WATCH before you buy anything Bigger than 500cc

[@morteparla6926]

Well, if it's worth _anything at all,_ the CB500F and CBR500 are what I call "real life bikes". They have more than enough power to be usable anywhere, highway included, they're ergonomic, comfortable and dead reliable, they're cheap to buy, cheap to insure, and they're both very fun bikes to ride fast. The old saying of "I'd rather ride a slow bike fast, than a fast bike slow." has a lot of validity. Slow bikes are very fun to ride the hell out of. It's why the Grom got so popular. The Honda 500's are great real life bikes. They're everything you'll ever genuinely need.

[@godwhomismike]

Morte Parla this is the exact reason I really have my eye keenly on the Rebel 500.

[@ripmax333]

“Real life bikes” i like this term.

[@azdeh1894]

Well said. Which is why I'm thinking of selling my 12' r6 and getting a vulcan S or smaller. Simply don't need the power, it's fun..but it's asking for trouble. I thought myself responsible but in the moment we all do stupid shit.

[@sinatra617]

Morte Parla hey Morte what about someone e who is 6'4 350lbs. I'm really trying to find a entry level bike. I'm 40 yes old not looking to tear up the roads I'm looking to learn. I'm a big dude in not sloppy. Im athletic and move my weight around very well. I'm so lost on what kind of bike to look at. Cz everyone has an opinion. You're to big for a begginer bike. You need a 600cc u need a liter bike. I hear so many different things I dont know what to do

[@ripmax333]

sinatra_vapes the Honda 500’s are more than enough, for you height i think they are not really cramped. And since your are a tall guy the CB500x will suite you maybe a bit better, that extra inch of suspension travel will be great to soak the bumps and enjoy the ride. But depends what kind of bike fancy more, cruisers , naked , sport , adv etc. Go at the dealership and sit on one. The NC750x or X are al good option, more practical with the tank storage built in and super economical.

[@BassOutcast]

You know, the beauty of these bikes and 500cc bikes in general (even older ones like the old CB500 or GS500) is that they can do pretty much whatever you want them to do and do so on the cheap too! Wanna cruise the highway? sure! Wanna drag knee in the canyons? hop on! Wanna take your girl for a roadtrip with some luggage and take the scenic country roads? no problem. They're light and flickable, are faster than most cars and won't get you in trouble if you enter a corner in the wrong way. It's just like someone in the comments said - these are "real world" bikes. And honestly? They can go pretty fast, around 110-115 MPH, which is more than enough to get you in trouble.

[@ws8080]

I'd love to see EFI versions of the old GS500 or the fairing version, or the old Ninja 500 but that won't happen with the 400 now. What I'd really like is for Suzuki to get off their butt and come out with fuel-injected version of the old early 90s GSF400 Bandit that was before it's time - naked inline 4 with a 15k redline. I have the carb version would love to see modernized and get Suzuki back in the game since their GSX250R is not good for the price and they have nothing else in the class. Or the manufacturers could just offer us more of the models they are selling outside the U.S.....

[@lordracula2461]

@@ws8080 Nice to see the old GS500 referenced, I have a spanish-built one here in the UK. Sadly they're from a bygone era for both cars and motorcycles now. Culturally we are a society of car drivers and the motorcycle is a rich man's plaything rather than an everyday mode of transport, that's why you don't get any commuter bikes now. It's entirely down to cultural attitudes, same reason why we barely have any automatic cars here in the UK.

[@noisepuppet]

Only in America do people worry about a 500cc bike being too small.

[@dustinsegers4534]

I agree. My understanding is that most of the rest of the world rides some type of a 250.

[@noisepuppet]

Dustin Segers yes and in fact, in Asia and the Pacific, millions and millions of them ride underbones of 100cc or less. That's why the 100-something cc Honda underbone is designated SUPER Cub. The 150cc Suzuki Raider is called a hyper underbone, and they do them up like sport bikes. I don't think you can even get the Raider in the Continental US. For ages, someone decreed that Americans wouldn't buy little bikes. Finally someone at Honda noticed the craze for pocket and pit bikes, which people wanted so bad they'd build them in the garage, and they gave us the Grom. Now Honda has taken the Supercub back from SYM, and everyone's offering some kind of Grom like thing. The Spade and Van Van are hot. I feel that the Raider can't be far behind.

[@dustinsegers4534]

@@noisepuppet Interesting. I wasn't aware that they rode oftentimes 150cc or less. That makes total sense though. Frankly, I'm encouraged to see here on KZbin more channels dedicated to 250cc dual sports like the XT 250 or TW 200. Frankly, I prefer those.

[@JSAFIXIT]

We have big wide open and straight roads here, and a love for big power.

[@speedpower2740]

Not true, I live in Slovenia with twisty mountain roads everywhere, and there are a lot of people here with 600cc and 1000cc sportbikes. The thing with sportbikes isn't just the power, most roads here are way too narrow to use all of it, but the great suspension and brakes that give you great feeling in corners.

[@harryviking6347]

Have tried the CBR500R on a 3000 km trip in Thailand last "winter" and was really happy with it! Had enough torque to get me away from most idiots on the road and also the seize and weight made it feel like it was bigger than it actually was. First bike ever that did not make me "cry" of butt pain due to bad seat after 6-7 hours of riding! Breaks were absolutely good enough! I guess the CB500 will be the same. Also the price on these 500s make me smile!! What more do you need!! PS. I have been on numerous bikes since started with bikes in 1966 so I have a "fair" idea about what I am talking about...

[@rameneaterguy]

Anyone who knocks that bike hasn’t ridden one, bought one a few years ago and put 12,000 miles on it without so much as a hiccup. Rode from San Francisco to L.A. and back probably six times at over 400 miles and she took it like a champ 75mph on the freeway the whole way. And top speed isn’t too bad either somewhere around 112-115.

[@petewebb6952]

A good “exit level” bike too: for guys in their seventies who want to wind down their life-time of motorcycling with a light bike for local fun rides...

[@spunkospunko4800]

Absolutely and that’s why I have one

[@rl-ub9hx]

Hell, I'm 38 and have been on 636s and 1000s. Started riding my wife's CB500 a lot lately and absolutely pick it first to ride to work or bop around town. It's not perfect but I think it's just a matter of me being used to stiff suspension and sharper handling. Only thing I would change if it were mine is slightly stuffer springs. And that's it.

[@zeke8341]

Thank you for speaking the truth in this video. Most people can not handle the 600 or 1000cc bikes. Thank you for speaking the truth!!!!!!

[@noisepuppet]

Except the Boulevard s40

[@MrRuger1977]

I bought a Suzuki GS500F 10 years ago as a starter bike, Still riding it. Its a great bike, Reliable and cheap to ride. Will I ever upgrade? Possibly but there is no real reason that I need to or have too. No one needs more then a 500 in most cases but whatever makes you happy..Do it and enjoy it.

[@newwavetheo]

My father had a Suzuki GS450 (the previous GS made in the early to mid 80s) for a long time. Kinda wish we kept it. Great looking classic!

[@Tazmaniac610]

That was my starter bike too! I miss it.

[@MrRuger1977]

@@Tazmaniac610 I miss it too, I sold it last year and purchased a Vulcan 900 Classic so I could more easily take the wife or kids. I really love the Vulcan but I do miss my GS500F, Hope the guy who bought it is taking care of her.

[@Kaspurr84]

It doesnt have to be a starter bike, for me it was my perfect bike, I had a 98 CBR600F3, 13 CBR500R, 15 CBR650F, 17 CRF250L.. now im riding and keeping my 2017 CB500F. Ive been riding for 2 decades. I just came back from a couple runs on the Tail of The Dragon and Cherohala Skyway here in TN/NC, which I live close to I frequent a lot. I'd love to hear someone tell me they need a 1000CC bike on that road. Anyone can be a straight line hero. Top speed is gearing limited to 108mph (indicated and gps displayed ) so if thats not the top speed you think you need, go buy another bike like SRK said.

[@elgringoec]

Agree re: "need". But I'll tellya what, that Cherohala skyway was a blast to carve up on my VF1100S! Those big sweepers flipping to and fro are that bike's strongest suit. The dragon was way too crowded to have much fun on. People be jus' crawlin'. I want to check out the X trim of this bike.

[@rockin870]

Just bought my first bike. Your videos helped me a lot. I got a 1998 Yamaha V-STAR 650. Guy I got it from bought it from the original owner. It was stored for 19 years, and only has 4,000 miles. He cleaned it all up and changed all the fluids. Shit looks brand new....and I paid $1500. Now I have to learn to ride.

[@davidledford3522]

How's it going now

[@badassolds]

My daughter bought a 2014 CB500F. Its her first bike and she enjoys the heck out of it and rides it when ever she can. Had it on I-5 and cruised nicely at 70+ and has done some back roads driving as well here in the PNW. I'm glad she got such a great starter bike, big enough to have fun on but not crazy fast that we need to be worried about. :) Sounds like she made a great choice.

[@mike63ful]

Been riding 33 years and I agree with everything you said. Matter of fact I downsized last year to an R3. It's lightweight and fun to ride.

[@matthewescobedo3535]

Considering an r3 as my first bike, thoughts?

[@nephilymbass1]

I’m 40 and dont know if I’d like the daily an r3 but I plan on getting a mt03 which they used a lot of the r3 stuff on

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

​@@matthewescobedo3535did you get a bike?

[@Bazza.baz224]

Like so many, I always went bigger and bigger, faster and faster. From 50cc to 125cc to 250cc then 750cc, 900cc and on to 1200cc. It just seemed that that's what you are supposed to do. But I always fondly remembered the greatest fun years back had been larking around with mates on the small, lighweight bikes. So 4 years ago I borrowed a KTM 390 for a couple of hours, and by the afternoon had found a KTM dealership and ordered one. Honestly, best change ever. Got the grin factor back. Every ride is fun. August 2018 update to above - just traded in my 2014 Duke 390 for the new 2018 model.

[@michaelcoffey2706]

Jimi Bamboozi cbr500r is ranked #1 for fuel efficiency and its also linear power. I want to get a Yamaha XT250 and a cbr500r

[@SBKPete]

You make some great points Bazza. 42 years of riding and I had the most fun as a youth, on a Yamaha DT 125 Enduro with my mates.

[@dny9394]

'The grin factor' and later (Bamboozi) 'not stopped smiling': says it all guys. That's what it means to be a biker... ride safe.

[@pidotherhotpotatoes3127]

I timed your zero to sixty run and came up with 5.35 sec. and 5.45 sec. So it is safe to say 0-60 in under 6 seconds. I enjoy the content you produce, keep up the great work!

[@leozero_]

Thats really good, faster then I would ever need. My car has a 0-60 of just under 10 seconds. So considering this is about half I would be extremely happy with that.

[@huseyinkuyumcu5196]

its 4.9 seconds ive tried

[@davidphillips7255]

A couple of years ago I had a new V-Strom 1000 and I took a 500F for a half hour test ride and realized pretty quick I made a mistake. The Honda steered and handled so nice it was way more fun to ride at sane speeds in the twisties. Now I have a 500F.

[@listfactors]

I love my 2023 CB500F. 18k miles in the past 7 months. I typically ride it at 90mph on a weekly 360 mile interstate ride. I'm 5'11, 225lbs. 23 years riding experience.

[@username-mark]

Thanks for the comment. I'm looking at one of these types of bikes as my first one. Will be using it to commute to work. About 110 miles round trip ( hour ride each way ) and was wondering how the wind effects you on that type of trip??

[@dakotaolivier3609]

@@username-marki’m a bit late but i have a 2017 cb500f it’s my first bike im about 5’9 180 pounds and i have to say it’s gonna throw you around on the highway but i’ve only ridden on a two lane with semi’s coming the opposite way which sucks you have to tuck but other than that just get a windshield and it should be fine (not the most comfortable though)

[@StreetfighterBrah]

I absolutely love my CB300F. Fun to rev it around in the city and has a good balance of everything. Just changed an indicator bulb a few weeks ago and that's it.

[@marcmaz21]

Glad to find this video. The problem is everyone is always going bigger and better. At some point it gets to be stupid. I had a VTX1800 and realized one day I actually had more fun riding my wife’s VLX600. It had nothing to prove. Just sit back and enjoy the ride. I’ve got buddies that analyze everything and memorize quarter mile times. I could care less about that. The fun factor is what I need. Thanks for giving us an honest review. New riders should have to watch this video. GREAT JOB. Thanks

[@CameronStPeter]

I ended up getting one of these as my first bike. I got 7k safe miles in during my first riding season, and enjoyed every damn minute. It can power wheelie in first, and do easy clutch ups in first, but it's much harder in 2nd. As he said, it doesn't have stupid power, but can still 0-60 in like 5 seconds, and is reasonably quick/agile at legal speeds.

[@NobodyWhatsoever]

It's one of the bikes I am considering as my first. Once I make it there, how does it actually fare on the highway? I've seen a couple of videos saying it was closer to red lining at 70 and 75, which is much closer to how traffic flows here.

[@CameronStPeter]

@@NobodyWhatsoever doable, have done plenty of 70-80mph highway time. It can go into the low triple digits.

[@NobodyWhatsoever]

@@CameronStPeter Awesome. I thought it could, but a previous video I'd watched said something about revving out at 70 which didn't make sense, as that's much more known of the 300cc. My local used market is crap, and sure I don't know what will be when I am finally ready to purchase, but considering what my local Honda motorcycle dealer is asking for them, I'd be willing to buy one new, and it's plenty of bike to grow into without being too much for a total novice, I think.

[@martinrea8548]

What does "clutch up" mean?

[@CameronStPeter]

@@martinrea8548 A "clutch-up" is a type of wheelie where you pull in the clutch, rev the engine higher, and then release the clutch quick-ish to give your bike the surge of power needed to lift the front wheel. A "power wheelie" involves no clutch, just gas.

[@Gofr5]

Just started riding this week and have the 2016 500R version of this bike as my first bike. It's fantastic and I absolutely love it. It came with a few mods on it already from the previous owner, including those same clutch and front brake handles as the ones on the bike in this vid. It's got plenty enough juice for getting the job done and is a lot of fun. Looking forward to learning more as I ride it.

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

How's the riding?

[@whiterabbitt2002]

A excellent all around motorcycle that one most likely will never outgrow is the Triumph Street Triple R. It is light (166kg, the same weight of the 1970 Triumph Bonneville 650 but with over double the HP and handling that rivals any other bike out there). It can be ridden conservatively or wildly. It holds its value well and is one of the best selling motorcycles on the planet of its type. Only if one decides to go the route of a heavy cruiser type of bike down the road would one feel the need to trade it in for another ride to replace it (unless one has the pre 2018 model and wants to tradeup to that new model with its larger and even more powerful engine and other upgrades that it has added). And no I do not own one, I own a 2016 MG V7II and a 2015 HD Super Low 1200T. But ... As soon as I can swing it, I plan on getting a 2018 Triumph Street Triple R (test rode one not long ago and WOW !). Later ... ;-)

[@MadMexism]

Got the 2017 Rebel 500. Its my first bike, and i friggin love it. Go to work everyday on it. Im about 5'10 180Lbs. on the highway she is a dream, and sips fuel like crazy. Sure beats my 1998 land rover. LOL. Putting the Two brothers exhaust, shure did change her character. Love it, and highly recommend a 500cc for beginners.

[@godwhomismike]

Rene Pena I got my eye on the same bike. The changes I would do would be an upgraded seat, Pirelli MT60RS scrambler tires, saddlebags, and a windscreen.

[@MadMexism]

godwhomismike awesome man! Yeah, I’m trying to find me a good seat myself. The bike can definitely do long trips. Just after about an hour riding nonstop, your butt starts to let you know to pull over and give it a break. Lol. If you do buy one, you will not regret it. Sure a big V-twin is nice! But this sucker can go where those big boys can’t! 😉

[@trailrider1980]

Awesome choice. I had a rebel 500 for a few months. The only reason i sold it was cause I wanted something taller and more sporty. I got a killer deal on an mt09 2018, prettt much i only had to put an extra 600 dollars to get the mt09 once i sold the rebel 500. Its an awesome bike with grrat looks. All my friends like the rebel style more than my new bike. You can make it a looker for sure.

[@romero.4089]

Oh no the two brothers exhaust

[@ryanlavallee3239]

@@trailrider1980 funny bc my bubby has a mt09 and his insurance is 3k for the year and I'm looking at a rebel is it's 1k. Insane price difference for a little more fun.

[@petewebb6952]

188 kg just the right weight... I have a CB500X (2019) which is great bike. Not entry level for me as I’ve had lots of 1200s... I have a Triumph T120, but I’m using the CB500 more...

[@scotteger6271]

Pete it's interesting reading your comment because I have a 2018 T120 that I'm selling because the 500x does everything I need and I ride it more too

[@frankwhelan1715]

Years ago a 500 was a BIG bike.

[@jeremycubs8331]

Even a 250 was the biggest thing lol

[@gonzhh95]

you talking two stroke bikes so this would be the equivalent to a 250cc

[@knight9517]

Just got a 2019 Royal Enfield Himalayan as my first bike last Saturday and so far I'm enjoying every bit of it

[@anthony-barber]

I had a cbr f4, gsxr1000, fj09, and 1800vtx, and now am riding a 2020 rebel 500, and it’s a lot of fun riding around town and country roads. Done with the fast bikes and heavy cruisers, Little 500 does it all, highway speed, easy to handle, and cheap to run and insured. Great job on the video!!😊

[@tauntonengine3]

That bike would be a great beginner bike but I would go back to the stock mirrors. Those bar end mirrors look difficult to see with.

[@scotteger6271]

There are different shapes/sizes of bar end mirrors. The ones on this particular bike seem like they're more for aesthetics than functionality. That said, the bar end mirrors that curve upwards and place the mirror above your hand/wrist are excellent to see behind you...no elbow/shoulder in view.

[@charlesfoster141]

Love your reviews. The Honda CB500F looks like a perfect bike. I recently sold both of my BMW 1200cc bikes because I am 68 now and ready to scale down. I bought a Honda Grom and enjoyed it so much that I knew beyond a doubt that smaller is better. So I sold the Grom and bought a fabulous motorcycle the Kawasaki X300 Versys. This is by far the most enjoyable motorcycle I have ever owned. A magnificent machine. I cannot sing enough praise about that bike. But I also recently acquired a KTM Duke 690 Supermoto! It is powerful and handles better than my Versys but it's huge thumper engine is not tractable at all. The KTM has to be ridden at higher rpm to get the best out of it. The KTM does not enjoy lugging along because it is geared pretty tall. For those reasons I have the KTM on the market. One potential buyer is considering trading me his like new Honda CB500F plus cash for my KTM. That is why I watched this video. I am convinced that this Honda would suit me better than my KTM.

[@StratfordWingRider]

My ideal bikes that I like are the cbr500, the CB500F and the CB400 super four (they exist here in NZ) - just gotta wait for those prices to come down. I’m most certainly not a track rider. I think you gotta know what you are riding bikes for and get the right bike to fit that.

[@scubarubanzaii]

I’ve liked the Honda 500s so much that I’m on my second one. I had a 2015 CB500F and I recently bought a 2023 CB500X.

[@johnpro2847]

0:47 can't love that front headlight ..makes the bike look like a preying mantis ready to strike.

[@SilverKuma]

my first bike, which is also still my current bike is a 1997 honda magna 750cc, it has good acceleration, top end, handling, tons of fun, also got it for $1200 which was nice, only needed oil change and chain. I ended up with the 750 because of the height and comfort. power really didnt come into mind when I was looking at bikes to be honest. im a big guy, 6'-2".

[@rxlegend3731]

My first bike after my msfc was a 2014 cb500f and man it was fun.. so much fun I ran off the road and hit a ditch at around 90mph. I wish the msf would teach new riders mid to high speed maneuvering because they kept us in the parking lot doing very low speed maneuvers and that didn't translate well. Thank God for protecting me. I learned my lesson and now I'm planning on getting a cruiser. speed is not super important to me anymore I want to focus a lot more on my mechanics and get better.

[@joecamel6835]

You won't get better driving a cruiser around .

[@bfarm44]

I find the cb500f to be the perfect bike. I've been riding for 34 years all bike's and sizes and now that I'm looking for an end bike I find this one to be perfect. Does everything you need it too without complaint. Reliable? There probably isn't a more reliable bike out there

[@notursweetheart666]

I bought my 2017 cb500f a few years ago after watching this video and other research, it has been a pleasure to own

[@BlackRiverRider]

This was my first bike and I owned it for about 2 years. Took day trips with my wife, rode with my Harley friends, cruised backroads, it could do it all but I found myself wanting just a little more power. I think the 650cc class is the best all around for power, weight, and performance. 600’s are only good when going all out and much more expensive/harder to maintain as well as insure.

[@Thesusoperator]

They say you’ll get tired of the lower CCs fast but heck its the same with higher CCs.

[@rehtorbF03]

Honestly, wish I got a 500cc instead of a 250cc for my first bike.

[@LIGHTNING351]

I enjoyed my CBR 250 as my first bike purchased used then after 5 months sold it made 200.00 on the deal and purchased a 600 mile cbr 500 at a great deal. No complaints on that 250 I miss it at times so light and nimble great bike for the city.

[@micaKTM1290]

Ride what you got. You can have a lot of fun on a 250.

[@jasperatymrochwite7275]

I wish I had enough to get one now after having a 250 as my first bike. I was done with it being wow in about 3 months though lol

[@OriginalCovfefe]

Was on a suzuki gz250 for like two months before I was like “the hell is this slow ass scooter? I need a new one”. Picked myself up a Kawasaki Vulcan S 650. Love the hell out of it.

[@milkman2591]

I'm 13k into riding a cb300f, it doesn't feel happy at 90. It feels like it's going to have a heart attack.

[@johna6968]

Not a lot of bikes I havnt owned over the years but now happy aboard a 500cc twin. Good times

[@davephillips5868]

I spent the afternoon riding on some hidden knarly country roads in the local hills on my 500F and it was a perfect day on the perfect bike for that kind of riding. I had a 72 Honda CB450 nearly 50 years ago and it was awesome in it's day but this is so much better in every way. Not just for beginners:)

[@franmarch]

I really like the way you do your reviews, it is nice to see so many different bikes.

[@Srkcycles]

Thanks

[@thedanggame6691]

“Are those kinds of idiot you wanna hang out with?” got me. The social media made it that people think they have too be cool riding a leader bike. Those 900 cc bile won’t even get anything pass 2nd gear for max torque on the highway. And most the people who ride them break laws, do all the crazy stuff putting people around them at risk, and put those footages on the internet which this generation is admiring. Those people are the actual one that brought bad reputation of “motorcycling is dangerous” to the rest, including the beginners. Great review man keep it up

[@ThatCampingOwl]

Excellent video! I'm aiming to buy a an older (2005) CBF 500cc myself as a first bike, it looks great and is more than enough bike for a good start of my motorcycling life, can't wait! Thank you for this video, it's exactly the kind of content I was searching for!

[@bigdogpete43]

You are right. It's all relative. I can have a great time on a 125.

[@OriginalCovfefe]

Boone Docker a scooter? Idk man. Nothing fun about an extremely low powered “motorcycle”.

[@trickmustang1994]

Jaden Jeong I bought a Kawasaki Z125 pro and I love it. I also have a 2018 Honda cbr1000rr but I find myself riding the little 125 more. It just puts a smile on my face every time I ride it.

[@robcourtney1997]

Try a Honda Varadero 125. A big ass 125

[@marc-oj3sc]

My next bike will be a BM 850, but I enjoyed a lot the Honda’s 250, 350, 400, that I have owned. The small bikes make you feel in command, and this feeling is around until 500 cc. My fz6 is very intimidating, I do not think anyone would say otherwise, it isn’t about the engine cc. That bike is insanely fast and without any electronic refinements like traction control , etc.

[@daveco1270]

Honest question here. How much of a distraction is it to be doing a video while you're riding a bike? I know the moto-vlogs and ride videos are very popular these days and enjoy watching them, but I worry that newer riders are going to buy a Go-Pro and start doing their own videos as soon as they buy a bike. I'm not sure it's the safest thing for newer riders. they should focus all of their attention on the road. I'm a new rider myself, and sometimes I'll start thinking about other things (stuff going on in my life) and I'll lose some of my focus. I try not to let that happen. There's a lot to pay attention to when you're riding a motorcycle. Perhaps this could be a topic for a future video. The rise of the moto-vlog ride video, the do's and don'ts of making your own.

[@ImDembe]

I see no problem with this bike, it's cheap, cheap to own, faster than most cars, twin cylinder engine = sounds better than a Duke 390 that sound like a dirtbike.

[@stevegandalf4739]

Compared to here in the UK, your suburban roads are just so quiet and fairly wide. It's just not fair :)

[@nephilymbass1]

I’m fine with 300-400cc bikes and don’t care what haters say. Very similar hp specs to the 500 class in a lighter better handling bike. Lot of the bikes in the 300-400cc range like the mt03, r3, and Duke 390 have no trouble at all going highway speeds. In fact all three of those bikes can break triple digits. The difference in horsepower is often much smaller than people realize. The mt03 for example has like 5hp less than a harley 883 and it’s faster because it’s lighter. I think people just get it in their head that those bikes are too slow because they buy into the BS. Saw that with my brother. He started on a ninja 250r and then went up to bigger bikes. Now he rides a Yamaha zuma scooter because he doesn’t have a drivers license anymore lol 😂

[@VeraArms-tk3ru]

I had a cb500F 2014 and later bought a Yamaha Vmax 1700. Since, I use motorcycles just for fun and relaxation on weekend and quiet roads, I ended up selling my Honda. Yes, it’s a super fun bike and it corners easier, way easier than the Vmax. I still love the size and the astronomic torque o que Vmax. Although, I agree the 500cc is a much better all around everyday bike, but boy, once you touch a Vmax there is no going back. Just 2 very different animals

[@ws8080]

At least he didn't describe the inline twins as moving together this time. They are physically parallel but the degree of the firing order is not together or they'd just build a single cylinder. Engines like this typically have a 270 or 180 degree difference so that they run smoothly. Most people like the sound of the 270 degree better. The 500cc Hondas seem very reliable and look decent, but the weight and HP does matter to me. An MT03 makes 40hp and this bike only makes about 8 hp more and weighs like 40 lbs more? And costs $2K more as well. Doesn't make sense. Honda used to understand having lightweight bikes, and made the old CBR600RR lighter every year. They DID make the new CB300R lighter than its predecessor, so maybe they will eventually do the same for the 500cc. Otherwise, right now these Honda 500 bikes under perform for the cost. Good bikes yes, reasonable as he says, but price comparison they lose. I'd like to see them come out with a 500cc Scrambler, since it is all the rage now. Get a retro looking bike with limited off-road capability, but lighter and better looking than the CB500X. I'd buy that bike if it came out.

[@joecamel6835]

You make some good points and some bad ones . The MT 03 scrunches me up horribly but not the 500F , it's physically bigger so yeah it weights more but worth it. Also Torque on the 500 is way better and really numbers don;t mean everything , to hit that peak HP the MT has to be way up there in the rpms but not the 500f .The weight is an advantage on the highhway also. The MT-03 is a great bike but it's not even in the same league as the 500F which can be riden by a man, not a boy.

[@molonlabe9602]

MT03 is a great bike, regardless of what bike snobs say.

[@MT07SKLRIDER]

My first bike was Honda cbf500 2005. I got 12 000km on it and its great! Sometimes it feels a little slow but its more than enough on the country roads for cruising

[@JSAFIXIT]

Speaking on how heavy a bike feels, my dad has an 82 goldwing interstate. Dry weight on it is 697, so probably mid 700s wet. It does not feel heavy at all. I rode an early 2000s sportster 883 and it felt much much heavier.

[@SBKPete]

Hi Joel, it’s probably down to where the centre of gravity is. As the GW has a low C of G it feels lighter. I believe it’s the same with BMW boxer twins. The worst bike I had for that was a Honda V4 Crossrunner, that had a really high C of G and felt really heavy. Take care.

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

I've had a super sport , now I've got a cb500f and I've done about 4000 miles and I don't think I'll bother changing for anything else . It's a perfect little bike

[@tobyf5534]

Do you still have it? Just bought a 2016 cb500f and put 400 miles on it in a week already. Only thing that really bothers me is my ass hurts after 30min to and hr of riding.

[@slimrockwrestlers7334]

@@tobyf5534 yeah I still have it , I know what you mean but I find it quite comfortable for a few hours , I really like the build quality , I don't see myself changing it ,

[@MrAndrew1953]

Weight isn’t an issue with this bike nor is power - it’s perfectly adequate for commuting and day rides. I hadn’t ridden for a long time and rode one of these at a Honda training centre. I was sold.

[@hunkydorian]

What I'm looking for is an "exit-level" bike. Not one that's gonna kill me, one that's easy for a senior citizen to ride. But what's up with that rear fender pointing up to the sky? That's just stoopid.

[@joecamel6835]

That bike has a fender delete on it, it's not stock .

[@DUSTY88]

Everytime I watch vids of bikes on roads in the US I look at how nice the area and roads are then look at how awful UK roads are.

[@mrxanthios7045]

you haven't seen los angeles my friend

[@andrewpurkis1049]

Lol I'm in the midlands uk. It's like pot hole slalom here.

[@repetitivemotion]

I ride southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Not the city (Chicago) not even the suburbs, but the rural areas. Farmlands and small towns. I live in a northern suburb of Chicago. In 30 minutes on the interstate I can be at the Wisconsin border, where we get off the interstate and start riding back roads in a northwesterly direction. Or we can go straight west from Chicago towards Galena, Illinois. These are great riding areas with small roadhouses and taverns for food and beverage and to meet other bikers.

[@hazlitt1]

I totally agree. The worst roads in the US are better to ride than the best in Britain. They are wider. Easier to spot danger and more space from other vehicles. I so miss riding in Florida, Calif., Texas, …… the good old days.

[@Daschickenify]

On the subject of being faster than cruisers, my 4 cylinder CBR 250R with 45 horsepower was ALMOST as fast as a Yamaha v-star 1200.

[@Daschickenify]

The four cylinder CBR 250 was made from 1986 to 1996(continued sales until 1999). In 1986 it was the CBR 250 four. 1987-1989 it was the CBR 250R (

[@HightLink]

Got the CB500X as the first bike and I can say it's not the fastest bike in a straight line, doesn't have the craziest acceleration so YES, you will get bored quite fast if you don't know how to ride. But for someone with more experience, you don't need more power on a twisty road. It's the same on cars, if you only want to drag race, you will allways want a faster car but if you start learning how to drift, you can have a lot more fun with the same car on long term.

[@Omnibred]

So as someone who’s never rode a bike before, would a 500cc bike be too much?

[@joecamel6835]

I'ld say yes , if you could get some experience in on a smaller bike even a couple months ( of daily riding) first that would be great .

[@ronniesakchaisitkul4893]

This isn’t necessarily a “beginners bike”. I’ve owned CBR600, GSXR600, MT09, MT07, Z900RS, I’m looking more for a commuter bike so I’m going back to 500cc for better gas mileage and something that won’t get me in trouble.

[@han1218]

So this is 46 hp for 500cc and 414 pounds, but the cb300r is 31 hp for only 300cc, and it's only 317 pounds. I'm not sure which one to get as a first bike, but I'm leaning towards the 300.

[@davids6533]

If I could suggest a small addition to your reviews, I think it would be very helpful to a lot of us vertically challenged people if you could maybe keep a yard stick / measuring tape handy and show the seat height of the bikes you test ride. I know there's Google, but for the sake of saving a little time for a lot of folks, it might be worth thinking about. I'm sure that at 6" 2'' you don't have to worry about things like that, but there's a lot of us that do. It might be especially helpful to the ladies that want to ride their own bike. Just a thought.

[@spencergrubb5153]

I know this comment is a year old, but even people that are identical height may not have the same inseam length. It's best to just go to a dealer and ask them nicely if you can sit on a couple bikes. 99% will be totally fine with that. I'm 5'7" with a 32" inseam and can flat foot the CB500F easily. On the CB500X I am slightly on my toes.

[@c0dy1287]

@@spencergrubb5153 Agreed, I'm 5'7" 30 inseam, and my girl is 5ft even and I've looked at bikes for her too, a lot of beginners would be surprised you can have two bikes with the exact same seat height, but fit completely different, for example if one simply has a narrower seat and tank, you might not SEE it but you'll feel a significant difference. I've sat on bikes with a super low seat height but a big wide seat pushing your legs out giving me almost the same reach compared to something a couple inches higher but with a narrow seat.

[@stevenmitchell1244]

Thanks very much for providing this review! I'm a new rider and am trying to decide between this bike and the Honda CB300R. Sounds like the CB500F might be the better choice. Anyway, thanks again for the review and be safe out there!

[@jinxon786]

Did about 12hrs on that bike during my MSF course.. loved it!

[@luisantolafrancis519]

In the old days the things were like this .. 50 to 125 were two stroke mopeds only for basic transportation .250 and 350 were the entry level bikes to learn how to ride properly 500 and 650was the sport touring bikes for entusiast and riders for competition and fun and 750 and 1000cc were long trip rides and side car aplication .

[@zaccariajarraf9435]

I wanted a 500cc but a Honda 919 popped up in my area for only 2k while all the 500's are 3k+ rn. I've been riding it recently and the only thing i can say is get one if you get a good deal and respect the higher caliber and you will be fine.

[@igor1467]

While 500F has it's place on the market, I would argue that 300 and 650 both or eather one better bikes than 500. Honda CB300 accelerates -0-60 6.2 seconds and weights 100 pounds lighter (414 vs 313 (non-ABS)) - more fun (imho) this is not far from 5.4 seconds 0-60. If 300 is not fun enough or more likely not powerfull enough - It might be better to skip 500 and go with 4 cylinder CB650R slightly heavier(445lb) and at 93hp much better performance. I would say if you want to learn on lightweight agile bike - go with CB300R or if you need more power CB650R is the one to consider.

[@odoglser4346]

Dude your amazing and ur vid showed me the Honda shadow 750 is the beginner bike I should go for

[@user-pz5ju7mw3k]

Have a link to your mirrors and fender delete? Love the look of the bike with those two simple mods 🤙🏼

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

Remember when entry level was 250cc & 750cc was concidered big

[@arukyan]

I got as a first motorcycle a Thruxton 1200r, I ride most of the time on weekends not to go anywhere but just for enjoyment. I’m still sharpening basic skills and because of that am still insecure on it. It’s fun but at the same time it gives me chills, I just ride around town and always avoid highways and anywhere I would need to speed up(I once end up getting on a highway by accident and was able only to go up to 50mph, the wind on the chest is really something) I noticed that I feel more confident when riding on roads that I passed 3 or more times before(it seems I’ll never be able to go on a road trip lol)

[@TheChinexican97]

I was at a dealership couple days ago looking at this one and a cb650r and couldn’t decide. Thanks i think I’ll go with this one as my first

[@andreiandronic1114]

I have a honda cbr 500rr and the thing is if you want speed like 200-250km/h this is not the bike for you But for normal riding and some little fun its perfect

[@BahhJustaLamb]

I'mma just say, as a Ninja 400 owner... I was worried it would be too slow. Every forum I went to, people were all, "Get a 600, or AT LEAST a 650"... People said I'd outgrow the 400 in 6 months and want something faster. People said the 400 is a boring bike compared to others. But when I pulled onto the freeway and went from 0-70 in about the same time as I did in my heavily modified C55 AMG... I threw all their advice out the window. Yes, it's slower than a 600. But speed is relative. The Ninja 400 is every bit as quick as most of your run-of-the-mill sports cars, and it feels nice and punchy throughout the entire rev range with it's parallel twin. In fact, I often find myself accidentally 15-20MPH over the speed limit... With a 600, I imagine I'd be constantly flying down the road doing 30+ over (a recipe for disaster, if you ask me) So I'm gonna keep the 400. There's literally no need for more, and to me, probably even HAZARDOUS if I did get something faster.

[@robertculpepper1508]

I bought one for commuting. Only gripe is it needs a windshield beyond 65mph. I also went with a 39 tooth rear and a 16 tooth front opposed to the stock 41 and 15 tooth just to lower those revs on the freeway a bit.

[@thomaslarson6104]

I tell people the same thing. I have a 2k17 z650, and its basically a bicycle with the eurgos and just goes where you want, almost terrifyingly so. To me it was between the z650 and cb500f and it came down to which one was at the dealership and im not disappointed with it at all. But an earlier commenter said it right, these are real life bikes. Riding down the high way or around town i have all the torque i could need for what ever situation.

[@nathantherealtorsonoma]

Buying a big displacement bike is like getting a supercar. It cool that you can do 200 mph, but where are you going to use that responsibility daily? 500cc will get you to every legal speed limit and still return good mpg.

[@_unreleased_977]

I'm a 15 year old boy and my dad has that bike, same model and everything. He gave me permission to ride it this one time and i rode it just fine, i would go up and down the road twisting that throttle freelly whit no problem. If i can ride that bike whit that much comfort i belive any 20 year old man could to. That bike is the best beginner bike there is in my opinion. (P.S: My only riding experience was whit a 50cc dirt bike that i rode 3 times)

[@sinatra617]

I wish Shawn would answer his subscribers questions.

[@herrmahlzahn6924]

Hummmm looking at 4:12 and talking about crazy! At 4:12 I just imagine, little Lisa-Ray coms behind the wooden fence chasing her little pink ball on the street.

[@keithDaBest]

I absolutely LOVE!! your words of wisdom at the start of each of your videos. I only wish I was close enough to come buy a bike.

[@Srkcycles]

we ship bikes all over the country

[@nsxproperties560]

I think you could go up to a 650 twin as a first bike like a SV650.

[@serious_in_seattle6917]

Not necessarily a “beginner bike”. Great for handling almost anything other than a long multi day tour. Very reasonably priced and legendary Honda reliability and longevity. If one maintains a nice Honda like that, you could ride it for 20-30 years without any problems. I would buy one for my everyday commute, etc. Great gas mileage and free or cheap parking. Hard to beat and plenty of fun.

[@dinosaur155155]

This video was so helpful. Thanks!

[@scottglover1833]

Love the words of wisdom.

[@GaryLordsWayMinistry]

I love my 1987 Honda 700 Super Magna, for its overall usage, cruising and long haul and around town. Wished it got better fuel mileage but it was me who put the bigger jets in the carbs and kept the stock shocks on it so it's my own fault.

[@jasona8964]

471cc, I wish they had bumped it up closer to 500cc. Reminds me of the Kymco scooters that called it a 200 but was actually a 163cc.

[@happyamerican3235]

Yep, stop calling it 500 when it’s not even 499.

[@bfarm44]

My only complaint which is every bike ever produced except for the new binelli 135tnt is the exhaust. But Coffmans has the cure at an extremely reasonable price and it sounds fantastic. That would be my one change.

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

In Australia they only sell the rebel 500 & don't even import the 300 because no one wants them ...that's how popular those engines are.

[@hectorallanrivera9334]

Love the scripture! Do you have any used CB500s in stock?

[@1990-t1j]

It weights 431 lbs/196 kg wet. One kilo heavier than a Yamaha XSR900. Good bike, though. I wouldn't mind the Rebel bobber version for a second bike. I know you are trying to sell this bike, but you make some very good points. Ohlins suspension is not needed etc. The bike is easily fast enough for normal riding. I ride a B-King [Hayabusa engine] and obviously don't utilise all the power, although I like its tractability.

[@TheGozz13]

Hi Guys, I see this a lot in videos and it's bugging me enough to mention it.... one thing you don't need is to use the clutch on up-shifts on any modern bike 1990's and up, it's just superfluous, you're already closing the throttle so just gear-up and roll the throttle back on..!!! Simples no....!!!

[@1031shadowwolf]

I deliver right where u was after the 0-60 run on ur exit to the right

[@MrTamoil]

Yup 500cc is more than enough. In my place, above 500cc faced high maintainance cost with a yearly roadtax price got to bear with. Ive got myself 650 kawa before and happen to enjoy riding 150cc and 500cc honda as im not to worry to spent more quality stuff on them and enjoy corners and urban city ride during night time to sip some coffee at mamak

[@SDMacMan]

0-60 was about 5 seconds. Not bad for a 6k machine. How much would that cost you in a car?

[@veddyveng]

SDMacMan 30k min

[@farmoboy83]

@@veddyveng not in my country...even a 7sec car costs above 40k. For example, a bmw series 3 with 190hp. I believe that to achieve 5sec on 0-60 you need at least 250hp in a car weighting less than 1600kg

[@Largetalons]

4th gen f body will edge it out to 60 and be about a second faster in the 1/4. Once you're rolling above like 50 you're only passing cars that let you pass lol.

[@TheHeck69]

as an Irelander, im getting this as my first bike in a couple months(i hope lol) and its more than enough. can go 170kmph and is still more customisable than apple phones. much fun to be had on the 2023 model >:)

[@randomlife718]

Wish yamaha would do this with the r1/ wr250r parts.

[@CarrickMcAllister]

I own a '84 Kawasaki gpz 550. It will keep up with the 600's no problem. Nimble and more than enough power for any rider.

[@spitfxre]

ive had a cb500f for about a month (2024 cb500f) and honestly i want faster already so if you are an adrenaline junkie, get something faster to start on or be ready to switch quick