Honda’s A2-compatible naked has been given an aggressive look and new tapered handlebars.
Its twin-cylinder engine now has more (claimed) low-to-mid range power and torque and is also kitted out with an assist & slipper clutch.
New LCD instruments and LED indicators round out the updates for 2019.
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The bike’s new LCD instruments feature a Gear Position and Shift Up indicator; this is set to a default 8,750rpm but can be adjusted in 250rpm increments between 5-8,750rpm.
The 35mm diameter steel diamond-tube mainframe is unchanged for 2019 so the bike’s wheelbase stays at 1,410mm and rake and trail remain at 25.5°/102mm. Kerb weight is 189kg.
Seat height remains low at 785mm. Overall dimensions are 2080mm x 790mm x 1060mm, with 145mm ground clearance. The fuel tank holds 17.1L including reserve, and combined with the engine’s claimed frugal fuel sippage means a range of 480km (over 260 miles) from one fill up.
The 41mm preload-adjustable telescopic front fork, with 120mm stroke, look after the front of the bike whilst at the back a new single-tube rear shock absorber (as found on larger capacity sports bikes) replaces the double-tube design of the previous model. It has 9-stage spring preload adjustment and works through a rigid box-section steel swingarm, which now features pressed steel chain adjustment end-pieces. Final drive is via sealed 520 chain.
Lightweight, 17-inch cast aluminium wheels use hollow cross-section Y-shaped spokes. Front wheel width is 3.5inch with a 120/70-ZR17 tyre, the rear 4.5inch with a 160/60-ZR17 tyre. A single front 320mm wavy disc and two-piston brake caliper is matched to a 240mm rear disc and single-piston caliper. ABS is fitted as standard.
The CB500F will be available in the following colour options; Grand Prix Red, Matt Gunpowder, Black Metallic, Pearl Metalloid White or Candy Energy Orange. No price yet announced from Honda about this bike.
The 2019 CBR500R
Honda’s A2-compatible ‘pocket rocket’ gets an aggressive, aerodynamically-driven sports makeover, plus a racier riding position. The engine has more low-to-mid range power and torque, and is also now equipped with an assist/slipper clutch. New LCD instruments and LED indicators round out the updates.
While its engine maintains the 35kW required for A2 licence holders, it now makes 4% more power and torque between 3-7,000rpm thanks to revisions to the inlet, exhaust and valve timing. It also now features an assist/slipper clutch.
New LCD instruments feature a Shift Up and Gear Position function and the indicators are now LED, to match the rest of the lighting. While the chassis remains essentially unchanged a new rear shock absorber delivers consistent damping performance and improved control.
The 2019 Honda CB500X
Honda’s gets new off-road styling and improved wind protection plus longer travel suspension, 19-inch front wheel and tapered handlebars. Its twin-cylinder engine has more low-to-mid range power and torque, and is now also equipped with an assist/slipper clutch. New LCD instruments and LED indicators round out the updates.
Taking cues from the Africa Twin the CB500X looks much more the part for 2019, especially with its longer travel suspension, high-specification single-tube shock absorber, enhanced rider ergonomics and a bigger front wheel.
And while the CB500X’s engine maintains the 35kW peak output required for A2 licence holders, it now makes 4% more power and torque between 3-7,000rpm, thanks to revisions to the inlet, exhaust and valve timing. The new dual-exit exhaust muffler features an enhanced exhaust note and the engine now also features an assist/slipper clutch.
New LCD instruments include a Shift Up and Gear Position indicator, and the indicators are LED to match the rest of the lighting.
