My 2016 CB500X is currently @ 78k miles with zero mechanical issues. Riding 94 miles a day, 4 days a week, all year round here in the UK. My daily commute is 5% country lanes, 90% motorway & 5% city returning on avarage 95MPG UK every day and only using around 12.8 lts for 280 miles. I bet on a full tank with good weather conditions, sitting around 55mph you would get 320 - 350 miles on a tank !!!!! Both front & rear pads are original, only the real wheel bearings went @ 73k miles, all the other bearings and seals are original too. Regarding valve clearances only 2 exhaust valves have ever been slightly tight @ the 64k miles service. If you want a commuter bike that doesn't drink fuel, cheap to service, easy to ride, with a great build & easy to maintain then the CB500X is the bike for you.

I'm tired of reviewers saying they don't like an engine because of "how it sounds". Maybe it's the engineer in me, but I could not care less about the sound - unless it's too loud and I can't hear myself think while I ride it (i.e. keep Harleys with straight pipes away from me)! What I care about is usable HP with a smooth torque curve and reliability/easy maintenance. In that department, this engine shines. Wrap a bike around the engine that feels nimble yet stable, and in an adventure bike it is light enough to easily pick up but heavy enough to be planted on the highway when I'm between the gravel/trails plus the ergonomics to stand up when needed, and it is a winner - everyone seems to say this bike has that. I wish it was just a little bit cheaper new or more plentiful used (apparently no one nears me wants to sell theirs) and I'd have one - or even a 2nd for my wife - sitting in the garage right now.... but I haven't given up and hope to find the right match soon. My old original 90s Bandit with the 4 cyl engine but also 4 carbs that like to clog needs a friend sitting next to it that I know will always just start up and go.

i own the 2020 model for about 18 months now im an engineer among other bikes i was looking to buy this is a mechanological diamond. everything is exactly where its supposed to be . throttle cable , clutch cable , electrical harness , all in perfect position and work with no tension/stress at all this bike is built to last . a friend of mine has the 2016 model with 130.000 klm on the clock . every time i checked the valve clearance was right on spot. this is amazing. to my experience this happens only to hondas. me and my wife enjoy long rides /trips while fully loaded . fuel efficiency is extraordinary , never exceeded 3.5lt/100

No brainer. If I could only have one bike and was on a budget, or I had room in the garage for a second, easy-to-hop-on bike, this would be it. Awesome. Typical Honda focusing on just the right things.

The styling is a huge improvement, and that colour really suits. Would be a perfect steed for a dispatch rider or regular commuter. Sure there are cheaper options but it's a Honda so it's going to last. I would definitely consider that if I was budgeting around that level.

CBT tomorrow and then in for training and test. This CB500X has been in my targets for a few months now and all that I see and read about it shows as my first legal bike, I'm onto a good one. Thanks for the video.

Great review Mr. MotoBob. I am a rider with 40 years experience and this bike is a little gem. Traction control, wheelie control, rain/sport modes are not required, as it is all in your right wrist and the GMU (Grey Matter Unit) between your ears. Keep up the great work. Dave from Nova Scotia, Canada

It sound's like a Honda 4 wheeler. This bike is starting to remind me of the Porsche 911 in that Honda keeps perfecting it bit by bit with every generation. Even the looks like you said have become better and or more refined. I imagine this model will be in Honda's lineup for a long time to come. Seems like a perfect useable sort of beginner bike even. Nice review! Cheers!

Very balanced review. I think the 2022 improvements have really added to the overall package.

Coming from the 70sand 80s as a young rider, from an age where mid capacity meant that band of somewhere around 400-650 (now small commuter machines), the 750/4 was the big bike and Harley's had monster engines. The 500/4 was the epitome of mid capacity and the 650/750 Bonnevilles still considered large capacity. Then the Z1 and R90S were considered Superbike large capacity, and the Laverda was exceptional at a litre. Just as other reviews discuss 475lbs as a light machine, or 90hp 'just enough' for solo riding, I can't help but laugh at comments like 'mid capacity bike like the Triumph Tiger 900'. Not criticising, I do like your reviews. Just a sign of changing times that is amusing. In a time of greater restrictions and speed limits, yet we aim for more an more power (and weight!).

there has been a long period of time where in my opinion, the hondas have not been the pick of the pack (in almost every segment) but I feel that Honda is hitting back and coming out with some of the best bikes on the market. From the 125/350/750 forza / ADV line up, to the 500X and the 750NCX, the new NT1100, the africa twin, the goldwing, even the grom and the cub/trail, are market leading examples. In the era that the sports bike is almost dead, the honda brand is really shining through in my opinion. (and I am also becoming tired of the massive adventure bikes too, so a lack of a 1300 honda adventure bike is of no loss) If i was commuting again, this would be my first choice for sure...

Thanks to the new look, and upgrades I would for sure consider this bike. And the price point is real nice. And it's a fuel sipper. Yes. And yes.

Less is more. Less weight, less cost, less fuel, less maintenance... This bike is more than adequate for adventure riding.

2021 bike is great, downsized from a 1200GSA, not owned a sub1200cc bike since 95, absolutely love the CB500X, have fitted Givi luggage, barkbuster hand guards, centre stand, Scotoiler, can hurtle around the Hampshire countryside and almost stay legal🤔 Fuel economy brilliant, looking forward to another Scotland trip and some camping

This was on my list to check out a year ago, unfortunately Honda didn't prioritise a test bike for dealers so never got to try one. Went with the Triumph Trident but still feels like this one got away, have to try and get a ride this year. Thanks for the review Bob.

You really are No 1 presenter on bikes, possibly anywhere on planet earth, thank you!

I dont think I heard it referenced - but in the value-added section, we should mention Honda reliability. I have thrashed my CB500x, riding long miles, and proper off-road, and its a champ. Go Team Red! :)

Great video. Just a comment about the target group: Experienced riders looking for downsizing is definitely also in that group. Me included.

Minimum for me is 650cc with a twin engine. 500cc is a little weak on the highway. VStrom 650 or Tenere 700 are my 2 choices. If I had to pick a Honda it would have to be a 700cc or 800cc Transalp or a 700cc or 800cc Africa Twin. I don’t like 1000cc or 1200cc as they are way to heavy to pick up if dropped on the trails.

I took my 2016 off road in places it had no places being, it is a remarkably competent bike and even more so now. Hands down my top recommendation for any newer riders who wants to dabble in a bit of everything.

I’m getting older so a down grad on the size of my bikes is an obvious move for me..I’ve just brought exactly the same bike as used in the video and at the moment still running it in..what a brilliant mid sized adventure bike it is I’m very happy with it..

This might be my second bike as I'd really love some more comfort and just a smidgen more power out of my begginer bike.

Overall a great all rounder and well balanced bike in this 500cc category. Suits for daily city use and weekend long rides, My Verdict - Value of money!!

Got myself a 2023 CBx - very pleased overall and I’ve already got well over 4,000km in the first month. I’ve pushed it hard in the dirt, and with good off-road technique it does better than this review suggests and when I put better tyres on I expect even more positive results. The fuel economy is good, but it drops when carrying touring loads or pushed harder on the highway. I like it, especially for the money and a few aftermarket add-ons. I got the Matt gunmetal black and like it heaps.

Been waiting for this review. So stoked to get mine once it's released in the USA.

I saw one yesterday at my dealer. In that colour and it is beautiful! Thank you mr Bob.

I have a 2021 cb500x, just about to reach 20,000miles, zero issues, nothing but fun, it makes a great touring bike

I proudly own a 2020 CB500x and I have to say that the range of above 500km is simply not achievable. If you're doing 50-60km/hr all day, sure maybe but I ride highways in the great Canadian Rockies and I'm lucky to get 400kms on a tank including dipping into reserve. I am going to say that I am jealous of the new upgrades like the upside down shocks and dual disc brakes. If this bike was 600cc ish, 70HP and more torque and a much better seat, I would keep mine but alas even with a 16T sprocket to lower the RPM at 110km/hr still vibes so much your blood cells want to escape thru your pores lol Sick review as usual Bob!

I've tried the engines of both the KTM 390 and this one. The KTM is definitely more punchy, revs higher, and is actually smoother at high speed than the Honda's. The Honda sounds better and is smoother at low speeds. But it gets very buzzy at higher speeds. Overall I think if quality over performance is your need you'd go with Honda. But the KTM 390 Adv is a lot more fun.

i like the green, but i'm always drawn to the honda red. which is funny because i dont typically like red on other bikes

Excellent review. Generally, what is in this video is what you need to know about a bike, be it for daily commute or a little adventure. And yes, it looks like a small version of the Africa Twin. Regards. Trinidad & Tobago. West Indies.

The CB500x takes the top spot for 'bang for your buck' IMO - For a solo rider it really is all the bike most people need

No question the winner in this category!😎 A little low on power for a sport/touring bike, but ideal for an ADV. Anything heavier than this is too heavy for off road notwithstanding all the false advertising the contrary🤔.

A good one to get especially if you can’t make up your mind which bike. It’s worry free and cheap to run. I had a 2019 which was versatile, but not quite powerful enough for pillion. Great for solo riding. A lot of riders had issues with buffeting over the windshield. I expect that could be improved with MRA Vario. Pay attention to the chain, which seemed a bit cheap to me. Great bike.

I own a 2017 500X. This is my first look and review on the 2022. Thank you for a great review. I think it might be time to step up to a new one. I love the upgrades of the 2022 over my 2017.

I have a 2022 nc750x on order but still thinking about the 500x. I will be riding trips 2up and this was the main reason why i opted for the 750x. Hopefully i didn't make a mistake

Excellent reviewer. Everything you need to know, nothing you don't.

Couldn’t help noticing even with light off roading the radiator and header pipes had taken a pelting, I would imagine a stone through that radiator would be an eye watering experience, all for the sake of another 4/6 inches of front mudguard.

Great video! I would like to see a comparison between this, the TKR 502 and the Voge 500 DS...

It's a good bike, and the fact that is a 2 cylinder, lowers engine vibrations issues adding comfort during long rides. It's not super fast but has a good cruising speed suitable on highways. The exhausts under the engine should be having more protection, but I guess an aluminum cover could be added.

Thanks Bob. Clear, straightforward and concise.

Think you nailed with this review. Honda made very good job indeed. This is imho best option for those who look in to entering adventure world without spending too much money. This might be my 2nd bike next year 😉

I've had the previous generation bike (2021) for nearly a year now. The good bits are the fuel consumption and insurance cost. For me though the big fuel tank makes it a bit top heavy when fuelled up and the torque and bhp are just a bit too low. I get that it's an A2 friendly bike, but a bit more torque wouldn't go amiss. I find it a bit underdamped too, with lots of fork dive under braking. It was a bit of a head over heart purchase, as it makes sense financially, but I can walk away from it and not feel the urge to turn round and admire it.

Going to pick it up next thursday, bought the grandprix red with a bunch of accessories. Can't wait.

I dropped a deposit on this bike for some of the reasons you cover. I like the lower weight compared to bigger adv bikes, I'm not as young as I once was. And the cost. Have you priced a new Africa Twin? Geez. I'll be touring on this bike often including rural backroads, gravel and dirt, and I think this is well suited to milder off highway use. I think Honda nailed it. I'll find out when it delivers in March.

Loved my XS650 parallel twin, sound was awesome.

The sole reason I couldn't select this bike in India after a couple of years in waiting for its launch was the price. Had to go with 390 ADV which was priced half as compared to CB500X. Overpriced here, whereas India exports 390 ADV, hence the cost difference becomes too much to ignore.

Great review, solid update by Honda!

Bought a 2021 Honda Africa Twin before I started riding now I regret getting something so big, its so top heavy and hard to move around. Really considering getting the CB500X instead.

I got this bike few weeks ago and preferred it to the new NX500…look-wise no comparison, CB much sexier and captivating than the new one.

If I bought with my head rather than my heart, I would already be riding one of these. If its good enough for Itchyboots' world adventures then its good enough for my commute and occasional trip with sailsbury plains!

Thanks for the review, first time seeing that Army type color scheme on this bike, looks great and the review has been intrigued. Might need to go see this bad boy in the flesh.

Personally I like the sound of a Harley, but I don't purchase bikes by their sound. I have protected my 2022 CB500X for off road riding on forest, BLM, logging, dirt, and gravel roads, with crash/engine bar, skid plate, radiator guard, exhaust heat deflector, heavy duty luggage and pannier racks, tool box behind the pannier rack, Garmin zumo xt GPS, center stand, soft luggage, power outlet cord for tire pump, tire pressure monitor, and fog lights, for $1,400. The same off road accessories that you would have on any of the bike in this price range if you plan off road riding. The bike was loaded with luggage and camping equipment on a 2,300 mile backroads trip from Lake Erie to Tennessee Tail of the Dragon, down to Florida, up to Pennsylvania and back to Ohio so your comment it's not suited for long tours is inaccurate. This summer, I plan a stretch of the legs from Lake Erie to southwest New Mexico, north on the continental divide to Montana, across the Dakotas to Mackinac, and return to Ohio for 6,300 miles or 10,138 Km. That's the difference in our countries, distances and the vastness of the variety of landscapes. Incidentally, there are thousands of US bikers that put over 10,000 miles a year on tours.

Oh man... that really is beautiful bike. I'm currently saving money pretty hard and i hope to buy one of these someday

Nice shots in and around Portbury village there MOTOBOB, great review again no doubt will see you out and about around Bristol.

Briliant video never watched the channel before nice to see some pro's an cons mentioned, I've had 1200gs's 2x 390 ktm dad an i both got rejected at 147 and 269 miles riddled with issues the tech is only good when it works, had issues with the himalayan, after that had a 300 rally no issues bar the soft rear shock on a 1150gsa now an looking at a good alrounder an naturally looking at the honda ill always choose on reliability now looking forward to looking at the nx500 when it's out for dad an I. The prices of all the big bikes are getting daft now so stuff like this makes sense.

Hi Bob If I knew I was going to do 1% or less doing trails and let's be honest this bike isn't built down this I would 100% as for road focused tyres

I like the style of this bike. I know it is a silly comment but this bike would have looked great for a solder back in the 1980s wearing the woodland green cammies. The next time I am near my local Honda dealer I may go take a look at this bike.

Great review, to the point, a pleasure to watch , thanks.

I've been riding for 45 years and always had big tourers, adv bikes etc. I currently have a KTM1290 SAS, Rocket 3 and Goldwing. This bike has been on my radar for a while as I don't always need 160bhp. The SE is now so crowded that I often find my self on single track roads with grass/gravel in the middle and need something small/light without so much power and this would be ideal to 'toof toof' around on. The barrier for me is that it is a new model and no discounts are available whereas the Tracer 7 is a little older and can be had for about £800 more if you shop around. That to me seems better value.

Really well presented. Great job.

Loved you brought the himilayan into comparison the trade off would be how much dirt you want to due. Unfortunately i like a 50/50 mix or i should say i want that . The himilayan loses hard on the hp and top end but the honda just looks more pavement touring then dirt ready. Would love to see a bit more enduro in this bike.

Honda still doesn’t get it. Most adventure riders want something more powerful than the CB500X with more creature comforts and proper off road setup. The Africa Twin is too big for most people. Why is there still no Transalp/Baby Africa!?!? The amount of people on social media/youtube/bike forums who are yearning for a proper mid-weight adventure bike with the Honda badge attached is incredible. I cannot think of any good reasons why they are dragging their feet on this.

i trust this dude. excellent presentation.

I love my 21, here on Vancouver Island, Canada. Adding a fork brace greatly improved its front end feel. The 22 has nice uprades, but I wish Honda has some better accessories available to beef it up.

I have the 2020 model. Here in Japan, due to silly bike category laws it is sold as 400X. Other than the slightly lower engine size everything else is exactly the same. It’s a great bike but I do find the gear change a bit clunky.

Great bike! But still, won't trade my KTM 390 Adv. The engine's more responsive and fun. I have native navigation on my screen, together with abs cornering, and traction control. 3.22l (87.7 mpg) in the city

Adventure engaging and hazardous and exciting activities especially exploring unknown territories. Well personally I've been all over North Georgia mountains ellijay Blue ridge blairsville mckaysville Morganton all the way down to Panama City Florida through all the Sandy roads and dirt roads and hills and trails Rivers creeks this bike will do anything may not be as fast as a KTM or his nimble as a Africa twin but believe me you can go anywhere on this bike I know I've got the 2014 and I love it it's not the fastest bike in the world but she always cranks and always gets me there and it's an adventure to me

Lovely review!! Will you recommend the cb500x as a first bike for a 50years old total beginner!? Cheers from Serbia ✌️

Thats crazy range. My 2014 definitely does not get that much. Surprising Honda does not make a rally raid version.

A really good economical all-rounder. I have the 500R but will probably trade it for the 500X for a bit more comfort and backroad capability. Removing the intake snorkle piece really makes it sound nice and more throaty under wide open throttle.

I bought a cbr600rr this year to try an inline 4 and I already miss my thumpers and being able to do anything on a bike.. really eyeballing one of these.

The crankshaft digging in to your right ankle was a deal breaker for me. Shame you didn't mention it.

I am jealous, we can't get that green color in the US. I love it, looks way better

I love the sound

Brilliant as alway just bought one love it

Excellent review

that green is really cool

Honda is always budget motorcycle to own, never doubt

It will be nice if Honda offered DCT on this.

No problem doing long distance touring on a 500x...just ask Itchy Boots

1:15 how is this even mentioned as a downside? put a different muffler on if it bothers you. Has a nice tone, and isnt too loud IMO.

I have a 2018 model and I feel that Honda has cheaped out on a few areas. Mainly the suspension and the gearbox. I rode a KTM 890 Adventure and the gearbox on that bike is incredibly smooth compared to my CB500X. Overall it's a good budget beginner bike but there are definitely some areas where you can feel that Honda cheaped out on to keep the cost down.

Toss on some Barkbusters and a bash plate and maybe an engine guard on either side and let's go! Plenty of tire options.

I’m struggling between a 2022 CB500X or a Moto Guzzi V85TT Travel for my next commuter. The Guzzi is less/easier maintenance but the CB is almost half the cost. Just can’t seem to decide.

Nice one Bob. Thank you. A solid beginner friendly bike in the Goldilocks zone. It’s about time Honda put decent front suspension and an additional front disk. If only Honda would update the completely out dated display. They have them and I’m sure buyers would be happy to pay an extra $50-100 for it.

people who whant the cb500r should get this insted. allot more fun more usable and just like a super moto you can just take this bike anywhere.

Great review thank you

Seems a good bike for someone like me maybe getting off the sporty bikes a bit to a transition in to light weight semi ADV bike. Hmmm.

nicely done... sold me to it... subscribed.

Thank you MOTOBOB for a very nice review! Wondering what type of Trailmax tires this bike is factory equipped with? I believe there are several varieties for different surfaces sold under the Trailmax name. Wondering if you or anyone reading has a recommendation for a great 50/50 tire that would work on this bike. Thanks!

great review, great bike

I think Honda has basically made the NC750X redundant with this bike. Unless you really need a frunk why not get the cheaper and lighter option with better brakes that's almost as powerful and similarly frugal?

I have a cb500x 2023 and took it on a round trip off 220 miles. Nice bike but the seat I find extremely uncomfortable have to keep stopping for sore butt breaks. Worst seat I've ever encountered

The absence of protection / skid plate is a big negative if you intend to do some adventure tracks.

off road ABS break test should be part of every ADV bike test

Nice one Bob 👍

Such a pity about the 180° crank, would have been perfection with a 270...

I still don't get why twin cylinder engine sounds are called boring. Like. XD at this budget range, no one is really caring about the sound. Maybe it's just me. Granted I started on an Inline 4 and don't care about non-sports bikes. Does sound matter to ADV people?

I want this with the 750 DCT.... I own an Africa Twin, but i find it too big and heavy sometimes. I also never use all that power :D .