/33kgRIz
⚠️Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN
⚠️Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A
can you make video on Honda CB 500 X 2023?
Totally agree on how Honda's missing a trick in the mid-size ADV market; maybe Honda agrees too, and that's why they (it?) registered the NX500 trade-mark back in 2022.
I own a cb 500 x 2022 model and im wondering which crash bars should i buy for protection. The Original crash bars from honda is the best choise? And will protect all the moto for a drop down or i need to put and the lower protection crash bars?
I love bikes like this. I think they're the perfect amount of power. It's so so satisfying riding a slow bike quickly and being able to use all of a bikes performance.
Im an advanced motorbike instructor, I know how to ride, I'd pick something like this over a GS1250 or super adventure any day, they're just so much more fun and enjoyable in the real world.
😀
I must say the structure and quality of this video is superb! No nonsense, honestly very well put together. I appreciate that 😁
Yeh, me too!
Well said, smart, accurate, and honest insight from someone who knows motorcycles.
Went to Vietnam back end of last year and hired a CB500 - loaded up with luggage and pillion it did start to run out of steam at higher revs. However, apart from that whinge and as it is ‘only’ a 500, it was an excellent bike and did 95% of what I asked from it - it’s got my vote as a lightweight ADV.
"Halfrica Twin" - I love it :D I must have watched this review about 10 times now and I really appreciate the enthusiasm you've brought for the smaller rides like KTM 390 ADV, the little Honda here, and the RE Himalayan. Out of these three bikes it just seems like the Honda stands apart for the money.
I have a 2015 CB500X that I built as an adventure machine with rally raid parts, spoke wheels, 19 in front wheel, revised triple-threes, rebuilt forks, tractive shock, engine protection, etc. I enjoyed the process of building it. I did all the changes myself, Rally Raid provides great instructions, and Juan Browne videos explained the process in detail (you probably heard about Juan Browne from the Blancolirio channel). And I really enjoy riding the CB500X, although it has heavy competition from my 2019 790R.
I've ridden the CB500X rally raid in the Death Valley a few years in a row, and it has done Mengel pass, Lippincott grade, and Titus Canyon (and other places there as well). This new one with the USD forks will make it a breeze to update the suspension and turn it into a proper adventure machine. Halfrica Twin indeed.
Now, with the Transalp 750, Honda has less incentives to follow your great suggestions of upgrading this machine themselves. But there is Rally Raid exactly for this reason, and Rally Raid upgrades are likely better than what Honda could provide, judging by what I heard about the 750 suspension from the guys who were at EICMA. If someone wants the CB500X, don't wait, buy it and upgrade it yourself. It should be a breeze. The result will be awesome.
I got mine 3 months ago ( grand prix red !) ... i agree with your comments BUT let's remember it's an entry level bike , affordable AND FRUGAL 70-80 MPG ..... I just drive it and enjoy it , a great bike !
You are the best adventure bike reviewer on the Net. So good seeing all your reviews, thoughts, the way you review. Perfect. So Thank you.
thank you! it means a lot.
Had mine 2 months now; Yes, Yes, and Yes... been riding 52 years now, and it's one of the more fun bikes I've owned. I think I'll keep it... LOL!
The other killer feature of this bike I think people (and Honda) overlook is the efficiency.
For ADV touring, especially long distances, efficiency becomes a major factor in your enjoyment of the ride.
There is something unbelievably satisfying knowing that it only costs a couple of bucks to take the bike out for the morning, and if you're doing a long road trip the savings can come to hundreds or thousands.
Honestly chain lube, gears and good motorcycle oil(which you supposed change every approximately 2000 km) prices makes traveling not so cheap as you might think
@@kuikukui5077 you are missing the point. The costs you mention come with all bikes. and the oil change is every 12000km or every year same as almost all motorcycles... I don't know where you heard every 2000km but that is incorrect...
@@kuikukui5077Good motorcycle oil that you change EVERY 12.000KM as said in the Honda maintenance manual, not 2.000km. 👌
Transmission kit can last a long time, specially if you use an automatic chain lubricator.
I was able to do more than 500km with one tank of fuel with enough left to reach the nearest gas station, more than once (tank capacity 17.7L and fuel consumption ranging from 2.8L to 3.8L per 100km).
You're not making a point there, pal. 😅
Thanks for a good review. Both the 500X and the nc750x are my fav's. Someone below said it right: this bike is almost a perfect commuter, great looks, and modest ability to stray onto a dirt road. God Bless
Great looks is very subjective… I don’t think it’s “great”
if i change bike its going to be the cb 500x for sure im 60 and wouldnt mind the switch to this bike for an all round biking experience including some touring
Very well presented, Sir. I would like to address any viewer who is a veteran rider and may be thinking this bike is a “step down”. I live in Central Florida, so I am able (and have for over ten years) been a 7/365 rider, commuting 60 miles a day. I have owned HD’s, Triumphs, Yamahas, and my all time favorite, the Honda Valkyrie (totaled in a, “I didn’t see you!”). Point being, my full time riding history of over a decade has consisted of several very powerful, and high performance bikes. I recently bought a CB500X after the internal struggle with downsizing. I could not be happier with my decision! The CB is the most engaging bike I’ve owned. Meaning that, as you pointed out in your first review, you can actually do everything this bike is capable of doing. The versatility of the CB is also amazing. It is the consummate all-rounder. I truly believe this may be the last bike I own, as it is eminently practical for anything a daily rider would desire. Granted it is not excellent at anything (except fun), but it is satisfactory across the board, good at many things, and outstanding in a few.
I agree with your assessment of this bike.
This is a very good all-around, middle of the road bike, with some off-road capability.
The popularity of adventure bikes has exploded in recent years, and a few tweaks in suspension, exhaust, tires could make this the perfect mid-weight between the CRF300 Rally, and the Africa Twin.
Thanks for another great, informative episode.
agree, thanks!
I agree also. My opinion is that a “Halfrica Twin” would be hugely popular. I would buy one and I really don’t need a 3rd Adv bike 😉 (with real off road capability it would have some real uses on hard routes ie a whole bunch less intimidating than a big a$$ Adv bike but yet the range is awesome and stretches of road wouldn’t be miserable like on a single cylinder thumper)
Just the fact that you actually sit on the bike tell us the seat height and your inseam is one of the (many) awesome things about your channel; you’re thoroughness is much appreciated!
I just bought a 500x a few months ago. Seems to me that part of the fun is upgrading the way it best fits the owner! You get to make it 'your bike', so to speak. I say leave it as it is and let the owners have more fun. Upgrades for me were lower / offset / wider foot pegs, engine guard, crash bars, 1-1/4" risers, front fender extender, radiator grill, and tractionator GPS tires. Now it's 'my bike'. I also saved enough money on the 500x to buy new riding gear. And that's fun too!
awesome
Which footpegs and which bar risers did you go with?
@@skyecooleyartwork Voight 30mm offset risers and Knight Design LLC rubber tread
I love my 2022 CB500X. Its my first bike, and your review of the 2021 model and its critiques of the suspension were a large part of why i got the newer model. As a first bike, i don't think i could ask for a better bike. Its got enough power for highway speeds without needing to rev out the engine. It loves to fall over in a turn. I crashed while crossing a low water crossing a month ago, algea causing me to lose traction. I somehow managed to pierce the clutch case cover on the right hand side of the engine. Had a pea sized hole. Without any other options, i had to ride it 12 miles home and it barely noticed. Fixed the hole with some JB weld and she's good as new.
I plan to slowly kit her out with some rally raid parts to make her a proficient off road explorer.
can you do 80 mph on freeway effortlessly ?
@@MrTeslaX
You can do it for hours, and she won't mind, but your mpg will suck.
Agree with everything you said about developing this as a mid level 500 ADV bike. That from a guy who had 2 VStrom 1000's. Keep up the good info you tubes. I believe you are one of the best reviewers online these days.
As someone who bought this bike as an experienced rider (15 years), I can give my long term review. Bottom line : I sold it after 2 months. This is a great commuter, fun little bike and very approachable. Also pretty cheap to buy and run. Now, if I lived in Thailand or somewhere without highways, I would have kept the bike. But I live in Canada, and even if I hate highways, they are unavoidable to get to nice places. The bike can do 120 Km/h but you feel it struggling and it vibrates a lot. Also, you don't feel secure for passing semis and F-250s all around you. You feel tiny and vulnerable. So I sold it to a loss and bought a V-Strom 650, which is basically the same bike with a V-twin (more fun, more powerful) engine and more on road presence. I'm really happy with my choice but TBH I lost about 4k on the resale of a new vehicle and that hurt. So if you 1) live in North America or 2) sometimes have passengers, please skip that bike and get something more powerful. Also the inverted dash looks pretty but it's trash and not easy to read. Feel free to ask if you have questions.
I own a V Strom 650 and am considering selling it to buy a CB500X. I find the forks on the V Strom to be extremely basic and the biggest let down of the bike, especially when pushing it into corners, or on rough trails. Although my bike is an older version, 2009. I also find it extremely top heavy in the trails. It's great on the highway though. But if I wanted just a highway bike, why bother with an adventure style when there's so many good road bikes out there?
So it's the trail worthiness that's appealing to me. As in forestry twin track, such as fire trails, not single track stuff that would suit a proper off road bike..
Merci Guillaume!
The max speed I've reached with my 2019 CB500X was 183km/h and I've ridden some of it's 98.000km + on the highway, a lot of them with a passenger and a full top case, she doesn't struggle to get to 150km/h, let alone 120km/h. 😅
Sometimes people just have a basic opinion on the few experience they have with something and mislead others with it.
Also, if it felt tiny, doesn't your V-Strom feel tiny too?
Since it's almost the same size and, in the newer versions of the Honda (2019/...), they're actually larger than the V-Strom, at least in the front (fuel tank/fairings).
Your points at the end are the most important. I'm 5'8" and am hesitant to buy something really tall and a bit expensive if there could be something out there slightly lower and slightly less pricey that would better suit my needs and desires. I agree that this seems like it would be a better platform for many rides like myself.
love your reviews and appreciate the effort you putting metric values on screen - very considerate thanks 🙏
Totally agree that, in this platform, Honda has the core of a desirable mid-sized Adventure bike. Honda could knock it out of the park with an improved rear suspension and some adjustability for shock and forks. Wire wheels and a 21-inch front wheel would be the icing on the cake. Thanks for a fun ride on a beautiful Honda.
I think it's better like this. Who wants to upgrade it, they can, who wants to keep it as is gets a good bike for a good price. All those nice upgrades will increase the price up to a point where it will compete with bikes with a a bigger engine and that will make it a hard sell. Also there's suppose to be a transalp on the horizon.
I agree. I'll just add that it looks more like a comfy tourer with light off road capabilities, than a full off road adventure bike to me. And that's not a bad thing at all. In my country for example, it's prohibited and against the law to drive off road as those roads are reserved for agricultural and forest patrol vehicles. So there are really not many reasons to buy an adventure bike, when all you can or want to do is to drive longer distances mainly on roads (or do commuting|, which on the other hand are not that perfect so street bikes with stiff suspension are neither a good option. And that's why the CB500X is perfect as is right now IMHO.
@@taurus8422 I would hazard a guess and say that your country is Germany :)
@@ioandragulescu6063 You're wrong, it's more eastwards :-)
Btw. Looking at your nick, i'm guessing you're from Romania :-)
@@taurus8422 what you said is good for your country, but not so good for other countries that do allow off-road bikes and tours. And the upgrade make sense for those countries believe me I know cuz mine is upgraded and what a difference it makes cuz I ride off road all the time. Mine is an half a African twin and it does wonderfully.
@@DollyAndFamilyGetOutAndRide How much money did you put into those upgrades?
Just bought a 500x. Your reviews helped me do this. Cruising your neck of the woods last week. Still dont like adventure bikes, but i like this one.
Rode the 2022 Himalayan this weekend and loved it. I get the feeling I'll love this even more!
After having the CB500X with rally raid level 2, it is my favorite bike I've owned so far. The rally raid gives better protection, and 2" lift with adjustable suspension with more travel. This bike amazed me with its capability offroad, it can even go off of jumps! It lugs down low in 1st and I barely ever need to use the clutch and when crawling through terrain, but can still easily go 120km/hr on the highway. It feels easier to pick up than my dr650 was despite being a fair amount heavier. If you are considering a cb500x but want to do some real serious offroad get the rally raid level 2 kit. It turns this thing into a true adventure bike at half the cost of most of the middleweight adventure bikes out there.
You’ve grown a lot as a presenter. I knew you’re alway knowledgeable about the content but your presentation, presence and speech in front of the camera nowadays is significantly better.
true, I ignore this guys videos at first, but now I like them a lot. So something definitely changed
More structure too, seems like he nailed it
Ian, you are exactly right about the scaled-down Africa Twin, or "HALF-RICA TWIN", it would be a great bike and I would definitely buy one, hope Honda is listening.
I bet they're not.
Thanks for this, Ian! It reinforces my commitment to getting a CB500x to replace the Yamaha Super Tenere I've been riding for a year. I'm a relatively new rider, having only ridden 5 years, and rode cruisers before getting the Tenere. Although I've put more than 5,000 miles on the bike (mostly highway), and gotten some ADV training, I still am intimidated by it (particularly when parking and pushing it) and need to size down. I love what I've been hearing about the CB500x from you and others online and plan to do in-state touring and longer distance touring with it as well. I love your thorough reviews and congrats on 100k subscribers! Take care, Nancy in Colorado
I’ve owned both of these bikes. I agree the super tenere is a beast to move around the garage. However you may miss the passing power and chugging at hwy speeds the S10 gives. The CBX cruises very nicely at hwy speeds just lacks the passing power. My two cents
thanks and ride safe!
@@kevinsmith2747 Cant you get extra hp out of it with some aftermarket installations?
I have come to trust your insightful reviews. Thank you for all your research, it is appreciated. I am 72 years old and bought this bike. You were right, it is wonderful, friendly and easy to ride. The bonus, I can touch the ground. As your review demonstrated. Keep doing what your doing.
Ian, thanks for posting the metric values for stuff. That's very considerate and incredibly useful for your international viewers. Best regards from Brasilia, Brazil.
The lenght of the person is soo important for the quality of the drive . Especially if you are 1.90 m , factories do not make bikes or options for screens for those people.
I think one of my new hobbies (been spending almost every night drooling over these things) is researching adventure bikes and you are one of the main channels I have been referencing. Really enjoy your reviews and the different ranking systems you come up with. Very informative and helpful. I just bought an ebike a few months ago and it made me realize that I have a large desire to go farther and faster haha. NEVER have ridden a motorcycle, but I do plan on taking classes hopefully soon to get my feet wet. Also, as a fellow RUclipsr I much appreciate the time and energy you spend on organizing and editing these videos. Not many truly comprehend how much work it takes to put a video of this quality together. Thanks again sir, and adventure on! - Shane
Honda has made the CB500 platform really attractive. I have contemplated adding one to my garage. They are fun bikes to ride, and great for the urban environment. Thanks for another great review
I agree. Honda needs to take that bike and make a full on ADV out of it. They have the NC750 as the more roadworthy offering. Give people an even better reason to not even look at a KLR.
I agree totally with your comment
honda needs to put this engine in the crf rally.
The NC is just old, they need to phase that out and replace it with the new Transalp/Baby Africa Twin, with a new engine: nobody buys a 745cc bike that is over the A2 license limits by barely more than 10hp.
edit: and it's not that it's a bad bike, far from it, I just don't see the point when the CB500X has grown to be so good. There's very little difference between them now, I think it's clear Honda wants to phase out the NC750X
All the CB500X needs is a skidplate and some more engine protection. Coming from the factory, they could eat up the cost without adding anything, then they can develop an "Adventure Pack" to sell as optional with crash bars and hand guards for a correct price. People will buy the pack even if slightly overpriced
@@Galf506 I've had both. Currently have an NC. I much prefer the NC to the CB. I do agree that there needs to be a smaller Africa Twin, I would definitely change my NC for one of those. 🤞🤞
Totally agree. Waiting for NX 500 that they supposedly working on. Hopefully next year...
I can't wait for the NX500! 🤞
I agree. Honda needs to offer a CB500AX version with updated suspension, 2" lift, skid plate and possibly side guards.
Thanks for the video.
I have often thought that Honda could really capitalize on this platform by releasing a limited series of a "Rally" model every year. For maybe a couple grand more they could have a really nice small ADV bike that would appeal to many markets, simply because there would be nothing like it in the market place.
I agree, at least offer a wire wheel option
@@NorCalSaint I mean Rally Raid does wire spoke wheels for the cb500x for like $1200-ish. So there's that.
Thanks for a great review/update. For the money, this bike is about perfect. Wishing to have better this and that will easily take it into the next price class, Tenere territory. Anyone can do the aftermarket thing and make it what they want. The comfort, great mileage (you should've measured/mentioned), Honda reliability, and all-round usability make this a exceptional choice as is.
That was a great review, all the info I needed was In their, I don’t think this bikes got any competition for the money. I’m a subscriber 👌
Great review 👍. I own the 2021 purchased in 2021 and am close to the 8k oil change. Absolutely flawless performance thus far. Not even had to adjust anything on the bike yet. It's a keeper.
I currently have a 390 Adventure and am considering trading it for this updated CB (along with some Rally Raid upgrades). So, thanks for the review.
I had a 2016 CB500X stock and now a 2017 CB500X Rally Raid . The difference between the two is night and day ... Offroad and surprisingly On road also . If I had a wish I would hope for a 550 cc ..up from the stock 471cc just to give it a bit more ease for highway driving as the 471cc is adequate for most people off road as the first gear can pull you through most anything you will ever need . I am 6' 230lbs . Both of your reviews on the CB500x are very accurate . The stock bike is a great price and alot of fun . Add the upgraded suspension ( like RR ) and you have a very capable, reliable and efficient all around bike ...just about more cc for the pavement would make it perfect ...550 cc :-)
Thank you for this video and your wise comments. I do like the seat height, the white indications on black background screen, etc. One other think I appreciate, is the low position of the exhaust (we also have it on a Ducati Desert Sled), because it allows more space and closer to the frame for the right luggage. Now Honda if you are listening, do come back to the usual placement of the horn and turn signal commands
Amen. I've been waiting for this bike to be adventurized for years. Come on Honda just do it.
Thank you for all the reviews and work put into these videos! These are a great help to us who are new to motorcycles and and all the gear!
Getting a CB500X soon, I'll love it for what it is and try not to hate it for what it's not.
Thank you Ian - more great coverage of the upgrades to this ‘all round’ bike. I found my cb500x too small in all the frame dimensions (6’3” and 220lbs with 34” inside leg). I found an nc700x (manual) which turns out to be very similar to the cb500x- but bigger in all dimensions. Although very few people review these m, it is 1) a Honda (indestructible) and 2) a great all round bike. Maybe you could wrap these into your comparisons some time?! Of course it is now a ‘750’ and maybe recent upgrades are leaning towards more road orientation but, with a great skid plate, TKC80s, soft panniers, Rox risers, tall screen, power outlet, top (pelican!) case…… it’s perfect for adventuring!
Agree on needing extra adventure capabilities. It's my run commute bike around town, I will be accessorizing the bike for off road use.
After having the bike for a year, there’s only two things I want for: 1. Cruise Control - I added a Break-Away throttle lock, but true cruise would be nice. 2. A little more power - It’s adequate, but would just be a little more fun if it had a bit more torque. That said, there’s not a motorcycle available that I want to trade for. The bike is that good.
For the small amount of off the beaten path I do now it’s the perfect size bike for me. 40 years in the saddle gives you a great perspective on what you want vs what you actually need. This would be a great choice for me
Great review on the CB500X. I have put about 11K miles on mine in two years. It's an awesomely fun street bike, and reasonably capable for off-pavement adventures also. You need different tires, crash bars, and a skid plate to take it off-road. Agree that it's an excellent platform for a small ADV bike.
thanks for sharing
Just subbed. Although I've only seen 4 vid's (this, 300 Rally x2, and KLX) I like the way you evaluate, but mostly I get the feeling I can trust, and that my friend is huge! Great job, keep it up!!! - Davey.
So glad you give height AND inseam. Bike reviewers really need to quit quoting their height like it matter for being flat foot or how the leg position is. A 6 foot rider with a 34" inseam is gonna be way different than a 6 foot rider with a 32" inseam. INSEAM matters for flat footing. Only giving height is useless. Props for good info!
I bought a 2015 new. about 22k miles on it, I still love it. To me, a bike needs to be comfortable. I really like the seat, and where my hands fall on the grips. Its a small bike and I'm 6ft 2in. 185lbs. I get 70mpg nearly every tank unless im on the interstate. A bike needs to be fun. Its a lot of fun, and probably the best commuter that I know of simply because of its amazing fuel economy, and very little maintenance. The single front disc is more than enough. Maybe they just wanted the look of 2 disc? It is also much easier to change a tire with one disc. The older forks might be less likely to need serviced as well. I'll likely keep this bike for many more years unless a Tenere 700 magically appears somewhere, but then again, who wants to deal with tube tires?
Thanks for the reviews Ian….completely agree that Honda is overlooking a market niche with this bike…..my 2015 is fully equipped with all Rally Raid components…..solid point A to point B “traveler” regardless of terrain 💪👍
I think you gave this bike an excellent and fair review. From what I remember they also improved the mapping for a better throttle feel.
Your right on the nose with the potential for this bike and fortunately there is a ton of aftermarket support for this platform as you mentioned with Rally Raid. The bike has a stock price that appeals to new ADV riders just wanting to get to good camp locations and as their skills grow there are upgrades that can be done to accommodate without needing to buy a whole new bike.
There is rumors of Honda putting out a baby AT in the next year or so but nothing substantiated as of yet. If they do I hope it’s an addition to the CB lineup and not replacing this bike.
Stay safe! ✌️
Great video.i have a 2019 x which ive owned for 3 yrs.its been a great reliable bike & ive just done a tour round spain & portugal doing 2115 miles.great economy & it didnt miss a beat.
I have a 2021 500X and a Rebel 1100 DCT. Love the Rebel but have to say if I had to choose one to keep it would be the 500X. I don't see myself doing any aggressive off road riding but am thinking of upgrading to the Rally Raid level 1. Without upgrading the wheels it's just shy of $1,000 and probably more than I would need. I have added a skid plate, side and rear racks with luggage, GPS mount, heated grips, crash bars etc. so it is already a mini adventure bike! I have the 16 tooth front sprocket which I have not installed yet. Also got a 39 tooth rear sprocket which some have said is about 1/2 the difference you get with the 16 tooth front. Haven't installed that yet either as I have not had it on the freeway yet. I live not too far from you and get to access some great roads directly from my house. Great review, I have come down from larger bikes and the smaller ones are just more fun!
I have a "22 model. For me personally, the two biggest drawbacks of this motorcycle are the windshield, it causes a very strong wind buffeting and short, virtually non-existent first gear. The solution to these problems is a wind deflector, and a 16T front sprocket. I highly recommend both mods. The larger sprocket additionally lowers the revs by 100-200 at around 90-100km/h. After a few thousand kilometers, I had no problems with the motorcycle after all, it's a Honda, and the average fuel consumption is 3.4L/100km, as for me, this is a very good result, and you could easily go lower.
I would only add to this a beefy skid plate.
A shortfirstgear is great for offroad however
I have the same problem with wind buffeting. I tried a taller touring windscreen and it was still bad, then I tried a smaller one and it's tolerable but still not clean. Now I'm riding with no windscreen at all and at least it's clean air. I guess I'll have to try the deflector on the stock screen maybe next.
I added the 16T sprocket after 200km, and I haven’t missed it off road at all. First is still short enough for pretty much everything, plus, the bike is so light that you aren’t trying to overcome the weight when chugging along in rough terrain at slow speeds.
I bought a 2nd hand screen off a 2013 model, painted it black and installed. The buffeting is almost gone and it looks great, I’ll keep for most of the time, although, I did a 900km trip a month ago and put the stock screen on at the highest setting, also had no problems.
Low first gear is made for those of us that take our CB offroad. the super lower first gear is perfect for this, and it doesnt really affect road drivers only because they are rarely in first anyway. The stock windshield is awful though. Even with a windshield extender I have to duck slightly to avoid buffing, which hurts my neck after awhile.
Favorite bike ,thanks for the review .
with this Bike i can :
- Go to Grocery store
- Go to work
- Go from europe to Asia
Basicly this is Bike for everything and every situation .
You make a very good point in sugggesting Honda to use this platform for an affordable "Mini Africa Twin". Great Review as always. Best wishes from a fan of yours in Germany !
Thank you so much for the review. Very well!
A CB500X with 21/18 spoked wheels and another 1” of travel would be very intriguing. Excellent review and insights👍
Isnt that what the Rally Raid kit gives you?
@@cjeam9199 - Spoked wheels but still a 19" front
i wouldn't touch it
This is such a great looking bike. Color. Shape. All of it.
I think it's great value I need a bike for a backup commuter and would love to do a little dirt riding once in awhile like you just demonstrated looking for something else economical I'm getting older and want to have fun without breaking the bank and would rather buy 3 small bikes for the price of a 1300gs just purchased a NC750X and I'm blown away by the 70mpg mine is the standard transmission definitely the perfect commuter thank you for your awesome reviews got more insight into this motorcycle
Very nicely done from the factory in all categories. Sure lots of room to improve but then the price rapidly rises. Consider it a “Entry Kit”. Then build and upgrade as time finances and experience evolve. I’ve always enjoyed that part of having a new bike. The build is half the fun. You do what is right for you not the factory.
I bought my 23’ 500x because of this video
Thanks for the review, Ian. I really appreciate your approach to reviewing various models and gear.
May I make a suggestion? It would be great if you could include a test on the turning circle/manoeuverability of each bike you review. This would give us all a good idea of how manageable each bike is, not only off road [which you do] but in urban settings.
I also appreciate your adding links to selected items [kit and audio/video items] for us all to check out. Thank you so much for all of this.
So, great job Ian, keep up the great work and don't forget to smile and ride safely. 👍
YES!!!! Thank you for uploading this. I am considering buying one in Thailand to take around here, Laos and Malaysia. They are probably the most popular big bike here now.
I didn't finish watching the video yet but already had to give it a like. I can tell you put in effort to deliver a quality video to a variety of people. You divided the video into sections, you mentioned both feet and cm, and also pounds and kilograms. This is a great experience as a viewer, thanks!
As a 2022 cb500x owner i agree the platform has allot of potensial. I have outbackmotortek crashbars and skidplate. Givi handguards. Givi trekker paniers etc. If it had 7" front and back. It would be perfect. And adjustable suspension. I have ridden downhillbikes since 96 and love being able to mod and adjust my suspension. Have sold and moded suspension for two decades. Only thing i miss on my cb is adjustable suspension. Maybe RR get something for 22 models soon. Atleast for the rear.
Fuel consumption is the major reason i will keep my cb500x. Have friends with tenere 700s. They have atleast 0.45L per 10km. And i am on average around 0.3L. Witch is very good. And as you mention. It is super easy to drive. But change the pegs. Src is a very good alternative. Big and grippy. Original rubber ones can be VERY slippery if wet.
You're always amazing with your videos and your comments about your bikes that you review. You do a great job and really appreciate that.
We're the same height. Thanks for modelling the riding position. I'm gonna get this bike for sure.
Completely agree. Too me, this is the sweet spot between weight and power for an adventure bike. The CB500X is clearly road ready. A few more refinements (e.g. more suspension travel) would make it a killer mix. Very surprised this 500cc marked is so void, while their are so many 300-400 cc adventure bike choices.
I ride the Royal Enfield Scram 411. It's been modified a bit to get more power, yet still is no where close to the horse power produced by the CB500X. Soon RE will offer a 450 Himalayan, but it will not have the horsepower of the CB500X. And if RE offers a 650 Himalayan, it will surely out weigh the CB500X considerably, and probably with only similar horsepower.
Luckily for me, I don't want to spend much time on the interstate, so the Scram 411 horsepower limit doesn't bother me that often. I would love to have the Honda 500cc twin engine on my Scram frame though; that and a 6th gear.
22 cb500x on back order 4wks out.
1st Order for ralleyraid for the obvious basics apx 5-6 weeks out. You're assessment spot on , Halfrica (😉 Bradshaw) twin on the way!!!
Great review. You convinced me I will get one!
I have contacted dealers with in 300 miles and if they have one, it's marked up thousands $. The msrp is $7199 . I have see asking $9500. Honda yes! Honda Dealers NO !
Ian you amaze me with all the bikes you ride and model year to model year your memory for comparison is great . 👍🏼
I would love to see an in-depth review on the Versys 300X!
I’m buying my first motorcycle this fall and I’ve pretty much narrowed it down to this one. Just want to get to work and maybe have a little fun on the weekends.
Totally agree about true half size ADV
Thank you, appreciate that you show, kilos, kw, liters etc 👍🇸🇪
Man, you do a really good job with reviews. Totally cracks me up when you give that half evil laugh when you're having fun riding. Great stuff.
Agreed 100%!!! Build a small version of Africa Twin with this platform and I will buy one with no hesitation.
would like to see you try one with a skid plate, knobbies and proper pegs. I think the tires are holding you back here more than the suspension.
Personally, I have owned this bike for 2 years. 2021 version. Have done about 7000km and half of this a t least off-road. Tet rail etc.
Here are a few updates I did for adventure riding which I suggest:
1. Wider foot peds
2. Windshield extension for 20 USD - Aliexpress
3. Sport exhaust. Aliexpress version for 60 USD works just great
4. Off road tires like Mites e10 for example.
5. Handguards.
6. Handlebar risers for standing up 40mm
However, the big minus is that you cannot turn off the abs for the back wheel. And off-road this makes all of the difference and its basically not existing. Also the suspension has it limits and its not possible to keep up with ktm 390 Adventure on bumpy terrain and ktm is much better if you ride hard on trail. On road they are similar.
This is why I have switched to ktm 890 adventure r
However, this is a good bike for light off-roading and the engine is great.
Good value for the money
I had a KLE 500 twin which I blinged up to make a great little adventure bike: Bar risers, pivot pegz, a staintune muffler, progressive fork springs and D606s. It already had a six speed gear-box and a 21 inch front wheel. The only thing I could not do was put a bigger tank on it, so I carried a bladder for those odd occasions when it was necessary. It was a lot of fun. My son rides it now, as an all-rounder. Lean angles with road tyres are pretty awesome.
Perhaps, this is the plan, like DR650s and DRZ400s of old, to make a platform bike for people to modify to their own tastes.
I agree on the lost potential. For some reason the manufacturers equate small with cheap. I want a small, lightweight adv bike that is high quality and as off-road capable as the big bikes like the Africa twin. For now I'm sticking with my KTM 500 EXC-F adv build, but I have my eye on the 390 adventure. If they come out with an R version I'd be a buyer.
T H A N K Y O U for taking the time to put the conversion to metric. Great video!
Another 100cc plus the mods to turn it into an adventure bike would make this Honda a big seller like you said. Great review, l really enjoyed your insight discussing this bike.
It seems like a bike with so much potential. I keep hearing a more off-road focused version of a bike with this engine is in the works.
Totally agree with you about making it more of an adventure bike. I have a 2019 Africa Twin Sports DCT and it weighs about 575 lbs with all the accessories on it, it's a monster. I would love to have the CB500X with some modifications too it, about 1 more inch of clearance, about 5 more liters of fuel, a rack on the back, improved suspension / shocks and it would be ideal. I don't know what Honda is thinking? The Honda Transalp 750 appears to be about 90% road with it's orientation. Come on Honda get your act together.
Mostly agree with the assessment. As others have and I’m sure will continue to comment, please give me an adventure 650X (i.e., a new Transalp) with 65-80hp and a similar platform centerpiece with lower seat heights at least close to the 33 inch mark, some optional factory suspension upgrades, optional factory crash protection and skid plate, etc. And stand back for the preordering frenzy among virtually anyone looking for the mid-sized compromise that steals the market. Those unsure about other examples will be motivated... myself included. Whether it’s the challenging seat height of the T7, or the lack of dealership support in the US for Aprillia Taureg, or the weight and expense of the AT, Norton, or Tiger 900, etc. I may not even need to mention the overall relatively unavailable nature of most of these bikes for us mere mortals right now. Come through for us Honda!!! You could be rewarded with an unprecedented preorder frenzy if you do…
The absolutely only thing holding me back from Taureg is the lack of readily available dealer support and parts/repair availability. Imagine if Honda/Suzuki/Kawi would do it
I've noticed while researching for my next bike that the factory bhp specs are always considerably higher than actual. I watched a dyno run on the 2022 model of this bike and the max was 42. For example, the Kawasaki Versys 650 specs say 67 (65.7 at other source) bhp but the dyno run says 59. It' no game changer but frustrating. Great videos! Keep up the good work.
Manufacturers almost always give their BHP reading at the crank (ie. a bare engine) - once you factor in the transmission and tyre being used to dyno test on a rolling road, the result is always lower due to some power loss through those components. Even something as simple as a different tyre tread or pressure can mean the results differ widely, which is why manufacturers test their engines bare, so that there is some consistency when making any comparison.
Just wanted to say thanks to big rock moto for posting their previous review on this. I'm a first time street rider, decades long dirt bike rider and because of your previous review of the bike, I chose a barely used 2016 cb500x to use as a commuter, weekend offroader, and occasional touring bike. I think the cb500x fits all of these categories perfectly. Honda stole the engine from their sport bikes, and that means you get way smoother than expected performance, far from the buzzy single cylinder competition. Downside to that is the so called "snatchy" throttle and stupid short first gear, but with a little time it'll be a background annoyance rather than an issue.
Sometimes I think I would have been better off with a single cylinder 250cc dualsport, but it wouldn't do commuting or touring nearly as well, and as you'll find out when you research the bike, lots of older/more experienced riders choose the 500x because it lines up with reality that much more time is spent on the road than on the dirt, and you'd much rather have the performance be oriented towards the road rather than the 20% or so amount of time spent offroad. If it's closer to 50/50, there are definitely other bikes, like a 250 or the new 300 rally, that would lend themselves better. But you don't see people touring on those, like you could the 500x, so it's give and take really. The 500x does so many things well enough, it really could be someone's only bike (ask my how I know!)
I think the rumoured NX500 will be what you want this bike to be. If they actually make it I think it'll be about as close to the unicorn as you can get 👍
Great video. I think that the majority of riders would not be driving as fast as you off road, if they did go offroad. So the bike is perfect for slower riders offroad........Sal : )
I waited so long for this review. Really liking your channel. I have been riding a yamaha xmax scooter and I am considering this as my first 'real' bike. I would like to explore some good gravel roads, but nothing too hectic. I also need to commute to work everyday. I tested the BMW gs310, but it was too vibey, I cant get the tenere because I am on a restricted license here in NZ and I think it might be too big for a first bike. This looks like to goldilocks bike for my requirements. Thanks for the awesome review, between this one and your one on the 2021 model I think I am sold on this bike.
A brake upgrade would be my #1 upgrade too. I love it when cars etc. make a right hand turn directly in front of straight thru traffic.
I love the fact I can watch this in 4k! Another great vid!
Really wish it came with cruise control. A great option on any motorcycle.
It's a great bike.
There's a bunch of things that can make this bike very trail worthy. It's not the shock it's the spring. The external oil filter is a common deterrent for me.