The CB500X has a successor in 2024, but I think the 2019-2022 models still look fresh and relevant.

BHPian tejus.s recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

How it started

In 2006, I was introduced to motorcycles through the humble Suzuki Samurai. The Samurai was overshadowed by its much lauded stablemates - Shaolin and Shogun - both hooligan motorcycles in their own way. Still, the Samurai taught me how to ride a motorcycle and got me off my TVS Scooty (thank God for that!). At the time, I did not know much about maintenance and a couple of bad decisions with my FNG mechanic meant the Samurai had to go. For a couple of years, I used my brother’s Honda Unicorn - a great bike in its own right. 

The first motorcycle I bought was the Karizma R. I loved everything about that bike - design, engine, comfort and long distance capabilities. Hero’s service was pretty awful, but it did not put off my buying decision. I traveled a fair bit on this motorcycle and even found like minded friends who would take me on memorable adventures. Despite a couple of incidents, I kept the Karizma around simply because there was nothing like it. Sadly though. somewhere between work, higher studies and a new chapter in life, the Karizma had to go. It made way for the FZ-25, which never really grew on me. It was short on power, front suspension was didn’t inspire confidence, rear mono shock wasn’t tuned well and instrument cluster was too basic - all of which meant I bid goodbye to the FZ in June 2022.

Why the CB500X

The absence of a motorcycle meant I rented a couple of them for short rides. Also, a friend dropped off his KTM Duke 250 while he was out of Bangalore for a couple of months. Everything came together for the final push of buying a motorcycle. Since I was in no hurry, I took my time to understand what I wanted and in no particular order, here was my list - 

• At least 40HP

• Comfortable, all day riding capability

• Upright stance (I’m not getting any younger), so ADV styled motorcycle is preferred

• Fuss free maintenance

• Availability of accessories (India or abroad)

• Exclusivity

• Long term ownership - I don’t plan on selling this bike for at least 10 years

With this list in mind, I decided to take a few test rides. 

Options considered

Triumph Tiger 660 Sport

Pros

- Sweet sounding and punchy triple 

- Great ergonomics with wide handle bar and open chested riding posture

- Bluetooth connectivity (basic, but good enough for everyday use)

- Part quality and topnotch finish levels

- Accessory ecosystem - first and third party 

Cons

- At ~12.5L on-road Bangalore, I found it expensive for what the bike offered

- Tiny instrument cluster meant there was too much open space from the rider’s POV

- Poor heat management in the city. Without riding gear, this does not seem manageable in our weather (strictly my view). 

- Triumph’s questionable service and support

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

Pros

- Timeless design

- Torquey twin cylinder with characterful 270 degree firing order

- Excellent accessory ecosystem

- Excellent brakes

Cons

- Quality and finish levels not upto my expectations 

- Tube type tyres need after market solutions for hassle free ownership

- At >215 kg, it feels heavy even before adding accessories and luggage

- Flawed ergonomics

- Teething issues of RE ownership I have seen online

BMW G310GS

Pros

- Looks every bit a GS

- Quality and finish levels are excellent

- Aspirational BMW badge

- Great ergonomics for standing and regular riding

- Manageable weight

- Service interval of 16,000km or 1 year

Cons

- Not the most refined engine. Also, feels underpowered

- Basic instrument console (not a deal breaker for me, but had to mention the observation) 

- BMW’s limited service network (one station for all of Karnataka) and expensive ownership costs

KTM Adventure 390

Pros

- Punchy engine that loves to be thrashed around

- Build quality feels like it can take some abuse

- Robust electronics package and class leading TFT console

- Excellent accessory ecosystem

- Open chested ergonomics for comfortable all day riding 

- Affordable service and spares

Cons

- While build seems abuse friendly, finish levels are less than average in some places

- Little to no low end means city riding can be cumbersome

- Questionable reliability of KTMs

- Stiff ride 

- Not exclusive anymore

KTM Duke 390

Though not an adventure styled bike, I couldn’t overlook this motorcycle. I walked away so impressed that I almost made up my mind to get it over the Adventure 390. That rev friendly 390cc engine is best suited in the naked form factor and road biased 17-inch Metzeler tires are what this chassis is meant to accommodate. 

I must say, the KTM twins came very close to getting my final vote. However, on a casual Sunday afternoon browsing of Team BHP classified, everything changed when I saw a fellow BHPian’s CB500X listing. I had not considered buying a used motorcycle, but my conversations with the owner and Ayush (Honda Bigwing) convinced me to consider it. Not to mention, it was tastefully accessorised, so it needed little work to suit my requirements. 

Honda CB500X (2021)

Note: In between all these test rides, I had tried the CB500X (2021 model) at Honda Bigwing (Lavelle Road) - one of the few places with a test ride bike around and walked away impressed.

Pros

- Excellent part quality and finish

- Torquey, smooth twin cylinder engine combined with slick, precise gearbox

- Excellent ergonomics

- Excellent weight management

- Proven reliability worldwide

- Honda’s fuss free ownership experience

- Exclusive

Cons

- Availability - 2022 model was not launched in India

- Effectiveness of single front disc was not proven in my test rides

- Zero electronics (no traction control, connectivity features, switchable ABS, etc.,). Might be a deal breaker for some, but didn’t bother me. I was looking for a simple, well engineered machine. 

- Fork dive under medium-hard braking (read more in Ride and Handling section)

- Headlamp only good as DRL and not useful for low light riding

- Pricey, anyway you look at it

Design and Build

The CB500X has a successor in 2024, but I think the 2019-2022 models still look fresh and relevant. Layered bodywork, tidy taillight design, decent sized windscreen, neatly tucked wiring, all add up to a motorcycle that looks and feels premium. It’s more substantial in person than photographs would suggest, so please check it at a showroom nearby before concluding. 

This particular bike was the 4th one to be delivered in India and oozes the quality Honda is known for. The ‘Grand Prix’ red suits this bike very well, although I’m divided about that like stickering running across the fuel tank. There are no creaks or rattles anywhere - this is one well put together machine.

I did not want to create a separate section for the console, so including it here. The CB500X’s console is a basic LCD display showing just enough information without too much distraction. I prefer the simple layout and don’t see it as a strong enough reason to mention as pro/con, but I understand there would be higher expectations.

These have not grown on me

Honda sells off (mild) road dreams, but overlooks bash plate. The polished twin exhaust pipes look classy though. 

The red paint of the subframe looks great. Reminds me of the Multistrada.

Fan of the taillight design

Neatly tucked away wiring

These grab rails are India specific. Notice the two holes to accommodate mandatory saree guard (duly removed).

Mirrors do the job just fine - even at relatively high speeds

Basic looking instrument console displays all necessary information, but interface could have been better. Also seen here is Speedo Angels screen protector (matte finish) to help with readability.

Odd placement of horn switch takes getting used to

Engine and Performance 

The CB500X has a little over 47HP, so maintaining speeds of >120km/h is easy. I have done ~8,000 kms in the last 10 months of ownership and not a single time have I felt that the bike lacked power. From highways to twisty roads, power and torque curves and well suited for all day riding, as well as office commutes. Fueling is spot on and never felt the need for a Fuel X or free flow air filter. I have not done two up riding with luggage (not my use case so far or in the foreseeable future), so factor that in while you try out your next motorcycle. 

Fun fact - the engine temperature gauge has never gone past the 50% mark (zero heat directed to legs). Also, fan noise is minimal - unlike the KTM or Tiger 660. 

Ride and Handling 

The CB500X (and the more recent NX500) are derived from Honda’s 500cc road focused platforms. Honda’s claim of long travel suspension and (aspirational) adventure oriented marketing make it look great on paper. However, I find the rear to be a little too soft and wallowy at high speeds - adjusting preload when traveling with luggage helps, but still, there’s no getting around the softer setup Honda has gone for. 

One of the first things I was taught while riding my bicycle was - look where you want to go and you will gather all the elements required to do it. The CB500X is great for such riding - it’s a simple chassis setup, but there’s engineering wizardry in there somewhere that’s letting you go where you look. Shiv had adjustable coil springs from YSS installed on this Honda, so the fork dive is minimal. One con knocked off the list. 

Upgraded YSS springs are of excellent quality and provide much needed adjustability

Single front disc gets the job done, although I would appreciate more feel

Concluding thoughts

On paper, the CB500X appears to be a very basic motorcycle - no exotic materials, old-school suspension, only 47PS of power, no electronics, etc., However, ride it well and you will understand how throughly Honda has engineered this motorcycle. With a few modifications, it is the ideal ‘one bike’ garage for many - easy enough to use everyday, yet exotic enough to make you look back each time you park the motorcycle.

The CB500X is definitely an expensive motorcycle to own and maintain. So far, I have not had any issues with availability of spares or accessories, but they are on the premium end of the spectrum, so be sure of what you are getting into. 

There is no perfect motorcycle, so knowing what you value is important. Watching hours of videos on YouTube and/or reading ownership experiences is great, but you should definitely get a test ride, decide what is important for you. Figure out how long you plan on keeping the bike, what you will do with it, how much weightage do you give to each aspect of a machine, etc., I have answered these questions to myself and don’t regret buying the CB500X. 

Some questions I see coming my way - 

Should I have waited for the Triumph 400 twins? 

The Speed and Scrambler 400 were announced a couple of days after I made token payment for the CB500X. At the time, I had doubts of getting the first batch of vehicles and Triumph’s service (though Bajaj is expected to correct it). That said, I tried out the Speed 400 a couple of times and walked away impressed with few aspects of the bike, but it’s not a holistic package like the CB500X is (at least for me). I’m told the Scrambler 400X is a more versatile motorcycle, but I’m doubtful it will make me sell the CB500X. 

What about the new Himalayan?

At the time of purchase, the new Himalayan was only seen in spy shots and RE had not officially announced anything. Seeing many positive reviews, I am tempted to rent and ride it for a couple of days before commenting on it. Even if I walk away impressed, I don’t plan on selling the CB500X anytime soon (probably never?). 

How is the service?

The CB500X is serviced at Honda’s Bigwing service centres and so far the experience has been great. Service managers are prompt, transparent and mechanics are competent. Service interval is every six months or 6,000 kms - which is not per modern standards, but I’ve seen this across other Japanese manufacturers. The two services I’ve got done so far have cost me about INR 16,000 - which is within acceptable limits for a premium bike. 

Mods 

The first owner spared no expense in kitting out this bike and I’ve had to add very little to make it more suitable for my requirements. 

Pro spec ‘Easy Ride’ wind screen deflector

Metzeler Tourance tyres

Honda 12V charging socket

Pyramid plastics front mud guard extender

Barkbusters handguards - look great and very functional

Grip puppies

30mm risers - SW Motech

National Cycle Extreme Adventure Side Guard

Maddog Alpha lights (a blessing for low light riding)

Givi Side Stand Enlarger and Honda centre stand

Evo footrest kit - SW Motech

Universal tank pad - SW Motech

Scottoiler V system for hassle free chain maintenance

Rides so far (from Bangalore) -

•August 2023 - Wayanad (solo)

•October 2023 - Sakleshpura (Honda group ride)

•November 2023 - Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi

•December 2023 - Gokarna

•January 2023 - Goa

•April 2023 - Theni, Dimbham ghat, Satyamangalam (solo)

My riding gear bought over the years -

•Helmet - MT Mugello V12 Airstream with Sena 5S

•Gloves - Holeshot (Viaterra), Rynox Stealth Evo 3, Rynox Dry Ice

•Jacket - Rynox Air GT3

•Pants - Rynox Advento, Levi’s X RE Motorcycle jeans (city)

•Boots - RE City boots, RE Short Riding Boot (E-39)

•Luggage - Viaterra Claw (72L), Givi Dry bag (30L), Viaterra Pod (12L), Btwin cycle carrier at the handlebar

I plan on keeping this thread updated, so feel free to drop your questions, comments.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights & information.

The CB500X engine laughs at the mere concept of breaking down. It considers roadside assistance an insult to its mechanical prowess.

BHPian ShivC recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

My world of owning a Honda CB500X ownership – was in fact amongst the first 2 owners in India. This is for those who are thinking of buying one…

Here's my take on what it's like to own and ride this versatile machine albeit with some humour:

• The Adventure Illusion: Owning a CB500X makes every ride feel like a grand adventure. Even if it's just a trip to the grocery store, you mentally prepare for the off-road expedition through the treacherous terrain of Bangalore’s speed bumps.
• CB500X Language: You start speaking in CB500X code. "I'll be home in 20 minutes" actually means "I found a longer route and will be taking at least an hour."
• Mod Fever: You catch the modification fever. You start with new crash bars, luggage racks, top case, hand guards, footrest, and shock absorbers and suddenly your CB500X looks like it's auditioning for a role in a Sholay sequel without the sidecar. Who knew a practical adventure-touring bike could turn into a post-apocalyptic masterpiece?
• Gas Station Celebrity: At gas stations, you become a celebrity. People are genuinely curious about your bike, and you find yourself giving impromptu tours, explaining the intricacies of your highly advanced cup holder (read gas tank: kitna dete hai).
• Fuel Efficiency Boast: You boast about your fuel efficiency to every rider you meet. It's not a competition, but if it were, you'd be winning. You secretly judge those who need to refuel more frequently – "Amateurs!"
• Smooth Gear Changes: Achieving those buttery-smooth gear changes puts you in a state of zen. It's the motorcycling equivalent of finding inner peace, and you're the yogi of the asphalt, one with your bike and the open road.
• Indestructible DNA: The CB500X's engine wasn't built; it was forged in the fires of Mount Reliable. Legend has it that the engineers sprinkled a bit of unicorn dust on the blueprint for that extra touch of magic durability. The CB500X engine laughs at the mere concept of breaking down. It considers roadside assistance an insult to its mechanical prowess.
• Rainy Day Dilemma: Rainy days become a moral dilemma. Do you protect your pristine CB500X from the elements or take it out for a slippery adventure?
• Packed Lunch Under the Seat: You discover the joy of storing random items under the seat. It's like your own tiny storage unit – very small snacks, a spare pair of socks, and that mysterious tool you've never used but insist on carrying. It's certainly small but who’s complaining….
• Noise Complaints: Your neighbours complain about the revving noise. Little do they know; you're just testing the horn, which sounds suspiciously like a caffeinated duck. Honk honk! Needs to be either replaced or put to sleep forever.
• Uphill Struggles: Uphill struggles become a metaphor for life. Your CB500X might not be the fastest uphill, but it's a trooper, just like you. You both huff and puff your way to the top, victorious in your own right.
• Cost: At the price I bought this price is a steal. Long-term assertions also come at a cost and this is a keeper bike through my bifocals of course...

In the world of CB500X ownership, every day is a comedy ride filled with quirky adventures and the joy of being part of the CB500X family. So, gear up, strap on your helmet and let the laughter-filled journey begin! May the chase of sunsets and rainbows be endless. The soul of any ADV warrior is always eternal so ADV Warrior let your eternal soul lead the way through the untamed landscapes and the endless possibilities of the open road!

PS: Have ridden almost all ADV-styled bikes in India right from the GS, Tiger and down to the new Himalayan – this is the most rider-friendly motorcycle you could buy today amongst them all, one that is also guaranteed to put a smile every time you take it out of the garage. It can ride forever on that frugal sipping behaviour - something that no other bike comes close to. In one word it’s the most "forgiving" of them all. However, ownership cost is always subjective and is person-driven and perceived value-driven.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Hoping to see some quick course correction from Honda - for what looked like one of the most promising moves for India's big bike market looks to have turned out to be one of the worst executed ones in recent times.

BHPian CrazY_DriVer recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

"Fool me once, shame on you.

Fool me twice, shame on me.

Fool me three times, shame on both of us"

So now five times?  That's the story of the Honda Bigwing - the seperate premium network created under Honda’s Silver Wing-Mark to cater exclusively to the brand’s more premium offerings since 2019. Since then the brand has seen five overpriced launches - all market flops that resulted in big price corrections and even an abandoned launch!

1. Honda CB500X

• Launched: March 2021
• Launch Price: 6.87L
• Relaunched: February 2022
• Price reduction: 1.1L (16% on ex showroom)

BigWing started the trend with a massive 1.1L reduction in February 2022. Priced too optimistic, the vehicle price was slashed to sell off inventory and later discontinued.

2. Honda CBR 1000 RR-R

• Launched: August 2020
• Launch Price: 33L
• Relaunched: April 2022
• Price reduction: 10L (30% on ex showroom)

Next in line was the flagship supersport - with an unheard off 10L price cuts in April 2022. A couple of units were sold and no stocks were imported afterwards.

3. Honda CB300F

• Launched: August 2022
• Launch Price: 2.26L
• Relaunched: December 2022
• Price reduction: 64k (28% on ex showroom)

Most shocking price cut was of the CB300F within 4 months of launch with a massive slash after the market reception turned out to be a damp squib for Honda.

4. Honda CB500F

• Launched: Classified?
• Launch Price: ~6.5L onroad

Of the five bikes in the list, this would be the most secretive one - with just five bikes imported and sold at a high price of around 6.5L onroad. There was no official launch, all five bikes imported for showcase were disposed to owners and prospective owners were promised a launch in the early 2023, which never happened.

Honda probably realizing that it doesn't stand a chance even with the usual price cuts?

5. Honda CB300R

• Launched: January 2022 (BS6 + CKD version)
• Launch Price: 2.77L
• Relaunched: October 2023
• Price reduction: 37k (13% on ex showroom)

Latest in the list is the Honda CB300R with a price revision, possibly as a response to the latest launches from Triumph and TVS.

To make matters worse - I hear the dealer network is very unhappy. H'ness sales are keeping the showrooms running but its sales have not been a patch on the RE figures as once expected - and to make matters worse - Honda India has not received any stocks of imported bikes in 2023. I had visited the showrooms back in March for myself and recently for a friend and the sales guys admit they are fed up of answering stock and delay queries from customers. The stocks of the popular CBR650R and Africa Twin are expected only in Q2 2024!

With this history - the question is if it is worth buying any new products from Honda Bigwing? Those who are willing to pay the typical Honda premium with which the products are being launched are likely to repent their decision within a few months - either with massive price reductions or product discontinuation.

What is the way forward? Hoping to see some quick course correction from Honda - for what looked like one of the most promising moves for India's big bike market looks to have turned out to be one of the worst executed ones in recent times.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The engine has a little tinge of vibration due to the 180° firing order which can be felt if you are looking for it.

BHPian advstreak recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

So I went for a test ride of the CB500X 2022 model at the Honda Big Bike Showroom in Hanoi.

As pointed out by media reviews the front dual disc brake bite is sharp. Perhaps a little too sharp as per some but I like it this way.

The Showa SFF-BP seemed to iron out whatever patch of rough road I could find while still preventing nose dive due to the sharp front brakes.

The engine has a little tinge of vibration due to the 180° firing order which can be felt if you are looking for it. It felt the same as the 2021 model I had test rode in India.

CB500x feels to me proper upgrade from the KTM ADV 250 in search for one bike to do it all.

The ex-showroom price is 178,790,000 VND= 6,15,781 INR and with taxes and registration, it comes to 191,790,000 VND= 6,60,555 INR. Let's see how Honda prices it in India.

Here are some more pics of the showroom and the bike available for test rides.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.