The middleweight adventure/scrambler class of motorcycles is getting ever more hotly contested and, in recognition of the competition, Honda has revamped its CB500X, giving it a new name along the way.
Now called the NX500, there is a raft of updates and changes. While the engine remains the same 471cc parallel twin, developing 35kW and 43Nm, it now has 3kg less to propel, thanks in part to lighter wheels, while the suspension – Showa SFF-BP forks and rear shock have been recalibrated to allow for the lighter weight.
The CB500X, originally launched in 2013, injected crossover adventure style to Honda’s fun-focussed twin-cylinder ‘light middleweight’. Right from the start it was a motorcycle that, without fanfare, quietly got on with the job of being supremely competent and adaptable.
Right from the outset, the CB500X was designed to be simple to operate, comfortable and with a good turn of performance without being excessive, allied to traditional Honda qualities of intelligent design and unparalleled construction and coupled with distinctive adventure styling.
For 2024/2025, Honda’s equation for this bike is improving, but not changing in its essence. The name is new, however. The NX500 is carving out its own identity, with aggressively redesigned styling, premium technology and a variety of detail upgrades that are sure to continue its journey into the hearts and minds of South African riders.
The slipper clutch-equipped twin-cylinder engine benefits from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as ECU updates to improve acceleration.
A new LED headlight design maintains beam penetration but throws out wider light distribution for increased visibility when riding – and cornering – at night. It’s matched to a new LED taillight. All other lighting is also LED.
There’s a brand new, 5-inch full-colour TFT screen inherited from the XL750 Transalp, navigated by a simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar.
A slim seat profile allows for free movement around the machine and aids easy ground reach and, to help manoeuvrability, the steering angle is 38° from centred to full lock.
Wheelbase is 1,445mm with rake and trail of 27.5°/108mm and front/rear bias percentage of 48.7/51.3. Kerb weight is 196kg – 3kg lighter than the CB500X.
Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks divide the functions – Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other. They feature 135mm axle travel (150mm cushion stroke) and have new spring rate and damping settings to improve reaction and feel for both road and off-road riding.
Completely new are the cast aluminium wheels. Going from a conventional Y-shaped 7-spoke design to a Y-shaped 5-spoke saves 800g front and 700g rear. This reduction of unsprung weight works with the revised suspension settings to improve handling and feel in all situations. The 19-inch front is matched to a 17-inch rear; trail-pattern tyres are sized 110/80-R19 and 160/60-R17.
Dual 296mm front discs are worked by Nissin axial mount, and two-piston calipers; the rear 240mm disc is a single-piston caliper.
The Honda NX500 is available in the following colours; Grand Prix Red, Darkness Black, and White. The price has been announced at R124 799.00 (incl. VAT).
For more information, contact your local Honda dealer or visit www.honda.co.za
