I bought my CB500X back on 2018 as a short term bike. And I still have it. I can't part with it as it is totally reliable and incredibly cheap to keep. For touring, I love its long range. Easily getting over 250 miles between fillups. Am I tempted by the new NX? Yes. Especially as the camping biker found CB500XAR stamped on the frame. So it really is a CB500X with a marketing name of NX. Would I prefer it over a Transalp? 3 grand cheaper, more range, cheaper insurance and overall running costs make that a yes too. When I ride out with guys on faster bikes, I find they get to the cafe 3 minutes before me. Just enough time for them to pay for the brew.
I really like this motorcycle. However, as an old fart rider I could get a two year old Kawasaki Versys 650 Grand Tourer for a similar price with full luggage.
We knew that the tech on the older models is best in class, propably. Now the looks have followed suit, it looks like a real adventure bike. Honda has yet another winner with this one.
6 years, 10 countries and 89,000 miles on my CB500X, including an 11,000 miler across the US and TAT. Still smile when i walk in the garage. Zero real problems or mechanical issues, apart from the cush drive bearing in the rear wheel failing at about 50 something thousand miles. Loads of farkles available for the CB, to be added as and when budget allows. The NX is a CB with newer body styling. So, IMO, you can't go wrong with the NX. OR, you could pick up a used CB for a price that's within your budget ,if it's not quite enough for an NX. Though i'd suggest a 2019 and up.
Unfortunately, i find myself looking for something to replace the CB500X. As mine got nicked earlier this month. I'm trying to get used to the looks of the NX. I know it's the best 'CB' yet, but i liked the look of the previous ones. So either the last of the CB's (22-23) with the twin discs and inverted forks, or the NX.
I’ve have a the previous model CB500x.. just rode 400 miles over two days around Scotland yesterday.. I have a GS 1250 also .. and I must say the 500 was fantastic ! Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to tour around UK .. great economy for fuel .. a 2018 model and cost me £2k with 2000 miles on it .. I’ll have this for next 10 years ! Love it
The type of bike that will probably never let you down! Let’s be honest most big bikes are all about excess, whether weight, power, toys, performance, cost etc, I imagine for many this will be perfectly adequate and all the bike many need. I’d be quite happy to tour on this, obviously without a pillion! Good review.
You think without a pillion would be uncomfortable ? I just got my A2 licence and looking for a bike which would be comfy for touring with a pillion as well. Any other recommendations?
@@stevecade857 Your definition of "fun" may differ. After 20 years of experiencing all kind of bikes I can't say that a specsheet tells the whole story of what "fun" means.
The 500 series of Hondas is one of my favourite. If I wasn’t living with my hero (Honda Blackbird) I’d be riding one of these. The CB500X looked to be one of the best allrounders and still command a decent second hand price. Great to see a revision!
CB500X was my beginner bike. 6 years later after riding many different bikes, and owning an Africa Twin, I know this NX500 is the perfect bike (for me). Can't wait to get my hands on one. May never sell it. I love the evolution of the platform, and especially this 'soft adventure' series. Nothing but improvements every two years... Great run of a decade for the CB500X.
Bought my cb500x in January at a steal with the new NX model coming in. Commuted on it every day since in all weathers, on very similar roads to what you’ve shown here. 76Mpg, plenty of guts for overtakes, easy to throw around when the sun shines and sounds great. My only tiny gripe is the same as yours - rear brake is fairly pants. Good work Honda, 5*
A thought occurred to me, NX500 at £ 6799 rrp is just about half price of base Africa Twin. A couple could have 2 for touring & fun rides together and one can use either bike for lone rides.
Several friends have those. Do good distance with bags. It works, simple easy to ride. Little heavy, as you noted much sized as a full size machine. All good for long days on the road. A winner.
When I bought a Honda Grom 125 it opened up my eyes for small capacity bikes. And Honda reliability. This 500 can be my next bike. Thanks for another good review! Cheers 👍🙂
In 1976 I bought a new Yamaha XS500C. Cast wheels, whew!. It was great. 8 valve 180 degree twin, rev to 11000 rpm. Seems 38 hp, 105 mph but comfortable a nd affordable to operate. In two years, rode year around to work and college , I put many thousand miles on it. Rode the hell out of it snow salt rain whatever. All I had. Crosscountry. Wring out the motor. Lot to be said for a bikelie the modern Honda. 90% of the riders in the world dream of a bike like that but can't have it.
To show off how much money we have I guess. I've never managed to bring myself to buy one. I buy the minimum I think I can get away with. But always try to avoid disappointment. You can go to cheap.
Or maybe I want to tour Europe for two weeks with a pillion and luggage in comfort with enough power, handling and ergonomics to deal with everything I will encounter? Bizarre comment.
hobbyist crave for more fun, speed and comfort. but sometimes high power bikes are no fun in city. they can be even worse at low rpm riding compared to smaller and cheaper bikes.
I owned the original CL400 as my first bike in the late eighties. It was second hand, made in the seventies. It's still my favourite having owned everything from Ducati to KTM, Triumph, Yamaha of all shapes and sizes!!!
Great review Andy, and very accurate, spot on in fact. I own a R1250RS for tours, high days and holidays, and I have also just bought the NX500, predominantly for commuting 17 miles each way to work and back, and I have to say I love the bike. The bike is perfect for day-to-day real world use, it’s light, peppy enough, comfy, and I’m not running the risk of a speeding ticket every time I throw my leg over it. The NX really is a great little bike, AND it’s returning 68 mpg, so well over 250 miles per tank of fuel - just brilliant!
It shows how subjective these things can be. I couldn't really fault my 500X except the fact it needed slightly higher gearing for Motorway speeds but I couldn't fall in love with it. Where you found the engine "a peach" I found it had no soul at all. It was like a quartz watch you knew wouldn't let you down but was never going to stir the emotions. Great bike if all you want is a bike.
If you're shoulder keeps playing up or you ever feel like a change, something like this could replace your GS and you could keep the goldwing for 2 up work.... I love smaller bikes, in this day and age they're just so much more relaxing and fun to ride than constantly watching your speed and being egged on by bigger, faster bikes.
Fantastic first impression review, it would seem to be a bike that is almost perfect for almost all of us almost all of the time....and you had fun. riding it too. Ill be test riding as soon as stock becomes available in South Australia
I had a CB500x and absolutely loved it, so much fun to ride, totally 💯 bulletproof reliability, so regret I sold it, I had a 1200GS and preferred the CB, bought it as a back up bike to my DCT Tour Goldwing, if funds allow I will definitely get one of these
Nice review Andy, this looks like an excellent first bigger bike, second bike for commutibg or a lighter option for older riders that struggle with bigger and heavier machines! These should fly out of the dealers!
One of the very first bikes i owned was an XBR500 single, miles away from this latest Honda 500 engine, but a bike i loved. Honda really do make a terrific 500 engine and know how to build a brilliant bike around it. I'm with you in the less is more camp and because it doesn't have all the latest toys the price is spot on. Great review, great bike.
Certainly another winner for Honda by the sound of things. Sounds like they have listened to people who say that you can have too many 'bells and whistles' and some of us just require a bike we can jump onto, have great fun on, without the need to press half a dozen buttons. All that plus Honda reliability, whats not to like.
Good video. Great bike. Not at all surprised on the comments that you made during this review given my experience when I owned a 2014 CBR500 R and found that bike to be very reliable, competent, well-made, efficient, and fun to ride.
I hired a CB500X for a week in Madeira. That engine is enough for most situations. That new bike is nicely styled, well priced and will undoubtedly be Honda reliable. A friend rode the CB500X around the world, and it was still reliable. Definitely a sensible bike choice
I ride 22 my cb500x, 36k km this morning and love it. It's the perfect do it all bike. I have put givi big screen for wind and weather protection stock screen was awful above 90kph, big topcase at the back. I have no need for a car anymore.
Got to love the look of the bike and being a Honda you know it's going to be trustworthy..My brother has an original W reg Cx500 for dry days only which is still a cracking bike to ride even after 40yrs.
I have a 26 yr old VFR800 and ride now and then for just for fun but if I needed a bike to commute, do some shopping, not lose sleep over whether it had been cleaned this week or not, this is exactly the kind of thing I'd get.
Nice to see the NX concept returning. Owned a NX650 years ago and loved it for all the aspects you liked about this new one. The 650 was a single thumper though.
I love the "non-PC" disclaimer! Well worth catching and reading. Personally, being born in 1972, I'm deeply offended by anyone who's offended by any of that. Cheers!
I have a 2018 Triumph Tiger XCA and that bike is huge and heavy. It is hard to push around and since I ride in the winter, the heated seats and grips make things really good and with 142 HP it will get up and go. The downside is that it is very hard to maneuver on roads that are less than desirable. I have been talking to a dealership about the NX500 and I am going to test drive one this weekend maybe it will be for me!! Great video Brother!!
First time I watch TH-cam on my new 65 inches TV, I must admit that it makes this small/mid size trail look gorgeous 😀. Jokes aside, a very purposeful bike. Just one remark about the missing mudguard at the rear, like my BMW 1250 RS where I had to put it as an option. Thank you again for the great work ✌️
Another interesting review for sure. I was going to skip to the summary because I thought it would seem very ordinary to ride. Clearly it isn't! Looks like a great all rounder👍
Great review (as usual!), thank you Andy. After passing my test, I learned to ride on a CB500X and absolutely loved it, only changing it out of curiosity after five years rather than because there was anything wrong with it (I can only justify a one-bike fleet!). The modest (but entirely adequate) performance puts an emphasis on planned, skillful progress and the restrained (but handsome) styling is less likely to antagonise other road users. Arguably, Honda with this bike have the ultimate solo all-rounder and at a price point where the serious competition is very sparse (and heated grips, a centre stand and a 12v socket can be added for less than £500). There have been several updates since my 2014 bike, all gradually making the bike better and, I suspect, even easier to live with. Probably the only thing "wrong" with this bike in the real world is a lack of power for two-up touring with luggage. Whilst my heart tells me that I should keep my bigger, more powerful, more characterful Italian bike, my head would tell me that this bike does everything that I need a bike to do at a fraction of the cost - to purchase, and to run. I am very lucky to have the choice, but the NX500 does seem able to make a compelling case for itself against any supposed all-rounder out there today.
For the UK I think it should have been a 400 or a 600. I know the bike isn't designed for our market anyway. But it could have sill made the same horsepower as a 400cc and maybe 60hp if it was a 600cc. I know that doesn't fit in with A2 licence but the whole thing has just been over complicated with road tax and the testing.
When I was going through my bike training all the instructors rode these ( cb version ) and really rated them , I nearly bought one after my test but ended up with a street twin instead , I really like the new version and am still quite tempted
Checking out the specs, it has a 17.5 litre tank , 27.8km/litre quoted consumption gives it a range of 486.5km, just over 300 miles. Impressive. Heated grips are an eye watering £300, but if they are like the Forza, good spec with a range of heat settings. £25 for 12V socket and £160 for a centre stand. My only gripe is that the pillion seat is fashionably thin at the back where you need it to be wide.
No I definitely don’t. I prefer the bike powering heating rather than carrying batteries in gloves etc. Also I prefer heating controls on the handlebar to buttons on clothing. But I only have one bike. I think battery heated gear makes sense if you have more than one bike 😉
Just rode a Rebel 500 12 hours to the eclipse. It struggles at 75mph in my opinion. This NX is definitely more comfortable than the tiny Rebel seat. Less aerodynamic I’d imagine with more frontal area.
Love your videos.. even though I ride a slow old royal enfield scram 411. I'm a little old man. And the only part that makes me chuckle... is describing a 500cc bike as low capacity or a small bike.. My old honda Vf500 was my 1st big bike. Somewhere late 90s early 2000sthe biking world went mad on engine capacity and HP. Any way all good. Happy spring riding... roll on summer.... Muz from Oz
The picture you put up of the outgoing CB500X was the older model up until 2018. The model it actually replaced was made from 2019 and has a 19’ front wheel. Yes I am wearing my anorak 😆
I have my test at the end of the week and looking to buy straight after. This is just the type of bike I’ll be looking for, thank you Andy. Another great review!
Andy, good to see a smaller bike in your test zone. I’m of an age where smaller, more comfortable and good economy are the things that actually matter for the real world. Ok, I have a 701 Enduro and an 890 Adventure plus a hankering for another GSA.
Hi Andy, I’mnot fond of any bike with a Dakar style front end windscreen but if the rest is really good, I could live with this bike. I did a 300+km ride today through Germany and it took me more than six hours. Everything hurts in my body now, I ‘m not used to these rides yet this early in the year. I really like the dji osmo action 4 camera, especially the horizon balancing. The ride will be on my channel soon.
A solid bike as an Africa Twin adv sports owner Hondas are solid. There is a however! I know Chinese bikes are frowned upon but the incoming CF Moto 450 ibex which has a 270degree crank and suspension adjustability front and rear at a lower price may cause a few issues I know only time will tell. Great review as always
Another winner from Honda, the fairing, LCD panel and headlight are big improvements. NX400 upcoming although it may only be in specific markets. The bike needs hand guards for weather protection and a centre stand. I like the ADV tyres/suspension since roads everywhere are deteriorating, but don't want a 21" front wheel.
I'm an older rider who likes comfort. I sat on the cb500x and to me it packed leg room. I'm 6-0 200lbs with a 32 inseam. I hope Honda made this new NX with greater seat to peg distance.
I doubt it, its basically cb500x with a facelift. Im 6 foot something so this is a concern for me too but i dont want anything more than t7 power for weight reasons
Morning Andy. I have just watched your Bike Safe vid. It’s very good. Having done 3 over the years it is interesting to see how they slightly change what they teach. The last one I did was last year and now allot more about road positioning. I am also PPL, always surprised that drivers dismiss continuous learning but pilots welcome it. I will do another bike safe this year but won’t do other fury courses because they are too time consuming. Regards William.
Been riding now for over 50 years and this nearly every day! I have had most styles of bikes but modern bikes do not interest me now because of all the crap that is built in and on them. I would say as you rightly said that most riders with a big sports bike can not use all the power in the modern world or skillfully use the bike to its full potential ! A good middleweight is really all you need. Maybe some will say I am an old fuddy duddy, but how many people with modern superbikes can use all the potential and fix them when they go wrong.
I think you're right about most people not being able to use a big sports bike to it's full potential, but I think power alone can be used by most for that thrill of hard acceleration. I think the reason the tourer/adventure category is so popular is because they have enough power to excite the riders when taking off, but in a more comfortable and practical package they can use than a road legal track weapon!
If everyone had your idea of enjoying bikes we'd all be on the same bike,only the elite riders can ride a superbike to its limits but that doesn't mean a normal road rider shouldn't have one to enjoy on the road,we all like different bikes, people like Harleys because of the looks and the lifestyle, doesn't mean you can only get one if you live in California, I have a GSA,but I'm not doing around the world trips but I pay for it so I enjoy it how I like it, your missing the point about modern bikes,yes,alot of power and tech but some riders like to have the latest tech,but at the end of the day a bike is a bike,but your only here once so if you can afford the latest and greatest, I always go for it, I like to be excited on my bike,that Honda wouldn't get me excited when I opened the garage door💯
Cheers TMF, couldn't agree more - people underestimate these bikes! Had a cb500x and cb50f as loan bikes whilst mine was serviced and they are such good fun to ride. Much prefer them to the nc 750 actually.
I've never owned an 'adventure' bike but I have owned quite a few on / off road bikes, (Suzuki TS400 / Maico 490 etc). It seems to me that the 'real' adventure bikes are the mid sized machines like this one. Capable both on road and on a rough trail or two while the large machines must be very limited in their off road capabilities. Looks like a nice machine and enjoyable review as usual. Thanks.
I'd have the Versys 650 over this bike. Although I do give props to Honda for giving this "CB" a nice aesthetic update. Cheers, Mr Flyer. Hope your spring is going lovely so far.
I remember well the CX500 'plastic maggot'. It had plenty of performance but heavy with a high CofG and I'm fairly sure the newest 500 wouldn't be slower. 196kg - that'll do. If only it had a set of decent mudguards - I can't take it seriously when it covers itself in muck every time you ride it.
Great review and totally agree with everything you say. Interestingly as i normally buy second hand I checked the prices and they do hold value very well. This makes the price for the new model very good value and if paying monthly you could probably get it for about 80 quid a month. Would be really interesting to see a comparison between this bike and the new royal enfields (450) that are also i think around 47 brake. For slippery roads , wet weather and crater filled roads it looks like the perfect bike. Also light enough to do a bit of gentle off road if that takes your fancy.
This bike is certainly being very well received. I can see it ticks a lot of boxes and provides much satisfaction for many people and that's great. For me, however, it just completely lacks any individuality whatsoever . The 'CB500 twin' family are just bikes with the same engine but with different styling. I'm not saying this is a crime but imagine going to a bike meet and seeing loads of bikes just like yours? I guess being different is significant for me, that's all. There's nothing at all wrong with the bike. For me, though, it seems like every Joe and his Granny's happy riding the motorcycle equivalent of a Nissan Qashqai.🤔 Good overview, Andy. Pssst, need more of your 'Classic' reviews, though. 👍
On your comparison with the old 500x, you're using the old 2013 model. The 2022 version looks nothing like that.. I've owned a 2022 500x for two years now. 20,000 miles of great riding. Love the simplicity. I've upgraded the rear shock and USD forks and the bike is transformed
This bike is becoming more and more appealing to me. Looking for a commuter that would also do green laning and light offroad (beginner). I think this bike would fit the job but I have one concern: the torque. Rear tire choice as well: the choice in that 160 dimension is limited. I currently ride a xt660x that has a fair bit more torque and I have a lot of fun with it. I am convinced smaller bikes are fun, I've had A LOT of bikes mostly big ones (Aprilia RSV1000, Varadero 1000, Harley 48...) and smaller supermotos/dual sports are more fun.
I realy like that Honda If it had cruise control Heated grips rear rack and a centre stand as standard it would be a definite contender for me Good to see its got a reasonably good capacity fuel tank as to many bikes now have tiny tanks
Have to say, following on from last week's video concerning slimming the garage, this may just solve a problem. Ideal daily rider, and a great option for Carole to advance to in due course, 2 for the price of one!!
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I bought my CB500X back on 2018 as a short term bike.
And I still have it.
I can't part with it as it is totally reliable and incredibly cheap to keep.
For touring, I love its long range. Easily getting over 250 miles between fillups.
Am I tempted by the new NX?
Yes. Especially as the camping biker found CB500XAR stamped on the frame. So it really is a CB500X with a marketing name of NX.
Would I prefer it over a Transalp?
3 grand cheaper, more range, cheaper insurance and overall running costs make that a yes too.
When I ride out with guys on faster bikes, I find they get to the cafe 3 minutes before me. Just enough time for them to pay for the brew.
Cheaper road tax £84 vs £117 for the transalp
Thanks for the laugh at the end!
Is it still buzzy at higher speeds? My 2019 cb500x was bad above about 65mph.
I really like this motorcycle. However, as an old fart rider I could get a two year old Kawasaki Versys 650 Grand Tourer for a similar price with full luggage.
We knew that the tech on the older models is best in class, propably. Now the looks have followed suit, it looks like a real adventure bike. Honda has yet another winner with this one.
Yes I think you may be right - really enjoyed this bike…
@@TheMissendenFlyer proper midsize adv bike right here, and the looks are second to africa twin, better looking than the transalp for sure.
6 years, 10 countries and 89,000 miles on my CB500X, including an 11,000 miler across the US and TAT. Still smile when i walk in the garage. Zero real problems or mechanical issues, apart from the cush drive bearing in the rear wheel failing at about 50 something thousand miles. Loads of farkles available for the CB, to be added as and when budget allows.
The NX is a CB with newer body styling. So, IMO, you can't go wrong with the NX. OR, you could pick up a used CB for a price that's within your budget ,if it's not quite enough for an NX. Though i'd suggest a 2019 and up.
Unfortunately, i find myself looking for something to replace the CB500X. As mine got nicked earlier this month. I'm trying to get used to the looks of the NX. I know it's the best 'CB' yet, but i liked the look of the previous ones. So either the last of the CB's (22-23) with the twin discs and inverted forks, or the NX.
I’ve have a the previous model CB500x.. just rode 400 miles over two days around Scotland yesterday.. I have a GS 1250 also .. and I must say the 500 was fantastic ! Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to tour around UK .. great economy for fuel .. a 2018 model and cost me £2k with 2000 miles on it .. I’ll have this for next 10 years ! Love it
Brilliant!
how its possible to be so cheap in uk?
The type of bike that will probably never let you down! Let’s be honest most big bikes are all about excess, whether weight, power, toys, performance, cost etc, I imagine for many this will be perfectly adequate and all the bike many need. I’d be quite happy to tour on this, obviously without a pillion! Good review.
Very true!
You think without a pillion would be uncomfortable ? I just got my A2 licence and looking for a bike which would be comfy for touring with a pillion as well. Any other recommendations?
I believe most motorcyclists ride for fun and not out of necessity. The don't really want adequate.
@@stevecade857 Your definition of "fun" may differ. After 20 years of experiencing all kind of bikes I can't say that a specsheet tells the whole story of what "fun" means.
@@hermanstokbrood Very true but adequate isn't where fun starts.
The 500 series of Hondas is one of my favourite. If I wasn’t living with my hero (Honda Blackbird) I’d be riding one of these. The CB500X looked to be one of the best allrounders and still command a decent second hand price.
Great to see a revision!
Almost looking forward to retirement and a simpler life. Reckon this bike would do the job just fine as my old joints and muscles allow.
CB500X was my beginner bike. 6 years later after riding many different bikes, and owning an Africa Twin, I know this NX500 is the perfect bike (for me). Can't wait to get my hands on one. May never sell it. I love the evolution of the platform, and especially this 'soft adventure' series. Nothing but improvements every two years... Great run of a decade for the CB500X.
Bought my cb500x in January at a steal with the new NX model coming in. Commuted on it every day since in all weathers, on very similar roads to what you’ve shown here. 76Mpg, plenty of guts for overtakes, easy to throw around when the sun shines and sounds great. My only tiny gripe is the same as yours - rear brake is fairly pants. Good work Honda, 5*
A thought occurred to me, NX500 at £ 6799 rrp is just about half price of base Africa Twin. A couple could have 2 for touring & fun rides together and one can use either bike for lone rides.
Someone somewhere literally makes "Halfrica Twin" stickers for them...
Several friends have those. Do good distance with bags. It works, simple easy to ride. Little heavy, as you noted much sized as a full size machine. All good for long days on the road. A winner.
When I bought a Honda Grom 125 it opened up my eyes for small capacity bikes. And Honda reliability. This 500 can be my next bike. Thanks for another good review! Cheers 👍🙂
In 1976 I bought a new Yamaha XS500C. Cast wheels, whew!. It was great. 8 valve 180 degree twin, rev to 11000 rpm. Seems 38 hp, 105 mph but comfortable a nd affordable to operate. In two years, rode year around to work and college , I put many thousand miles on it. Rode the hell out of it snow salt rain whatever. All I had. Crosscountry. Wring out the motor. Lot to be said for a bikelie the modern Honda. 90% of the riders in the world dream of a bike like that but can't have it.
What a great motorcycle!
Makes me wonder why we persist with big, heavy, expensive bikes.
Ego, I guess.
Maybe its time we all got over ourselves...
I think you may be right!
To show off how much money we have I guess. I've never managed to bring myself to buy one. I buy the minimum I think I can get away with. But always try to avoid disappointment. You can go to cheap.
People want more, more is better. At least they think without having much experience.
Or maybe I want to tour Europe for two weeks with a pillion and luggage in comfort with enough power, handling and ergonomics to deal with everything I will encounter? Bizarre comment.
hobbyist crave for more fun, speed and comfort. but sometimes high power bikes are no fun in city. they can be even worse at low rpm riding compared to smaller and cheaper bikes.
A mate of mine swapped his. GS1250 for one and he is physically on the shorter side. He loves it.
I owned the original CL400 as my first bike in the late eighties. It was second hand, made in the seventies. It's still my favourite having owned everything from Ducati to KTM, Triumph, Yamaha of all shapes and sizes!!!
Great review Andy, and very accurate, spot on in fact. I own a R1250RS for tours, high days and holidays, and I have also just bought the NX500, predominantly for commuting 17 miles each way to work and back, and I have to say I love the bike. The bike is perfect for day-to-day real world use, it’s light, peppy enough, comfy, and I’m not running the risk of a speeding ticket every time I throw my leg over it. The NX really is a great little bike, AND it’s returning 68 mpg, so well over 250 miles per tank of fuel - just brilliant!
Yes it's a cracker isn't it - no nonsense motorcycling......
Exactly that.
It shows how subjective these things can be. I couldn't really fault my 500X except the fact it needed slightly higher gearing for Motorway speeds but I couldn't fall in love with it. Where you found the engine "a peach" I found it had no soul at all. It was like a quartz watch you knew wouldn't let you down but was never going to stir the emotions. Great bike if all you want is a bike.
You still can sabotage engine with some sand in oil or sugar in fuel. It will give your engine that Italian charm , you are looking for.
@@kritasto2813 no, it would just be a broken boring engine.
If we are honest with ourselves it's all the bike we really need on our pot hole strewn roads. Thanks Andy enjoyed your review.
True…but most buy bearing in mind what they want rather than need, given that most 125 + motorcycles are generally leisure products in the UK.
Typical solid mid range Honda product. A nice review. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
If you're shoulder keeps playing up or you ever feel like a change, something like this could replace your GS and you could keep the goldwing for 2 up work.... I love smaller bikes, in this day and age they're just so much more relaxing and fun to ride than constantly watching your speed and being egged on by bigger, faster bikes.
Very true!
Fantastic first impression review, it would seem to be a bike that is almost perfect for almost all of us almost all of the time....and you had fun. riding it too. Ill be test riding as soon as stock becomes available in South Australia
I had a CB500x and absolutely loved it, so much fun to ride, totally 💯 bulletproof reliability, so regret I sold it, I had a 1200GS and preferred the CB, bought it as a back up bike to my DCT Tour Goldwing, if funds allow I will definitely get one of these
Nice review Andy, this looks like an excellent first bigger bike, second bike for commutibg or a lighter option for older riders that struggle with bigger and heavier machines! These should fly out of the dealers!
Totally agree
I saw one of these at my dealer today, and I agree, it looks very good.
Cheers!
One of the very first bikes i owned was an XBR500 single, miles away from this latest Honda 500 engine, but a bike i loved. Honda really do make a terrific 500 engine and know how to build a brilliant bike around it. I'm with you in the less is more camp and because it doesn't have all the latest toys the price is spot on. Great review, great bike.
Couldn't agree more!
Got a feeliing this is my next bike
Take a test ride,flatter than a witch's (.)...mate bought a CL500,hates the engine, it would have been better with 270 degree firing, instead of 180
Be interesting to see how this compares to the 450mt. The mt definitely has better looks just need to wait and see on reliability
since 2013 had 4 new cb 500 x , each one improved over the years . this model looks the best yet .
DCT is a gamechanger for two wheels a motor and handlebars...and Honda so totally still owns that and has going on forever now.
Andy, this takes me back a bit to my first bike so many decades ago. thanks friend. ride safe. cheers from texas.
My pleasure!
Certainly another winner for Honda by the sound of things. Sounds like they have listened to people who say that you can have too many 'bells and whistles' and some of us just require a bike we can jump onto, have great fun on, without the need to press half a dozen buttons. All that plus Honda reliability, whats not to like.
Good video. Great bike. Not at all surprised on the comments that you made during this review given my experience when I owned a 2014 CBR500 R and found that bike to be very reliable, competent, well-made, efficient, and fun to ride.
What's great is we all have our tastes in bikes. Especially looks. Great vid 👍
Couldn't agree more!
I hired a CB500X for a week in Madeira. That engine is enough for most situations. That new bike is nicely styled, well priced and will undoubtedly be Honda reliable.
A friend rode the CB500X around the world, and it was still reliable.
Definitely a sensible bike choice
Did well for Noraly too.....
I ride 22 my cb500x, 36k km this morning and love it. It's the perfect do it all bike. I have put givi big screen for wind and weather protection stock screen was awful above 90kph, big topcase at the back. I have no need for a car anymore.
Got to love the look of the bike and being a Honda you know it's going to be trustworthy..My brother has an original W reg Cx500 for dry days only which is still a cracking bike to ride even after 40yrs.
I have a 26 yr old VFR800 and ride now and then for just for fun but if I needed a bike to commute, do some shopping, not lose sleep over whether it had been cleaned this week or not, this is exactly the kind of thing I'd get.
Thanks for the review, it looks like all the bike you need these days.
Nice to see the NX concept returning. Owned a NX650 years ago and loved it for all the aspects you liked about this new one. The 650 was a single thumper though.
You just know that bike will go forever. Great little bike that would be and cheap as chips..I love it.
I love the "non-PC" disclaimer!
Well worth catching and reading. Personally, being born in 1972, I'm deeply offended by anyone who's offended by any of that.
Cheers!
Thank you!
@@TheMissendenFlyer From Alaska - Cheers!
I have a 2018 Triumph Tiger XCA and that bike is huge and heavy. It is hard to push around and since I ride in the winter, the heated seats and grips make things really good and with 142 HP it will get up and go. The downside is that it is very hard to maneuver on roads that are less than desirable. I have been talking to a dealership about the NX500 and I am going to test drive one this weekend maybe it will be for me!! Great video Brother!!
I love these,seriously thinking of getting one!
I don’t think you’d regret it. Fab bike, love mine.
Like the refreshed styling sounds like a fantastic all rounder
I dig it! I always loved the old school Africa twins and NX series honda had in the late 80s. An NX 125 is on my short list
First time I watch TH-cam on my new 65 inches TV, I must admit that it makes this small/mid size trail look gorgeous 😀. Jokes aside, a very purposeful bike. Just one remark about the missing mudguard at the rear, like my BMW 1250 RS where I had to put it as an option. Thank you again for the great work ✌️
What a huge difference by putting twin front disc",please do the same to the NC750 and you will reap the success!
Another interesting review for sure. I was going to skip to the summary because I thought it would seem very ordinary to ride. Clearly it isn't! Looks like a great all rounder👍
Great review (as usual!), thank you Andy. After passing my test, I learned to ride on a CB500X and absolutely loved it, only changing it out of curiosity after five years rather than because there was anything wrong with it (I can only justify a one-bike fleet!). The modest (but entirely adequate) performance puts an emphasis on planned, skillful progress and the restrained (but handsome) styling is less likely to antagonise other road users. Arguably, Honda with this bike have the ultimate solo all-rounder and at a price point where the serious competition is very sparse (and heated grips, a centre stand and a 12v socket can be added for less than £500).
There have been several updates since my 2014 bike, all gradually making the bike better and, I suspect, even easier to live with. Probably the only thing "wrong" with this bike in the real world is a lack of power for two-up touring with luggage. Whilst my heart tells me that I should keep my bigger, more powerful, more characterful Italian bike, my head would tell me that this bike does everything that I need a bike to do at a fraction of the cost - to purchase, and to run. I am very lucky to have the choice, but the NX500 does seem able to make a compelling case for itself against any supposed all-rounder out there today.
For the UK I think it should have been a 400 or a 600. I know the bike isn't designed for our market anyway. But it could have sill made the same horsepower as a 400cc and maybe 60hp if it was a 600cc. I know that doesn't fit in with A2 licence but the whole thing has just been over complicated with road tax and the testing.
Echoing many of the posts, a bike for the masses with all round useability & non off the frills most off don't need, well done Honda, thank you TMF.
Perfomance stats very respectable, good to see a decent pillion seat plus OE grab handles, top marks for that. Reasonably priced
A good next (lighter) bike for me when I get old (only 85 next birthday) ...great review !
Thanks!
Thanks for reviewing on the road as I suspect that’s where they will spend most their time.
When I was going through my bike training all the instructors rode these ( cb version ) and really rated them , I nearly bought one after my test but ended up with a street twin instead , I really like the new version and am still quite tempted
Checking out the specs, it has a 17.5 litre tank , 27.8km/litre quoted consumption gives it a range of 486.5km, just over 300 miles. Impressive. Heated grips are an eye watering £300, but if they are like the Forza, good spec with a range of heat settings. £25 for 12V socket and £160 for a centre stand. My only gripe is that the pillion seat is fashionably thin at the back where you need it to be wide.
No I definitely don’t. I prefer the bike powering heating rather than carrying batteries in gloves etc. Also I prefer heating controls on the handlebar to buttons on clothing. But I only have one bike. I think battery heated gear makes sense if you have more than one bike 😉
That is a great, usable bike for that money. I'm after a daily rider between the workshop and home, and will seriously consider this.
Just rode a Rebel 500 12 hours to the eclipse. It struggles at 75mph in my opinion. This NX is definitely more comfortable than the tiny Rebel seat. Less aerodynamic I’d imagine with more frontal area.
Love your videos.. even though I ride a slow old royal enfield scram 411.
I'm a little old man.
And the only part that makes me chuckle... is describing a 500cc bike as low capacity or a small bike..
My old honda Vf500 was my 1st big bike.
Somewhere late 90s early 2000sthe biking world went mad on engine capacity and HP.
Any way all good. Happy spring riding... roll on summer....
Muz from Oz
Says NX on the side.... but Honda's model designation (on the frame under the seat) is CB500X!!🤔
It looks like a great bike 👍
Excellent review, thank you. I am just in the process of buying one… delivery next week (getting some accessories). I’m stoked!🇨🇦
Good choice!
It's a Honda total quality and reliable and always great build quility. I have owned many since 1976😊
I was hoping you would review this, excellent video as always!
Glad you liked it!
The picture you put up of the outgoing CB500X was the older model up until 2018. The model it actually replaced was made from 2019 and has a 19’ front wheel. Yes I am wearing my anorak 😆
I have my test at the end of the week and looking to buy straight after. This is just the type of bike I’ll be looking for, thank you Andy. Another great review!
Good luck
Best of luck with the test!
Andy, good to see a smaller bike in your test zone. I’m of an age where smaller, more comfortable and good economy are the things that actually matter for the real world. Ok, I have a 701 Enduro and an 890 Adventure plus a hankering for another GSA.
Hi Andy,
I’mnot fond of any bike with a Dakar style front end windscreen but if the rest is really good, I could live with this bike.
I did a 300+km ride today through Germany and it took me more than six hours. Everything hurts in my body now, I ‘m not used to these rides yet this early in the year. I really like the dji osmo action 4 camera, especially the horizon balancing.
The ride will be on my channel soon.
A solid bike as an Africa Twin adv sports owner Hondas are solid. There is a however! I know Chinese bikes are frowned upon but the incoming CF Moto 450 ibex which has a 270degree crank and suspension adjustability front and rear at a lower price may cause a few issues I know only time will tell. Great review as always
Another winner from Honda, the fairing, LCD panel and headlight are big improvements. NX400 upcoming although it may only be in specific markets. The bike needs hand guards for weather protection and a centre stand. I like the ADV tyres/suspension since roads everywhere are deteriorating, but don't want a 21" front wheel.
I'm an older rider who likes comfort. I sat on the cb500x and to me it packed leg room. I'm 6-0 200lbs with a 32 inseam. I hope Honda made this new NX with greater seat to peg distance.
I doubt it, its basically cb500x with a facelift. Im 6 foot something so this is a concern for me too but i dont want anything more than t7 power for weight reasons
Morning Andy. I have just watched your Bike Safe vid. It’s very good. Having done 3 over the years it is interesting to see how they slightly change what they teach. The last one I did was last year and now allot more about road positioning. I am also PPL, always surprised that drivers dismiss continuous learning but pilots welcome it. I will do another bike safe this year but won’t do other fury courses because they are too time consuming.
Regards William.
I went for the cb500 hornet and love it , all the bike i need
Just to let you know that this video was instrumental in my recent purchase of the Honda NX500 here in Ontario Canada. Thanks.
Very cool!
Been riding now for over 50 years and this nearly every day! I have had most styles of bikes but modern bikes do not interest me now because of all the crap that is built in and on them. I would say as you rightly said that most riders with a big sports bike can not use all the power in the modern world or skillfully use the bike to its full potential ! A good middleweight is really all you need. Maybe some will say I am an old fuddy duddy, but how many people with modern superbikes can use all the potential and fix them when they go wrong.
I think you're right about most people not being able to use a big sports bike to it's full potential, but I think power alone can be used by most for that thrill of hard acceleration. I think the reason the tourer/adventure category is so popular is because they have enough power to excite the riders when taking off, but in a more comfortable and practical package they can use than a road legal track weapon!
Most people live outside Europe, and they use them a lot on empty roads....
If everyone had your idea of enjoying bikes we'd all be on the same bike,only the elite riders can ride a superbike to its limits but that doesn't mean a normal road rider shouldn't have one to enjoy on the road,we all like different bikes, people like Harleys because of the looks and the lifestyle, doesn't mean you can only get one if you live in California, I have a GSA,but I'm not doing around the world trips but I pay for it so I enjoy it how I like it, your missing the point about modern bikes,yes,alot of power and tech but some riders like to have the latest tech,but at the end of the day a bike is a bike,but your only here once so if you can afford the latest and greatest, I always go for it, I like to be excited on my bike,that Honda wouldn't get me excited when I opened the garage door💯
I do wonder how motorcycle workshops and trained mechanics have ever existed if everyone has been able to or even wanted to fix their own bikes.
I’m glad they made the horn button smaller. Being in the wrong position it was always too easy to honk.
This really is the perfect all rounder bike. It does everything fairly well except proper off roading. I've always loved the CB500X.
Another great video Andy.. Informative as always.. The older I get these bikes make more sense 🤔
Yes they do…
Cheers TMF, couldn't agree more - people underestimate these bikes! Had a cb500x and cb50f as loan bikes whilst mine was serviced and they are such good fun to ride. Much prefer them to the nc 750 actually.
I searched and found that this bike is now in the USA, not many and not near me, but is here !
Good news!
Looks like a winner to me. Kinda like a mini Africa Twin. I think I need one. Right now. Ride safe everyone. CHEERS!
I've never owned an 'adventure' bike but I have owned quite a few on / off road bikes, (Suzuki TS400 / Maico 490 etc). It seems to me that the 'real' adventure bikes are the mid sized machines like this one. Capable both on road and on a rough trail or two while the large machines must be very limited in their off road capabilities. Looks like a nice machine and enjoyable review as usual. Thanks.
Hello Mr Flyer, I have just bought a Ducati Monster 821. Red från 2019. Perfect bike for me in many ways. Cheers
I'd have the Versys 650 over this bike. Although I do give props to Honda for giving this "CB" a nice aesthetic update. Cheers, Mr Flyer. Hope your spring is going lovely so far.
I have heard of people having an issue insuring the NX as the log book has no mention of NX and calls the bike a CB500
Great review honda are bringing out some really good new bikes and updates to old.
Looks the perfect easy to live with ‘do it all’ bike 👍
Absolutely
Great review as always, looking forward to a review on the XSR900 😊 hint hint.
No plans for that one - not keen on the looks (though I’m sure it rides well)….
I remember well the CX500 'plastic maggot'. It had plenty of performance but heavy with a high CofG and I'm fairly sure the newest 500 wouldn't be slower. 196kg - that'll do.
If only it had a set of decent mudguards - I can't take it seriously when it covers itself in muck every time you ride it.
Heated grips are option, you can have them. Mine is arriving tomorrow, so stoked :)
Congratulations!
@WindsurferHD love it. only downside is wind buffeting. But im sure that will be fixed with new puig wind protector that will be released in a month.
Thanks for that review Andy. Any chance of you getting your hands on the new Voge 525DX to do a comparison test?
DG
I don’t think I have a way to get hold of one…
That is a really sharp looking bike.
Great review and totally agree with everything you say. Interestingly as i normally buy second hand I checked the prices and they do hold value very well. This makes the price for the new model very good value and if paying monthly you could probably get it for about 80 quid a month. Would be really interesting to see a comparison between this bike and the new royal enfields (450) that are also i think around 47 brake. For slippery roads , wet weather and crater filled roads it looks like the perfect bike. Also light enough to do a bit of gentle off road if that takes your fancy.
This bike is certainly being very well received. I can see it ticks a lot of boxes and provides much satisfaction for many people and that's great. For me, however, it just completely lacks any individuality whatsoever . The 'CB500 twin' family are just bikes with the same engine but with different styling. I'm not saying this is a crime but imagine going to a bike meet and seeing loads of bikes just like yours?
I guess being different is significant for me, that's all. There's nothing at all wrong with the bike. For me, though, it seems like every Joe and his Granny's happy riding the motorcycle equivalent of a Nissan Qashqai.🤔
Good overview, Andy.
Pssst, need more of your 'Classic' reviews, though. 👍
On your comparison with the old 500x, you're using the old 2013 model. The 2022 version looks nothing like that..
I've owned a 2022 500x for two years now. 20,000 miles of great riding. Love the simplicity. I've upgraded the rear shock and USD forks and the bike is transformed
Looks like a good all-round bike. 830mm seat height could be a tad tall, but if I ever was in the market for one, a test ride would decide that.
Another good thing about this bike is that it sits right at the top of what riders with A2 licence can drive.
This bike is becoming more and more appealing to me. Looking for a commuter that would also do green laning and light offroad (beginner).
I think this bike would fit the job but I have one concern: the torque.
Rear tire choice as well: the choice in that 160 dimension is limited.
I currently ride a xt660x that has a fair bit more torque and I have a lot of fun with it.
I am convinced smaller bikes are fun, I've had A LOT of bikes mostly big ones (Aprilia RSV1000, Varadero 1000, Harley 48...) and smaller supermotos/dual sports are more fun.
What a great bike. Perfect for the real world.
I realy like that Honda
If it had cruise control Heated grips rear rack and a centre stand as standard it would be a definite contender for me
Good to see its got a reasonably good capacity fuel tank as to many bikes now have tiny tanks
Enjoyed that, not a type of bike I'd consider buying but looks a solid bike!
Have to say, following on from last week's video concerning slimming the garage, this may just solve a problem. Ideal daily rider, and a great option for Carole to advance to in due course, 2 for the price of one!!
Sadly she can't reach the floor on it!