I WISH This Had Been My First Motorcycle: Honda CB500X 1000 Mile Review
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- Опубликовано: 1 окт 2023
- The Honda CB500X is the motorcycle I wish I had started my riding career on. It may be the best first motorcycle for not only those interested in adventure motorcycle riding, but motorcycling in general. Why? Because it's a true jack of all trades bike. It can do just about anything (just not quickly) which means it gives new riders a platform from which to explore all the different variations and types of adventures motorcycling has to offer. Whether you want to attempt single-track trails or go motorcycle camping across the country, the Honda CB500X will let you dip your toe into whatever you want to try to do on a bike.
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Honda CB500x Review bottom line: The Honda CB500X is not a thoroughbred. IT IS a dependable mule that will take you and your gear wherever you want to go, through whatever terrain you would like to travel.
It’s my favorite bike for beginners because it’s easy for them to ride (won’t get them in over their head), opens up a world of possibilities to try (it can do anything) and can last you your entire riding career.
I have been riding for nearly a decade and still thoroughly enjoy every ride on this bike. It doesn’t have a lot of character, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t fun.
It can take beginner abuse and tolerate lack of mechanical skill and last you forever anyway.
It’s the perfect first step into the world of adventure motorcycling or just motorcycling in general. It is the perfect gentle gateway into a world of possibilities.
It’s a discovery machine…like the “general studies” degree of the motorcycling world. Jump in, try everything, figure out where your passion lies and head in that direction.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I 100% wish I had bought a Honda CB500x when I was looking for a beginner adventure motorcycle.
Curious how it compares to the Honda CRF300L Rally in terms of a beginner adventure bike? Check out my full comparison video:
• Honda CB500X vs Honda ...
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Put 72,000km on my first one, and now have 15,000km on my second. Never had to do anything but regular maintenance. I love this bike. Capable, comfortable, and by far the best value for the money in this class of bike.
Purchased a used 2019 CB500X with 3000 miles almost 2 yrs ago. Rode it for 6 months and then installed the Rally Raid kit. Absolutely love this bike! Rode a KTM 1190R since 2014 and was ready for a change. Way less maintence than the 1190 and more reliable. Went to Europe last summer and rented a CB500x For 3 weeks. MPG are a big thing in Europe with $7 fuel
Cool. It looks like Honda has once again captured the essence of a basic motorcycle that can fit into any niche of riding.
That is what they're best at, for sure.
@@DorkintheRoad Not once did you say halfrica twin .
It's a fun bike for sure. I wish more 500ccs were on the market
I have over 26,000kms on mine and have no regrets. It was the perfect bike for my recent trip around Labrador.
I couldn't agree more with what you say about the 500X being well-suited to beginner riders. I'm an experienced rider who got back into biking after a 30 year layoff. First one I picked up was the Yamaha WR250R (a fantastic dual sport) and then a year later, the 500X. I love it. It reminds me a lot of my old Yamaha Seca II 600 from the early '90s. The Seca II was a four-banger and had slightly more power. As for the 500X, I'll never sell it. It's a wonderful bike that helps one to remember why they got into motorcycling in the first place.
Unlike some people, I have no desire to take the 500X offroad. I have thousands of miles of offroad experience, and for me, a bike must be MUCH lighter to use offroad. My WR is perfect for that. Anyone who has ridden hills offroad a lot, and dropped a bike many times, will come to realize that heavy bikes offroad are NOT the best choice, by a longshot. That said, I appreciate that the 500X "can" be a true adventure bike for folks, including some easy offroading.
Lastly - GREAT review. I agree with everything you said. I particularly like your comment about the 500X having "70%" of the capability of a sport bike on the road. Very useful comment for newer riders, I think. Thanks for the review!
89,000 trouble free miles across 10 countries, on my X. Love this bike.
Thanks a bunch for making this video, it’s a big help! I’ve been researching what bike to start on, and decided to go with this one. It’s nice to see it’s a bike that can last a long time, I’m not one to trade things out often.
That you got it that clean after all that testing is amazing. Unbelievable, even.
As perfect a review of the CB500X as I've ever seen. Well done Dorkster!
My first bike was the 2017 CB500X because it was inexpensive ($5000 then), yet had enough power for a fully loaded 3 week paved road trip. Never took it off-road because I was a newbie and gravel scared me. I loved the size, handling, and "mellowness" - as Dork says. Oh - loved the fuel economy as well. However, it was not the touring bike I needed because it lacked cruise control and it took planning to pass vehicles if acceleration and alot of highway was needed. It also tended to be unstable at interstate speeds (70-80 mph) when there was a strong cross wind. After a year, I traded for a Tiger 800 (for touring and light off-road) and bought a Yamaha XT250 for the real off-road. Still, as I entered my 70s, the CB500X is a bike I keep looking at for when my Tiger 900 becomes too big and my rides are strictly day rides.
This is my dream bike i think, and your video definitely reinforces my desire for one. I can't wait until the day when i can afford to get my hands on one.
I bought a new one in 2022 after not riding for 18 years. Love the bike and very pleased with everything about it.
mine was a CX650 1983 was a great bike for the street, rode it until 2005, good video and great advice for new riders
Agreed, that is an excellent first bike. Total jack of all trades and not very expensive.
Spent several months riding around southern Thailand on one of these, and everything said in this video is spot on. Had to upgrade to an AT as I moved back to the PNW.
Very accurate review ! I had a 2016 and now a 2017 Ralley Raid . Five years total riding of the 500X . Great bikes !
That just about sums it up. The 2022 upgrades are definitely worth having.
You nailed this review. I have ridden the CB500X and if I had room for one more motorcycle the CB500X would be filling that space.
I have 2018, last year did a 1000 mile road trip. Really had a blast on the back roads with some dirt. Loaded it up for a camping trip, leaving tomorrow. I have owned 6 bikes since I started riding 30 years ago and this really is the do it all machine.
Thanks man, you've really helped me make a decision about this bike👍
This is exactly the review I thought you would make. You said everything I thought you would say. This isn't the review we didn't want. It is what it is and isn't what it isnt. It's the swiss army knife of reviews. Cheers! 😂
Done 13000km on mine. Mostly mountain and gravel roads where I live. Great utility bike around the farm but which I can comfortably drive 4hrs to the nearest city occasionaly. Engine protection and decent tyres make a huge difference! No riding modes so If you use time to learn off road skills on this bike you have enormous fun and get a great feeling of accomplishment 😊
I wanted to get this as my first bike. Sadly there were none anywhere near where i live and the local honda dealership said they cant get them till december. So i went into the yamaha dealership and there sat a beautiful tenere 700. The learning curve on that bike was one crazy journey. You learn fast not to drop that bike.
Got about 1400 miles on my 22 and love it. It’s my first bike and it’s been a blast. Michelin road 6 front and rear upgrade was the ticket for me.
You're 100% right on all points. The 500x doesn't look like anything special on paper but it definitely is! I have a 2022 model and love it! Haven't found anything it can't do.
“It is what it is, and it isn’t what it isn’t” and “people looking at their bike, aren’t looking at a T7 or 890, and vice versa” so true statements. Too many people look at different adventure bike models and compare them to others, that they should not be compared against cuss they’re for a totally different customer. This is a great, accurate review of this bike!
Thank you for the review! I am more road oriented guy, I have a 929 and that thing has a serious drinking problem...and I miss my RC36II! This CB500X seems great for solo touring...and 500+ Km on a single tank, that's blackmagic for sure
My wife bought one to follow me around on my 2013 Scrambler, which is a good paring, though I am envious of the CB500x’s mpg. She’s far from a beginner, starting on an 89’ NT650 with some 954RR bits. The CB500x is, like you said, easy to throw a leg over and go, anywhere. She’s been able to follow me down roads she previously couldn’t get to, which is great because I have been itching to get her to some of the remote locations here in Appalachia.
Me too! Had a big cruiser for my first bike and thought bikes weren't for me as a result. Years later I got a CB500X and I am kicking myself for not getting one sooner! Yes, I'll likely move to something bigger for longer on road runs, but it's THE ultimate beginner bike.
Perfect summary. I am new rider. 4 months into riding. Bought cb500x as i dont know what i like. And it has been good to me. 3k miles so far. Learning. Enjoying. But as a car guy, engine is a vanilla. But it is expected. I have no regrets.
I love mine(2021 cb500x) getting sprocket change as I text, I've taken mine half way across America, not one problem, great gas mileage, perfect for peaceful long camping trips!! ... great review!!
I just got her as my first bike last week! (I named her Capitan) I’m really excited to be able to ride her more and get some more experience both on and off road. 😁
Very good revue. Ride safe my 2 wheel friends.
Good review agree with all you said.A thing to stress as well is the fuel efficiency..I have a 2021 model and a crf 300 l which in total cost me less than a T7.Your video,s are great a good variety off subjects.😊
Honda Rocks! Past owner of the Honda 450 and still have my '71 CL350...! My fave rave is my 1300 Interstate. Not a dirt bike, but does comfortable 700 mile days...
got my 500x last year its my first bike and i absolutely love it! im on a 2015
After many YT research (including your videos) The CB500x is my actual first motorcycle. Been riding since April and have absolutely not regrets buying it
This bike is next on my list! Nice review.
Spot on review. This bike are very capable.
At the time off my reply here, there have been 255 comments on this video and hardly a single one, has anything "bad" to say about the Jack Of All Trades Honda CB500X.
That in itself is high praise for the beauty!
Mine's a 2020 model and I really can't complain about anything "wrong" about this bike.
"Hogan" my CB500X and I, are destined to be good mates for many years into the future!
Ive averaged about 1000 miles a month on my 2022 version including a trip to Morocco. Absolutely agree its a fantastic swiss army knife bike.
I had one for 4 years. It was my second bike after a year on a CRF250L. I rode that thing from Portland across BC from west to east, then back home through Eastern Washington. Get the rally raid kit and it's as good as a tenere off road.
Considering the somewhat small suspension travel and how that limits your speed off road, the cast wheels don't bother me. If I am going to take it easy off road, I would rather have the benefit of tubeless tires and the ease of fixing flats that comes with them.
Watching the reviews of this bike done by RIDE Adventures, who were mentioned in the videos, they said in regards to the cast wheels that they've never had a single one break on them.
same im 90% on road anyways
Still a 650 is a 650 , a 500 isn't in the same league .
@@ItsMangel Cast wheel breaking is overrated especially on mild trail. I have two motorcycles, identical (110cc honda) except one has cast wheels and fuel injector while the other has wire spokes and carbs (due to Indonesian banning new carb bikes in 2016). in the last 7-8 years I had them, I had to do wire straightening and wheel aligment twice, the cast wheel doesn't have this issue.
LOVE MINE! ive owned 18 bikes and this bike always makes me smile. i ordered a 2023 from factory with ALL the options (10,500 OTD) and do everything from grociers, airport, light off road, long distance, moto camping and 2 up. The agility and lean angle of this bike impressed me and the tractor factor is so legit. 1800 rpm in 3rd then accelerate out! Wow love this bike, its my daily. yes, the engine isnt a twin cam or M8 but its just such a peach, my ex had a rebel 500 and when id hop off my harley and ride the rebel i wouldnt be dissapointed. highly recomend the 500X especially here in europe.......oh yea, and the fuel efficieny is amazing!
The DITR videos on this bike factored heavily in my decision to get one as my first bike. Loving it so far.
Great video sir. Thanx. I’m just cas. browsing so wanted to see what this was like
Having owned many bikes with all power levels, this bike is amazing at showing how capable a 45hp bike can be. I think as long as you have the space, this is a bike that doesn’t take much to own long term.
I agree, I got the 390 and wished I got the more smooth tractable twin. Cb500x is the perfect first bike. Now I'm looking at an 890r 😊
I have just over 10k on my 2022 and it’s my first bike. All around fantastic bike.
Just bought one. Loving it
I just bought one based on your and Big Rock Moto review and recommendation. I am thoroughly enjoying it
Great to hear!
Just rolled over 7000 miles on my 22! I like the idea of riding to the place I wanna ride..Headed to Cumberland Falls Ky for a 4 day moto camp/ride
I love my 2022 CB500X and I put it into some terrain that it really shouldn’t go, and it just keeps on ticking!!
Over my 40+ year riding career the popular gateway drug was the Suzuki 650 90 degree v-twin (either Sport or V-Strom). Mostly because it was a great entry to track days after you move past it.
i miss my pristine gen 1 SV650
Great review.Waiting on the 24's(although I might bite the bullit and get a leftover)Thanks!(also at 5'8, it works for me!)
I'm always amazed about how many people can't tell difference between ADV and dual sport (even touring like > 1L GS). ADV is road bike that can handle some dirt. Dual is dirt bike that can handle some road. Now, either one depends on tires more than anything else. X is one of most versatile and best value bikes. It is one to keep for every day use and buy/change second one to try different things. I have only 15k miles on my 2017 but, only because I work from home and I put another 25k miles on my other bikes. The biggest drawback is relatively light weight which makes it somewhat unstable at strong winds at higher speeds and lack of traction in rain for same reason although good road tires improve immensly. Stock tires are garbage for anything other than sand. I've seen guy with 94k miles on odo and kept going. I heard one guy who abused engine on his F model until it died at 65k miles and he just popped in another one. All I said is for rider who fits on that bike with size and ergo.
I put Michelin road 6 on mine and handle wet and dry easily.
The description you give it is pretty similar to the KLR, but you seem WAY more enthusiastic with this one. I'd love to hear more on that comparison, directly. Of course it's not a T7, but a KLR comparison seems relevant.
Actually, I suppose you called out "easy to swing your leg over" on this one, and you had the standard KLR, not the S-model, so maybe there's less to it than I'd guessed. I'm loving my KLR650S, but I love getting relevant comparisons, as I may switch it up one day, and that's my current point of reference.
The only thing that could mate this bike better. A DCT option.
It's annoyingly just good enough at everything and anything. Talking from experience, got one as vehicle for everything, as I don't have a car. Can commute, can carry stuff and people, can go into twisties, can go off road, can go on a highway, and surprisingly it is a good commuter for when it rains.
Well, except maybe urban commuting, it's actually great at that. It's actually very good at riding over bad asphalt around the city.
It could be more powerful, but then it would also need traction control, and probably have more weight, and be more expensive. So there would be a trade off. The engine itself, as it is, could be easily modified to make more power, but it would take away from its stupid long service life.... but 10-15 more hp would probably be the only true upgrade for this bike.
The 2022 suspension is noticeably superior, I strongly recommend you try one. It's not a big jump forward, but you definitely feel it.
I disagree with your wishlist for this bike: spoked wheels, 21 inch front, clearance, etc. That would make it an off roader, and would take away from its street capabilities, which means it would not be that jack of all trades anymore.
Stock wheels are very strong, for some reason, and their size and shape make it perform nicely on road, while also giving you some noticeable off road capabilities. It's not like you're gonna do rallies and jumps on this bike, and even if you did: you probably won't even bust the stock wheels. You mentioned RIDE adv, they didn't bust wheels, and they're not easy on the bikes either.
Ground clearance is also good for this bike (for what it is), because it has a short wheel base. But a bash plate is necessary, just in case, because that oil sump hangs low enough. Making it taller would make it better off road, sure, but it would make it worse on road, be it twisties, city, highway, etc. That's also because of the short wheel base. So again, it won't be that jack of all trades. It is balanced as it is.
The stock form is as vanilla as it gets, but slap an exhaust and rev it up and it kind of comes alive, imo. Not as nice as a triple, that's for sure, but mine definitely sounds fun with a mivv.
So, this bike could be more this or that, IF you want more specialized riding. But as a balanced "do it all" bike, it's in the right spot.
If you want more this or that, that shows you the direction you could move on from the cb500x. It's not that the cb should have that.
Really good overview. A big thumbs up. ;-)
I’ll get my learner rider next year. CB500X will be my first choice of bike to own. Seen so many reviews and riders on this bike, I dont need to change my mind for choosing other bikes. Only need to change tires for off road. Or for touring a Michelin Road 6.
Liked your thoughts on the CB500X. I have a 2023 version which I bought because of the changes made in 2022. I thought the Suzuki VStrom 650 was the perfect utility bike but I found the CB500X to be even better. The older you get the more you think about the weight and seat height of a bike. When you are riding alone in case a tip over occurs you won't have a problem getting it upright and as you say it's a Honda.
My first bike was a CB500X. Now it's a V-Strom 650 XT. My wife likes the V-Strom pillion much more, but I miss the CB. It felt more playful and fun, whilst also more practical, especially for my most usual riding, which is in city traffic.
@@jsveiga I bought a 2015 VStar 950 to ride with the wife. She never really cared for the passenger seat height of the VStrom 650 and won't ride for long stints on the CB500X.
Riding bikes for 65 years I am looking at this to replace my Triumph T100 Bonneville which I am now finding heavy at age 77. It is funny how manufacturers have gone back almost to the Edward Turner 'speed twin' engine.
This is why I put down a deposit on the Transalp. I think it's everything the CB500X is, but better equipped for the longer rides I need / want to do, to get out where I want to go. A true "Halfrica Twin".
My CB500X is my first bike. Oddly enough, it was the previous owner's last bike. It's been awesome so far, just need to get a new set of tires before trying anything off-road. I have the older one with the 17" front wheel, but it's fine for the level of off-roading I plan to do with it.
It’s much like the Versys-X 300, not much on paper but loads of fun and very capable. 😊
I love my GF’s Kawasaki and ride it often.
A very versatile bike like you say - not just for beginners, but for anyone who doesn't want a physically larger/heavier machine, but still wants something all-day comfortable on the road.
For info. the Rally Raid 'kit' you mention isn't anything like $5,000 - their long travel suspension kit is $1100, the cradle engine guard $275 and the spoked wheels are $1250 (should you want them, the OEM cast wheels are actually surprisingly robust for anywhere your average rider is likely to want to take this size/weight bike) - and that combination makes any CB500X appreciably more capable away from paved roads.
I am a new rider. Well actually not, but it has been a couple of decades since I rode a bike. I have recently retired and getting a Motorcycle is/was on my bucket list. I put a deposit down on a Royal Enfield Himalayan, but the deal fell through, but found a 2022 CB500x at a good price and very low Ks/M. In my area. It looks gorgeous in the Pearl Green. So today I put a deposit down on her. I live in The Snowy Mountains in Australia. 2 of the other bikes I have owned in the past were Honda CBs and they were terrible off the bitumen, and I have a lot of dirt/rocky roads where I live, so I was a bit worried that I have done the wrong thing. After watching your video, you have put my mind to rest. I am in no hurry and don't want to go fast, I just want to do some exploring. I will for sure put some good 50/50 tires on her first thing. Thanks for your great video, well done.
Nice to know this is a recommendation for a 1st bike. I'm planning on getting my first ever bike and I've been eyeing these and the Kawasaki Versys 650.
Am in the same situation... i cant choose :/
Honda doing what Honda do - the CB name has always been this way - easy to trust
Hey dork, thanks for the video. We have 2 of these. One has the full rally raid treatment. We have about 50k combined miles .the bikes are great. I would say that the engine is probably the most dull engine I've ever ridden, but you're right, it will exist in every situation. We've done months long moto camping trips, TET, off road sweetlamb weekends in Wales. Never taken it to a track, but we did some very spirited riding I the black forest. Also, we have a tyre suggestion for you. The Karoo street. It is not good in mud as it slides laterally, but in EVERY other situation it shines. Amazing on the road and totally usable off road, weve been through sone pretty gnarly stuff with it. Dont let the name put you off AND, on the cb500x i got almost 15k miles out of the back.
Ride safe brother
Hey, saw you did TET on this. What do you think about doing TET with this bike with two up?
@@thedavishometeam4948 oooo 2 up? It's not something I would attempt, but to be fair, I can't conceive of attempting the TET on any bike 2 up. What sections are you thinking? Uk or further afield?
@@everydaybiker Well, I am not too sure about it either. But considering with 2 up...Want to come from Thailand, connect with TET and across Europe. I've never ridden any of it so I have no real idea how difficult it is. Lots of opinions on difficulty, but until I see it won't know.
i think a stronger comparison might be the versys 300x instead of the 300l rally. still that on and offroad type vibe.
My wife and I have one each and it’s amazing done long tours and road and gravel do work commute when fuel cost is crazy don’t really now what I would replace it with don’t come and crash bars or hand guards so have to fit those and centre stand but so reliable and good on fuel. Next bike probably sports tourer with a scooter in the mix for local commute would work fine.done 10.000. Kilometres same tyres and chain probably do extra 5.000 Kilometres before I need to look at new tyres and chain/ sprockets. Ride safe enjoy
I really value your reviews, eloquent, multi dimensional view on many things ... I'm a happy rider of a heavy BMW tourer, always been, always will be .... but I'm missing many of the things you've described, specially lighter weight, back country, moto camping 🏕 you know already.... I'm watching all your and other reviews .... and I'd wish to be able and allowed to buy them all.... but I can't.... I think I like the successor of this CBX, the Honda CFL 300 rally, the Suzuki DR 650, the Honda 650L, the 450 Himalayan and the KLR650 .... but I'm confused which one to buy (California, pot. North Carolina, Oregon, back country, moto camping).... I'm 6.2 and 230. Thanks for your advice.
Excellent video! My first bike is a Royal Enfield Himalayan. It also ticks a lot of the boxes for a first bike. If you like tinkering with engines and upgrades then the Himi is a great choice. It's very easy to work on and modify. Ride on 🤟
Best username ever! I love your work on the coastlines!
week after I get my rally a 500x shows up at the local dealer. but, the rally fits me & theres plenty of touring bikes.
Anything you want to do? How about Trials? LOL. Nice review of a cool machine.
I would be curious to see you do a side by side review of this bike and a suzuki Vstrom 650. I used to lust after the 650 Vstroms, but when it came time to buy i found a great deal on a 650 Burgman and that way instead. The automatic was a blessing in the DC traffic i drove in every day.
Thanks for a wonderful video. I'm considering this bike and also looking for the CF MOTO 450MT but I prefer to pay more for a Honda than risking my money for a Chinese one, although the parts are high quality.
I have to agree. 63 years old when I bought it, NOS for $4300 (‘17). I’ve been riding it for three years and am quite happy. Maybe it’s because I don’t know any better. I may buy another bike (street oriented), but won’t be selling this one. There’s no good reason. It truly does, do it all. I couldn’t be happier. Oh, and it sips gasoline. I plan on touring with it. Have done quite a bit of camping with it and you really don’t have to worry about where you go. I have a dirt bike for the trails and such. If you’re thinking about one. Just go do it. You won’t be sorry.
We used these going around Sicily in last winters tour for the channel and we were really surprised at just how capable these little bikes are! We love our Africa Twins but these are just as good provided you dont need to do big motorway miles
CB500X can do big motoway miles, i just found the stock seat hard (nothing a 40 dollar airhawk cant fix!) . sure at 120kph its at 6k rpm (redline 8k) but its a honda!
@@alexandercoll4863 Yeah if it had to do motorway you can definitely do it but I’m not the smallest bloke and I don’t want to ride a bike flat out for a big 400 mile motorway day
@@ontheroadadventure fair fair, I can see that. I weigh about 90 kilos so for me it isn’t too bad here in Spain and yea 6k in 6th gear is up there but with good oil I feel ok! Def need to take the ferry to Sicily and ride around! Cheers 🍻
@@alexandercoll4863 This is where our RUclips journey began, our Sicily trip on the CB500x take a look, Sicily is well worth the trip Sicily Motorcycle Touring: Should you?
ruclips.net/video/N_Ibx5dQGrw/видео.html
Even though I don't own one, I have to agree that this type of bike is the better choice for entry into the ADV world. After 4 years away from my previous bike - a 1997 BMW R1100RS - and wanting more off-road ability, I bought a 2002 Aprilia Caponord. Great Rotax v-twin, smooth tranny but quite top heavy and beyond my meager off-road skills. This Honda would've fit the bill better.
For some reason, I have always always liked them. Yet for some reason, I never could pull the trigger on buying one. Back in 2018 I could have bought a brand new still on the floor 2016 model for the exact same price as what I paid for my BMW G310GS. The ONLY reason why I got the G310GS over the Honda...........is because at that time virtually no one had anything on building up a G310GS, so I did it for views. And it worked. lol But hindsight, yeah I would have likely loved the Honda more than the G310 lol Great vid bro!
I have a 2017 model with 35,000km on the odometer. It has been a reliable daily this entire time; no unscheduled maintenance, always starts, always makes it home. Continental makes a TKC80 front tire in 17-inch size; meaning this bike is more capable off-road than I am brave.
I have a second bike for more focused off-roading now, but I can't bring myself to upgrade the CB500X to a more powerful or focused road bike. It's my little Halfrica Twin and I can't let it go.
"Halfrica Twin" LOL!! Never heard that one. That's very good!! :) I love my 500X and will never sell it.
Great info on this one brother 👊
Thank you!
This is still on my short list 🏍️💨
This was the the bike I was going to upgrade to after learning to ride, but of course the local dealer didn't have any on the floor. So I ended up with the KTM 390 Adventure which I know you weren't impressed with. You obviously know way more than me about bikes since you have ridden so many, but I love my 390. It's light and flickable and that little single loves to scream.
In the video, you mentioned that the CB500X would be a better bike if it had 21-18 wheels, tubed tires, more suspension travel, and more ground clearance. Sounds like you are describing the Transalp? I agree with your comments, the CB500X is a great little bike that can do anything at 70%+ of the best bike. I enjoyed my CB500X for 3.5 years, but traded it in on a new Transalp Saturday.
I'd love to see a CB500x vs Versus -x300 video. I'm looking between them rn
I have one myself and must admit, that the presentation is very correct, although a little optimistic. I like it much, but I'll consider changing it for something more profound and capable after a while...
Everything he says is true! I’ve a CB500X and a 300Rally. I started riding off road with the 300 and wanted to do some road trips with friends so bought the CB500. It’s just so easy to ride and will easily do highway/motorway speeds. It’s a supreme confidence builder for people like me starting road riding at a later age. The price also made my decision easier.
Those are the two bikes I’m deciding between as a first bike. I want to develop advanced off-road ability so leaning towards the 300 rally, but what I will be using it for is touring Europe/Latam slowly over a year or two. So the 500x would obviously be better for the long road journeys, but less fun when you arrive somewhere interesting. What would you recommend?
About the misnomer: Rounding up a bit (or a bit more) to get a big shiny round number is at least traditional.
Going in the opposite direction feels much sillier, like BMW where they call it a 650 but it's really an 800. Then it's just putting random numbers on it and you might as well call it the FteenthousandGS. ;-)
As a new rider I'm set on getting the 500x by next Spring and eventually getting a Big E-Bike like Talaria, Mantis or Surron for Trails. Ide Love a Zero but that's half this bike for twice the Price. If I want to Take even Longer Highway Trips I May Add a TransAlp but I don't ever see getting rid of the 500x after its taken so long to Get it....When I get it
I really like this bike, would be awesome sticky tires and a 2nd wheelset with knobby tires.
You list your jacket, pants and gloves in the description. Which boots are you wearing and how do you find them with the low shifter on this bike? I just bought a 2023 CB500X and I can not fit my MX boots under the shifter. Thanks for the videos!!!
Thanks for the review. Looks like you were catting around Sweet Home, I live in Corvallis and used to work down in that area. Have you ever taken the Quartzville road up to Hwy22? I come with questions. I have my deposit down for a '24 TransAlp.(maybe be here for Christmas). After watching your review of the CB500X I am now conflicted. I haven't ridden for 20 years but have 20 prior years on two different motorcycles. I am 62, retired and wanting to get out and explore primarily logging roads and eventually work my skills up to longer commutes say to Montana. Would you recommend a Transalp over me getting a new CB500X? Thanks for any advice you might have. I sure have enjoyed your channel and keep up the great work.
I bought a 2023 model in April of 2023. So as of this typing, I've had it for 1 season. I downsized from a Versys 650 (WAY too top heavy, difficult to control at parking lot speeds) The CB500X is easier to ride and control. It's better in almost every way...except: I wish the gears were taller....or at least 6th gear. Riding 65-70mph and the engine is screaming fast...almost 6000 rpm to go on the highway. It just seems like 6th should have been taller to get the rpm's down lower for highway riding.
My first bike was a Versys 650. I watched ALL of your Versys videos after I grabbed my bike. Kind of wish I had gone this route, or a dual sport.
the kawi is still a solid bike, be happy! you did well!
@@alexandercoll4863 You're not wrong, it is a solid bike and ultimately I'm glad for the experience. But, the reality is for me it isn't the best one bike option for me.
I have ridden my friends 2021 a few times for short down the road and back kind of rides...one thing that i always get caught off guard by when i go visit him, is just how small the bike is too. No one seems to mention that. Yes, it weighs about the same as an 890, but still, the acual size of it, in my opinion is very small. So great bike for short riders and girls. Its the only bike i have ever thought about so much buying it, but never bought one. Power to weight ratio i feel its close to my modded DRZ. And that bike i love. So just not sure why i havent bought one yet. Maybe its the power, but i ride a drz, so that shouldnt be a determining factor. Its like a heavy comfortable DRZ i guess. Maybe im waiting for honda to listen to us all and add an R model with spoked wheels....yeah, i might be waiting a while for that. Who knows, im in the market for a new ride to add. Maybe its this one. Never know til I pull the trigger. And the fuel mileage is outstanding too.