Honda BigWing Calicut has officially announced that bookings for CB500 are open.
CB500 is an important addition to Honda’s premium motorcycle portfolio, as it brings back the formula of a large-capacity, single-cylinder roadster.
New 501cc Single-Cylinder EngineAt the heart of Honda CB500 is an all-new 501cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine.
The entry-level version will use alloy wheels, while another variant will get cross-spoke tubeless wheels.
A range-topping version will also use cross-spoke tubeless wheels while gaining exclusive graphics.
Honda recently unveiled its new CB500 in India as part of its major product offensive for the domestic market. While prices were not announced at the time of unveiling, the motorcycle appears to be getting closer to its market launch. Select Honda BigWing dealerships have now started accepting bookings for CB500.
Honda BigWing Calicut has officially announced that bookings for CB500 are open. Customers have been asked to visit the dealership or contact them to reserve the motorcycle. With dealers starting to accept bookings, the next major announcement is expected to be the price.
CB500 is an important addition to Honda’s premium motorcycle portfolio, as it brings back the formula of a 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 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 outright power output isn’t particularly high for a motorcycle displacing more than 500cc, the focus appears to be on strong torque delivery and relaxed everyday performance. Its 43.3 Nm torque output is also relatively close to some larger-capacity twin-cylinder motorcycles.
CB500 will therefore occupy an interesting position in Honda’s India portfolio. It sits above 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. CB500 gets a large teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round LED headlamp, ribbed single-piece seat and a relatively simple tail section. The overall silhouette has similarities with CB350, although the larger engine gives CB500 a more substantial road presence. Hardware includes conventional telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Disc brakes are provided at both ends.
Despite its traditional appearance, Honda has equipped CB500 with a number of modern features. These include Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), slipper clutch and an analogue-digital instrument console with Honda RoadSync connectivity.
Three Variants Planned
Honda has confirmed three variants for CB500. The entry-level version will use alloy wheels, while another variant will get cross-spoke tubeless wheels. A range-topping version will also use cross-spoke tubeless wheels while gaining exclusive graphics.
The availability of cross-spoke tubeless wheels should particularly appeal to buyers looking for the classic appearance of wire-spoke wheels without having to deal with conventional tube-type tyres. Honda has not announced the complete specifications or variant-wise equipment distribution yet. These details are expected closer to the formal launch and price announcement.
Royal Enfield, BSA Rivals In Sight
Honda CB500 will enter a segment currently dominated by Royal Enfield’s larger motorcycles. Its positioning could put it up against motorcycles such as Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and BSA Gold Star 650, although CB500 follows a very different single-cylinder approach. Local manufacturing will be an important factor here. An aggressive price could allow Honda to position CB500 as a significant step up from CB350 while keeping it accessible compared to larger multi-cylinder motorcycles.
