Introducing the Honda CB500x
Updated 12/05/25
Are you looking for a motorcycle that can take you on an adventure without weighing you down? Look no further than the Honda CB500X Touring Bike. With its lightweight design and powerful engine, it’s the perfect choice for anyone seeking a thrilling ride.
If you would like to rent one of these fantastic bikes, just take a look at our CB500x product page.
Contents
Lightweight yet Powerful
One of the main features that set the CB500X apart from other touring bikes is its lightweight body. Despite weighing in at just over 430 pounds, it packs a punch with its 471cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 49 horsepower and 31 lb-ft of torque. This combination of power and weight makes it incredibly agile and easy to maneuver, especially on winding roads or off-road terrain.
Exploring Beyond the Beaten Path
Despite its touring bike label, the Honda CB500X is a versatile machine that can handle more than just smooth roads. Its long travel suspension, high ground clearance, and off-road-focused tires make it an ideal choice for those who crave adventure beyond the paved path. Whether you’re tackling gravel roads, dirt trails, or rocky terrain, the CB500X will handle it with ease.
Comfortable Cruising
While the CB500X may be light and nimble, it also offers plenty of comfort features for long-distance touring. The bike’s upright riding position, adjustable windscreen, and comfortable seat make it easy to ride all day without feeling fatigued. It also boasts a large fuel tank that can hold up to 4.6 gallons, meaning fewer stops for gas and more time on the road.
The Honda CB500X vs Other Touring Bikes
When it comes to choosing a touring bike, there are plenty of options on the market. So why should you choose the CB500X? For starters, its lightweight body makes it easier to handle and maneuver than some heavier touring bikes. It’s also more affordable than many other options, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. But perhaps most importantly, the CB500X’s versatility makes it a top choice for adventure seekers who want a bike that can handle any terrain.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country trip or just looking for a bike that can take you off the beaten path, the Honda CB500X Touring Bike is an excellent choice. With its lightweight design, powerful engine, and versatile features, it’s the perfect machine for any adventure.
Adventure-ready features
Are you ready for an adventure on the open road? Look no further than the Honda CB500X touring bike. This motorcycle offers a range of adventure-ready features that make it the ideal choice for any rider who wants to experience lightweight travel.
One of the most significant benefits of the CB500X’s design is its lightweight construction. Weighing in at just 423 pounds, this bike offers effortless maneuverability that makes it perfect for exploring winding mountain roads or navigating urban traffic. It’s easy to handle, no matter your level of experience, and you’ll feel confident and in control at all times. This couldn’t be more evident than on the difficult terrain on the Ha Giang Loop that you will experience on the 5-day Due North tour. You’ll wish you booked for one of the longer 7 or 10-day versions.
But don’t let the CB500X’s lightweight design fool you – it’s also packed with robust engine power that offers smooth handling even on long journeys. With a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, you’ll be able to cover long distances with ease. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or hitting dirt roads, the CB500X offers a comfortable ride that won’t compromise performance.
Technology is also a significant consideration for any modern adventurer. That’s why the CB500X is equipped with a range of versatile and user-friendly features that make it easy to customize your ride to your liking. This touring bike offers a plethora of customizable options, including adjustable windscreen height and custom-fit luggage racks.
Of course, comfort is also essential when you’re preparing for a long trip on the road. That’s why Honda has put ergonomics and practicality at the forefront of the CB500X’s design. The comfortable riding position allows riders to sit upright while the suspension system absorbs bumps and rugged terrain. Additionally, there are practical luggage options, including panniers that easily fit tour gear and other essentials, adding functionality and convenience to any adventure.
Lightweight and agile handling
If you’re looking for a bike that’s lightweight, agile, and perfect for adventure, the Honda CB500X won’t disappoint. With its compact design, this bike is easy to maneuver on winding roads and tight corners. You’ll be able to take on various terrains without any difficulty.
Weighing in at just under 430 pounds, the CB500X is surprisingly light for a touring bike. This means you can easily control it and navigate even on the most challenging roads. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride thanks to its well-designed seat height and ergonomically designed handlebars.
But the CB500X isn’t just a bike for short rides. It’s ideal for long-distance rides too. You’ll enjoy a smooth ride regardless of the distance, and your passenger will appreciate the comfortable seating too. You can also take advantage of its range of features like ABS brakes and an adjustable windscreen, which provide a high level of safety and convenience. All of this is very useful when on a tour such as the Cloud Hunter 9-day tour, which can take you on some small trails that need some focus and concentration on your behalf, but also the technical backup of a superior machine.
For adventurers who love a challenge, the Honda CB500X is the perfect choice. It’s lightweight, agile, and convenient. You’ll get to explore various terrains with ease, and its range of features will make your adventure unforgettable. So why not take the road less traveled and experience lightweight adventure with the Honda CB500X touring bike?
Comfortable for long rides
If you’re planning a long-distance motorcycle tour, comfort is key. And that’s where the Honda CB500X touring bike shines. This versatile machine is designed for all-day comfort, making it the perfect choice for riders who want to experience lightweight adventure without sacrificing their back, shoulders, and bottom. I took one around Northern Thailand and you can see the Chiang Mai trip report here.
The CB500X’s ergonomic design ensures that the rider is in a comfortable riding posture, even during extended journeys. The handlebar is positioned to minimize wrist and shoulder strain, while the footrests are placed at a natural angle for maximum comfort. Additionally, the seat is padded for added comfort and can be adjusted to accommodate different heights.
Moreover, the bike’s windscreen is positioned to minimize wind resistance, which can cause fatigue on long rides. It allows the rider to achieve a more aerodynamic riding position while reducing turbulence around the helmet. This is particularly useful when on tours that involve covering large distances such as the Run to the Sun 8 day tour from Hanoi to Danang.
Another notable feature of the Honda CB500X is its suspension system, which is designed to offer a smooth ride even on rough terrain. The long-travel suspension system can absorb bumps and potholes, resulting in a comfortable riding experience that you won’t find with other bikes in its class.
Rider-friendly technology
When it comes to touring bikes, Honda has always been at the forefront of innovation. And with the release of the CB500X, they have once again set the bar high for rider-friendly technology.
One of the standout features of the CB500X is its ABS braking system. This advanced safety feature ensures that the rider can maintain control even during sudden stops or emergency braking situations. With the ABS system, the CB500X delivers a smooth, controlled ride with maximum safety and efficiency.
Another technology highlight is the 6-speed manual transmission. With easy-to-use gear shifts, the rider has greater control over their bike’s speed and acceleration, allowing for smooth and efficient transitions from one gear to the next. The result is an agile and responsive ride, making it perfect for navigating city streets or long stretches of open road.
LED lighting is another top-notch feature of the CB500X. The LED headlight and taillight create brighter, clearer lighting that illuminates the path ahead, ensuring that the rider has better visibility day or night. Safety, once again, is at the forefront of the CB500X’s design.
Last but not least, the CB500X boasts comfortable ergonomics for extended rides. The seat is plush and supportive, with an adjustable height that can accommodate riders of varying sizes. The handlebars and footpegs are also adjustable, ensuring that the rider can customize their riding position for maximum comfort, regardless of how long they’re on the road.
When it comes to touring bikes, the Honda CB500X is a true standout, thanks to its rider-friendly technology, built-in safety features, and ergonomic design. It’s certainly an adventure worth experiencing!
The alternative?
A rival bike has got to be one of our Honda XR150s. These are very light and nimble machines, which are very capable in Vietnamese conditions. In fact, there will go anywhere the CB500x will go and some, but, of course, they are nowhere near as powerful.
If you are not obsessed with the extra power and you want a bike that is featherweight and fun to throw around, then this could be the answer. She will handle the monotonous highway for a period and not cause you too much saddle soreness. On top of this, she is fun to take off the beaten track and is pretty good and getting almost anywhere.
You can find out more specs and book a Honda XR150 here.
FAQ
What engine does the CB500X have?
The CB500X is powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
Is the CB500X suitable for beginner riders?
Yes, the CB500X is often considered a great choice for beginner to intermediate riders. Its manageable power, comfortable riding position, and relatively light weight make it easy to handle. However, some riding experience is always recommended before tackling any motorcycle.
Can the CB500X handle off-road riding?
While not a dedicated off-road bike, the CB500X can handle light to moderate off-road trails. Its long-travel suspension and relatively upright riding position allow for some off-road exploration. However, it’s not designed for extreme off-roading. Modifications like knobby tires and upgraded suspension can improve its off-road performance.
How is the CB500X for long-distance riding?
The CB500X is surprisingly capable for long-distance riding. Its comfortable ergonomics, decent wind protection (especially with an aftermarket windscreen), and good fuel economy make it a comfortable choice for touring. Adding accessories like saddlebags and a top box can further enhance its touring capabilities.
What are some common modifications for the CB500X?
Common modifications we make are: installing crash bars for added protection, fitting auxiliary lights for better visibility, raising the handlebars, installing a phone holder and adding luggage solutions for touring.
Honda CB500x: A Great All-Rounder
In conclusion, the Honda CB500X touring bike is a perfect companion for all your lightweight adventure desires. This versatile model is designed to deliver outstanding performance, great mileage, durability, and stability, making it a favorite among adventure seekers. Whether you want to enjoy an off-road trip, a cross-country tour, or a weekend getaway, this bike has got you covered. Its advanced features and impressive capabilities make it an exceptional motorcycle in its class, offering comfort, ease of handling, and a unique riding experience. If you’re up for lightweight adventure, the Honda CB500X touring bike is undoubtedly the way to go!
