Expanding its premium modern-retro lineup, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has officially unveiled the all-new Honda CB500 in India.
This motorcycle, which combines classic styling and modern technology, will be manufactured in India and will be the flagship bike in the company’s CB portfolio. Honda has not yet announced pricing, but booking and pricing details are expected in the coming months.
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This new step by Honda in the premium retro motorcycle segment is considered quite interesting, as the CB500 is poised to directly challenge established brands like Royal Enfield and BSA.
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Modern Technology with Classic Design
The Honda CB500 has been developed in accordance with the company’s ‘Retro Sporty’ design philosophy. The bike’s overall look is inspired by the legendary Honda CB750, with a round LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, wide handlebars, and minimalist bodywork.
Despite its retro styling, the motorcycle is packed with modern features. Honda has included all-LED lighting, an analog-digital instrument console, Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
501cc Engine and Strong Torque Output
The Honda CB500 is powered by the company’s new 501cc air/oil-cooled single-cylinder engine. This engine produces 27.76 bhp and 43.3 Nm of peak torque.
The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox and features an assist and slipper clutch, which reduces rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifts and makes for a smoother ride.
Honda’s focus appears to be on usable torque and a relaxed riding experience, rather than high horsepower.
Will face competition from the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
In terms of torque figures, the Honda CB500’s 43.3 Nm output is quite impressive. This figure comes very close to the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650’s 52.3 Nm torque, even though the Honda’s engine is a single-cylinder unit.
Because of this, the CB500 could appeal to riders who want a simple, torquey, and easy-to-maintain motorcycle with retro styling.
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Honda CB500 Available in Three Variants
The company will launch the Honda CB500 in three variants.
| Variant | Key Highlight |
|---|---|
| Alloy | Standard alloy wheels |
| Spoke Tubeless | Cross-spoke tubeless wheels |
| Spoke Tubeless with Graphics | Premium graphics package |
The display model features cross-spoke tubeless wheels, which offer an adventure-inspired premium look.
Suspension and Braking Setup
The motorcycle features conventional telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear.
Braking is handled by disc brakes on both wheels, with dual-channel ABS as standard.
The bike comes with a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel setup. It is shod with 100/90-19 front and 150/70-17 rear Maxxis tires.
Manufacturing to be Done in India
Honda has confirmed that the CB500 will be produced in India. Local manufacturing allows the company to try to keep pricing competitive.
This motorcycle will be positioned above the Honda CB350 range and will be the company’s flagship product in the premium retro segment.
Honda CB500 Price and Launch Timeline
Honda has not yet announced the official price of the CB500. According to the company, booking and pricing details will be revealed in the coming months. Industry reports indicate that the motorcycle’s India launch is expected this year.
If Honda adopts an aggressive pricing strategy, the CB500 could become a strong alternative in the premium retro motorcycle segment.
Auto India Daily Verdict
The Honda CB500’s India debut is an interesting development for the premium retro motorcycle segment. Classic CB750-inspired styling, a new 501cc single-cylinder engine, modern features, and local manufacturing in India make it a promising package.
Now, the biggest question will be its pricing. If Honda launches this motorcycle at the right price point, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and BSA Gold Star 650 could find a new competitor in the premium retro segment.
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