Honda CB500
£2700 to £3500 for a smart one | 471cc parallel-twin | 47bhp | 32lb-ft Tested by Bruce Wilson | Usually rides a 600cc race bike
I grew up lusting after CB500s – no, really. In my teens they were a bike as associated with training schools as they were with racing, and I was desperate to get out and race one. That never happened, but a few years ago I did eventually get to ride one of the latest generation’s offerings at Cadwell Park on a track day. The little twin was remarkably different to the first incarnations – completely restyled, repackaged and fresh- motored – but I quickly fell for its charm and surprisingly good overall performance. That was the point at which I learned not to underestimate the A2-categorised CB, which has for several decades been perceived as an ideal first big bike. But it’s also won acclaim from experienced riders, searching for an economical, lightweight and easy-to-ride alternative to their everyday steeds.
The £5029 price tag is just as attractive as the motorcycle’s appearance. I found myself drawn to its fully-grown looks and sophisticated image, being a fan of its CBR600RR-mimicking seat unit and gold-coloured engine cases. Even the vibrant yellow paintwork seemed to grow on me, and I was impressed by the clear, albeit basic, fully digital dash. Considering the bike didn’t feature any tech aids, it didn’t need the most advanced of clock faces, but a gear indicator wouldn’t have gone amiss. On my very first ride I noted its absence on the dash within a matter of metres, also picking up on the wrong-way-round indicator and horn switch cluster on the left bar; the large horn getting pressed by accident several times as I tried to signal ahead of junctions. Over time the buttons became less of an issue, but the gear indication bugged me all the way. As impressive as the Honda’s 471cc motor proved to be, it did however show signs of struggling if it wasn’t in the right gear – the bike would struggle at slow speeds in town if you were even a gear too high for the circumstances. Careful studying of the bike’s revs normally kept me on top of my selections, but that little visual aid would have made things a lot more pleasant.
One of the longest runs I did on the CB was to Whitby and back in a day, taking on brilliant, winding Aand B-roads. The Honda really got a chance to stretch its legs and take on a variety of challenges. I was impressed by the way it tackled corners with a committed and effortless attitude, though when pushed too hard the softly sprung suspension became obvious. But that has to be considered along with the price. In general, the handling was really good, aided by a low centre of gravity and decent big wide bars.
I was also a fan of its comfort, helped by a comfy seat and a sensible riding position. Above 80mph, the wind did get a little too much, but that worked as a good speed deterrent, which simultaneously ensured a good mpg. Getting 176 miles from a tank, with over two litres to spare, the Honda proved to have really good economy, as well as a strong range from its 16.7 litre tank. It was another tick in the box for this stylish, well-built, great performing small capacity trooper, which to me at least, made all the other bikes we were testing feel like toys. If a downsize was on the cards, this would be my number one choice of bike without hesitation.