CB500X - 25K Km review

[@warrenr4]

The CB500X is an awesome real world touring bike, unless you want to do 100 mph all day on motorways. ( I don’t ! ) Such fun to ride and paramount for long distance touring, utterly reliable. I love the fact it’s simple, no riding modes etc. Thanks for the vids Nick, a lot of work goes into making them and it’s been most appreciated ! 🙏🏻🙂✌🏻

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks Warren and I agree with you about the bike! Nick

[@GregKropp]

Nick, I discovered your series recently, watched everything and greatly enjoyed it all. Caught my eye because I have exactly the same bike, same year. I’ve probably got 20 years on you (I’m 69), and sort of realizing now that you probably have the right idea; camp when I can, stay in a hostel/motel when I want, no cooking while on the road and the serious BDR stuff has past me by but, most important, I can still enjoy riding and traveling. Your episodes have been an inspiration to me; however, I’m not interested in doing a KZbin thing at all. I traveled by MC all over Europe when I was stationed in Germany with the US Army in the 70’s, camping every night. Bought, rode and shipped home a new BMW. Sort of the same thing in a van/tent 25 yrs later w wife and 2 kids while at Ramstein AFB for 5 yrs. Any plans for another adventure? Hope so. You do a great job documenting and videoing.

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks for your comments, and sharing your memories. Sounds like you've been adventurous all your adulthood at least. At 66 I hope to have many more years of travel ahead of me, but may just be the bike, tent and me... no cameras 😱 Hope you enjoy the CB500X as much as I do, and that you enjoy your future trips too. Nick

[@NormanHughesdix]

Skid plate is vital to protect the exhaust header

[@bikingtravels]

@@NormanHughesdix Thanks for the comment Nick

[@grahambutcher291]

Very watchable episode Nick. Really like the way you commentate on the road about anything and everthing in all your videos. One of my favourite channels.

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks, just my waffley (assuming there is such a word) nature 😀 Nick

[@TCDEWE]

Great video, as always, Nick. My Cb500x has just reached 40,,000 miles. It has been to Istanbul and Albania. Never let me down. I absolutely love it.😊

[@bikingtravels]

Great to hear! Many thanks for sharing the info and your experience Nick

[@HondaWanderer]

I still love my CB500x more and more. Got 3000km on mine now. Still making adjustments here and there and adding things. Next is a new 16tooth front sprocket, some luggage and a new slip on exhaust. I understand sticking with the 15tooth sprocket, but for me, at the moment only doing country and city riding, I feel 1st and 2nd are too short and the bike is a wee bit viby at 100kph and above. Anyway, have loved watching your series and I hope to see more from you in the future!

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks and I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the bike. Lots of mods you can make to tailor to your specific needs without necessarily breaking the bank! Nick

[@davidmatthews3093]

I’m with Nick on the gearing. The engine has neither the torque nor the power to cope with a 16 tooth sprocket. It may feel more comfortable on fast easy roads but for hills and backroads especially when touring with luggage it will lose its spark, the way it performs so much better than a 47 BHP bike should. Honda got the gearing spot in, why do you think you know better than them?

[@parf2665]

Totally agree, Nick, about the bikes power. Perfect for back roads and occasional motorway blast.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for your thoughts too Nick

[@andrewjones9245]

Hey Nick! It's been a while since an upload. Are we to expect more from you in the upcoming months? I have enjoyed following your travles.

[@bikingtravels]

@@andrewjones9245 Hi Andrew, thanks for the question. I did very little motorcycling worth uploading in 2024 (lots of travel but by car / air) but hoping to change that in 2025. Thanks for checking in Nick

[@blearyview2254]

Hello Nick, the fact you have ridden the bike to so many places and had no issues is a real testament to the Honda reliability, supplemented by a great review and summary of your experience on the bike. I had the Tourance on the NC750X and got about 8k out of them, they too squared off also. I have the Pirelli Angel GT on now and for me are the best tyres I have used, the bike just feels far more balanced and agile. Looking forward to your next adventure. thanks for sharing your wonderful adventure.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for commenting and sharing the info, it's been great having you along on the ride. Enjoy Norway when the time comes! Nick

[@ukjeeper]

6 years, 10 countries and 89,000 miles on my CB500X, including an 11,000 miler across the US and French, Belgian, Spanish, Netherlands TAT's. Still smile when i walk in the garage. It's been, and continues to be, a great all rounder bike. Zero real problems or mechanical issues, apart from the cush drive bearing in the rear wheel failing at about 50 something thousand miles. No surprise, as it's a Honda.

[@bikingtravels]

That some mileage and memories made I'm sure. Thanks for sharing!!! Nick

[@iandunipace]

Hi Nick enjoyed all of your trips . i needed another bike as my 2004 Honda cbf600sa didn't make the stupid ULEZ. your video's made my mind up to buy the 2022 cb500x same colour. the fuel range is what sold it to me. thank you.🙏👍

[@bikingtravels]

@@iandunipace Glad you enjoyed the trips and many thanks for the comment. I hope you enjoy the CB500x as much as I do, just need some de ent weather now! Nick

[@iandunipace]

Your welcome thank you.

[@will7947]

I owned a 2016 cb500x and then changed to a vfr crossrunner 800. In many respects i must admit the 500x is a better all round bike. It has more than enough power, great mpg and was light. Conversely my crossunner is far more powerful ( most of which i dont/cant use on British roads, the fuel economy is half of the 500x and she weighs in at 240kg. I told myself that for 2 up trips i needed something bigger hence the crossrunner, but in reality the cb500x was fine (partner only joins in the summer months, mainly on day trips). Dont get me wrong the crossrunner is great but as an all round package the cb500x has it, especially when you throw in london commuting. Love your videos!

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks Will. Yep, probably a good choice for commuting and occasional 2 up. Many thanks for your comment and hope you enjoy the Crossrunner Nick

[@johnfitzgerald4274]

Thank you.

[@bikingtravels]

You're welcome!

[@jonathanmackie4884]

Interesting review. Keeping having thoughts about getting a bike for commuting duties and small trips away. This looks like a good choice. Nice collection of bikes you own too. Got all the bases covered there. Thanks for the upload and have a good summer's riding.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for the comment, the CB500X could well be the right bike for you, but I recommend having a test ride on anything you are considering... just in case Nick

[@dalcassian9098]

Good luck Nick, looking forward to your next adventure!

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks! Nick

[@nettelplos]

It's been interesting following you on this trip - THX

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks! Nick

[@davidmatthews3093]

My 500X has done almost exactly the same mileage and is still going strong. I agree with you 100% about the gearing, the standard ratios really suit it as a touring bike. You mentioned the rear brake pads being replaced but are you still on the original front pads? If so, we’ll done, mine have just needed replacing at 27500km.

[@bikingtravels]

@@davidmatthews3093 Thanks for the comment and question, nope, had to replace front pads too Nick

[@dragandimovski4935]

Hi Nick..your travel videos were very interesting so do you planning some new trips to share? Regards

[@bikingtravels]

@@dragandimovski4935 Many thanks! Thanks.for.asking, but none planned at the moment. My wife retired this year so we've been doing a lot of travelling... but without a motorcycle 🤷‍♂️ Nick

[@richardfews2113]

Hi Nic,hope all is well with you.I've just come back from a 4 day trip to Brittany/Normandy.The weather was a bit iffy for Sept but we were B&Bing it at a great Bikers B&B so there was always a hit shower and an evening meal waiting for us. Anyway,just reporting in that we used the "Peg" trick at the ferry ports and it worked a treat so thanks for the tip. Any trips planned? Safe riding and all the best. Richard (Brizzle)

[@bikingtravels]

@@richardfews2113 Hey Richard. Great to hear the peg worked 🤣. B&B is a great way to go especially with a meal at the end of the day and no packing up and resetting up a tent every day🤷‍♂️. Shame the weather wasn't at its best but hope you had a great trip anyway. Motorcycling has taken a bit of a back seat since my Norway trip. Lots of travel with my wife who has now also retired, including an 8 week road trip (car) south to Albania then ferry to Italy for northern route home earlier this year. Currently sat in the passenger seat of a hire car in Greece. Still travelling just in a different mode. Take care, thanks for the update. Nick

[@user-jr1cs6ob3m]

My 21 CB500X has 30,000 klm. No issues. My best upgrade was a Seat Concpt seat. I found the stock one had me suffering after an hour or so.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for the info, I'm used to the seat now but a good tip for other folk who may not find it to be ok Nick

[@JimCWoodard]

Nice, real world, long term review on your CB500x. I’ve seen very few negative reviews on them. They are surprisingly hard to find here in the USA, at least in my area and the new NX500s are no where to be found within 500 miles, at least not yet. The few used ones I’ve seen on line cost almost as much as a new one, so they appear to be holding their value, which speaks of the owner loyalty. Look forward to your next adventures. Ride safe and hope you have a great summer. Cheers, Jim

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks Jim, yes, the bike is a capable all rounder so I have no plans to change it. Hope you have a great summer too Nick

[@UnkleCletusNW]

So true about availability in the states. I was extremely lucky, and after looking for months, and missing out on a ‘23 for over $10k out the door, a neighbor was in the process of upsizing and had a ‘22 with basically 0 miles fall into my lap. This review is really gospel on the 500x, but my experience has been identical (if much fewer miles in.) Confidence inspiring, comfortable long rides, enough juice to have fun, fuel sipping.. It’s a beauty. *get one*

[@quentinjackson6015]

Accepting that every motorcycle is a compromise there's no doubt that the Honda CB500X does most things fairly well. As an owner of one I agree with all your observations and will look forward to seeing you and your trusty steed set off on the next adventure. Better riding conditions ahead here in the UK.....Phew! Cheers for now Nick.

[@bikingtravels]

Hi Quentin, many thanks for your comments and yes it is indeed a capable bike, just need the weather to improve now... All the best Nick

[@patrykrog8121]

I got a honda transalp 650 which has similar power and in the future i want to get a cb500x or the new nx 500. I think its probably the best bike to get without many electronics which you dont even need and the power is more than enough and its lighter than my current bike and has 6 gears and the only reason i would get it as a replacement to my current bike is because of europes eco zones. Basically i cant go to many cities because my bike is now too old but the cb500x is essentially the same sort of bike with similar power so in the future i want to get one. Anyway good luck with your adventures.

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks for sharing your thoughts, I hadn't considered the emissions aspect for older bikes. Yes, the CB500x is simple and capable so could be the right choice for you Nick

[@Phiyedough]

I've had a few Hondas, most recent was an XBR500. That mpg is remarkable.

[@bikingtravels]

It sure is! Nick

[@alozborne]

​@@bikingtravelsI'm curious - do you rely on what the bike's ECU shows as the fuel efficiency or do you calculate range for the fuel you add? I've never gotten anything under 3 lites per 100 km, but I rely on the ECU's calculation of that...

[@bikingtravels]

@@alozborne Just relying on the bike being honest 😀 Nick

[@davidmatthews3093]

@@alozborneMy 500X often averages 2.8 or 2.9 l/100km on day trips. Those numbers are based on fuel records backed up by the bike’s display.

[@alozborne]

@@davidmatthews3093 Strange, I don't get how you're all getting anything under 3.4 liters per 100 kms. That's the best I ever get with my bike, running stock tire pressures and a recent air filter replacement too. I do have Dunlop TMM tires on my bike, so maybe it's the inefficiency of the tires? The bike performs well, so I'm not too worried about it

[@pookiewookie7679]

This might be my next bike. I think it looks much better than the new nx500

[@bikingtravels]

Some folk prefer the look of the NX, others don't, personal choice is a great thing. Good luck with your purchase, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do Nick

[@eddale5557]

I ordred a NX 500 and i hope it is asd good as your bike then i have nothing to be scared of! .)

[@bikingtravels]

Congrats!!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do the CB. Have fun! Nick

[@harivarsani4659]

Excellent routes I notice. We are planning English South Coast, can you suggest a route starting Broadstairs for 5days?

[@bikingtravels]

If you take a look at my "UK 2023 - Solo motorcycle camping trip Southern England" playlist I use MyRouteApp.com for a 12 day route Souhern England, you can download the routes I used from their site, each one is referenced in the video descriptions. Pretty sure you could stitch a really good route together from there. I think you can download routes for free. Have a great trip! Nick

[@AkaWilf]

Good to see the 500X performed so well on its travels Nick. Will you use it again on any future trips? I have the same model in the same colour and find it is ideal for my kind of use. Just one improvement, and that would be a frameless pannier mounting system like on my Versys 650.

[@bikingtravels]

Yep, absolutely to using it on future trips. And yes, frameless mounts would be a bit of a bonus. Many thanks for the comment Nick

[@OlyLowe]

Nick have you had your valves checked yet? Many seem to omit it... some even reporting Honda mechanics saying 'well it sounds ok so lane it be!'. From what I've read it seems that valves checked at 16k miles never need adjusting. Some at 32k miles need minor adjustment, some still don't... so i was keen to hear when you had yours checked (if you indeed did?!) and what was the outcome? Thanks again!

[@bikingtravels]

@@OlyLowe Thanks for the question. My mechanic was of the opinion they did not need checking at 16k miles, I'm happy with that recommendation from him so will leave for the time being. Nick

[@phughes8742]

Hi, can you tell me what Sat Nav you use and does it come with a mounting bracket? Thanks

[@bikingtravels]

@@phughes8742 Thanks for the question. It is a Garmin Zumo XT GPS device with a 3rd party mount... Rally Raid Billet Multi-Mount for 12mm (1/2") Crossbar - part number RRP643 Nick

[@AshTek_Biker]

I downgraded from CFmoto 650MT to a CB500X 22. Love the CBX so much better. Lighter, easier to handle and so much better on MPG. (Not all about the power.) Brought the CBX second hand in Feb 24 with 6k miles on it. Had 2 owner before me. Added many modifications already and think it’s now where I want it. Opted to get the Full shad hard luggage setup on mine. Hope to have many happy miles on the bike.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for sharing and I hope you have a great experience with the CB500X, and yep, you can have fun without masses of power. Nick

[@stevedriver1376]

Did you have to do much chain adjusting during the Nordkapp trip? Asking as I plan to ride to Almeria on mine (1500 miles each way), so wondering what tools I might need.

[@bikingtravels]

It was on an as needed basis... visual inspection, lubed often and adjusted when I was on smooth terrain if it looked needed. but for 3000 miles I'm sure the chain will need some adjustment. I took a couple of sockets and a T-bar for adjustment purposes as I already owned them, but appropriate spanners (with leverage) would work for the axle. You could always opt for a scooter workshop that tend to be in every just about other village and town in Spain to adjust it for you, can't imagine they'd charge much. Have a great, safe trip! Nick

[@tonkie1131]

As you say it’s a Honda and I suppose it does what it says on the tin, any other Journeys planed? I’ve said before, it’s been a pleasure accompanying you along your travels

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks once again for your comments along the way, no plans... yet All the best Nick

[@gbohnen]

hello, thanks for your interesting videos. are these hepco becker crash bars? have you noticed more vibrations after mounting them? thank you.

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for the question and yes they are Hepco but I mounted them having ridden very few miles on the bike so I'm afraid I don't know if it made any difference. The bike runs fairly smoothly with them though. Nick

[@OlyLowe]

Hi Nick. Really enjoying your relaxed and no nonsense approach to travelling. I see you use a Nolan (N80?) helmet? How do you find the noise? I have mild tinnitus and am not sure if I'm convincing myself that my helmet is noisy or if it is! I'd appreciate your thoughts and if you've tried others to compare? Thanks and keep up the good work. Safe travels, Oly

[@bikingtravels]

@@OlyLowe Many thanks for your kind words. I can't really compare it, my previous one was a flip lid and was rather noisy, noisier than the Nolan anyway. I wear custom fit gel ear plugs at all times, which do a good job of reducing wind noise, but... my tinnitus is always in the background. Ho hum. So can't help specifically but do recommend ear plugs if you're not already using them. Nick

[@OlyLowe]

@bikingtravels many thanks Nick, much appreciated

[@DanielOliveiraSantos]

Looking into getting one for touring with pillion... Only problem is that I am 95kg and pillion 65... Will it be fine on the highway with luggage and pillion ?

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks for the question, the bike has been great for me but I'm 75kg and ride solo. Personally I would not want to ride far on a highway with a pillion on this bike. I know folk do and on smaller machines, but just not for me. Hopefully you'll get a chance to test ride one and make your mind up based on the experience, it may well be sufficient for you. Good luck with your decision Nick

[@stephenmundane]

From the horse's mouth -- great review.

[@bikingtravels]

Well, better that than the other end! 😂 Nick

[@AlanMairson]

Great video, Nick. One question: You say, “… but I highly recommend you try it yourself, especially if you’re taller.” I’m 6’3”, 230 lbs. Would the CB500x be a good fit for me? Or would my knees be screaming for relief? Thanks in advance.

[@bikingtravels]

@@AlanMairson thanks for the question, I'm only 6', it is OK for me, I think you could struggle especially if unlike me you have long legs (I think I have long body). Think you'd need to sit on one unless somebody else who reads the question is of similar height to you and knows the answer. Good luck, it's a great bike but... Nick

[@AlanMairson]

@@bikingtravels I have a 36" inseam, so... aaaggghhh. I really like this bike, but I'm afraid my knees would never forgive me. Thanks again for a great video.

[@OlyLowe]

​@@AlanMairson I went with the NX and am 6ft4 with 34 inseam. For me it works well with a few mods. I have 40mm lower footpegs. Handlebar riser (and back). Tall WRS screen on screen lifters plus an aftermarket deflector too. The knees are somewhat bent (more so than a traditional bike, but much less than a sports bike). Take a look at the cycle ergo website and punch in your numbers and possible mods. (The NX superceded the CB500X... but it's essentially the same bike but with new fairing and dash. I do find the wind protection better with the new fairing design). All the best

[@AlanMairson]

@OlyLowe Thanks very much for sharing those details. It's a big help.

[@CC-mk2ox]

Hi Nick Really enjoyed your travel videos. Absolutely take my hat off to you. What are your thoughts about your tent, the Vango Tryfan 300 I am a big fan of Vango and woukd like to know how you got on with the Tryfan on extended road trips. How did you manage particularly in inclement conditions.

[@bikingtravels]

Many thanks for the comment and question. I really enjoy the Tryfan 300. It is a 2 part tent so can be used without the flysheet, but I have not used it that way. Plenty of ventilation options and 2 doors make it really accessible. I went for the 3 man tent on a recommendation by an experienced tourer, it is big enough to bring in all the gear without cramping the sleeping area. Particularly useful in bad weather. I camped in a couple of gales in Scotland, it was rock-solid and the gear stayed dry in the tent. I was surprised it survived the night, but survive it did! There is plenty of room to store all the gear in the vestibules, very useful for boots! Overall, I'm really impressed with it, roomy, storm proof and reasonably quick to erect / dismantle Downside... bit bulky when packed up compared to smaller or more expensive tents, but to me at least, well worth the extra bulk. Nick

[@jamescant6625]

👍

[@bikingtravels]

Thanks James Nick

[@mikejones-rb7jb]

Great review Nick. I'm considering getting the CB500X, NX500 or the NC750X (which I know is a different proposition). Wondering why you have changed up to NX500?

[@bikingtravels]

Hope I haven't sent out a mixed message ref the NX500. I still have the CB500X which I am still enjoying, it has just had its 2nd birthday so I won't be upgrading to the NX which seems more of a rebrand and face lift. I'm sure it's a great bike too. Lots of reviews out there. Tough choice you have ahead, wish you all the best with your decision! Nick

[@marksimpson5218]

The only downside the NC750x has is the rear fuel filler. But, if you don’t have luggage across the back seat ( I do when touring) its not.

[@mikejones-rb7jb]

@@bikingtravels Ah, sorry I mis-read the intro to your video! I see that you still have your 500x.

[@madmatts9010]

When is your next adventure?

[@bikingtravels]

@@madmatts9010 thanks for the question. Priorities change over time and I've not been out much on the bike recently and nothing currently planned. Just enjoying days out without recording equipment so I'm really not sure 🤷‍♂️ Nick

[@papertiger795]

I havent caught up with your latest adventure yet, about 5 episodes to go... But have you decided what your next big trip is going to be?

[@bikingtravels]

You're nearly there, thanks for sticking with it!! I've nothing planned at the moment so really not sure Nick

[@jviskup]

Hi Nick. How often did You maintain the chain? How often did You clean the chain? How often You had to set the tigtness of chain? It's few minutes for experienced motorcyclist, but I am pretty much begginer than experienced. Thanks 🙂

[@bikingtravels]

It depends on how often I use the bike, on my Norway trip, away for 7 weeks I checked it and lubricated it probably weekly. Adjusting as it became slacker than optimal once I was on smooth road (I don't have a centre stand so need to roll the bike to lube). I use a small chain cleaning brush to get rid of grit etc. There is a good article about chain maintenance on Motorcycle News website www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-kit/tools/how-to-look-after-motorbike-chain Hope this helps, Nick

[@williamfarrell6654]

Where have you disappeared to?

[@bikingtravels]

@@williamfarrell6654 Thanks for the question. After my Norway trip I had a group trip round the Pyrenees, which I partially captured video for. But in a group hard to stop, change batteries or direction, so sadly it really didn't warrant 50 hours or.so of editing. Then, my wife retired and.we spent a lot of 2024 travelling by car or plane etc. No motorcycle trips other than solo days out. Then all of a sudden, it's 2025 and here I am trying to answer a very valid question. I'm hoping to do "something" this year. So thanks for the question, sorry I have no clear answer. All the best, Nick

[@kritasto2813]

Interesting how 0,5 l bike manages to slurp so much petrol. Compared to diesel consumption in car, like my Volvo V70 2,5 liters will use 5,5-6 l on long runs. Weight many times more and has much more wind resistance.

[@bikingtravels]

Interesting point, I wonder what the consumption would be if the CB500x was diesel? Must admit, its not the most aerodynamic especially with the standard screen. Thanks for the comment and observation Nick

[@alvindavenport5657]

Actually, motorcycles have poorer drag coefficients than cars. It wouldn’t seem so, given the larger frontal area, but bikes have a lot of exposed parts that create drag. Cars can cover these items with smoother bodywork.

[@davidmatthews3093]

I suggest you look at the fuel consumption of other motorcycles, the 500X is very economical. If you wanted to do a like for like comparison you would probably find on the runs where you can achieve you best fuel consumption the 500X would be using well less than half the fuel. You car is far more aerodynamically efficient than any motorbike let alone an unfared upright bike like the Honda.

[@kritasto2813]

​@@davidmatthews3093 ​@davidmatthews3093 Found for you in web comparisement 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa Drag Coefficient: 0.561 Cross sectional area: 0.558m2 Total drag effect area: 0.313m2 Porshe 911 GT3 Drag Coefficient: 0.34 Cross sectional area: 2.07m2 Total drag effect area: 0.704m2 So Porsche as a sports car has 2 times harder to push through air, but I am comparing to fx Volvo V70 with aerodynamic of a fridge and even more cross section area. And then comes more weight and bigger rolling resistance for a car. Those motorcycle engine producers are just super lazy , intentionally or not.

[@simonchilli2088]

Reading the comments I think we thought that you had replaced your CB500X with an NC500. You mean Honda have replaced it which is why you haven't ridden it! I did wonder why yude bought a bike and not ridden it😂

[@bikingtravels]

Absolutely!!!! Yep, Honda have replaced the model, I have no intention of replacing my CB500x. Thanks for sharing! Nick

[@simonchilli2088]

@@bikingtravels The new NC loox a bit tidier at the front.

[@ktkace]

NGL ... NX500 isnt a looker by any measure

[@bikingtravels]

I tend to agree with you there! Nick

[@Dehancer]

Hey, we love your videos! What do you think about making a collaboration? If you're interested, please write us your email

[@bikingtravels]

@@Dehancer Many thanks for your kind words. I'm not currently producing videos but will bear you in mind for the future Nick