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Honda CB500X

Biggus Dekkus

Biggus Dekkus

Member
Member
I have wanted to do more dirt & trail riding, but the C14 is definitely not the bike for that.  Looked around for a second bike to provide some off-road capability, and on May 5, pulled the trigger & purchased a 2019 Honda CB500X.  I'm super impressed with this bike so far, and think it will make a terrific match with the Connie.  Honda made some significant upgrades to the 2019 CB500X, yet kept the price the same as before.  The 2019 model added a 19" front wheel, slipper clutch, engine mods to get a few more HP, upgraded suspension with increased travel, a new TFT display, among others.

The motor is smooth through the entire RPM range, and has decent power for a small bike.  The CB500X is only about 425 lbs, so it's a good size to handle rough terrain, but still is pleasant and capable on the pavement.  If you're looking for a do-it-all type bike at a reasonable price (MRSP only $6699) check out the improved CB500X.
 
Congrats on your new purchase.  Does it have ABS?

The XR650L is definitely more dirt & trail oriented for the same money.
 
Slipper clutch- 19" wheel Honda did make a few changes I have always liked that parallel twin, felt it was under powered but as you say smooth. It does have a great deal of torque for a small engine. If the bike's mission is trail and dirt, you don't need that much horse power, you need the torque. Congratulations!
 
Pilgrim - no ABS.  It's an option but few of the bikes available have it. 

Diz - Honda also got a couple more HP (now 49) out of the engine with 2019 mods, and it's got torque through the whole band.  It's no powerhouse like the Connie, but does OK.  I think it's great for a small ADV bike.

I named it Pint-O because displacement (471cc) is almost exactly 16 ounces.  Picture of Pint-O and SofaKing together.
 

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Jim_Sherman_ID said:
I have a friend that has an older one and they bought a kit to make it more off road worthy.
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Honda took note of the modifications riders made to their CB500X, and incorporated a number of them into the 2019 model.  I didn't need to modify much for off-roading, just added crash bars, heated grips, a radiator guard, and will add a skid plate soon.
 
Diz said:
Knobbies after that? Bikes sure do need to be customized by the rider......  ;)
Click to expand...

I'll wear down the stock tires some more (they are like 90% street), then replace them with tires more suited to off-road.  I'm headed to OR next week for a few days of off-road riding with some friends, will see how they do.
 
7 K for these bikes NEW is a great deal if you ask me!
Honda makes all sorts of great machines, they even make a personal business Jet.
Nick
2014 C-14
 
Yes, NickRides, the CB500X is a great value, you get a quality bike with decent features. It's versatile - capable of off-road, or a long trip. And you know it will be reliable being a Honda.
 
The Halfrica Twin :)

I have a 2013. It's great where I am in NW Georgia with lots of tight back roads and gravel/dirt roads to explore. It does get a bit out of breath at 80 but that's not what it's for. I'd like to have a newer one with the 19" wheel and ABS but no reason to switch now.

Biggus, you forgot to mention rather generous legroom and 50+ mpg.
 
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