The 2019 Honda CB500X

Honda’s CB500X gets new off-road styling and improved wind protection plus longer travel suspension, 19in front wheel and tapered handlebars. Its twincylinder engine has more low-to-mid range power and torque, and is now also equipped with an assist/slipper clutch. New LCD instruments and LED indicators round out the updates.

Taking cues from the Africa Twin the CB500X looks much more the part for 2019, especially with its longer travel suspension, high-specification singletube shock absorber, enhanced rider ergonomics and a bigger front wheel.

And while the CB500X’s engine maintains the 35kW peak output required for A2 licence holders, it now makes 4% more power and torque between 3000 and 7000rpm, thanks to revisions to the inlet, exhaust and valve timing. The new dual-exit exhaust muffler features an enhanced exhaust note and the engine now also features an assist/slipper clutch.

New LCD instruments include a Shift Up and Gear Position indicator, and the indicators are LED to match the rest of the lighting.