The CB500, sitting above the CB350 range of motorcycles, will be offered in three variants namely Alloy, Spoke tubeless and Spoke tubeless with graphics
Honda 2-Wheelers India recently unveiled 10 new models in the country, including the all-new CB500. The middleweight roadster will be locally developed in India as it goes on sale in the coming months in three variants namely Alloy, Spoke tubeless and Spoke tubeless with graphics. Honda CB500 will be up against the likes of Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the BSA Gold Star 650. Due to heavy localization, it is likely to get a highly aggressive price while undercutting its rivals by a decent margin.
Inspired by the legendary CB750, it will get a plethora of premium and upmarket features in the form of all-LED lighting, semi-digital instrument cluster, front and rear disc brakes, dual-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The CB500 will be powered by an all-new 501cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine which develops top power of 27 hp and peak torque of 43.3 Nm, while linked to a 5-speed gearbox.
For reference, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is offered with a 648cc parallel-twin engine which generates maximum power output of 47.4 hp and highest torque performance of 52.3 Nm. If we compare the specs of both these roadster motorcycles, we can see that there is a clear gap in power output due to the smaller engine of the CB500 while torque delivery is relatively closer.
The CB500 will be rolled out with traditional telescopic front forks and dual-shock rear absorbers. Sitting above the CB350 line-up in Honda’s portfolio, the roadster gets classic styling elements in the form of circular LED headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and a single-piece seat. The slipper clutch and Honda RoadSync connectivity will also be available as standard.
Mr. Mutsuo Usui, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said: “Indian customers today are looking for products that complement their lifestyles as much as their mobility needs. Through this expanded portfolio, we are bringing a broader range of Honda’s globally acclaimed models to India and offering customers greater choice across multiple riding categories.”
The Japanese brand stated that detailed launch timelines, pricing, and market availability for each model unveiled at the event, including the CB500, will be announced closer to their respective launches. However, we expect the roadster to hit the Indian roads within the FY27, i.e. by March 2027. Stay tuned to this page for more updates on the same.
