From City Streets to Mountain Peaks: Honda CB500X Review
It’s totally no surprise that you may find positive CB500X reviews praising it as the perfect motorcycle for adventure riding that blends on-road performance with off-road capability. Riders seeking a do-it-all motorcycle have embraced the CB500X for its approachable power, robust build quality, and long-distance comfort. To put it simply, the Honda CB500X is an exceptional all-rounder ideally suited for adventurous motorcycle touring on any terrain. Without further ado, let’s dive into the features that make this Honda CB500X a formidable adventure touring companion with Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert through the article below.
Honda CB500x Overview
Launched with relatively little fanfare at the vast EICMA show in 2012, the adventure-oriented Honda CB500X arrived alongside its sportier CB500R and naked CB500F stablemates as an off-road capable addition to Honda’s 500cc parallel-twin lineup.
Engine
Despite its modest 471cc twin-cylinder engine, most Honda CB500X reviews recommend it as an excellent choice for adventure motorcycle touring. This liquid-cooled, fuel-injected powerplant provides ample torque and power to tackle varied terrain, whether navigating city traffic or climbing mountain passes, even with a passenger and luggage on board.
As such, the CB500X is an ideal companion for exploratory tours through winding backcountry roads and off-the-beaten-path destinations. The best part is that it is the excellent fit for adventures like Vietnam motorcycle tours, such as Ha Giang motorbike tours and Cao Bang motorbike tours.
And we cannot miss the Ho Chi Minh Trail motorbike tour with dense jungles, crossed rivers, climbed steep and rocky inclines. Typically, the conditions were challenging, with mud, ruts, and loose surfaces testing the capabilities of any vehicle attempting to traverse the route. Only the most robust and off-road-capable motorcycles could reliably navigate the treacherous sections of the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
CB500X is the perfect fit for Ho Chi Minh Trail Motorbike Tours – Honda CB500X review
Honda CB500X review: Exploring the Ho Chi Minh Trail just got easier with this dynamic, off-road capable machine. Its efficient engine and lightweight design cater to both new riders and seasoned adventurers, ensuring a comfortable, reliable journey through tough terrain.
Modifications
Several modifications have been made to transform the CB500X into a competent adventure tourer. At the core is the Rally Raid Level 2 kit, which includes rugged spoked wheels, upgraded Tractive suspension, and an increased ride height for better off-road clearance.
Further bolstering its adventure credentials are Givi engine guards, sturdy pannier racks, and a top rack for carrying luggage. Additional protection comes from a Rally Raid sump guard, off-road footpegs and levers, a Beowulf radiator guard, and tough Barkbuster handguards. Keeping the final drive in good condition is a trusty Tutoro chain oiler.
Luggage
The luggage capacity of the Honda CB500X varies depending on the specific model and any additional accessories or modifications added by the rider. However, the CB500X typically offers ample space for carrying essential items for daily commuting or longer trips. It features various options for luggage attachment, including panniers, top cases, and tank bags, allowing riders to customize their storage based on their needs.
Aftermarket luggage racks and mounting systems are also available to further enhance the bike’s carrying capacity. Overall, the Honda CB500X is well-suited for carrying luggage, making it a practical choice for riders who require storage space for their belongings.
Riders can easily custom your luggage with the ample space on Honda CB500X
Honda CB500X review about Fuel Consumption
The Honda CB500X features a 17.3-liter fuel tank, giving it a generous range for long adventure tours. This fuel capacity and the bike’s efficient parallel-twin engine allow for highly economical operation. According to owner surveys on fuelly.com, most CB500X riders achieve around 55-70 mpg (4.2-3.3 l/100km) in mixed riding conditions. While some owners report even better fuel economy, up to 75 mpg (3.1 l/100km), others get around 48 mpg (4.9 l/100km), depending on riding style and terrain.
This variance provides flexibility—those looking to maximize their range can employ fuel-efficient techniques, while others have headroom to travel at a brisker pace. The CB500X’s fuel tank capacity and frugal nature make it well-suited for long-distance adventures without requiring auxiliary fuel storage.
Honda CB500x On Road and Off-Road Review
On Road Performance: The Honda CB500X delivers a pleasantly smooth and reliable riding experience on paved roads and specially suitable for north vietnam motorcycle tours. Its characteristically refined parallel-twin engine proves equally well-suited for daily commuting duties or enthusiastic round-the-world adventures. While not the most technologically advanced offering, the CB500X’s straightforward nature and clear versatile purpose continue to win over riders globally with its honest, no-frills appeal.
CB500X performance on road
Off-road Performance: The CB500X surprises with its trail capability when equipped with proper off-road tires and suspension upgrades. It keeps up with pricier adventure bikes on tours like Vietnam motorbike adventures. Handling rough dirt roads and trails, CB500X feels agile and secure, empowering us to confidently explore remote areas. Its fuel efficiency also means fewer stops, ideal for long journeys into Vietnam’s hinterlands.
How CB500x conquer off-road terrains?
Thinking about hitting the open road or conquering off-road adventures? This table breaks down how a typical on-road motorcycle stacks up against its off-road counterpart. Let’s see which one is the perfect fit for your riding style!
| Feature | On-Road Performance | Off-Road Performance | Comparison |
| Engine and Power | 471cc parallel-twin, smooth for cruising and capable of highway speeds. | Same engine but may require more frequent gear shifts to maintain torque in challenging terrains. | Equally powerful, but off-road demands more from the engine in rough conditions. |
| Suspension | Standard telescopic front and Pro-Link rear suspension optimized for comfort on paved roads. | Upgrades like adjustable shocks recommended for off-road for better impact absorption and control. | Adequate for light off-road; on-road setup is smoother. |
| Tires | Stock tires are more road-oriented, providing good grip and wear characteristics on pavement. | Knobby off-road tires recommended for improved grip on mud, sand, and loose gravel. | Stock tires excel on-road; off-road requires specialized tires for safety and performance. |
| Ergonomics | Comfortable upright seating with adjustable windscreen, suited for long-distance road tours. | Off-road posture benefits from handlebar risers and lowered footpegs for better control when standing. | On-road favors comfort; off-road setup is more about control and maneuverability. |
| Ground Clearance | Standard clearance suitable for urban obstacles like speed bumps. Approximately 180 mm. | Higher clearance needed for off-road; potential to increase with suspension mods. Avoids underbody damage. | Standard clearance limits off-road capability; modifications can bridge this gap. |
| Protection | Basic stock protection. Add-ons like crash bars protect against urban scrapes. | Essential to add robust off-road gear like skid plates, engine guards, and radiator protectors. | On-road protection is minimal; off-road requires extensive fortification. |
| Fuel Efficiency | More efficient on highways due to steady speeds and smoother engine operation. | Efficiency may decrease due to varying speeds, increased idling, and engine load. | More efficient on-road; off-road conditions tax the engine more. |
| Handling and Control | Light and agile on roads, easy to maneuver in city traffic and stable on highways. | Handling becomes more challenging on non-paved surfaces; requires more physical riding style. | On-road handling is easier and more predictable than off-road. |
Honda Specifications
To better understand what makes the CB500X such a capable adventure touring platform, let’s take a look at its key specifications:
| Title | Description |
| Engine | 471cc, 4 stroke liquid cooled parallel twin |
| Transmission | 6 gear |
| Power | 46 bhp @ 8,600 rpm |
| Torque | 43 nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate, mechanically operated with slipper assist |
| Frame | Steel diamond with a steel subframe |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm SFF – BP USD forks |
| Rear Suspension | Central mounted Prolink mono-shock with 5 stage preload adjuster |
| Front brake | 2 x 296 mm discs with 2 piston Nissin axial mounted calipers |
| Rear Brake | 250mm disc with single pot caliper |
| ABS | 2 channel |
| Wheels | 19” / 17” cast alloy |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.5 litres |
| Weight | 199 kg kerb weight |
Why does the Honda CB500x become a great choice for off-roading?
The abundance of positive reviews for the Honda CB500x stems from owners’ appreciation of its versatile multi-tasking capabilities, exceptional durability, and ability to deliver a high-quality ride experience over rough roads and terrain.
Flexibility
The Honda CB500X’s design lends it exceptional versatility for tackling both off-road trails and urban riding with equal confidence. Its relatively light weight proves advantageous, allowing riders to handle unexpected situations when exploring new terrain nimbly.
Flexibility of CB500x is the new definition
According to experienced owners, the CB500X shines as a fantastic off-road adventure bike and makes a superb touring companion for covering miles on paved roads across continents. Even in congested cities, the generous seat height affords better visibility over surrounding traffic.
Ride quality & brakes
The CB500X comes with cast aluminum wheels instead of spoke wheels, which are more common on off-road bikes. Cast wheels are cheaper and work fine for most light off-road riders. The wheels are 19 inches in the front and 17 inches in the rear. The stock Dunlop tires are decent on gravel but perform poorly in mud or sand. Upgrading to more aggressive off-road tires improves the bike’s trail capabilities.
For brakes, the CB500X has 296mm disc brakes in the front with twin-piston calipers and a 240mm rear disc brake. The brake levers are adjustable and the brakes have ABS. The brakes match the bike’s modest power and bring it to a smooth stop without being too grabby or powerful. While not premium brakes, they are well-suited for this motorcycle’s intended use.
The wheels and brakes provide a good balance of on-road and off-road performance
Reliability & build quality
Regarding reliability and build quality, the Honda CB500X is a standout in the world of large distribution motorcycles. Much like its CRF250L counterpart, the CB500X’s engine is renowned for its dependability in this segment. With proper maintenance, it can easily clock thousands of miles over many years without skipping a beat.
CB500X allows riders to cover 100000-mile distance
For those using the CB500X for dual purposes, it’s not uncommon to cover distances of 100,000 miles or more before requiring engine repairs. Rest assured, this model is your trusty companion for all your adventures, promising smooth rides wherever your journey takes you.
Maintenance and parts
Maintenance and finding parts for the Honda CB500X is a breeze, no matter where you are. Honda uses universal parts for some consumables, which are available almost everywhere. Additionally, even for the more specialized parts, you’ll find them stocked at Honda garages worldwide.
Honda CB500X’s maintenance service available everywhere
Whether you’re in Vietnam, the USA, Chile, Costa Rica, or any other corner of the globe, rest assured you’ll be able to keep your CB500X in top shape without any hassle. This global parts accessibility is a significant advantage, especially for long-distance journeys.
Long distance comfort
Riders often praise the Honda CB500X review for its comfort on long journeys, despite the seat initially feeling as hard as a church bench rather than the plush cushioning expected on a bike. This issue can be easily remedied by adding a seat cover. Furthermore, the higher seat option available from the Rally Raid upgrades, along with the upright sitting position, enhances comfort for many riders, making extended trips more enjoyable.
Limitation of CB500x
In this Honda CB500X review, it’s important to highlight that some riders have concerns with the bike’s windscreen and seat. These parts are serviceable but can cause issues. The windscreen, which uses rubber grommets, can wear out and potentially detach after extensive use on rough roads.
Although these parts can be replaced, riders should be aware of this maintenance need. Additionally, the stock seat is often described as too stiff, resembling wood more than a cushion. Many riders choose to replace it or add a cushion cover for better comfort. That said, if a firm seat isn’t a dealbreaker, you can continue riding, but be cautious of potential discomfort.
Customers’ feedback after using Honda CB500X on tours
We offer a range of large distribution vehicles to meet the diverse needs of our customers, with the CB500X being a popular choice for Northern Vietnam motorbike tours. Here’s some feedback we’ve received the Honda CB500X reviews after-tours.
“I recently returned from a 5-day Ho Chi Minh Trail motorbike tour organized by Vietnam Motorbike Tour Experts (VMTE), and it was an incredible experience exploring remote areas and immersing myself in the local culture. From my first contact with Chung Can at VMTE, I was impressed by his professionalism. His communication and willingness to accommodate my needs reassured me that I was in for a great time. And indeed, I had a fantastic ride and trip thanks to Chung’s organization. The Honda CB500X he provided was perfectly suited for the roads and tracks we traversed. It was incredibly reliable and never let me down…”
Hassle-free Ho Chi Minh Trail Vietnam Motorbike Tours with CB500X
Just wrapped up a solo motorbike trip to Ha Giang in Northeast Vietnam with Johny (Cuong). Dai highly recommends this tour provider for a few key reasons:
- Excellent English-speaking tour guide
- Flexibility of route, food choices, bikes, accommodation, etc.
- Modern, well-maintained Honda CB500X provided (at an additional cost).
“When embarking on solo trips, it’s crucial to read reviews and trust them, and I’m glad I did because I wasn’t disappointed. These guys were on point and delivered on their promises, from being picked up at the airport to being dropped back. At first glance, the low mileage CB500X bikes might seem a bit worn, but once you hit the road, you understand why. They’re well-maintained and in good working order, but they’re not treated delicately because they know they’ll be put through their paces, just like you.
Our guide, Johny, quickly assessed our abilities and tailored our trip, taking us off-road and pushing us to our limits. He constantly evaluated our progress and adjusted the route as needed. He knew when we needed a break and took us to some fantastic local cafes to enjoy authentic cuisine. The trails, views, mountains, accommodation, and hospitality were outstanding. The Vietnamese people were always smiling and waving. All we could do was smile and wave back. While you shouldn’t expect five-star luxury, you certainly get the best available in your area.”
Experiencing the fleet Honda CB500x when embark on motorbike tour with Vietnam Motorbike Expert
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Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert is your reputable source for unforgettable motorbike tours in Vietnam. We specialize in crafting unique tours that take you through breathtaking landscapes, from the majestic mountains of the north to the charming south coastlines. Our team of local experts ensures you experience Vietnam’s hidden gems and cultural treasures. Choose Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert for a truly safe – reliable – exceptional motorbike adventure.
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That concludes the scoop on the Honda CB500X Review. If you’re looking for a reliable and tough bike, the Honda CB500X sounds like a perfect pick! Ready to rev your engine for more epic Vietnam adventures? Contact us, and let’s plan your next motorbike tour together!
