2020 Honda CBR500R Review | Daily Rider

[@RevZilla]

Read our reviews of the latest and greatest in motorcycling: rvz.la/2XeuZwx

[@Samosthenics]

What is the top speed that the CBR500R can get up to

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade now proudly offering 33% more R's!

[@Ov3rHeAtEd]

50%*

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

@@Ov3rHeAtEd went from 3 Rs to 4 Rs, that a 33% percent increase.

[@Ov3rHeAtEd]

@@theprodigalstranger5259 Does the R in "CBR" count though?

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

@@Ov3rHeAtEd I think it does because there's a CB, CBF, and (I think) a CBX. So, the R in CBR distinguishes it from the other bike in the "CB" line.

[@Ov3rHeAtEd]

@@theprodigalstranger5259 Thats the exact reason that i didnt count it..It indicates the model,not the version...

[@Daimxn]

I love this review. Honest but respectful. You didn't just shit on it like Yammie and his side kick

[@hilmiyahya3027]

Yammie is a squidgang

[@indrakanthshenoy3248]

His side kick spite is a bit better than him🤣

[@knunez30]

Yeah they whack

[@debb.7431]

true..Yammie and his side kick lol...

[@supermechachampionsfoo3581]

Yammie cant lift with his noodle self bikes to heavy my ass

[@kleinbottled79]

One of the truly stand-out features of the Honda 471cc p-twin is efficiency. I can tell you from experience you aren't likely to get 50mpg on this bike anywhere except maybe a track. Worst I've ever had a tank average was 58mpg. Overall average is ~64mpg and some tanks are over 70 when mostly cruising backroads. (Yes, I'm one of the weirdos who does the math after almost every fill up.) Gives excellent range with the 4.5 gal tank.

[@andrewwilliamhorton789]

I’ve ridden 54000 miles on CBR 500R. Fantastic bike for the street!!! Zero problems....

[@steveweber609]

Once again, Zach giving a masterclass on riding and talking communicating the experience. No need to play at 1.5x here! The laugh seals it for me.

[@larriwithay]

To be fair he’s done it longer but yeah I don’t even like that bike but he’s making me want to get it.

[@mpsangha]

Waheed had big shoes to fill for sure. Not easy

[@larriwithay]

@@mpsangha it’s Gilbert too. I mean I still watch them just to see how the bike is like.

[@moneeb343]

Gotta give Waheed the respect he deserves though for taking that position on; long-form live commentary is incredibly difficult to do well but in due time I do think he'll handle the whole show really well.

[@elifreeland5869]

It’s a small thing but I really appreciate Zack referring to us all as his friends. Many of us haven’t met him but I think that most of us feel like we know him. Thanks for another great episode Mr. Courts!

[@stanleyblazeraznik6047]

Group hug?

[@elifreeland5869]

@@stanleyblazeraznik6047 I’m in who else?

[@viktor4757]

@@elifreeland5869 yeah sure, why not

[@smittywerbenjagermanjensen1051]

you guys still hugging?

[@nopenope7088]

frickin bunch of tree huggers

[@tweetchris46]

I bought the sister bike (CB500X) at the start of last year as a commuter/second bike to run alongside my Fireblade. The little CB500X has been such an impressive all rounder that the Fireblade never got a look in at all last summer (once covid restrictions lifted). These little Honda’s are so much better than the specs on paper would have you believe. I absolutely LOVE mine. Stay safe all and happy new year.

[@chrisjohns9631]

Same!

[@davidphillips7255]

I had a new V-strom 1000 and I loved it but over time it stopped being fun. I'm at that age. Instead of quitting like many folks I got a CB500F and I'm happy again. Easier to ride, better handling once I put better tires on it and much better gas mileage. The perfect bike for this half century rider. I had a Honda CB450 50 years ago; I've come full circle:)

[@Hanky_Bannist8r]

These little bikes can be great fun, you can ride them pretty much everywhere wide open and they're agile enough to get the sensations of being "sporty". They definitely have thier purpose and place.

[@theenzoferrari458]

Little? 500 bike little. Lmao. Try a 1983 yamaha RX50. Dang thing nearly rips my arms out of my sockets if I ride the clutch out and it hits the powerband

[@j.atticus8823]

Had an accident on my cbr 500r 2017, 1 week ago today. I can say that the design of the bike saved my life. The suspension, forks & overall design of the bike made for a much lighter impact. My partner who was on the back took most of the damage, unfortunately. But I can say as a bike, they are safe ( as safe as a motorbike gets ) & beautiful to ride.

[@Gofr5]

Have a 2016 500R I bought used back in 2018 as my first bike. Been loving it this whole time and have learned a lot riding it for 3 seasons now. A fantastic starter machine and fantastic daily rider.

[@jakaberdajs4378]

Just want to add, that a good add to these series would be a side pic of you just sitting normaly at the end of the video, to see how you sit on it, and we get a rough feeling of how it sits.

[@scottstewart5784]

GREAT COMMENT - I'm 6'3" and want to know how he looks on these bikes! He needs tripod.

[@TheSpectre223]

Excellent idea, hope they see this

[@Bugside]

Yeah, he'd have to get another camera though, so it's not easy

[@jakaberdajs4378]

@@Bugside not really... He has a camera on his helmet and his phone... So set down his helmet at an angle on a chair or something at the office/destination or a 3$ cheap phone stand will do the job just fine. I think youre makeing an elephant out of a fly here.

[@Bugside]

@@jakaberdajs4378 yeah, it's doable I guess

[@justinrowlands7678]

The guy in the white truck in the twisties was filming an episode of "Daily Trucker". He was just heading for the jump.

[@tvbuu]

Lmao

[@grahamnelson5376]

I started on a CB500X and everything Zack said about the engine is 100% accurate. It’s mostly devoid of character but it has enough power for lots of Highway riding and gets damn good MPG. It’s pretty solid for a beginner as long as you aren’t planning to do any track days. It’ll get the front wheel up pretty easily in first too, a lot easier than the ninja 300 that was out at the time.

[@Lolwutfordawin]

The ninja 300 engine is much happier and fun though imo, have a versys 300 now, and it's just an absolute blast everywhere. Such a happy little thing, whereas the cb500 is better on paper but has no character..

[@grahamnelson5376]

@@Lolwutfordawin the 300 engine isn’t exactly bursting with character either, it makes a lot of noise just to get out of its own way.

[@EricBanner571]

Had a 2014 CBR500R. Honda nailed it as a beginner bike. smooth power band, easy upright position, great fuel economy and adequate braking. I upgraded after a year to a GSXR 750 and love it.

[@4302851]

Agree, if I were to choose amongst the CB500s I’d go with the CB500X.

[@Geo_Okami]

And X is so much versatile than R

[@arthurpendragon9079]

That would sit at about 8 o'clock in relation to the Versys 650, I think.

[@dpops42]

They both kinda suck

[@grahamnelson5376]

@@dpops42 the X is way more practical for commuting an touring. If you want an entry level bike that does those things well there aren’t a ton of options.

[@tweetchris46]

I love my 500X

[@wockodiddlo]

I started on a 2015 CBR500R. Great first bike, served me very well for 18months.

[@sebastienboudreault6886]

How tall are you? I’m looking for a CBR500R too but I’m afraid that I’m gonna be too tall for the bike (I’m 6'2)

[@wockodiddlo]

@@sebastienboudreault6886 i think you'll be OK. I am 6'6" and it was maybe a bit small but fine. At 6'2" i reckon you'll be good 👍

[@godsmack7734]

This is a great bike. I think it's a little deceptive that Honda makes it look like a sport bike when it's really just a commuter bike. Good wind protection, easy to use, awesome gas mileage and it's not as heavy as people make you think it is. I bought my to commute to work because of the 65 to 70 mpg. Zach as always does a great review!

[@mpsangha]

Seeing Zac... I feel like he should be saying, "Welcome to another episode of MC COMMUTE". Wow, revzilla got a good one. Miss him and Ari at Motorcyclist Magazine. Channel is not the same anymore....

[@DelaCroix94]

I just purchased the 2022 CBR500R in silver. Put 250 miles on it so far getting 82 mpg. Mostly riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway… feels good and the weight is good.

[@simonwaarne1584]

I am 6'2.5 and the bike fits me fine. I have had it for 4 years and can't quite figure out why I would want something else.

[@theautobarber9403]

This is exactly what I wanted to hear tbh I feel like most people move up in Cc cause of pressure . I’m the type of guy that wants to daily it , have fun , take it maybe motor camping maybe some twisties but I don’t even go 100 on a car so I think this would fit me great I already have a 750 nighthawk but it’s almost like a Miata doesn’t need tons of hp to have fun! Any upgrades you have done?

[@JPNox]

How would it be for someone of 5'6?

[@MonicaHolly143]

​@@JPNox it is still drivable, but a ninja 400 is lighter and easier to move for shorter riders

[@JPNox]

@@MonicaHolly143 thank you!

[@Roy_Godiksen]

Best looking 500cc on the market. Probably one of the best 500cc's in general.

[@AAARREUUUGHHHH]

When Zack calls your bike uncool... That hurts man haha, but I knew it was coming. It feels a lot cooler if the only other bike you've owned had 11 hp 😂

[@Thirsty_Fox]

Everyone has a different idea of what cool is... it's more of an attitude than a thing. To Harley riders, Harleys are cool (almost nobody else does). To GS riders, GS are cool (many think they're old man bikes). To Grom riders, Groms are cool (many think they're dinky). Some even think a Ducati Panigale can be uncool because it seems more like a rich man's toy than focusing on skill, etc. Having confidence in doing your own thing regardless of what others think is probably the closest thing to "cool" anyways.

[@justinburtonracing5135]

This guy thinks an Africa twin and kawi 650 are cool I wouldn't be too offended by his opinion lmao

[@AAARREUUUGHHHH]

@@justinburtonracing5135 Africa Twin is cool af, idk how you can think otherwise

[@justinburtonracing5135]

@@AAARREUUUGHHHH i own a 2021 zx10r so to me that bike is shit

[@AAARREUUUGHHHH]

@@justinburtonracing5135 Cringe. You're saying that like the ZX10R is a really cool bike. It isn't really.

[@cyanovandyke9897]

It's not a sport bike, it's a "mini" sport tourer. Very comfortable ergonomics. It has remarkably low consumption figures. (56mpg on the highway, 65mpg in the city)

[@caruser4]

"There's more to the cover than meets the book" 🤣

[@gnashmelllow]

I have a CB500F, so more comfortable ergonomics. Even at 190cm tall I have done 500km+ in a day multiple times. I highly recommend the 500 twins for new riders who want to do touring / moto-camping. The mid range torque really helps when loaded with stuff on the highway, sixth gear passing still works with side cases and a big bag on the pillion seat.

[@coolhandchunk]

A riding buddy has a CBR500...he keeps up (reasonably) to the rest of our group (including a Ninja 1000 and my CBF1000fa) with no complaints....even after 600km days. Mind you he is at the point where he does want a little more power and is looking at 600s now.

[@coolhandchunk]

I also loved your review of this bike back in the MCCommute days... your giggles tell the story!

[@debb.7431]

riding a 2018 CBR 500r... heavy motorcycle, great on freeway and county road.. dont expect much, he is absolutely right about upright riding position , naked street bike feel.. same honda gear box as rebel, cb500f, braking is good... i would say good for people over 5 feet 10 inch. smooth ride...

[@georgegherghinescu]

How about a suzuki test in the future to? The Katana looks nice, or maybe the drz400 supermoto to keep crazy Dave company on the leaderboard :) Great series, I enjoy every episode!

[@Hoodilydaddle]

I appreciate all the R's but I'm a pirate.

[@Nicoya]

The CBR500 series is perpetually "the bike you probably should have bought instead". You know, before you got distracted by aspirational dreams, centered on one of the many other 'more capable' or 'more passionate' bikes in the world, that you'll probably never actually live out in any meaningful sense.

[@tvbuu]

Picking this bike up tomorrow. I am so psyched

[@tvbuu]

Update: this bike is incredible

[@bobrowley4346]

I love these low(er) displacement motorcycles out there nowadays! They're affordable, practical, plenty fast, and FUN! Thanks, Zack.

[@Jagknorr]

I own this bike and it was my first “real” bike. Its amazing how i agree with you on every point. It did make me want more power. Ultimately i upgraded after 1.5yrs to a Versys 650 which was the best decision ever. But the Versys is a much bigger (and taller) bike and the cbr got me more used to that size and instrumentation in front of you . My first bike was a Buell Blast (a tiny naked bike basically) and that sucker was a baby bike for a 6ft person. I learned a lot on my cbr :)

[@carlosprados7206]

I've been riding the F version for a year now, as in spain you can't ride a bike over 47 horsepower for the first 2 years. I agree with Zack here, it's not a very cool bike, performance may not be great; but man it's a fantastic bike to learn. The little Honda is nice and gentle, the clutch is like butter and it has plenty of power for a daily use. I have enjoyed every last ride on this thing and it has made me passionate about motorcycles, so this bike will always have a place in my heart. I would recommend it to anyone. The cb 500f is an amazing bike for beginners.

[@johnraynor489]

I'm also a beginner (I got started in October of last year), and I'm really enjoying my CB500F, and I agree wholeheartedly with everything you said about it.

[@EllaBananas]

Tbh I think a 180 parallel twin can sound pretty good. A full exhaust really changes the character of those twins. It's still not a thumpy engine, but it goes from an airy wheeze to a harsh growl.

[@High_Octane]

harsh is the only accurate description there. leave it stock...

[@2254mau]

You should do a cb500x review

[@Mark-ou8nu]

You seem to be in an especially good mood today! Love the humor

[@akelk1720]

I really needed to watch this. I enjoy this channel so much!

[@JDuBz815]

these are nice beginner bikes because they have usable power, bottom end is super smooth. The larger tires and the weight help you understand how a big bike might feel. And you don't get tired of a 500cc class as quickly as you might on a 250cc class. You don't have to ring it out on the highway, although you still have to in order to pass on some secondary roads. The weight and tires helps soak up the bumps in the road. You also have plenty of tire options with these tire sizes.

[@101Websurfing]

I use to own a 2013 CB 500 for my first street bike, which is basically the CBR 500 without the fairings. The bike is really smooth and easy to ride. However, I got bored of the power after 7 months and up graded to a FZ-09 and never looked back. I think it’s a great beginner bike though.

[@joevidya]

I had the same experience after 8 months of owning it. Sold the 2015 CB500f for a 2017 FZ07.

[@Lolwutfordawin]

I rode a cb500f as my instructor school bike, my first bike was/is a 1989 vtr250 and I had way more fun with that. Excellent, yet totally boring bikes, these cb500s..

[@n40798]

I'm disappointed Honda still refuses to make a Neo Sports version of the 500 twin

[@robertstarr3929]

I couldn’t agree more about the parallel twin engines.

[@alhung5637]

I love how dude on the Grom had the exact same idea LOLOL

[@bandyboi3032]

I have the 2014 cb500x and it's awesome. Its got plenty of power to get some good speed down highways. I took it on a trip to Kentucky last summer and it was great. Got it up to 104mph (don't do that, im stupid) down i69. Im 6'4" and at the time I was 270 and it fits me perfectly. It's such a friendly bike to get started on. It leaves a little to be desired once you get experience but if you can't have fun on this bike then you can't have fun on a bike honestly. I haven't seen the video yet but I just want to give my two cents. TLDR: Awesome bike, comfortable, enough power, couldn't be more satisfied with it

[@PastowanyKaban]

I was about to buy it, 2 weeks ago, but then at my local dealer i saw a CB400 Super Bol D'or in red, which i was drooling over for a long time. Came out there totally broke but very happy indeed :)

[@skyusable]

Great username!

[@zyonsdream]

I bought a CB500F which is the naked version of this bike for my two sons to learn on. They got the basics on a Honda Super Cub 125 and now this bike to learn clutch techniques. Super comfortable ergonomics and predictable power. Throw in ABS and you’ve got a great highway capable bike for learning and beyond. At 240lbs I could cruise at 80 plus on the highway all day long. At times it’s more fun to ride than my CB1000R. It’s fun to ride a slow bike fast

[@STho205]

The CB500F and the CBX500 are the daily rider bikes in this size. The CBR orientation makes mounting useful errand bags nearly impossible and extra clothes (sweaters, Tshirts, etc) for changing temperature or office clothes or laptop must be stuffed in a knapsack. This is the poorest of the three for the purpose of the video, however the mechanicals are very similar with a usable 45hp bike.

[@jkuruvi]

I've been looking for your (Zack) reviews since MC . Great to finally find more videos🔥 Really liked the MV Agusta brutale 800 review on MC channel. Revzilla, Zack got you another sub🎉

[@Jovi_97]

I had an older CB500s from the late 90’s .. I absolutely loved it. If it were not for the low power I would get a newer one.

[@TheJoshRed]

2016 CB500F transition to 2017 CBR600RR was smooth comfortable. I love the CB500 series. I will say It took a while to get used fingering a soft smooth, long clutch to a stiff and very short throw clutch on the 600.

[@jonpram1737]

The F was my commuter for a couple of years & it was a great, solid, reliable bike that was effortless to ride. Sure, they’re not performance bikes - basically they’re the 2010’s Suzuki gs500. The styling on the R is beautiful, but defo writes cheques the performance can’t cash. That said you have to remember it’s not a bike for the US market. It’s designed for Europe A2 licenses where it’s engine choices are actually quite clever. You get all the power you’re allowed with a lot more torque than the competition and the torque available low-mid where you’ll use it day to day. There it isn’t competing with an mt07 in the same way because an mt07 or ninja 650 would have to be restricted, so it’s really competing with the ninja 400, rc390, r3, etc which is a cramped market, so it’s actually good to have an alternate niche. Personally I wouldn’t buy the R just because it feels a bit poser given the styling to performance mis-match. The F and X own their middling performance, but yeah great bikes and I’d recommend them - just not for performance toys. Fwiw my fuel eco on my commute was always a pretty solid 3.8-4.2L/100km, and it was fine with everything I threw at it. Reliability was outstanding and pretty long service intervals. It’s not as fun as a ninja ... but if that’s what you’re looking for just buy the ninja lol. As I say it’s less clearly defined what the market is in the US for the Honda 500’s as they have the 300 versions and the 650 class bikes are so much more powerful than restricted A2 bikes... I guess like me it’d mostly be commuters? Maybe learners who want a sensible starter bike but need to ride on the highways? Yeah without graduated licensing it’s less clear where it would appeal to learners in the US to me, but still a great commuter

[@mortanes2]

I've been riding cbr500r 2017 for about 3 years now and never felt it was boring (to me). The white paintjob with blue stickers is stunning. Bike runs smoothly and handles very well, literally sips fuel. It's pretty cheap to insure and maintenance costs are minimal. Riding with a passengers is also non issue. The only things it's missing imo are crash pads. Maybe the seat could be comfier, but this is a very easy mod. The phone mount can be attached to that middle bolt between the two handlebars bolts on my model, which honestly fits so well I've had people ask me if it's some dedicated mount from honda. Been on a trip recently, with 3 friends touring around Slovakia (ninja 300, cb650 and R3). After 3252km over the course of 4 days, I can say that besides the uncomfortable seat, my sore ass and some trouble with aftermarket bags, it was perfect. (Stock bike, besides a charging phone mount and side bags ofc) Over the course of this trip, I got 3.6L per 100km, which paired with the bigger tank means that I was regularly around 40-50% fuel capacity, when all the other bikes were in the red and in need of a fill up. And that's with me around 90kg and my baggage around 15kg, which at the time was mostly composed of slovakian beer in glass bottles, or what I like to call it, souvenirs. If you're after a very pretty, sporty-looking bike which is suited for touring - This is it! (if you've always wanted to tour, but frown upon harley-ish, old-man looking, huge, high capacity, inefficient tourers, you'll know what i mean) There are bikes which are much more "fun" if you're into tracks, performance or racing. No doubt. This is not where this bike shines in my experience, even though, don't get me wrong here, is also very competent at this. If it's looks, reliability, low costs, easy maintenance and safety, this one's a clear winner.

[@brianrobinson7972]

Well done thanks for entertaining me for the last 31 minutes. Back to the grind

[@stoneblue1795]

All those "R"s...... a lead in to pirate jokes.

[@tejaspadhye]

AARR..

[@conradclipper]

Try not to disappear down an Rs hole

[@korazon3spinado]

This bike is probably all you need for people who want to ride safely and for the most part obey the speed limit.

[@fountainofyouth5]

That black and red looks awesome

[@Gherbert1348]

100% agree on the X being the CB500 to get. As an owner of a 2014 I am biased, but it really is one of the greatest all rounders on sale today. I avg 68mpg by math and not bike computer, mostly daily rider commuting. Good after market to make it more ADV if you want.

[@harryviking6347]

I owned a 2013 mod. and was very happy with it. I might even buy another one soon! It was one of the few bikes I have owned that did not kill my butt after riding 400 kms or more!! Also, the brakes were good, fuel economy very good and enough power for pleasant riding!!

[@Barnshal]

At 6:22 That trailer looked disconnected from the truck, caught my attention for a second ahaha Nice review!

[@jamessouthworth1699]

I've been riding for over 30 years and my current bike is well over 1,000cc. Sometimes less is more and I think I may want to get something like this now. Something with less weight, less fatigue, more carefree.

[@swat1229]

I feel the same way, only about a decade of experience though. My area is well suited to big bikes though. Lots of big empty space.

[@Nathandanielchance]

Another great video. Love your input on the bikes you ride. I’m an experienced rider that has owned many different bikes. I bought a versys 300 for my daily rider after I watched your video review. Now my 1300 v4 Yamaha touring bike is getting a lot of rest. Keep the good videos coming. I’m a fan of your work.

[@Valks-22]

Had a 2019 as my first bike, wonderful all-rounder. Switched to CBR 650R when I started riding more miles with a pillion, two-up on the highway is a bit much for the 35kW around 70-90mph. Otherwise a joy to ride either to spice up your city commute or pull a road trip up some state road twisties.

[@mattbortz10]

Do you like the 650r? I want to upgrade to that, just the price turns me off a little.

[@Valks-22]

@@mattbortz10 I've have more than 23k kilometers on mine - love it :) If you can it's well worth it, you can look at used examples too if available.

[@mattbortz10]

@@Valks-22 thanks for the reply, and input! I'll keep my eye out for possible used ones.

[@parallelfinn]

Glad this bike is finally getting some recognition.

[@silverwolfgecko7064]

Ayyyy, that's my bike! Nice.

[@T.Q.]

Congratulations. Ride safe.

[@philipe.9466]

@@relate97 Not at all. I'd describe the weight as mature. It definitely feels a little heavier than other bikes in this class, like the Ninja 400, but it doesn't feel too heavy. It feels like a grown up bike, but in a good way, if that makes any sense. It carries it's weight very low and combined with the low seat height it's very easy to control, even at lower speeds. I actually really like the fact that it's slightly heavier than other bikes in this class. Both the weight, wide tires and the relatively long wheelbase give the bike a very planted feel on the road, which is great for commuting, highway riding and even touring.

[@josephyoung7833]

Same, I've got the 2016! Been to Italy and back (from Scotland), done the NC500, and the west Atlantic way! My second ever bike and I absolutely love it!

[@silverwolfgecko7064]

@@josephyoung7833 very nice. Might also do a longer trip on it. Been thinking 'bout a roundtrip in middle Europe. I'm from Switzerland.

[@josephyoung7833]

@@silverwolfgecko7064 I was thinking of the same! Will see you in the hills ahaha

[@mattdickson382]

The Civic LX of motorcycles. As long as your expectations aren't unreasonable this will probably do the trick. Mildly sporty, decent handling, fuel efficient, and likely bullet proof. As long as you know what this bike is not (a sport bike) it'll probably make owners happy.

[@LostCauseLA]

It’s a great daily rider for sure! Had mine for a week, gas mileage is great and it’s pretty light (so easy to maneuver).

[@Benjamingt4]

The sound of a 180 parallel twin is an aquired taste. I have a 19 cb500x with a leovince and i love the sound. Then again i also love the sound of a bmw boxer and a farty single, so make of that what you will.

[@kolsonmaddox777]

For a first bike, would you go with the Ninja 400, or a cbr500r? Going to get my first bike soon, looking more at the 400 but the Honda seems interesting 😃

[@SongJLikes]

In so many important ways, the Cbr500r is the absolute PERFECT beginner bike… When examined from that perspective, there are almost no short-comings

[@robertniemiec8146]

Love the noise it makes at idle

[@markl8043]

It’s a nice bike but I’m look at the 500x like u said. How about putting a Ducati desert sled on the daily ride list? Love these videos and happy new year!

[@krabsauce9792]

it's not a cool bike but it's cool for a learner, if you want a first bike, this is the bike to get. I just got my bike license in Australia NSW and this is my first bike (2014 model) and I honestly have to say I couldn't have picked a better bike to learn on. It's not overly heavy but it's heavy enough to learn what a more powerful bike would feel like, it's not overly jumpy but it's as jumpy as a more poweful bike. Perfect example of why this is the perfect learner bike; (15:20) at this point of the video he legit loses the ability to speak coherently because it legitimately is a fun bike (all bikes are fun I know). This bike is FUN and user friendly, especially to a new rider. Honestly, it's the absolute perfect bike for someone who JUST got their license and has the intention of stepping up to a more powerful bike once they get the hang of riding. Be safe my dudes and dudettes.

[@ankrich04]

Another great review Zack! you pretty much summed up CB500X as well. The only thing left is to place it on leaderboard ;-)

[@jacobnemeth7634]

I was surprised to see you go through my neighborhood in Long Beach!

[@christosswc]

Perfect upgrade for me from my 125, been drooling over it for a year. Then the GSX8R happened.

[@T.Q.]

It’s a beginner’s bike. Credit to Honda for making something for almost everyone, apart from the staunch Honda-hating wombles

[@allgasnobrakes919]

Honda is known for “Wobbles”??

[@DJWONG76]

Great review. I’m currently looking at this bike. You got my thumbs up when you mentioned the RZ350. My old bike back in the day.

[@reljoy]

I went from an MT03 to a CB500X. Definitely a step up imo.

[@lukewalker1051]

Great review because taller riders want to know the comfort level. Thank you.

[@dommm111]

That's a pretty damn good looking bike. Happy new year Zack

[@Knakkerman-]

This bike was specifically made for the A2 license in Europe. A2 allows you to ride a bike with a maximum power output of 35kw/48 ish hp. If you look at it that way it makes perfect sense.

[@dragoclarke9497]

Very nice bike, but at 65 years old I think I'll stick with my 2019 model Versys 650GT. Great videos, hope you keep on producing more of them.

[@xplaur]

I've had my MDL course and test on a 500F and I absolutely loved it! Besides the clip-ons and the fairing, this 500R seems to be, pretty much, the same thing!

[@silverwolfgecko7064]

Engine is tuned a bit differently, but otherwise yes

[@nomdeploom5707]

Another good thing about a heavier bike is it's much better dealing with high winds. I've an older CB & feel like I'm on a cigarette paper when the wind gets up in comparison to my litre bike.

[@ddw-ge1ss]

Beautiful looking bike

[@harisjaved1379]

Happy new year’s Zach/Ari/Revzilla

[@gorfind6730]

Loved that you took it on the dirt! 👍

[@jacobmcpherson3486]

I hope sometime soon yall will make a daily rider cbr650r video!

[@LITBROS1]

Thanks ,I couldn't pick between a Honda CBR 300 or a Yamaha z1 , definitely gonna go look at the Cbr500 now !

[@mantasst1663]

Happy New Year! Nice selection for the start!🏍️

[@pmdinaz]

Stuck at the end...you did admit it was a long cut as opposed to a shortcut haha Cheers to many more good sir!

[@thewrongbike7709]

I owned a 2015 one for exactly a year as a daily ride. Other than the vibration the only thing that bugged me was the way the fairings interlocked. Crazy complicated. but it taught me so much over 13,000 miles. Loaded up with the racks, it would make a great mini sports tourer.

[@sterlingroberts6240]

Can you elaborate on the vibration?

[@rockylion4382]

This weekend I’m trading in my 2019 BMW G310GS for a 2021 CBR500R. It’s so hard to find the friction zone when taking off in first gear. And the back brake pedal is tiny. Love the bike but I don’t feel comfortable riding it. I love my Indian scout bobber, love riding my Ducati monster 797. I haven’t even taken this for a test ride, but I love the look of it

[@BmxDieseldude]

The CBR500R is the motorcycle equivalent of a rental spec mustang. Sure it looks sporty to non-enthusiasts and if you'd never experienced another model it would probably feel cool. The reality though is its just another basic soft commuter dressed up nice.

[@Jagknorr]

Damn, this is super accurate! I thought this bike looked and felt super sporty when i bought it but ive never been on another sport bike to say otherwise. Sat on some 600s later and yeah, right away your like, wow....this is very different and we didn’t even turn the engine on yet LOL.

[@larunaaxthemischievous9762]

personally, i prefer the sleek appearance of a sports bike but i would much rather ride a naked bike with its much more human shaped ergonomics, combining the sleek looks of a sports bike with those comfortable ergonomics is a match made in heaven

[@_danyg_]

I would like to watch the Daily Rider Review for the Kawasaki Ninja 650 (2020 or 2021). Great job keep them coming!

[@mrandy5447]

I miss this weather in Ireland I drive on black ice everyday to work

[@jeckyll71]

Excellent, happy 2021!