I'm also a cyclist and every motorcycle is basically a sofa in comparison. Yet, also owning a cbr500r with this same seat, he is absolutely right about the 'shifting around after about an hour' remark, however, as you continue to ride it comes good again. I did a 2 1/2 hour ride recently and felt comfortable and unfatigued afterwards relative to other bikes I've ridden that long. Seats can be a trade-off, this one doesn't seems like a bad one if you like long distance rides. Or short ones. It's just annoying for a while around the hour mark, right before your ass starts to go partially numb. After that, the good support and perfect riding position take excellent care of you.
Haha as a motorcyclist and a road/gravel cyclist - I can totally relate. Does come down to a lot of personal preference though, I personally love the seat on my CBR500.
@@RideYEG yeees it’s like when someone complains about their bum getting numb after 30 minutes on their motorcycle it’s like «oh, can’t be that bad eh»
a 1,000 supersport isn't considered mid size at all though. they're big and if you're a shorter person you'll definitely need to lower it. i couldn't even flat foot my 600RR at 5 foot 9.
@Bunnyshooter 223 because the zx14r is made to be more comfortable while the 600RR is made purely for the racetrack. Higher seat means more aggressive riding position. Also either he is talking BS or he has really short legs. You should be able to flat food a 600 if ure 5 foot 9
@Bunnyshooter 223 600's/1000's/1400s w/e are all a few inches bigger than a 25/300/500. few inches makes a huge difference. at 5'9 i couldnt flat foot any supersport without the suspension being lowered. i guess all these manufacturers think everyone is 6 feet tall or something, lol. at 5'9 i can flatfoot my 500 pretty easily, but my 600RR i was pretty much tip toed.
Honda delivered a winner. 40 years ago me and my mates had "big bikes" they were all 500cc ..now we all have 1200 plus ..no idea why the 500's were more than adequate. 👍🏻☮❤
The exhaust is actually an improvement over previous iterations of the CBR500. The original chrome drain pipe they used to come fitted with was dreadful.
Had 1 as a loan bike while my VFR1200F was getting serviced before the lockdown. It was surprisingly fun to ride. Scarily light, so cornered and stopped well. From a standstill acceleration isn't really that bad. I remember riding with my mate who had the cb500x for the last 4 years on my triumph tiger 1200, he kept up with me all the time apart from when I wanted to open it up on a straight or really power out of a corner. He traded that thing in last year with over 70k miles on it still going strong after being redlined everywhere. I hit the rev limiter A LOT but power is enough and gearing helps accelerate straighr away when rolling on
Got one a few weeks ago as my 4th bike (following Ninja 250, Yamaha FZ6, and FZ6R). Was deciding between this and the Ninja 400. - Insurance is surprisingly cheap on it (about 2/3 what a Ninja 400 cost to insure in Canada). - I do wish the high beams were more broad -- they're very center-focused - It benefits from a front sprocket swap from 15T to 16T. - The exhaust makes nice gurgleys when you downshift and ride it down. - Fuel economy is excellent. Ranging from about 2.3 to 3.7 L/100 km (cruising 70 km/h to 115 km/h, respectively)
Quick update (7,000 km): Still absolutely love the bike. Great two-up, sips fuel, and just the right amount of power for me. Only problem I've found is the wind off the stock windscreen goes right along the underside of my helmet causing some bad noise (though no buffeting). Rode with the windscreen off which solved it and have an aftermarket on the way that hopefully fixes it. The only reason I'd replace it is to get the CB500X so I can explore more of our unpaved roads -- not many twisties here in Ontario but lots of interesting places to explore that aren't paved. The 471cc twin is just excellent.
I own this bike (2020). I changed the tail tidy, windshield, exhaust, fork caps and engine covers. It feels better once you rack up some miles on it, feels even smoother and faster. Only cons for me would be, uncomfortable pillion seat ( no surprise but there are solutions ) and I think the bike could have had a little bit more top end, 500cc should definitely be able to handle it. Otherwise, it's perfect.
I'm trying to get one as a commuter. Will go look a 2016 on Monday if it doesn't sell first. I rented an R6 once, and it was awesome! ...but not what I want to swing a leg over 5 times a week. As much as other bikes might appeal to me, this is the one that is actually practical for how I use a motorcycle - which is as much as possible. 75mpg, long service intervals, Honda motor in a mild state of tune... mmmm reliability, the BEST kind of performance.
Hello folks I have the 2020 and it's very fun and comfortable for city/highway the longest ride I've had was four hours and didn't get sore till 3.5 hours in and I'm 5'11 233 (106kg) Happy riding
I find your road tests and advice very good and one of the better realistic presentations. Just been lent one while my Ducati 1200R is in for new tyres. I found it a great bike, as you said. May get one as a 2nd bike. From New Zealand
Cracking review TMF, as usual. As a biker of ‘ahem’ years I’d definitely considerate as my main ride if I was going to spend £6k. Would love to do a European tour on one given the riding position and that amazing economy.......just using the backroads rather than autoroutes, it would be spot on (with an air hawk or similar). Thought popping your website/merchandise link in the video broke it up just fine, kept the pace going really well. Thanks for breaking up this lockdown as well! Stay safe that man 🙏
Great review Andy 👍 Bought a Duke390 a couple of years ago based on your reviews. Only kept it for a year mind. Riding a CB650R now. Thanks for all your hard work. Cheers Trev 😊
@@zaydgill545 Hi Zayd. The Duke390 was a great bike, but unfortunately it wasn't very reliable. My bike had cutting out issues so I lost faith in it and traded it in for something more powerful. There's a lot of people who had the same issues if you look online. There maybe a fix for it by now? It's a shame because it was a great bike. Atb Trev
My first “big bike” after a 125 was the CBR 650 f back in 2015, loved it and it was pretty cheap on insurance, this next generation of honda’s looks amazing.
Bought this bike new about 6months ago. Dealership wouldn’t let me test drive. Had big reservations about the purchase bc I’ve ridden only VFR800s till now. Six months later…I fricken love this bike. Not my old 2007 VFR800 Anniversary Edition but other than the hit to your ego, this bikes delivers everything this guy says. Cheers!
No, the wheels are alloy and 10 spoke for better rigidity vs 3 spoke. The now twin exit exhaust was redesigned a 2nd time to match the new exhaust valve retuning.
Love the review. As an owner of this bike, just s tip, use the toe of your foot to drop the side stand rather than your heel. You don't have to touch the foot peg this way and its much more natural feeling
Interesting to hear your thoughts, my son has the CBR and loves it but the good lady wife found it far to heavy so she has a Ninja 400, about 30kg lighter. Both good starter bikes.
Thanks Andy, another excellent review. I own one of these and I agree with everything you say about it. Honda do a single seat hump that replaces the back seat and makes it look even more sporty. They do a rear carrier too that doesn’t, and a taller smoked screen. People may like to know what factory extras are available when doing these long term reviews.
Try using your toe to put the stand down, but I guess if you're wearing Coco the clowns shoes it may be difficult 😂. But seriously the stand was one thing I thought my wife would struggle with but had no complaints so far, size 5 feet though, she doesn't thrash her bike and constantly get 85mpg+. No complaints about the seat either perhaps she has a tad more padding than yourself 🤭🤫. It's a great real world bike for sure. Cheers TMF 👍
Nice review Andy and I am a massive fan of the CBR500R. Glad to see we have similar findings on the bike which in fact are in several of my videos. Well done mate, good job and man... isn't she a beauty!
I have the gen 2 version of this bike and pretty much agree with everything said. Though I haven't found the kickstand thing to be a bothersome issue personally. Slap on an after market exhaust and a tail tidy and you got an even prettier bike. Took mine one step farther and removed the dorky front turn signals (they're not as bad on the gen 3 as seen in the video as they were in previous gens) and replaced them with flush LED turn signals and swapped the stock mirrors for mirrors with built in LED turn signals. Great little machine. I wish I could have more than 1 bike as I would like to still keep it as I upgraded into something bigger, but alas...
I have the 2018 model and I find the pegs are too high. I agree with the exhaust and tail tidy but after changing the tail tidy I found in the wet that it sprays all up your back and the original did not
Had the 2017 CBR500 after my first bike, the CBR250. Was a really smooth transition and absolutely loved it for everything (mostly used for commuting).
With a heavy sign and a nod to defeat we are going to my local dealership to run the numbers on a 2022 model. If there’s one bike I keep coming back too it’s this one. Some great improvements in the newer models I hope it works out
After riding and owning a few 1000cc + sport and naked bikes I've concluded that over 900 (Unless it's a cruiser, which is a different kettle o fish ) is realistically too big unless you're a track addict. 500 to 750 is really all you need, if your honest. With average speed cameras and the like springing up everywhere, you really want something geared to give it's best between 20-70mph. Big bikes don't really feel like they are beginning to work until you get up past 60 and it's so easy to get there you spend more time worrying about the speedo than enjoying the ride! Just my opinion.
Hi have to totally agree with your comments on this bike I actually own one of these my self having purchased one last year ,first thing that went was that naff exhaust followed by having the seat modified to be made a bit more comfortable so now tick’s all the boxes . Stay safe & well..
As usual a good video👍 Reviewing a fantastic bike, totally agree with all you say (I have a new CB500F) I've had so many bikes over the years and it is the best bike I've owned, it just feels so safe and reassuring to ride. My only complaint would be the indicator and horn buttons being the wrong way round, if I needed to press the horn in a panic I would end up pressing the indicator cancel instead! why Honda changed them round after all these years god only knows..
It's a lovely looking bike! Decent price and in all likelihood very reliable. This would make a perfect short-hop and commuter bike. Thanks for the review!
Have to say that Honda have pulled off a masterstroke with their family of 4 bikes based on their 471cc parallel twin, of which the CBR500R is one. Definitely going to be test riding this one as a result of your review - once the dealerships open again.
The only master stroke they pulled off is marketing whats basically an early 90's bike with mods for emissions to four different groups with almost no changes past looks. It wouldn't be so bad if it was really cheap or if it had a load of tech in that engine but truth is its cynical marketing to make big profits from old parts. Why bother with things like an electronics pack, fully adjustable suspension, variable cam timing, direct injection or even boost when you can keep on stamping out the same thing, put ever larger catalysts on it and swap a fairing? Its a £4k bike (at best) that people are paying £6k for.
@@siraff4461 buy a second hand one for 3.5k and it'll retain its value for years. then theres nothing lost in the long run. theyre bulletproof anyway so mileage is just a non consequential number below 10k imo
@@Chubby_Lemon Thats not my point though. I'm trying to say its overpriced for what it is and it (and most bikes now) is very behind on tech. If it were cheap I could forgive it being very basic. If its going to be costly it needs to be up to date to justify that. 60-70mpg? There have been cars capable of that for the last 20+ years. Infact the very first CB500's would get within around 5mpg of it running on carbs which shows just how stagnant development has been. Oh and that first bike also had around 10hp more...
@@siraff4461 you know what... I don't disagree with that, they are too expensive, It's genuinely ridiculous. It doesn't even have a TFT screen. That aside, you'd be hard pressed to compare cars to the bike for mpg. Yeah maybe if you're hyper-miling a car designed for efficiency. I've got the older shape 500 myself and he's right, you'll get 70+mpg even if you rip the tits off it whenever you get the chance. And the thing with the extra power is a strategic move. Basically in the UK if you have a A2 restricted license you are capped to approximately 50bhp. So Honda would be shooting themselves in the foot of they didn't tap into that market, Even if it's capable of more. I think it's a stupid system but it is what it is.
Lesson learned on buying my first brand new 2019 CBR 500R. 1. 1st gear sucks on a beginner bike. 2. That is all. Some great things about this bike: comfort-ability while riding long distances, light-weight, cornering, very stylish, LED headlights look very aggressive, great pull from 3rd - 4th gear, plenty of power for highway/interstate speeds, able to flat foot the bike at average human height while still looking like a full size bike, great sale prices especially now that 2020 is here. $5400 or lower for this bike is impossible to pass up. Almost nothing to complain about on this bike.
In the traffic jam, does it feel hot to your legs/thigh? i'm inclined to buy this bike and i want to use it as my daily driver in a hot, crowded city of Jakarta. I previously used duke 250 and although it's comfortable, i frowned upon the heat of that engine.
it weighs 75lbs more than the ninja 400 and the RC 390. And it has less hp than the ninja 400. Oh and it cost 1000 more. The only people buying the cbr 500r are people who dont do their research before buying. But yes your correct this bike is light-weight compared to an elephant. Awesome comment, well thought out.
@@SeanSR wow, you sure are clueless aren't ya? it's a 500, not a 400, of course it's going to weigh more. AND APPARENTLY YOU HAVEN'T SAT ON THE 500 LMFAO or you'd know how much of a feather it is compared to a 600....i've had a 600rr and a 500r now and the 500 is MUCH lighter than my old 600. You must be a tiny shrimp if you think a 500 is heavy, because it's not even close. Also, the 500r is bigger than the small 400 or 300. The 500 looks like a supersport when an average person sits on it, but clearly you didn't read that at all. Don't give a crap about your tiny 250, 300 or 400. Sounds like you're just a honda hater for no reason whatsoever. Oh, and Honda bikes look MUCH prettier than other bikes in the same class.....please educate yourself the next time you want to be a douche.
I have a Honda CBR 250. Lovely bike. I had downsized from a Honda Deauville in 2014. But I feel I want to step up again (slightly). I feel the CBR 500 R seems about right for me. Good review.
Great review, one of my friends rides one of these bikes and he loves it. My first bike was also a (Ducati) 500 parallel twin it too was a lot of fun, having a lot in common with this Honda :-)
i started on a zx6r... got a zx10r now but i’m learning everytime i go out. not a problem what bike you start on as long as your brain is connected to your right hand. stay safe 👍🏻
I started with my 09 cbr600rr and i find it slow occasionally , i can't even imagine how slow is everything under 600 cc . Plus you lose so much on value on bikes like those 650, or 500 and under .
I managed to have a sit on one of these in the showroom and it felt great just sitting on it. This is one of my choices for if I ever get around to doing my full license the other is a decent 2018/19 Africa Twin.
@@TheMissendenFlyer yep the AT is at the top of the list but I needed to find something else that I'd be happy with incase the AT doesn't work out either because of price or more importantly if I can actually manage it at low speeds, traffic lights etc. The Cbr500r seems to fit the bill for what I want should the AT not happen.
i just bought one as my 2nd bike to a Z900RS and i love it, and if i continue to get 100 mpg out of it like i am at the moment, i'll love it even more. :)
I used to fly around on a 2012 CBR500R for a few months, and remember that the seat was the most forgiving I have tried for a long time! 5-6 hrs without pain!! Sad to see they destroyed that positive thing!
I had a 2014 version CBR500RA for 2 years first bigger bike. Loved it only upgraded to a non LAMS bike because Triumph came out with the new classics. You could quite easily keep one of these long term like you said in the real world more than enough power.
Oh my, use your toe for the side stand! As a stock bike its better than most. If you wanna go further with it you'll get more 1 hour riding comfort if you upgrade the seat and windshield. A better end can for traffic safety because stock is not just heavy but its as quiet as a Church mouse in town, better tires are a must have, get a rear hugger to avoid the muck launching up under the seat as well as embedding in the shock, a tail tidy will defo help with the back end look, then and only then will everything be all good in the CBR500R real world!
Hi mate just seen this vid. In 2019 I bought the previous year’s model but got it new on a 19 plate and paid less than £4K new. The older silencer look slightly better, and the first mod was a tail tidy. Next was a bubble screen. In my opinion it does need more power. But I use it for commuting mostly.
there is no possible way for "the side stand to catch the foot peg". @1:17 you clearly see the stand below the foot peg and it swings away. If you use your toe behind the foot peg you would never ever need to lift the foot peg to put the stand down. USER ERROR lol
Little niggle I've noticed with mine is that at certain revs the little plastic extensions at the top of the top left and right sides of the windshield make an annoying buzzing noise. Not a huge deal but is annoying when you're stuck behind someone at one of those certain rev spots and they're making a right racket. Other than that the bike is very solid. :)
Looked at this bike for my son 2 years ago but ended up with the naked version the only reason being the insurance because it was the faired version and not the naked it was £400 a year more.
I really wish Honda would do the CB500R Neo Cafe version of this bike. I prefer upright ergos but I don't particularly like the front end of the CB500F. As you say, this bike is perfect amount of bike for the real world.
g,day mate , love your reviews ,ive got a 2016 CBR500R and love it and yes the seat is a tad hard after awhile lol , I ride from Darwin to Kakadu return is 500 K,s and a numb bum is the norm lol , I also bought a 2019 CRF 250L RALLY , best thing I ever did lol . keep ya reviews up Mate love em :-)
Lovely revue. Just one day until I can ride again (though DVLA have a huge backlog). I have the 2013 version of the CBR and my seat is uncomfortable after an hour or so. That, and the horrible non-hinged fuel filler, I haven't got a bad word to say against mine either.
Did you not find the display difficult to see in direct sunlight? Another reviewer said it was. Excellent review, thank you! I’m on the market for a new beginner bike and I think this sealed the deal for me 😎
** Sorry for any issues with the sound - no more comments please! **
Take the video down and fix it.. Re upload it.. Its painful!
I didn't notice any issues. Anyway, it's free, interesting, motorcycle content. I ain't complaining!
Nice mid range bike and very well explained as usual. Honda are good quality whatever they make.
No problem with the sound for me ... Thanks for the review.
dude theres a weird high pitch noise through the video
TMF: "The seat is very hard"
Me, a cyclist:
*sits on seat of the bike*
"this is comfy af what are you talking about"
I'm also a cyclist and every motorcycle is basically a sofa in comparison. Yet, also owning a cbr500r with this same seat, he is absolutely right about the 'shifting around after about an hour' remark, however, as you continue to ride it comes good again. I did a 2 1/2 hour ride recently and felt comfortable and unfatigued afterwards relative to other bikes I've ridden that long. Seats can be a trade-off, this one doesn't seems like a bad one if you like long distance rides. Or short ones.
It's just annoying for a while around the hour mark, right before your ass starts to go partially numb. After that, the good support and perfect riding position take excellent care of you.
Haha as a motorcyclist and a road/gravel cyclist - I can totally relate. Does come down to a lot of personal preference though, I personally love the seat on my CBR500.
@@RideYEG yeees it’s like when someone complains about their bum getting numb after 30 minutes on their motorcycle it’s like «oh, can’t be that bad eh»
@@stubbisNO Yup totally. Stock seat on my Cannondale CAAD is the most painful for me. What do you ride?
You guys are idiots to say that moto riders cant complain about hard seats. Who cares if you ride your bicycles with hard seats.
When I was a kid, a 500cc would have been seen as really big. Now 1000cc V-twins are called mid size cruisers.
Bunnyshooter 223 is there naked versions of the 500 class ?
a 1,000 supersport isn't considered mid size at all though. they're big and if you're a shorter person you'll definitely need to lower it. i couldn't even flat foot my 600RR at 5 foot 9.
Bunnyshooter 223 doesn’t that rev to like 6k? Any more like 11-12k?
@Bunnyshooter 223 because the zx14r is made to be more comfortable while the 600RR is made purely for the racetrack. Higher seat means more aggressive riding position. Also either he is talking BS or he has really short legs. You should be able to flat food a 600 if ure 5 foot 9
@Bunnyshooter 223 600's/1000's/1400s w/e are all a few inches bigger than a 25/300/500. few inches makes a huge difference. at 5'9 i couldnt flat foot any supersport without the suspension being lowered. i guess all these manufacturers think everyone is 6 feet tall or something, lol. at 5'9 i can flatfoot my 500 pretty easily, but my 600RR i was pretty much tip toed.
Love seeing a review on a “real world” bike. Keep them coming.
I use mine for commuting and it's such a solid all around bike. Great looks for the weekend but practical and fuel efficient during the week!
Gotta say, TMF, you’ve become a real natural in front of the camera. What a professional review!
Than you David - appreciated!
Honda delivered a winner. 40 years ago me and my mates had "big bikes" they were all 500cc ..now we all have 1200 plus ..no idea why the 500's were more than adequate. 👍🏻☮❤
I always enjoy how the auto-subs transcribe your name. “Mist-of-the-flower” is the best one yet.
Missin dove fly too
Now I know the bike as if I've owned it. Thanks for all the videos on CBR500R!
The exhaust is actually an improvement over previous iterations of the CBR500. The original chrome drain pipe they used to come fitted with was dreadful.
Had 1 as a loan bike while my VFR1200F was getting serviced before the lockdown. It was surprisingly fun to ride. Scarily light, so cornered and stopped well. From a standstill acceleration isn't really that bad.
I remember riding with my mate who had the cb500x for the last 4 years on my triumph tiger 1200, he kept up with me all the time apart from when I wanted to open it up on a straight or really power out of a corner.
He traded that thing in last year with over 70k miles on it still going strong after being redlined everywhere.
I hit the rev limiter A LOT but power is enough and gearing helps accelerate straighr away when rolling on
You meet the nicest people on a Honda😳
I have a civic. I bet it's probably because we don't stress out about gas and reliability
Got one a few weeks ago as my 4th bike (following Ninja 250, Yamaha FZ6, and FZ6R). Was deciding between this and the Ninja 400.
- Insurance is surprisingly cheap on it (about 2/3 what a Ninja 400 cost to insure in Canada).
- I do wish the high beams were more broad -- they're very center-focused
- It benefits from a front sprocket swap from 15T to 16T.
- The exhaust makes nice gurgleys when you downshift and ride it down.
- Fuel economy is excellent. Ranging from about 2.3 to 3.7 L/100 km (cruising 70 km/h to 115 km/h, respectively)
Quick update (7,000 km): Still absolutely love the bike. Great two-up, sips fuel, and just the right amount of power for me. Only problem I've found is the wind off the stock windscreen goes right along the underside of my helmet causing some bad noise (though no buffeting). Rode with the windscreen off which solved it and have an aftermarket on the way that hopefully fixes it.
The only reason I'd replace it is to get the CB500X so I can explore more of our unpaved roads -- not many twisties here in Ontario but lots of interesting places to explore that aren't paved. The 471cc twin is just excellent.
I own this bike (2020). I changed the tail tidy, windshield, exhaust, fork caps and engine covers. It feels better once you rack up some miles on it, feels even smoother and faster. Only cons for me would be, uncomfortable pillion seat ( no surprise but there are solutions ) and I think the bike could have had a little bit more top end, 500cc should definitely be able to handle it. Otherwise, it's perfect.
I think this bike is the one for me. Now to just wait for the test centres to open again... And to hope I've not forgotten how to do a U turn!
I’m gonna get this for my first bike. I can’t wait !
Scott Saylors me too men. Good luck and ride safe mate.
I am too
I'm trying to get one as a commuter. Will go look a 2016 on Monday if it doesn't sell first. I rented an R6 once, and it was awesome! ...but not what I want to swing a leg over 5 times a week. As much as other bikes might appeal to me, this is the one that is actually practical for how I use a motorcycle - which is as much as possible. 75mpg, long service intervals, Honda motor in a mild state of tune... mmmm reliability, the BEST kind of performance.
Hello folks
I have the 2020 and it's very fun and comfortable for city/highway the longest ride I've had was four hours and didn't get sore till 3.5 hours in and I'm 5'11 233 (106kg)
Happy riding
I find your road tests and advice very good and one of the better realistic presentations. Just been lent one while my Ducati 1200R is in for new tyres. I found it a great bike, as you said. May get one as a 2nd bike. From New Zealand
Cracking review TMF, as usual. As a biker of ‘ahem’ years I’d definitely considerate as my main ride if I was going to spend £6k. Would love to do a European tour on one given the riding position and that amazing economy.......just using the backroads rather than autoroutes, it would be spot on (with an air hawk or similar).
Thought popping your website/merchandise link in the video broke it up just fine, kept the pace going really well. Thanks for breaking up this lockdown as well!
Stay safe that man 🙏
Thank you Ian - appreciate the kind words!
Great review Andy 👍
Bought a Duke390 a couple of years ago based on your reviews. Only kept it for a year mind. Riding a CB650R now.
Thanks for all your hard work.
Cheers Trev 😊
Nice one!
How come u sold the 390?
@@zaydgill545 Hi Zayd. The Duke390 was a great bike, but unfortunately it wasn't very reliable. My bike had cutting out issues so I lost faith in it and traded it in for something more powerful. There's a lot of people who had the same issues if you look online. There maybe a fix for it by now? It's a shame because it was a great bike.
Atb Trev
From one bloke to another, you’re looking leaner mate! Nice work, shaved off a couple years by doing whatever you’re doing. Well done 👍
Glad you noticed!
My first “big bike” after a 125 was the CBR 650 f back in 2015, loved it and it was pretty cheap on insurance, this next generation of honda’s looks amazing.
Got my cbr 650r this year as my first bike and I love it. Insurance is 30€ a month for me
I got my CBR650R last December and have already put 15,000kms on it. Very smooth.
Bought this bike new about 6months ago. Dealership wouldn’t let me test drive. Had big reservations about the purchase bc I’ve ridden only VFR800s till now. Six months later…I fricken love this bike. Not my old 2007 VFR800 Anniversary Edition but other than the hit to your ego, this bikes delivers everything this guy says. Cheers!
Cheers Chris!
No, the wheels are alloy and 10 spoke for better rigidity vs 3 spoke. The now twin exit exhaust was redesigned a 2nd time to match the new exhaust valve retuning.
I bought this bike in the same colour yesterday and can't wait to pick it up! Thanks for the confidence that I made the right decision 😘😘
Hope you enjoy it!
great review going into detail about the bike. Im a mature rider just getting back into biking and I think this would be perfect. Many thanks.
Love the review. As an owner of this bike, just s tip, use the toe of your foot to drop the side stand rather than your heel. You don't have to touch the foot peg this way and its much more natural feeling
Still waiting on you asking Honda for the A2 CBR650R. Extremely keen to hear your thoughts and comparisons.... 👍😎
agreed 👍🏻
Yes, agreed. I saw this post after asking the same question myself. Sorry.
Looking forward to trying the 650.....
That bike looks sweet.
TheMissendenFlyer a like for like comparison. So the 650 needs to be the restricted (A2) version.
that's definitely my favorite looking sports bike. so flawless looking. it certainly looks the best put together and most refined
in total agreement on looks. I think it is the best looking A2 licence bikes out there
Interesting to hear your thoughts, my son has the CBR and loves it but the good lady wife found it far to heavy so she has a Ninja 400, about 30kg lighter. Both good starter bikes.
If you don’t mind me asking what is the better bike between the two in your opinion.
Great work, TMF, thank you for continuing to put out great content for us to enjoy. Cheers from New Hampshire (US)
My pleasure!
Thanks Andy, another excellent review. I own one of these and I agree with everything you say about it.
Honda do a single seat hump that replaces the back seat and makes it look even more sporty. They do a rear carrier too that doesn’t, and a taller smoked screen.
People may like to know what factory extras are available when doing these long term reviews.
Glad we concur!
Try using your toe to put the stand down, but I guess if you're wearing Coco the clowns shoes it may be difficult 😂. But seriously the stand was one thing I thought my wife would struggle with but had no complaints so far, size 5 feet though, she doesn't thrash her bike and constantly get 85mpg+. No complaints about the seat either perhaps she has a tad more padding than yourself 🤭🤫. It's a great real world bike for sure. Cheers TMF 👍
Coco-the-clown shoes: nice one!
@@MrG61-u9k I thought my 65mpg was great, how’d she manage 85mpg+
@HandleHandle123 Wow, four years on! The CB500 is still returning 83 to 86 mpg (uk). My 22 Cb500X is returning 94.
Nice review Andy and I am a massive fan of the CBR500R. Glad to see we have similar findings on the bike which in fact are in several of my videos. Well done mate, good job and man... isn't she a beauty!
Glad we concur!
Good to see the CB500 get its due. A wonderful A2 bike.
Glad we concur!
I'd love to have one if these...very nice looking bike indeed! 😁
I have the gen 2 version of this bike and pretty much agree with everything said. Though I haven't found the kickstand thing to be a bothersome issue personally. Slap on an after market exhaust and a tail tidy and you got an even prettier bike. Took mine one step farther and removed the dorky front turn signals (they're not as bad on the gen 3 as seen in the video as they were in previous gens) and replaced them with flush LED turn signals and swapped the stock mirrors for mirrors with built in LED turn signals. Great little machine. I wish I could have more than 1 bike as I would like to still keep it as I upgraded into something bigger, but alas...
Yo can you send the link from the mirrors and the lights?
I have the 2018 model and I find the pegs are too high. I agree with the exhaust and tail tidy but after changing the tail tidy I found in the wet that it sprays all up your back and the original did not
damn the bike looks really good in red
If only Honda made microphones... sent me with my tinnitus round the bend... aaggghhhh.
Great video nonetheless thank you TMF.
A great vid Thank you. Sound quality was fine. Excellent tips and info as I prepare to ride my CBR600 f4i when I get my black license in 2 months.
Smaller engines can be more fun, nice review TMF
Pretty windy day! Thanks for the video!
Thanks for watching!
Had the 2017 CBR500 after my first bike, the CBR250. Was a really smooth transition and absolutely loved it for everything (mostly used for commuting).
With a heavy sign and a nod to defeat we are going to my local dealership to run the numbers on a 2022 model. If there’s one bike I keep coming back too it’s this one. Some great improvements in the newer models I hope it works out
Thank you for the honest review!!! I really thinking about buying one of these beauties ;)
After riding and owning a few 1000cc + sport and naked bikes I've concluded that over 900 (Unless it's a cruiser, which is a different kettle o fish ) is realistically too big unless you're a track addict. 500 to 750 is really all you need, if your honest. With average speed cameras and the like springing up everywhere, you really want something geared to give it's best between 20-70mph. Big bikes don't really feel like they are beginning to work until you get up past 60 and it's so easy to get there you spend more time worrying about the speedo than enjoying the ride! Just my opinion.
I couldn’t agree more!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Neither could I!!
@@mickthemaverick5998 neither could i
Wow, 3 people agree with me! That's 3 more than usual! 😅
Yes, 1000cc sports bikes just getting comfortable and on the sweet spot at 80+ mph..........
Hi have to totally agree with your comments on this bike I actually own one of these my self having purchased one last year ,first thing that went was that naff exhaust followed by having the seat modified to be made a bit more comfortable so now tick’s all the boxes . Stay safe & well..
Bought one. Love it. Last bike was an S1000R.
This is just so much fun and looks the business 😆
As usual a good video👍
Reviewing a fantastic bike, totally agree with all you say (I have a new CB500F) I've had so many bikes over the years and it is the best bike I've owned, it just feels so safe and reassuring to ride.
My only complaint would be the indicator and horn buttons being the wrong way round, if I needed to press the horn in a panic I would end up pressing the indicator cancel instead! why Honda changed them round after all these years god only knows..
Yes that is a continual gripe of mine with Honda's - my CRF is the same and it always catches me out!
A really good, informative round-up. Thanks.
Very welcome!
It's a lovely looking bike! Decent price and in all likelihood very reliable. This would make a perfect short-hop and commuter bike. Thanks for the review!
Couldn't agree more!
Sound was perfect for me.
Have to say that Honda have pulled off a masterstroke with their family of 4 bikes based on their 471cc parallel twin, of which the CBR500R is one. Definitely going to be test riding this one as a result of your review - once the dealerships open again.
The only master stroke they pulled off is marketing whats basically an early 90's bike with mods for emissions to four different groups with almost no changes past looks. It wouldn't be so bad if it was really cheap or if it had a load of tech in that engine but truth is its cynical marketing to make big profits from old parts.
Why bother with things like an electronics pack, fully adjustable suspension, variable cam timing, direct injection or even boost when you can keep on stamping out the same thing, put ever larger catalysts on it and swap a fairing?
Its a £4k bike (at best) that people are paying £6k for.
@@siraff4461 buy a second hand one for 3.5k and it'll retain its value for years. then theres nothing lost in the long run. theyre bulletproof anyway so mileage is just a non consequential number below 10k imo
@@Chubby_Lemon Thats not my point though. I'm trying to say its overpriced for what it is and it (and most bikes now) is very behind on tech.
If it were cheap I could forgive it being very basic. If its going to be costly it needs to be up to date to justify that.
60-70mpg? There have been cars capable of that for the last 20+ years. Infact the very first CB500's would get within around 5mpg of it running on carbs which shows just how stagnant development has been. Oh and that first bike also had around 10hp more...
@@siraff4461 you know what... I don't disagree with that, they are too expensive, It's genuinely ridiculous. It doesn't even have a TFT screen.
That aside, you'd be hard pressed to compare cars to the bike for mpg. Yeah maybe if you're hyper-miling a car designed for efficiency. I've got the older shape 500 myself and he's right, you'll get 70+mpg even if you rip the tits off it whenever you get the chance.
And the thing with the extra power is a strategic move. Basically in the UK if you have a A2 restricted license you are capped to approximately 50bhp. So Honda would be shooting themselves in the foot of they didn't tap into that market, Even if it's capable of more. I think it's a stupid system but it is what it is.
Good review of a A1 licence bike, it looks well and seems well put together. Good video 👍
A2 is the mid size class
A1 is 125 class
A is unrestricted
Lesson learned on buying my first brand new 2019 CBR 500R.
1. 1st gear sucks on a beginner bike.
2. That is all.
Some great things about this bike: comfort-ability while riding long distances, light-weight, cornering, very stylish, LED headlights look very aggressive, great pull from 3rd - 4th gear, plenty of power for highway/interstate speeds, able to flat foot the bike at average human height while still looking like a full size bike, great sale prices especially now that 2020 is here. $5400 or lower for this bike is impossible to pass up. Almost nothing to complain about on this bike.
In the traffic jam, does it feel hot to your legs/thigh? i'm inclined to buy this bike and i want to use it as my daily driver in a hot, crowded city of Jakarta. I previously used duke 250 and although it's comfortable, i frowned upon the heat of that engine.
it weighs 75lbs more than the ninja 400 and the RC 390. And it has less hp than the ninja 400. Oh and it cost 1000 more. The only people buying the cbr 500r are people who dont do their research before buying. But yes your correct this bike is light-weight compared to an elephant. Awesome comment, well thought out.
@@iwanttoseecomments sure doesnt!
@@SeanSR wow, you sure are clueless aren't ya? it's a 500, not a 400, of course it's going to weigh more. AND APPARENTLY YOU HAVEN'T SAT ON THE 500 LMFAO or you'd know how much of a feather it is compared to a 600....i've had a 600rr and a 500r now and the 500 is MUCH lighter than my old 600. You must be a tiny shrimp if you think a 500 is heavy, because it's not even close. Also, the 500r is bigger than the small 400 or 300. The 500 looks like a supersport when an average person sits on it, but clearly you didn't read that at all. Don't give a crap about your tiny 250, 300 or 400. Sounds like you're just a honda hater for no reason whatsoever.
Oh, and Honda bikes look MUCH prettier than other bikes in the same class.....please educate yourself the next time you want to be a douche.
am i the only one that puts my sidestand down with my toes/ball of the foot? 🤔 great review as usual tmf 👍🏻
nah same man
I have a Honda CBR 250. Lovely bike. I had downsized from a Honda Deauville in 2014. But I feel I want to step up again (slightly). I feel the CBR 500 R seems about right for me. Good review.
It is a stunning looking bike. I am really tempted. Thank you Sir!.......Sal : )
For the side-stand issue - you are not supposed to use your heal, but rather your toes (front of foot) to deploy the stand...
Great review, one of my friends rides one of these bikes and he loves it. My first bike was also a (Ducati) 500 parallel twin it too was a lot of fun, having a lot in common with this Honda :-)
Kinda glad you went thru the negative first.
I started on 1000cc, I’m still learning
i started on a zx6r... got a zx10r now but i’m learning everytime i go out. not a problem what bike you start on as long as your brain is connected to your right hand. stay safe 👍🏻
I started with my 09 cbr600rr and i find it slow occasionally , i can't even imagine how slow is everything under 600 cc . Plus you lose so much on value on bikes like those 650, or 500 and under .
I managed to have a sit on one of these in the showroom and it felt great just sitting on it. This is one of my choices for if I ever get around to doing my full license the other is a decent 2018/19 Africa Twin.
Two quite different machines!
@@TheMissendenFlyer yep the AT is at the top of the list but I needed to find something else that I'd be happy with incase the AT doesn't work out either because of price or more importantly if I can actually manage it at low speeds, traffic lights etc. The Cbr500r seems to fit the bill for what I want should the AT not happen.
i just bought one as my 2nd bike to a Z900RS and i love it, and if i continue to get 100 mpg out of it like i am at the moment, i'll love it even more. :)
Thinking about getting this as a second bike to my 2020 ZX6R. I can't ride it for very long without being miserable. Too fun to get rid of though.
Oh shoot now I want one :) thanks for the review
I used to fly around on a 2012 CBR500R for a few months, and remember that the seat was the most forgiving I have tried for a long time! 5-6 hrs without pain!! Sad to see they destroyed that positive thing!
It might just be his opinion....
@@ElCoco1984 In my reg card it said 2012 in Thailand.
@@ElCoco1984 I have a cbr250r that supposed to be starting in 2011, but it was made 2010....Still in Thailand where both the 250 and the 500 was made.
@@harryviking6347 are you still in Thailand?
@@harryviking6347 Normals as in no restrictions whatsoever? I think normalcy is slowly materializing.
What a great buy, she looks lovely and what great mpg. Cheers TMF
You’re welcome as ever....
Iam 90% sure I will get this when I turn 18 or more eight now 2020 I am 14
Looking forward to get this when I'm 18 as well! I'm also the same age. Where are you from?
Martzy Sweden
How about now lad?
My first bike was a kz900, great first bike🤣. Enjoy your videos sir.
1st time I've seen your videos great work
Thank you Patrick!
I had a 2014 version CBR500RA for 2 years first bigger bike. Loved it only upgraded to a non LAMS bike because Triumph came out with the new classics. You could quite easily keep one of these long term like you said in the real world more than enough power.
I love the exhaust on the newer models! First thing I thought was good I don’t have to change it to a slip on
Best motorcycle related channel! Period. You should teach a class on how to post to channel
Thank you!
Just purchased this bike. Thanks.
Good choice!
Oh my, use your toe for the side stand! As a stock bike its better than most. If you wanna go further with it you'll get more 1 hour riding comfort if you upgrade the seat and windshield. A better end can for traffic safety because stock is not just heavy but its as quiet as a Church mouse in town, better tires are a must have, get a rear hugger to avoid the muck launching up under the seat as well as embedding in the shock, a tail tidy will defo help with the back end look, then and only then will everything be all good in the CBR500R real world!
Hi mate just seen this vid. In 2019 I bought the previous year’s model but got it new on a 19 plate and paid less than £4K new. The older silencer look slightly better, and the first mod was a tail tidy. Next was a bubble screen. In my opinion it does need more power. But I use it for commuting mostly.
I love this bike , got the 2017 one . Great A2 bike
excellent review!! and it's not an R1 or a Ninja H2! get subbed
Very similar to Yamaha's FZ6R in appearance that was powered by a 600cc inline 4 back in 2009. I still own it.
That was my last bike before getting this CBR500R. Had the yellow one -- quite miss it.
there is no possible way for "the side stand to catch the foot peg". @1:17 you clearly see the stand below the foot peg and it swings away. If you use your toe behind the foot peg you would never ever need to lift the foot peg to put the stand down.
USER ERROR lol
Is this a good beginners bike? I'm torn between the yamaha r3 and Honda 500r
Yes a great first sports bike…
Little niggle I've noticed with mine is that at certain revs the little plastic extensions at the top of the top left and right sides of the windshield make an annoying buzzing noise. Not a huge deal but is annoying when you're stuck behind someone at one of those certain rev spots and they're making a right racket.
Other than that the bike is very solid. :)
Great review!
Thanks!
Firm foam is better than soft foam. That's why the best seats like Corbin have very hard foam in them. I believe your discomfort comes from the shape.
Enjoyed all the vids on this bike Andy, I wonder if one just might creep into your garage when Mrs TMF gets her license?
Funny you should say that......
Looked at this bike for my son 2 years ago but ended up with the naked version the only reason being the insurance because it was the faired version and not the naked it was £400 a year more.
Damn insurance in the uk must be a joke.. here in germany my 2019 cb650r cost me around 15€ a month or ~180€ a year plus 36€ in tax per year
It does look so lovely in that fantastic red.
It does!
I really wish Honda would do the CB500R Neo Cafe version of this bike. I prefer upright ergos but I don't particularly like the front end of the CB500F. As you say, this bike is perfect amount of bike for the real world.
💯 I always thought that
I have the same bike. I never had that problem with the kickstand. It's not the bike laughing out loud
Great round up thanks! Have subbed, like your channel! Cheers
Thanks for the sub!
Oh boy.. Do you hear this noise.. What happened to the audio. Sorry. Just can't see the entire video.
?? Audio sounded fine to me, just watched all of it.
Sounds fine to me.
I can hear a buzzing noise in the background.
I hear the buzzing noise too
High pitched interference 😱
Great review. Thanks.
g,day mate , love your reviews ,ive got a 2016 CBR500R and love it and yes the seat is a tad hard after awhile lol , I ride from Darwin to Kakadu return is 500 K,s and a numb bum is the norm lol , I also bought a 2019 CRF 250L RALLY , best thing I ever did lol . keep ya reviews up Mate love em :-)
_Anyone else hear the high-pitch hissing noise?_
See my pinned comment....
yes he does that with his tong and thru his teeth. it is quite annoying thou.
Thankyou. Awesome review
My pleasure!
Lovely revue. Just one day until I can ride again (though DVLA have a huge backlog). I have the 2013 version of the CBR and my seat is uncomfortable after an hour or so. That, and the horrible non-hinged fuel filler, I haven't got a bad word to say against mine either.
New to biking and I search for one. Been deciding between 400, 300, r3 and r6. I'm 6'2 250lbs.
Did you not find the display difficult to see in direct sunlight? Another reviewer said it was.
Excellent review, thank you! I’m on the market for a new beginner bike and I think this sealed the deal for me 😎
Not that I noticed.....
My CBR500R has been having fork seal problems. Its a 2017 and ive had to replace the fork seals 2 times now.
Oh dear, that doesn't sound like a Honda does it!
@@TheMissendenFlyer nope lol
I’m getting one ! Awesome bike for beginner like me