Honda recently unveiled its new CB500 in India as part of its flagship product offensive for the domestic market. Although prices were not announced at the time of unveiling, the motorcycle seems to be getting closer to its market launch. Select Honda Bigwing dealerships have now started accepting bookings for the CB500.
Honda Bigwing Calicut has officially announced that bookings for the CB500 are open. Customers have been asked to visit or contact the dealership to reserve the motorcycle. With dealers starting to accept bookings, the next big announcement is expected to be the price.
The CB500 is an important addition to Honda’s premium motorcycle portfolio, as it brings back the formula of the large capacity, single-cylinder roadster. It will be manufactured in India, which should give Honda more flexibility when it comes to pricing.
New 501cc single-cylinder engine
At the heart of the Honda CB500 is an all-new 501cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine. It produces 27 hp of maximum power and 43.3 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. While the outright power output is not particularly high for a motorcycle with a capacity greater than 500 cc, the focus appears to be on strong torque delivery and comfortable everyday performance. Its 43.3 Nm torque output is relatively close to some larger capacity twin-cylinder motorcycles.
Hence the CB500 will occupy an interesting niche in Honda’s India portfolio. It sits above the CB350 range while retaining the relatively simple, old-school roadster formula that has traditionally appealed to buyers in this segment.
familiar retro design
Styling follows Honda’s familiar retro roadster approach. The CB500 gets a large teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round LED headlamps, ribbed single-piece seat and a relatively simple tail section. The overall silhouette has similarities with the CB350, although the larger engine gives the CB500 more significant road presence. Hardware includes a conventional telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers. Disc brakes are provided at both ends.
Despite its traditional appearance, Honda has equipped the CB500 with many modern features. These include Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), slipper clutch and an analog-digital instrument console with Honda RoadSync connectivity.
Three variants planned
Honda has confirmed three variants for the CB500. The entry-level variant will use alloy wheels, while the second variant will get cross-spoke tubeless wheels. A range-topping version will also use cross-spoke tubeless wheels while getting special graphics.
The availability of cross-spoke tubeless wheels should especially appeal to buyers looking for the classic appearance of wire-spoke wheels without having to deal with traditional tube-type tires. Honda has not yet announced the full specifications or variant-wise equipment distribution. These details are expected closer to the formal launch and price announcement.
Royal Enfield, BSA rival in sight
The Honda CB500 will enter a segment currently dominated by larger motorcycles from Royal Enfield. Its positioning could pit it against motorcycles like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the BSA Gold Star 650, although the CB500 follows a very different single-cylinder approach. Local manufacturing will be an important factor here. Aggressive pricing could allow Honda to position the CB500 as a significant step up from the CB350 while keeping it accessible compared to larger multi-cylinder motorcycles.
