Honda 500s gain updates for 2021

THE highly successful range of Honda 500cc machines has been given a 2021 update, with new colours, graphics and Euro5 certification.

The updates affect the Honda CB500F, CBR500R, and CB500X models, with the only other bike in the range to use this engine, the CMX500 Rebel, going through an overhaul earlier in the year.

Honda CB500X (2019) video review

The mechanical changes to each bike are centered around the 47bhp engine’s emissions, with Honda claiming a 40% reduction in total hydrocarbon production, improved misfire detection, and the introduction of a particulate matter limit.

The engines of the 500cc range already went through a fairly rigorous update in 2019, with changes including updates to inlet, exhaust, and valve timing, all of which added 4% more power and torque between 3-7,000rpm compared to the previous model. Those changes were accompanied by an enhanced exhaust note and a new assist/slipper clutch.

Aside from the internal improvements in efficiency, Honda is hoping to entice COVID-weary buyers into its showrooms with a raft of new colour and decal options for each of the bikes.

Honda CB500X 2021

The one bike in the range that looks the most different from the previous generation is the CB500X. the graphic and colour options of old were fairly restrained, with only some tyre track decals hinting at the bike’s sizeable off-road appeal.

Now though the machine has a colour scheme worthy of an adventure, with a new red subframe bringing the baby adventure machine in line with the highly capable Africa Twin. The 2021 version is available in Grand Prix Red, Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic, Pearl Metalloid White

Honda CB500F 2021

Honda CB500F naked has also been given a thorough going over, with a raft of bold new colours to choose from. The 2021 CB500F is now available in Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, Candy Moon Glow Yellow – the latter two colours are all new.

Honda CBR500R 2021

The final bike in the CB500 range is the CBR500R, and for 2021 that machine is remaining unchanged from the previous generation – other than now being Euro5 compliant that is.

Honda CB500s technical spec