Honda CB500F: The Ultimate Streetfighter for India

The Honda CB500F is a middleweight naked streetfighter motorcycle known for its affordability, reliability, and versatility, making it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced riders. Below is a comprehensive overview based on the latest available information:

Key Features (2025 Model)

Engine: 471cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC parallel-twin engine, producing 47 horsepower and 43 Nm of torque. It’s A2 license-compliant (35kW) with a smooth power delivery, ideal for city commuting and spirited weekend rides.
Transmission: 6-speed manual with a slipper/assist clutch, reducing clutch lever effort by 45% and preventing rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
Suspension:
- Front: 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork-Big Piston (SFF-BP) upside-down forks for precise handling.
- Rear: Pro-Link monoshock with 9-stage preload adjustability.
Brakes: Dual 296mm front discs with radial-mount four-piston Nissin calipers and a 240mm rear disc, equipped with standard dual-channel ABS for confident stopping power.
Electronics:
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for enhanced rear-wheel traction.
- 5-inch full-color TFT display with Honda RoadSync connectivity for navigation and smartphone integration.
- Updated ECU for improved acceleration.
Chassis: Lightweight steel diamond-tube frame with near-perfect weight distribution (49.7% front, 50.3% rear) for balanced handling.
Weight: Approximately 190 kg (kerb weight).
Seat Height: 785mm, accessible for a wide range of riders.
Fuel Economy: Up to 90+ MPG (reported by some users), with a 17-liter fuel tank for extended range.
Styling: Aggressive naked design with sharp graphics, LED lighting, and a redesigned fuel tank for a sporty, streetfighter aesthetic.
Color: Matte Black Metallic (2025 U.S. model).

Pricing

U.S.: Base MSRP $6,899 + $600 destination charge.
Philippines: Approximately ₱354,000 (2022 model, ABS variant).
India: Expected price around ₹4,80,000–₹5,00,000 (launch anticipated October 2025).
U.K.: Around £5,849 (2022 model, slight price increase for newer models).

Performance and Ride Experience

Power Delivery: The 471cc engine offers strong low-end torque and usable power up to legal speed limits, though some riders find it lacks character compared to competitors like Yamaha’s MT-07 or Triumph’s Trident 660 due to its conventional 180-degree crankshaft.
Handling: Lightweight and nimble, with upgraded suspension providing excellent feedback for urban environments and twisty roads. The Showa SFF-BP forks and dual front discs enhance cornering precision.
Comfort: Upright riding position, low seat height, and minimal vibration make it comfortable for daily commutes and moderate-distance rides. However, some riders note discomfort on long rides due to the low hand lebar.
Top Speed: Approximately 190 km/h (118 mph), with a practical cruising speed around 70–80 mph.

Pros

Beginner-friendly with approachable power and forgiving handling.
Exceptional fuel efficiency (67.9–90 MPG reported).
Reliable Honda build quality with low maintenance costs.
Premium features (TFT display, HSTC, ABS) at a budget-friendly price.
Ideal for commuting, light touring, and A2 license holders.

Cons

Engine lacks excitement for thrill-seekers; described as “meh” by some experienced riders.
Short gearing can be tedious in stop-and-go traffic.
Passenger seat is uncomfortable for two-up riding.
Suspension, while improved, may feel basic for aggressive riding compared to pricier bikes.

Target Audience

New Riders: 45% of CB500F buyers are new riders due to its manageable power and low seat height.
Commuters: Excellent fuel economy and agility make it a practical city bike.
Budget-Conscious Riders: Offers premium features at a lower price point than competitors like the Kawasaki Z650 or Yamaha MT-07.
A2 License Holders: Perfectly suited for European A2 license restrictions.

Owner Feedback

Positive: Owners praise its reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. Many appreciate its ability to handle long rides (200–300 miles/day) comfortably for its class.
Criticism: Some beginners find the bike underpowered or boring compared to alternatives like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or Yamaha MT-07. Others report vibrations at high RPMs (6,000–8,000) causing hand numbness, though grip puppies can mitigate this.

Competitors

Kawasaki Ninja 300/Z500: Faster but less fuel-efficient; lower component quality in some areas.
Yamaha MT-07: More powerful and characterful engine but pricier and not A2-compliant without restriction.
Triumph Trident 660: Offers more engaging engine dynamics but at a higher cost.
BMW G 310 R: Less powerful and less refined but cheaper.

Accessories

Honda offers a range of accessories, including:

Style Pack: Tank pad, seat cowl, wheel decals.
Comfort Pack: Heated grips, power outlet, center stand.
Travel Pack: 3L tank bag, 15–22L rear seat bag.
35L top box with Honda One-Key system, tank bag, and rear hugger.

Market Availability

U.S.: Available now (2025 model).
India: Expected launch in October 2025, possibly showcased earlier at events like the 2024 Auto Expo.
Europe: Widely available, rebranded as CB500 Hornet in some markets (2024 onwards).
Philippines: Available since 2022.

Custom Builds

The CB500F is a popular base for custom motorcycles, with examples like:

Bold Motorcycles’ “War Machine”: A cafe racer-style CB500F.
Kaspeed Custom Motorcycles: Modified CB500F with unique styling.

Recommendation

The Honda CB500F is an excellent choice for riders seeking a reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly motorcycle. It shines as a commuter and beginner bike but may feel underwhelming for those prioritizing raw power or weekend thrills. If you’re after more excitement, consider the Honda CB650R or Yamaha MT-07, though they come at a higher price and may require license restrictions in some regions. Read More: Suzuki Burgman 2025: Complete Review, Price, Features, And E20 Fuel Variant Details

Conclusion

The Honda CB500F is a game-changer in the mid-capacity streetfighter segment, offering a blend of style, performance, and affordability. With its powerful engine, advanced features, and competitive Honda CB500F price in India, it’s an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile and thrilling motorcycle. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, the CB500F promises an exciting journey on every ride. Visit our motorcycle reviews to learn more about top bikes in India.