I test rode a CB500F today, and I was really impressed. I am rider returning after 35 years. I have ridden several larger bikes since I got my license back, I could not really enjoy them because I was too worried about wheelies or just speeding unintentionally. This little Honda was easy to launch from first and gave me adequate power in the city and on the freeway. It is pretty cheap too. I am very large, but I had no sense of the bike being under powered. I would be happy with one.
I have a 2018 CB500F and do all my riding in Northern Thailands twisty mountain roads where swithbacks and hairpins are the norm. Great bike. So easy to handle, agile and so predictable. PS. I am 75 years young and have not been without a bike since I was 17.
Mine is every economical, totally reliable, fast enough (always first away at the lights) perfect fuelling and low speed control. Very comfortable for the rider. In short a great bike, the only thing is the pillion foot rests are too high, as it the use on most modern bikes.
Thank you. I have been trying to find comprehensive reviews about the current budget bikes, especially the CB500. This is probably the best. I love how you point out that most important factor: fun.
Another good info video on a bike I am hoping to buy in the near future. I am now 73yrs and miss having a bike, especially since watching yours and many other motorcycle videos. Straight talking a bit of humour and a motorcycle between your legs, your so lucky Fish.. More please, great fun.
Great review, spot on! I use my 2016 CB500F mainly for commuting 35 kilometres each way, partly through city streets, part highway and including some twisties. It's the perfect commuter bike and very cheap to run. Only maintenance is cleaning the chain every couple of months.
I'm a proud third owner of a 2013 model. I changed the sprockets, , and chain, and added a top box for my bike. I could only get this bike since I do'nt have enough, or make enough for the motorsickle that I want, but I'm okay with it. I enjoy it so much and it's holding me over till I can get the motorsickle I really want that is the Yamaha MT09, or 07 if I can't get the 09.
A fair review. I've just bought one after a lifetime of riding larger bikes. But, at the age of 64 (48 years riding bikes), and with a dodgy shoulder, I needed something light and small and think the little CB500F may fit the bill. It may lack the power but at least I can continue to ride. PS Loved it when you lost your temper with the Range Rover! Ride safe mate.
Gonna buy my 1st bike nxt year, been tilting towards the cb 500f for quite a while, but this first impression made me 100% sure that i'm gonna get it. Thank you, Mr Fish !
Pick up a 2020 one tomorrow, has TFT, cannot wait. Coming from a CB125R. Decided I would take the scenic route to bigger bikes and enjoy the journey. Thanks for the video.
I love your reviews. Been watching a few lately. I've been thinking about getting a bike for a while now and this one has been on my radar except for it's looks. I'd have one if it had the looks of the cb650r/cb300r/cb1000r. Wish the 2019 'F' had the bronze wheels, inverted forks and round LED headlight.
Never once had a use for a gear indicator in 34 yrs. Can't think of a single use for it. Fortunately the 2019 abandoned those turn signals for some proper leds. It really is more refined now.
Cracking review Mr Fish, these smaller capacity Honda's 500 models are real and affordable biking, enough power perfect for most people in reality, my question, why are younger motorcyclist rarely seen anymore?
Because all younger people want is only top speed. People like us we need a vintage moment and we had enough with crazy top speed. Time to enjoy good meal in summer.👍
Not trying to be negative, but lots of younger folks feel a sense of entitlement. So they're not willing to work for it. As well, the drug issue is hitting younger folks really hard.
Ok, thats it. I’ve searched for a starting bike for a couple of months now and i really like the look on this bike. Your review was the last little push i needed. I’m getting one. All black though. Thanks. And of course i subbed😊👍
Cool video! I bought my 2015 CB500f about 4 month ago and I love it! Its not a super fast bike, but it has all the power I need for how I ride (top speed is 100mph with me being 185lbs on this bike).
You Sir have confirmed my first Honda bike purchase, thank you for this review! Honda should offer you commission because I'm not the only one. Stay safe, all the best! - Mike
Really looking at one of these.. So, the gear-indicator thing; yes, perhaps I can see the point of it, but you have a neutral indicator, yes? So, why do I need to know which gear I'm in, honestly? I'm driving along, going the speed I want, with the revs I want.. perfect! I need to pass someone, I kick it into a lower gear and twist the throttle; conversely, when I'm on the motorway and the engine is hitting the rev-limiter, I go up in gears. Personally, I'd rather not have too much info on a dash to distract me from the road. Revs and speed; all you need.
I just bought mine same colour on 14/11/22 and I love it mind you I am a honda man because this od the 3rd honda i har out 39 bikes i have owned over the last 48 years
thank you for this review, awesome video :) thinking of it as my first bike, I just have to wait a little longer... Would i be right chosing this as my absolutely first?
That space under the rear seat is just about a perfect fit for a medium-size Oxford Umbratex lightweight cover, to keep bird shit and thieving eyes off when you're parked out and about. There isn't room for a proper lock and chain, though, just a disc-lock so a tail-pack, rack or some other way of carrying your security is needed.
When I take my VFR 1200 to be serviced, I always make sure that they loan me the cb 500 f to ride home - really enjoy its handling - you can hustle it boys !!
Excellent review from a practical real world eye view on motorcycling! Did Mr fish knew that the cb500 series was also made to be easily serviceable?! Shim replacements /changes are significantly easier! I have a recommendation to Mr fish on the next practical motorcycle to review on - BMW g310r. Please try reviewing this machine! Thanks you VEry much!
@@bunnyjrhopper5059 My CB 500f Went into The Honda Dealer at 16,000 miles for. The Valve/ Shim Check nothing Needed Adjusting The Honda Mechanic told me they Rarely do ever! The Spark Plugs got Changed but the ones that had been In the Bike were not in Bad Condition Its a Cliche but its True HONDA Quality Strikes Again
Is this a good first bike? I absolutely love the price and it seems to be a very good deal, also I can have it sent to any county I visit since it’s European EPA guaranteed, also if I’m in the U.K or Ireland I can drive without difficulty. Also how is it going 120 Kilometers per hour? Highway Speeds.
Any chance to take the Benelli TRK 502 for your first impression review, hence you had most 500cc Honda, and give the comparison. Build quality and engine wise the Honda is winner. But I like the Benelli design, price slightly cheaper. Really want to know what you may say after a test ride. Delighted to watch your reviews.
I really like the look of these, but as I will be buying an older bike, I think I could get something with a bit more poke for not much more money. Depending on how old a bike I have to go for though I guess.
I won't have nothing like that to spend unfortunately. I really want to try my hardest to get enough together to get a well looked after Suzuki GSR 600 or something in that range.
Compared to the old 1992 cb500 it’s down on power 20 hp and also that seat especially if your taking a passenger isn’t good, it Handles ok still but I grew the shorter gear and redesign its lost its commuters carry ability, but Honda please redesign that crap indicator position, and swap it above the horn not below it
ram64man if you think about it, i wonder if the 471cc or so was meant to be increased later to sell more bikes. Its not even a 500 more like a 470 lol but thats ok i guess
BunnyJr Hopper the old model was only 15cc more but had moe hp, I think Honda crippled it because of getting the under 21 bracket without direct access ability then was hoping the Nc model would fill the old ones gap I just find that hondas street series this year has such poor pillion seats and that’s a real shame as a lot of beginners take pillions done the curry etc, I just wish it had the getup and go of the old that had its race series, and that’s a real shame as it gave it the get up and go to safety join motorways etc now unless you ring it half to death it needs a little planning
5 slipped discs 🤣 nothing more! Thanks for your comment! Just checked a few reviews about the X and seems to be better regarding ergonomics and reduced wind blast!
I wonder how it stacks up against suzuki sv650. Both bikes are priced quite closely and I would like to know which one is worth my money more. Im stepping up ftom 125 and I'm looking at "a beginners bikes" easy to ride and cheap when new
From what I've researched, the SV650 is less reliable and a bit more intimidating as it is fairly fast and according to my friend, not a very comfortable bike for commuting as it is more aggressively styled. The SV650 however has a bigger community and as such has more aftermarket mods as well as a lot more used options which are cheaper where I am at (Texas, USA) than the used Honda CB500 models. Just my drop in the bucket
Got the 500x, it's like a good wife that takes care of you but it's not great in bed, you love it for what she is but wish you were able to have more fun with it. AS for the price, the Hornet or MT07 is about 8k, so the CB500 at about 6k is not cheap...
adam chc prolly to attract new riders because dang its hard to know what gear youre on when your head is just thinking about whats infront and trying to avoid undesirable situations
The 500F is a very easy bike to ride. Back in the day my first bike was a Honda 90 Cub. I had a chance to ride a Honda 450 twin, the Classic Black Bomber. I did stall it a couple of times until I got used to the manual clutch, but I found it easy to ride. The 500F is the same weight as the old 450 but feels lighter, and is a far better bike to ride in every way,
I was wondering if you could give me some advice. I am 6 ft 5 and I weigh like 150 pounds. I am looking for my first bike and I am not sure if I should get this or the cb300r I like how the 300 looks but is it to small?
Hey NL Gu3rilla, I'm an inch shorter then you and in a similar boat, still tossing up between the two. Can I ask, have you settle on one? What do you think now?
Wouldn't recommend it, that's a 125 bike literally, you would dwarf that bike and it would look comical. There is a vid on YT from a guy from the Netherlands and I think he is around 2.00 meters tall, and it does not look great. I sat on one and I'm 1.77m or 5 10" and that fits good, but you shouldn't be much taller. I guess, the BMW GS 310 would be the better choice.
The one thing I find annoying when watching these reviews is when the reviewer keeps waving his hands all over the screen while he talks, it also seems to be the trend to keep taking their hands off the bars while riding the bike and to completely ignore the highway code.
I test rode a CB500F today, and I was really impressed. I am rider returning after 35 years. I have ridden several larger bikes since I got my license back, I could not really enjoy them because I was too worried about wheelies or just speeding unintentionally. This little Honda was easy to launch from first and gave me adequate power in the city and on the freeway. It is pretty cheap too. I am very large, but I had no sense of the bike being under powered. I would be happy with one.
I have a 2018 CB500F and do all my riding in Northern Thailands twisty mountain roads where swithbacks and hairpins are the norm. Great bike. So easy to handle, agile and so predictable. PS. I am 75 years young and have not been without a bike since I was 17.
wow that is impressive!! I am looking to get on bikes but i am just a bit afraid. In all your years do you think it was worth it?
Mine is every economical, totally reliable, fast enough (always first away at the lights) perfect fuelling and low speed control. Very comfortable for the rider. In short a great bike, the only thing is the pillion foot rests are too high, as it the use on most modern bikes.
Thank you. I have been trying to find comprehensive reviews about the current budget bikes, especially the CB500. This is probably the best. I love how you point out that most important factor: fun.
Another good info video on a bike I am hoping to buy in the near future. I am now 73yrs and miss having a bike, especially since watching yours and many other motorcycle videos. Straight talking a bit of humour and a motorcycle between your legs, your so lucky Fish.. More please, great fun.
Great review, spot on! I use my 2016 CB500F mainly for commuting 35 kilometres each way, partly through city streets, part highway and including some twisties. It's the perfect commuter bike and very cheap to run. Only maintenance is cleaning the chain every couple of months.
I'm a proud third owner of a 2013 model. I changed the sprockets, , and chain, and added a top box for my bike. I could only get this bike since I do'nt have enough, or make enough for the motorsickle that I want, but I'm okay with it. I enjoy it so much and it's holding me over till I can get the motorsickle I really want that is the Yamaha MT09, or 07 if I can't get the 09.
A fair review. I've just bought one after a lifetime of riding larger bikes. But, at the age of 64 (48 years riding bikes), and with a dodgy shoulder, I needed something light and small and think the little CB500F may fit the bill. It may lack the power but at least I can continue to ride. PS Loved it when you lost your temper with the Range Rover! Ride safe mate.
You will love it
@@Mrfish2015 Thanks mate. Collected it yesterday and did 50 miles, great fun!
Finally! Someone showed the under the seat area.
Gonna buy my 1st bike nxt year, been tilting towards the cb 500f for quite a while, but this first impression made me 100% sure that i'm gonna get it. Thank you, Mr Fish !
Pick up a 2020 one tomorrow, has TFT, cannot wait. Coming from a CB125R. Decided I would take the scenic route to bigger bikes and enjoy the journey. Thanks for the video.
I love your reviews. Been watching a few lately. I've been thinking about getting a bike for a while now and this one has been on my radar except for it's looks. I'd have one if it had the looks of the cb650r/cb300r/cb1000r. Wish the 2019 'F' had the bronze wheels, inverted forks and round LED headlight.
This review is exactly what I needed! Thank you. I'm pretty sure this is the bike for me.
I had the CBR500 and it was fantastic
Never once had a use for a gear indicator in 34 yrs. Can't think of a single use for it. Fortunately the 2019 abandoned those turn signals for some proper leds. It really is more refined now.
Great v. We can even hear the quiet motor, and no wind noise. Lots of info.Good job bro.Ron from L.A down town ,U.S.A
Cracking review Mr Fish, these smaller capacity Honda's 500 models are real and affordable biking, enough power perfect for most people in reality, my question, why are younger motorcyclist rarely seen anymore?
Probably because of the confusing license laws , insurance costs and bike theft here (last one hyped by social media)
Oh yes UK media, less said the better about them.
Because all younger people want is only top speed. People like us we need a vintage moment and we had enough with crazy top speed. Time to enjoy good meal in summer.👍
Not trying to be negative, but lots of younger folks feel a sense of entitlement. So they're not willing to work for it. As well, the drug issue is hitting younger folks really hard.
Ok, thats it. I’ve searched for a starting bike for a couple of months now and i really like the look on this bike. Your review was the last little push i needed. I’m getting one. All black though. Thanks. And of course i subbed😊👍
Cool video! I bought my 2015 CB500f about 4 month ago and I love it! Its not a super fast bike, but it has all the power I need for how I ride (top speed is 100mph with me being 185lbs on this bike).
Hi Nate, I’m looking to buy a second hand 2016 cb500f. For the time that you had it, we’re you fairly pleased with yours? I’m 68 now…
Great review, thanks. Doing my A2 in October. This is currently top of my list!
I just bought the 2018 CB500F after seeing your this video :D. It's a great bike and I love it !
You Sir have confirmed my first Honda bike purchase, thank you for this review! Honda should offer you commission because I'm not the only one. Stay safe, all the best! - Mike
Commission would be nice lol
What a great review. Actually loved your comments from start to end. I would love one of these bikes
An underrated bike. Very cheap in Thailand, even with the weak GBP.
Haha! Class! Love the way you handled the Chelsea tractors! 😂
I have a 2013, what a fantastic little motorcycle.
What a lifelike review! I like your vibes sir! Total fun and appreciation.
Really looking at one of these.. So, the gear-indicator thing; yes, perhaps I can see the point of it, but you have a neutral indicator, yes? So, why do I need to know which gear I'm in, honestly? I'm driving along, going the speed I want, with the revs I want.. perfect! I need to pass someone, I kick it into a lower gear and twist the throttle; conversely, when I'm on the motorway and the engine is hitting the rev-limiter, I go up in gears. Personally, I'd rather not have too much info on a dash to distract me from the road. Revs and speed; all you need.
I just bought mine same colour on 14/11/22 and I love it mind you I am a honda man because this od the 3rd honda i har out 39 bikes i have owned over the last 48 years
thank you for this review, awesome video :) thinking of it as my first bike, I just have to wait a little longer... Would i be right chosing this as my absolutely first?
No gear indicator phworrr. Nice bit of assertive riding with those 4wd lane safari jackals.
I love my CB500F.
NABStar UK what's is top speed mph
good for longer tour?
@@GametimeSlime +-115mph
That space under the rear seat is just about a perfect fit for a medium-size Oxford Umbratex lightweight cover, to keep bird shit and thieving eyes off when you're parked out and about. There isn't room for a proper lock and chain, though, just a disc-lock so a tail-pack, rack or some other way of carrying your security is needed.
I have one, it's....slow..... but you know what... I love it!!!
If you find this slow, I wonder what 125's are like for you? Megaslow? Lol
Great review, I'm picking one of these up this spring you earned one more subscriber cheers from Canada !!
Did you end up getting one?
@@RideYEG I did buy a bike but I bought the CB500X not the "F" and i love it.
nice '1st impression' ... thank you. Nice countryside as well. 👍
CB500F is the Miata on 2 wheels. Fun fun fun!
I hope honda will put the neo-sport cafe design on it already.
Wet Rain CB500R
5 months late, but i would put a deposit down on Monday if they released one!!!
Wrote it elsewhere already, I could live with a 400 1-zyl. like in the Duke 390 as long it stays as nimble and light like the CB300R.
I got one in the same colour for the other half, lovely bike, very smooth and 80 to the gallon easy. I changed the rear shock though, no adjustment.
Its got preload on the back
The chronicles of mr fish Ah, is that one an 18MY? Honda do react to customer feedback, I put a Hagon on her bike. Great review.
When I take my VFR 1200 to be serviced, I always make sure that they loan me the cb 500 f to ride home - really enjoy its handling - you can hustle it boys !!
Mr Fish, another great review from you.
Im the same, I hate big cars, they are just too big these days.
Excellent review from a practical real world eye view on motorcycling! Did Mr fish knew that the cb500 series was also made to be easily serviceable?! Shim replacements /changes are significantly easier! I have a recommendation to Mr fish on the next practical motorcycle to review on - BMW g310r. Please try reviewing this machine! Thanks you VEry much!
Yes i know they're easy to service , I've owned a 500x before , I would love to do more reviews but its store dependant
Antimortem easily serviceable, that makes a dream bike
@@bunnyjrhopper5059 My CB 500f
Went into The Honda Dealer
at 16,000 miles for. The Valve/ Shim
Check nothing Needed Adjusting
The Honda Mechanic told me they
Rarely do ever! The Spark Plugs got
Changed but the ones that had been
In the Bike were not in Bad Condition
Its a Cliche but its True
HONDA Quality Strikes Again
Is this a good first bike? I absolutely love the price and it seems to be a very good deal, also I can have it sent to any county I visit since it’s European EPA guaranteed, also if I’m in the U.K or Ireland I can drive without difficulty.
Also how is it going 120 Kilometers per hour? Highway Speeds.
Can you please review either the Honda cbr650f or the cb650f? Cheers mate
Any chance to take the Benelli TRK 502 for your first impression review, hence you had most 500cc Honda, and give the comparison. Build quality and engine wise the Honda is winner. But I like the Benelli design, price slightly cheaper. Really want to know what you may say after a test ride. Delighted to watch your reviews.
I really like the look of these, but as I will be buying an older bike, I think I could get something with a bit more poke for not much more money. Depending on how old a bike I have to go for though I guess.
for £5000 you can get some really good bikes
I won't have nothing like that to spend unfortunately. I really want to try my hardest to get enough together to get a well looked after Suzuki GSR 600 or something in that range.
Older bike plus breakdowns, new parts, mods, tires, brakes, etc. I will go with newer bike that works.
Compared to the old 1992 cb500 it’s down on power 20 hp and also that seat especially if your taking a passenger isn’t good, it Handles ok still but I grew the shorter gear and redesign its lost its commuters carry ability, but Honda please redesign that crap indicator position, and swap it above the horn not below it
I would take one over the old one everyday to be honest , the indictors take 2 minutes to get used to
ram64man if you think about it, i wonder if the 471cc or so was meant to be increased later to sell more bikes. Its not even a 500 more like a 470 lol but thats ok i guess
BunnyJr Hopper the old model was only 15cc more but had moe hp, I think Honda crippled it because of getting the under 21 bracket without direct access ability then was hoping the Nc model would fill the old ones gap I just find that hondas street series this year has such poor pillion seats and that’s a real shame as a lot of beginners take pillions done the curry etc, I just wish it had the getup and go of the old that had its race series, and that’s a real shame as it gave it the get up and go to safety join motorways etc now unless you ring it half to death it needs a little planning
Compare to cb300 would be nice. Back to back. I think I'm going to try it my sen
I think it has aggressive styling rather than sporty.
Great review, you mention your bad neck, which bike would you recommend for a beginner with also a bad neck? In that price range.
I’m 183cm tall
I wouldn't like to say as i don't know what problems you have with your neck , out of the 500 range the 500x suits my problems better
5 slipped discs 🤣 nothing more!
Thanks for your comment! Just checked a few reviews about the X and seems to be better regarding ergonomics and reduced wind blast!
New subs here Mr. Fish.. your video earned my SUBS 👏👏👏
how is the blinker/horn situation on the bike? Just like the Rebel 500?
Very nice review
Congrats on wearing hi-viz clothing. Smart man.
I did my Direct access on a CB500 - Top bike for the money; I'd love one in my garage :-)
Great review! I only wish you said more negatives. How can I not buy this now?!? :)
I wonder how it stacks up against suzuki sv650. Both bikes are priced quite closely and I would like to know which one is worth my money more. Im stepping up ftom 125 and I'm looking at "a beginners bikes" easy to ride and cheap when new
From what I've researched, the SV650 is less reliable and a bit more intimidating as it is fairly fast and according to my friend, not a very comfortable bike for commuting as it is more aggressively styled. The SV650 however has a bigger community and as such has more aftermarket mods as well as a lot more used options which are cheaper where I am at (Texas, USA) than the used Honda CB500 models. Just my drop in the bucket
How is the weather mate ! Nice bike but big bulbous number plate !
What’s your GoPro settings mate?
Great review. Thanks
Nice review, new subscriber!
Thanks ,can you review Kawasaki ninja 650 2017-2018
if politeness was a a person you would be it :D
Got the 500x, it's like a good wife that takes care of you but it's not great in bed, you love it for what she is but wish you were able to have more fun with it.
AS for the price, the Hornet or MT07 is about 8k, so the CB500 at about 6k is not cheap...
6:56 best part!😂
is it comfortable for two people and journeys about 200 miles ?
Is this a good first motorcycle. I love MotoGP!
they finally gonna put gear ind. on new series of 500s
adam chc prolly to attract new riders because dang its hard to know what gear youre on when your head is just thinking about whats infront and trying to avoid undesirable situations
how heavy are you, and tall? is the seating position good?
Cracking video
Right giggle nice words mate love UK English
and fuel consumption?
Would you suggest this to a guy that has ride only 125cc scooter in his life? Is it easy for a begginer?
The 500F is a very easy bike to ride. Back in the day my first bike was a Honda 90 Cub. I had a chance to ride a Honda 450 twin, the Classic Black Bomber. I did stall it a couple of times until I got used to the manual clutch, but I found it easy to ride. The 500F is the same weight as the old 450 but feels lighter, and is a far better bike to ride in every way,
I was wondering if you could give me some advice. I am 6 ft 5 and I weigh like 150 pounds. I am looking for my first bike and I am not sure if I should get this or the cb300r I like how the 300 looks but is it to small?
NL Gu3rilla the best advice I can give is to go and try both then decide
Hey NL Gu3rilla, I'm an inch shorter then you and in a similar boat, still tossing up between the two. Can I ask, have you settle on one? What do you think now?
Wouldn't recommend it, that's a 125 bike literally, you would dwarf that bike and it would look comical. There is a vid on YT from a guy from the Netherlands and I think he is around 2.00 meters tall, and it does not look great. I sat on one and I'm 1.77m or 5 10" and that fits good, but you shouldn't be much taller. I guess, the BMW GS 310 would be the better choice.
0Turbox Hi, could you please post here a video of that Dutch guy?
6ft 5. 150lbs! You need to eat buddy!
Can this bike average speeds of 75-85 mph?
Hello im planning to buy CB500F..but im 5'5 (165 )
patrick it’s gonna be ok maybe you won’t touch with both feet but you’ll get used to it very soon.
Ok thanks
Amazes me how people comment on bikes. As though any of you could handle this bike on a track properly equipped. Big talkers become statistic's..
Great Bike
thanks
A man falling in love , ah lol
it was emotional
What is the top speed ?
112 mph
no gear indicator
Tiu gueder
2019 500s are much better
should keep up with the reviews lol
But not as smooth. I can live with 4% less power to have the wonderful smoothness. So I bought a low mile 17.
Roads in Europe suck!!!
The one thing I find annoying when watching these reviews is when the reviewer keeps waving his hands all over the screen while he talks, it also seems to be the trend to keep taking their hands off the bars while riding the bike and to completely ignore the highway code.
I'd be worried about myself if things like that annoyed me.
you are driving on the wrong side of the road
moose dyer its the camera lens effect he had mirror on 😆
U sir are riding too fast !!!
gogo cat which bit ?