It's a fantastic bike. Very smooth, fantastic handling, plus the best I've got is 97 to the British gallon. Gear indicator is £25 off ebay so not an issue. Will sit at 80 all day down the motorway.
I work few blocks away from there and I commute in my cb500x all year round... love the bike! 65 to 70 mpg, smooth ride and bullet proof Honda engine is a win win!
The reason it has 47hp is that in Europe there are 3 classes of mc licenses first you can take when you are 16, the bike can only have 125cc engine and max 15hp When you are 18 you drive a bike with unlimited ccs aslong it does not have more then 47 hp
Hi, just came across your RUclips video. I live in Sydney Australia and own the 2014 model. Absolutely love my bike for my daily commute to work and for taking my wife for short rides on weekends or when going on club rides. I have read of other riders using it for much longer rides but haven't done these myself on this bike. In Australia we call this a "Learner Legal" bike because of it's size and specs ,ie it's suited to a new rider. Not having a gear indicator has never been a problem for me ( it does indicate neutral) . I would happily recommend it to any rider who wants a good fun bike but isn't concerned about sports style performance.
I am interested in this bike how does the torque feel at highway speeds that say 80 kilometers per hour in rolling on the throttle do you feel good acceleration or does the wind hold you back but like I said I'm interested in and please if you have any info on that can you let me know thank you, frank
Frank Crawford Hi Frank, the bike sits very well at 100km/h to about 130km/h. Acceleration is surprisingly good from 80 km/h up to 120/130km/h with only myself on the bike but I'm only just over 80kg. When my wife and I are both on then I'm also a little bit more cautious anyway and really haven't given it everything either but still feels comfortable. After about 130 km/h it struggles with acceleration. I've adjusted the windshield as high as it will go to give me that extra bit of protection but still get some wind against me. The biggest wind problems I find are unexpected side gusts such as when you come into an open patch of road on windy days because the bike is quite light or buffering from semis if I get caught behind them and can't get past them. Hope this helps you making a decision.
Looks like they haven’t changed the seat at all. I own a 2016 cb500x and the seat is one of the issues I have with the bike. It’s only comfortable for about 45 minutes. The other issue I have is with the abs disc. It’s rusting and the aluminum parts started to corrode after about 3-4 months. Wish Honda would have used better materials and coatings when making this bike.
Funny, so many poeple complain about no gear indicator...I have owned a ton of bikes, never once had a gear indicator. Really dont know why someone would need one. U should always know what gear u r in.
Who cares about remembering what gear you're in? It's an irrelevant number. Just keep your rpm at an optimal spot. Seems like a waste of precious focus to be thinking about that.
I just watched a Honda rep go over the 2019 model. It has a bunch of improvements including a 19 inch front wheel, a little more suspension and more low end torque. And Chooch, the 19 model has a shift indicator! They must have been listening to you . . . .
Really. I rented one of these a few weeks ago and thought I'd have some kind of trouble because of its lack of gear indicator. Well, it does have a Neutral indicator. And you always know when you're in first because you just put yourself there. And after 20 minutes of driving you know how 6th gear feels. Two or three or four times you have to wonder, "Am I in 6th gear," and check it. After that you know. The other gears don't matter. If you feel you need to shift up, shift up. If you feel you have to shift down, down shift. Who cares if you're in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th. You have a tach, so let that be a guide if you can't hear it or feel it. I was amazed. I realized that gear indicators do one thing: they satisfy idle curiosity.
Exactly, I own 2017 version CB500X, in first week I was not used to no gear indicator, but in second week, I forgot it. When you need more torque, shift it down, if you want more speed, shift up. Only a little issue when you want to know at 5th or 6th but you will identify it well from speed and rpm very soon. Smooth, precise gear and very economic, Good balance power and weight. Affordable for most of people.
There was more of a highlight on your experience than who would be riding this bike. Against "us newbies." Glad you like it as a toy. Does me no good. Foreget it.. I'm just going to buy a 1200 Harley... At least when I crash, I'm on a Harley. Thanks.
"it's not a 250!" Yeah we know it's not a 250. That's why we bought it. Not because of this review. Nevertheles, I like watching this video because it helps visualize what I will be riding when I'm an arrogant experienced rider looking for my next ride. Thanks.
Hi Chooch di you saw : Great upgrades on the new CB500X 2019; i love it; Great Job Honda; i’m really tempted to upgrade my CB500X 2017; Honda: now please create a new version : a CB500X Adventure Sports ((kind of Rally Raid version; small Africa Twin; spokes wheels, inverted front forks, skid plate, hand guards, rear suspension with adjustable remote, engine guards, dual front brake discs, ABS switch on/off...)) & i will buy it to swap my CB500X 2017 for a CB500X Adventure Sports 2020. Or, let’s dream, i would also upgrade for a future new CB650X or for an Africa Twin 700cc (my dream bikes).
OldManTony Yeah, and cars had 4000cc, but 50hp.. But man, Mercedes 123 is maybe most reliable car ever.. Million miles is nothing for those tanks, and people who bought it new, still have them cause the comfort is irreplaceable by the new ones..
Uros Antonijevic That is a fascinating fact! People who bought Merc 123 still have them....and so relevant to a CB500X video! Would you like to join me and my family for dinner? I would love for you to spoil me to some more of your brain farts.
@@chrisredfield3240 No Chris, it would have made 30hp, had bakelite tyres, no damping and a frame made of cheese. They felt fast because they were terrifying, made a lot of noise and stink. A modern 500 is far more capable.
@@philclarke7712 i suppose if you go back 50 years it was mostly bsa bantam 125's. Or tigercubs i was thinking more honda vf500f. 73hp 1983 so 25 years old now and a lot more bike than a cb500x.
Chooch thanks for the rave. I have been watching this bike and you sold me in one word SMOOTH. As an older rider that's what I want . Great report almost informative enough. You could stand up but will it wheelie?
1400 bucks USD is the difference in cost in this bike versus the nc750x per honda power sports website cb500x = 49.6 hp and 31.7 pound feet of torque, weighs 428 pounds wet costs $7000.00 plus your tax(es) nc750x= 54 hp and 50 pound feet of torque, weighs 478 pounds wet costs $8400.00 plus your tax(es) I'm wondering if the seat:to: peg distance or ratio is the same between these two bikes. If yes and given MotoChooch's opinion at around 3:42, and given my leg inseam is exactly the same, i'm hoping I"ll be alittle more comfy on either of these two versus my rebel 300 ( moto chooch did a similar review video on the 500 and it's the exact same bike as mine only the bigger engine) I CAN take my 300 on the interstate highway and she'll handle 60 and 65 mph plenty fine but loud buzzy imo. Is the cb500x ( with the same engine basically as the rebel 500 being the 471cc) the same buzziness at 60 and 65 mph or smoother and more silent? I'm sorry if this seems like a dumb question, but I wont be able to test ride either for a while as all my local dealers won't have either bikes in stock for a good while.
Hi & Cheers; i own a 2017 CB500X; i’m 5.8 feet & i can flat feet both sides when i’m close to the gaz thank; after one year of owning i can tell you that it’s a great bike for the price range; only thing i didn’t liked much is the exhaust sound so i add an aftermarket Scorpion Slip on Pipe to be able to love my CB500X for next years 😘 Very fun & reliable bike 😎
MotoChooch : it is 👍🏼 if you plan to keep it long 😎; if not it’s wasted money 😉; i’ve got my new exhaust since one month & i don’t regret the investment$$
I m not used to have gear indicator , i listen to my engine . BTW , for the price , Honda should put one gear indicator as there is on smaller Kawi Versys 300X . So even i don t need , helpful for new riders and an asset for resale value .
Well, at least here in Europe, I don't know about the US, the model might be delayed, but I somehow doubt it... I have the 2017 model including adjustable front. As you say, the 2016 and older only had adjustable rear shock.
Ok so here is my question if anyone can answer. Would I be able to purchase an older second hand model of this bike and get the same positive review? I don’t know when they started to build these but what earliest year would give me this quality ? Or should I buy new? This would be my first bike.
I have a CB500X. My recommendation is choose a 2016 version at least. Some improvement from this year: wind shield, LED light and most important is you can find good condition bike with short miles and save money.
Hello from Greece my friend! I love your videos, your voice is crystal and you are always at the point! (Enough)?? Hahahah!! So...I'm 38 years old, but I'm new at riding world! I'm 6.2 (1.88cm) and I want your advice, I'm between CB 500 2018 and NC 750 DCT 2018? HELP!!!!!!! (THANK YOU IN ADVANCE)
Look into what Rally Raid ( www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/honda-cb500x-cb500f?limit=100 ) have done with the CB500X. Suspension, wheel, etc upgrades. Makes it into a great little ADV bike. I have a 2017 ex demo RR bike, and it's done everything from the daily commute, offroaded and road tripped. Just does it all, for a LOT less money (and a lot less weight) than the 'mainstream' ADV bikes. Planning on riding the TAT later this year on it.
This bike its a Honda global product and the most of street around the world seems a lunar street...so, this bike is not a perfect bike...but is cheap and usufull...you will save a lot of money in gas station too
You sound like you are doing a review for only your experienced rider buddies...to see what this is about. And maybe riding a review for yourself. To remind you that you are an experienced rider. Good. Are you ashamed of riding this motorcycle? While acting as if you are making a review of a motorcycle for a "starter"?
As an expert rider...you really don't say much to those who purchased this motorcycle as a first ride. You sound arrogant, even though I don't believe you mean to... what's the word... patronizing... Oh Yeah! Great bike! You're missing the point of you even riding this starter.
It's a fantastic bike. Very smooth, fantastic handling, plus the best I've got is 97 to the British gallon.
Gear indicator is £25 off ebay so not an issue. Will sit at 80 all day down the motorway.
I work few blocks away from there and I commute in my cb500x all year round... love the bike! 65 to 70 mpg, smooth ride and bullet proof Honda engine is a win win!
Nice to see a review of a "regular" person's bike... you know, the type I can afford.
Here it cost near 9 grands...Sad....
Under $7k
i guess I'm kinda off topic but does anyone know a good website to watch newly released movies online?
The reason it has 47hp is that in Europe there are 3 classes of mc licenses first you can take when you are 16, the bike can only have 125cc engine and max 15hp
When you are 18 you drive a bike with unlimited ccs aslong it does not have more then 47 hp
Hi, just came across your RUclips video. I live in Sydney Australia and own the 2014 model. Absolutely love my bike for my daily commute to work and for taking my wife for short rides on weekends or when going on club rides. I have read of other riders using it for much longer rides but haven't done these myself on this bike. In Australia we call this a "Learner Legal" bike because of it's size and specs ,ie it's suited to a new rider. Not having a gear indicator has never been a problem for me ( it does indicate neutral) . I would happily recommend it to any rider who wants a good fun bike but isn't concerned about sports style performance.
I am interested in this bike how does the torque feel at highway speeds that say 80 kilometers per hour in rolling on the throttle do you feel good acceleration or does the wind hold you back but like I said I'm interested in and please if you have any info on that can you let me know thank you, frank
Frank Crawford
Hi Frank, the bike sits very well at 100km/h to about 130km/h. Acceleration is surprisingly good from 80 km/h up to 120/130km/h with only myself on the bike but I'm only just over 80kg. When my wife and I are both on then I'm also a little bit more cautious anyway and really haven't given it everything either but still feels comfortable. After about 130 km/h it struggles with acceleration. I've adjusted the windshield as high as it will go to give me that extra bit of protection but still get some wind against me. The biggest wind problems I find are unexpected side gusts such as when you come into an open patch of road on windy days because the bike is quite light or buffering from semis if I get caught behind them and can't get past them.
Hope this helps you making a decision.
M F thanks man, I’m looking at one of these also, and for the same purpose you use yours.. and in Sydney 😁
Ride safe 🤙
Looks like they haven’t changed the seat at all. I own a 2016 cb500x and the seat is one of the issues I have with the bike. It’s only comfortable for about 45 minutes. The other issue I have is with the abs disc. It’s rusting and the aluminum parts started to corrode after about 3-4 months. Wish Honda would have used better materials and coatings when making this bike.
Funny, so many poeple complain about no gear indicator...I have owned a ton of bikes, never once had a gear indicator. Really dont know why someone would need one. U should always know what gear u r in.
Robert Pabst very true. My first bike didn’t have one. Just got spoiled.
Gear position indicators are good for people that have not so good memories
Who cares about remembering what gear you're in? It's an irrelevant number. Just keep your rpm at an optimal spot. Seems like a waste of precious focus to be thinking about that.
Tyler Ketter good to know for first and last. Don’t really care about the others. I use rpm as you said.
MotoChooch eh, I've been known to get onto the freeway and "test" if I have one more gear. Btw good review.
You know that he is riding this for a first time, when he press horn instead indicator, classic for beginners on this bike :D
I just watched a Honda rep go over the 2019 model. It has a bunch of improvements including a 19 inch front wheel, a little more suspension and more low end torque. And Chooch, the 19 model has a shift indicator! They must have been listening to you . . . .
Sweet! Can't wait to ride one.
Never had a gear indicator in 37 yrs of riding. What's it for?
Really. I rented one of these a few weeks ago and thought I'd have some kind of trouble because of its lack of gear indicator. Well, it does have a Neutral indicator. And you always know when you're in first because you just put yourself there. And after 20 minutes of driving you know how 6th gear feels. Two or three or four times you have to wonder, "Am I in 6th gear," and check it. After that you know. The other gears don't matter. If you feel you need to shift up, shift up. If you feel you have to shift down, down shift. Who cares if you're in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th. You have a tach, so let that be a guide if you can't hear it or feel it. I was amazed. I realized that gear indicators do one thing: they satisfy idle curiosity.
Too true, Who needs it? First at the bottom Sixth at the top the rest feel it as you ride!
Exactly, I own 2017 version CB500X, in first week I was not used to no gear indicator, but in second week, I forgot it. When you need more torque, shift it down, if you want more speed, shift up.
Only a little issue when you want to know at 5th or 6th but you will identify it well from speed and rpm very soon.
Smooth, precise gear and very economic, Good balance power and weight. Affordable for most of people.
True, you gotta feel the engine and shift. Lesser the technological intervention better the feel of the ride
You can make it into a proper adventure bike raid have realest some good after market parts like the rear suspension and new wheels
Confused, why would you create a big for the "beginner" rider and not put a gear indicator on it?
Add a Rally Raid kit and you have a great adventure bike that's still cheap or so I've seen. Very interesting bike with the kit.
It's not that cheap. And with the rally raid kit i would say it's the price of an 750-800cc bike
Do you have a link to the rally raid kit I would like to take a look at it. Is it from Honda or aftermarket thank you very much.
@@frankcrawford416 www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/honda-cb500x-cb500f
Yes, the switchgear is mean't to wobble! It does the same on mine, and i've checked it out with Honda UK !
why is that?
There was more of a highlight on your experience than who would be riding this bike. Against "us newbies." Glad you like it as a toy. Does me no good.
Foreget it.. I'm just going to buy a 1200 Harley... At least when I crash, I'm on a Harley. Thanks.
"it's not a 250!" Yeah we know it's not a 250. That's why we bought it. Not because of this review. Nevertheles, I like watching this video because it helps visualize what I will be riding when I'm an arrogant experienced rider looking for my next ride. Thanks.
Good review mate have the exact same bike in Aberdeen Scotland
Did it feel under spring for your size? I’m about the same weight and considering this or maybe the 500F.
Didn’t seem to be. I think setting the preload properly would be a good idea though.
gear indicators are nice but not necessary.
They come in handy. I'd rather have one than not. Sometimes you get lazy riding.
common complaint on the horn button/turn signal placement. They should fix that.
Hi Chooch di you saw : Great upgrades on the new CB500X 2019; i love it; Great Job Honda; i’m really tempted to upgrade my CB500X 2017; Honda: now please create a new version : a CB500X Adventure Sports ((kind of Rally Raid version; small Africa Twin; spokes wheels, inverted front forks, skid plate, hand guards, rear suspension with adjustable remote, engine guards, dual front brake discs, ABS switch on/off...)) & i will buy it to swap my CB500X 2017 for a CB500X Adventure Sports 2020. Or, let’s dream, i would also upgrade for a future new CB650X or for an Africa Twin 700cc (my dream bikes).
Interesting. I am fascinated that 50 years ago in the 60s 500 cc was big bike.
OldManTony Yeah, and cars had 4000cc, but 50hp.. But man, Mercedes 123 is maybe most reliable car ever.. Million miles is nothing for those tanks, and people who bought it new, still have them cause the comfort is irreplaceable by the new ones..
Uros Antonijevic That is a fascinating fact! People who bought Merc 123 still have them....and so relevant to a CB500X video! Would you like to join me and my family for dinner? I would love for you to spoil me to some more of your brain farts.
If it was a 2 stroke 500cc. 2/3 cylinder. Or a 500cc. 4 cylinder (4 stroke) it was a lot more bike than a modern 500 twin.
@@chrisredfield3240 No Chris, it would have made 30hp, had bakelite tyres, no damping and a frame made of cheese. They felt fast because they were terrifying, made a lot of noise and stink. A modern 500 is far more capable.
@@philclarke7712 i suppose if you go back 50 years it was mostly bsa bantam 125's. Or tigercubs i was thinking more honda vf500f. 73hp 1983 so 25 years old now and a lot more bike than a cb500x.
Ever tried the Benelli TRK 502? Also 500cc parallel twin adventure type bike...?
Great video. Looks a lot like my next bike!
Chooch thanks for the rave. I have been watching this bike and you sold me in one word SMOOTH. As an older rider that's what I want . Great report almost informative enough. You could stand up but will it wheelie?
Dallas Cuthbertson I’m sorry I couldn’t wheelie for you but I have an agreement with the dealer that I wouldn’t try.
1400 bucks USD is the difference in cost in this bike versus the nc750x per honda power sports website
cb500x = 49.6 hp and 31.7 pound feet of torque, weighs 428 pounds wet costs $7000.00 plus your tax(es)
nc750x= 54 hp and 50 pound feet of torque, weighs 478 pounds wet costs $8400.00 plus your tax(es)
I'm wondering if the seat:to: peg distance or ratio is the same between these two bikes. If yes and given MotoChooch's opinion at around 3:42, and given my leg inseam is exactly the same, i'm hoping I"ll be alittle more comfy on either of these two versus my rebel 300 ( moto chooch did a similar review video on the 500 and it's the exact same bike as mine only the bigger engine)
I CAN take my 300 on the interstate highway and she'll handle 60 and 65 mph plenty fine but loud buzzy imo. Is the cb500x ( with the same engine basically as the rebel 500 being the 471cc) the same buzziness at 60 and 65 mph or smoother and more silent? I'm sorry if this seems like a dumb question, but I wont be able to test ride either for a while as all my local dealers won't have either bikes in stock for a good while.
All of Chooch's reviews: "This thing is really light!" Umm...not for all of us.
I'm new to riding looking into a first bike problem is I'm 6'5" 215 do you think this bike will be for me?
I say you owe it to yourself to try it.
Hi & Cheers; i own a 2017 CB500X; i’m 5.8 feet & i can flat feet both sides when i’m close to the gaz thank; after one year of owning i can tell you that it’s a great bike for the price range; only thing i didn’t liked much is the exhaust sound so i add an aftermarket Scorpion Slip on Pipe to be able to love my CB500X for next years 😘 Very fun & reliable bike 😎
Trekky Delirium adding an exhaust sounds like it would be a very welcome upgrade.
MotoChooch : it is 👍🏼 if you plan to keep it long 😎; if not it’s wasted money 😉; i’ve got my new exhaust since one month & i don’t regret the investment$$
I m not used to have gear indicator , i listen to my engine . BTW , for the price , Honda should put one gear indicator as there is on smaller Kawi Versys 300X . So even i don t need , helpful for new riders and an asset for resale value .
That sounds like a change for 2018, adjustable front shocks weren't available before.
They were, since 2017.
Oh cool, thanks dude. The only other model I was familiar with is the 2016.
Well, at least here in Europe, I don't know about the US, the model might be delayed, but I somehow doubt it... I have the 2017 model including adjustable front. As you say, the 2016 and older only had adjustable rear shock.
Thanks, I picked up a 2017 today. It had the adjustable shocks.
Vhey Preexa that was quick.
Honda could do with putting the horn and indicators back in the right place,please honda switch them back
Jeffrey Miichael exactly the opposite, only Honda got it right, other manufactures should follow ;)
They made the same mistake bmw made with those indicator switches on either handle bars. When they went normal i bought a f800gs in 2014
This is a fantastic edit 😂😂💪🏻
Don't encourage them LOL.
hi. for a beginner rider what do you think is much more recommanded the Honda CBX 500 or kawasakie versys 650 ?
Ok so here is my question if anyone can answer. Would I be able to purchase an older second hand model of this bike and get the same positive review? I don’t know when they started to build these but what earliest year would give me this quality ? Or should I buy new? This would be my first bike.
I have a CB500X. My recommendation is choose a 2016 version at least. Some improvement from this year: wind shield, LED light and most important is you can find good condition bike with short miles and save money.
宫Scott Thank you for that. I saw one year they did a lot of updates. Can’t remember if it was 2016 or 2017 but from your comments I would say 2016.
Some one said the led headlight is worse than the old one. If you get an early one there an absolute bargain some are in really good condition.
Hello from Greece my friend! I love your videos, your voice is crystal and you are always at the point! (Enough)?? Hahahah!! So...I'm 38 years old, but I'm new at riding world! I'm 6.2 (1.88cm) and I want your advice, I'm between CB 500 2018 and NC 750 DCT 2018? HELP!!!!!!! (THANK YOU IN ADVANCE)
I have been on both and the 500 is DEFINITELY more comfy than the 700!!!
That LED headlight is absolutely junk though, I'm a new rider, I hVe a 2016 model, and it's not that fun in the dark, even on full beam 😅
how heavy are you? also how tall? Im 5' 11" 215lbs.
6' 275lbs
@@MotoChooch thanks! Enjoyed your video! Be safe!
This would be it if it had DCT , so till then, its the NC750X next month.
How tall are you Chooch? Thank you.
6 feet
Nice review, but calling it a "beginner bike" is a bit condescending to experienced riders that might use the bike for urban use, etc...
Oh no, did you get triggered?
Those tires are actually 80/20 tires
Dude, its Ciar's bike!
Can you test ride the Triumph XCA 800 ?
JEB 2018?
MotoChooch yes 2018
I will ask. I have the new wing on deck for tomorrow’s session :)
You should drop the "organifi" idgit from your adds.
Look into what Rally Raid ( www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/honda-cb500x-cb500f?limit=100 ) have done with the CB500X. Suspension, wheel, etc upgrades. Makes it into a great little ADV bike. I have a 2017 ex demo RR bike, and it's done everything from the daily commute, offroaded and road tripped. Just does it all, for a LOT less money (and a lot less weight) than the 'mainstream' ADV bikes. Planning on riding the TAT later this year on it.
nice..........Honda...
MANTAP
This bike its a Honda global product and the most of street around the world seems a lunar street...so, this bike is not a perfect bike...but is cheap and usufull...you will save a lot of money in gas station too
You sound like you are doing a review for only your experienced rider buddies...to see what this is about. And maybe riding a review for yourself. To remind you that you are an experienced rider. Good. Are you ashamed of riding this motorcycle? While acting as if you are making a review of a motorcycle for a "starter"?
this bike is so cheap, too bad I'm too tall for it 6'4"
Same here..Any good alternatives you came across?
Itay i got myself a supermoto. Only kind of bike I don’t look ridiculious on. Get a bike with a least 850mm Seat height
@@vincentvdl tnx man
Which one did you go for?
Itay Husqvarna 701. For a cheaper alternative I would recommend Yamaha WR250x
what about the nc700?
As an expert rider...you really don't say much to those who purchased this motorcycle as a first ride. You sound arrogant, even though I don't believe you mean to... what's the word... patronizing... Oh Yeah! Great bike! You're missing the point of you even riding this starter.