Top 5 Things I Love | Honda CBR500R Review

[@jackelvey7963]

If anyone's searching through the comments indecisive about buying this bike, like I was a year ago: yes, buy this bike! You know who you are, this is the sign you've been looking for.

[@sambeezy007]

Yeah I've been going back and forth between the Ninja 650, R3, CBR500R and this is the bike. After ALL the threads this is the bike

[@rob098890]

@@sambeezy007 Remember loud pipes save lives, I got badly injured the only time I road a quiet bike, van driver just didnt notice me

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

House Music Everyday having owned a van, it wasn’t your lack of pipes.... go sit in a panel van down at the uhaul and check the mirrors.... Iowned a bike at the time as well, almost hit about a dozen motorcycles with it per year, because IDIOTS get into the VERY LARGE blind spot and then STAY THERE.... don’t ever stay anywhere near a van, the driver can’t see you, and if the van has been customized AT ALL, then the radio won’t need to be on for the driver not to hear you no matter how loud your pipes are..... STAY.....AWAY.....FROM.....VANS......

[@TwistyRoadRiderMotorcycles]

Hi TMF, I commute every day come rain or shine through London rush hour traffic on my Honda CBR500R which I have owned for over a year. As an NHS frontline worker I continued commuting on this throughout the lockdown too. So here is my two penneth; it is new rider friendly and experience rider fun all year round in any situation. It rides well on fast roads like motorways and corners nicely in the twisties, it filters through heavy traffic like a peach. The CBR500R has so much real world biker fun about it, looks great, has adequate weather protection, is super reliable, comfortable, inexpensive to maintain and economical on fuel. Highly recommended for new or experienced riders. Twisty

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the real world feedback!

[@Camps2630]

Does it have a big body/chassis/frame or would I look silly being 6’2 250? I know on 250cc stuff it would look like a circus bear on a small bike. Never rode, buying first bike.

[@gregorysmaldino6947]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Great analysis and input! How's distance riding? I'd add a seat cushion and tail bag, but how's the seating position? How's your butt and back after a couple hours? I've been riding since 2011 and I'm looking for my 3rd bike. I'm coming from an '06 Yamaha FZ-6 and I loved its seating position. I don't like the MT-07/09 styling, so I looked over at Honda. I'm trying to decide between this, the CBR 650R and the Rebel 1100. What are your thoughts here?

[@dmitryc760]

@@Camps2630 it is 99% of a size from full size bike. You can mistake it for bigger bike at the glance.

[@johnward3490]

Manufacturers should make more like this, need more people biking. Accessible bikes at reasonable money. Cheers TMF

[@jonpram1737]

Unfortunately the wider press have largely plastered the honda 500's as boring and sensible. They're also not seen as cool as the high revving 3 and 4 hundreds with the younger riders who make up a large part of the people buying this class of bike. Personally I kind of reluctantly bought a CB500f just because it fit me better than anything else in the class and I'm so glad I did. I ride it every day to work and am really glad it's got the extra torque. For me only real problems are that it's pretty buzzy over 6k, the exhaust note is super weak and first gear (like all small japanese bikes) is so short it should come with a pot of gold

[@SpikeyOfficial]

I agree with that but even some 125s are silly money now. I know you can get a second hand one but I know many people who start out in biking want new for piece of mind

[@neilhaughey6869]

@@jonpram1737 Thing is back about 20 years ago if anyone asked what is the do it all bike, reliable, vfm etc. the answer was usually CB500. A friend of mine was a courier for a while back in the 90s and swore by them as pretty much the best all round motorbike ever made. The problem was they were so popular they became ubiquitous and thus 'boring'. Funny lot motorcyclists as in reality this was Honda getting the formula for a great bike spot on.

[@neilhaughey6869]

@Bunnyshooter 223 Only 170kg as well. I do wonder though if they weighed bikes back then without a drop of oil or fuel in them as all such bikes seemed to be way lighter than current bikes. The thing though with the CBR500R that really stands out for me is it is a 'standard' sort of bike with clip ons but a reasonably upright riding position. Everyone used to make a bike like that and some could be bought as either a naked, full fairing or half fairing. The half fairing clipons, mid capacity, upright riding position was like the perfect commuter bike but what is there available like that today? None, Just this thing and the Ninja 650 with full fairings or you have to go to the adventure half way house of the tracer or versys, but what if you don't like straight wide bars and high seats? I do wonder what happened sometimes to the bike market, it seemed to devolve into a collection of fashion bike niches.

[@rollakid]

@@jonpram1737 I lost it at a pot of gold. Thanks for the laugh, I'm stealing that line for future use.

[@TwentseStudent]

It's a brilliant communter bike that you can throw around the bends! I've done 38Kkm on one over the past two years and it's still a blast. It feels that much better blasting down the road, knowing you're not setting cash on fire. The one mod that I'd recommend everyone to look into is going one tooth higher on the front sprocket: from a 15T to a 16T. You wouldn't expect going for a lower gear ratio on a lower CC machine, but it unlocks all the potential of the bike, absolutely feels amazing and the speedometer becomes dead-on. It's not surprising that it's a community favorite.

[@philipspencer1834]

TwentseStudent thanks for that. I am just about to replace my CBR500R sprockets and will take your advice. Couple of questions please: 1. where did you get your 16T sprocket? 2. Did a standard chain fit? (Or do you need a special one) Phil

[@eduardochagas2672]

Hi, TMF! I have the new 500X and for 3 months now and I really love it! Best wishes, EC

[@MotoMengy]

I have a friend who rides a CBR500 and absolutely LOVES it. He tours with it all over the US even!

[@tweetchris46]

Excellent roundup. I’m an older rider of over 30years riding experience, I bought the CB500X as a commuter / Second bike (alongside my Fireblade) and I absolutely love it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it’s a great bike isn’t it - surprised me!

[@craigmason6656]

I had a 1st Gen model years ago and it was faultless. It's a brilliant model for newbies giving you a big bike feel.

[@georgezuss2925]

Thank you kindly, friend, I appreciate you going out in miserable weather to film this. It is wonderful to see yours and others vids of dream and quirky machines, mainly for the entertainment and escapism. Like many, I'm sure, there is such a minimal chance of me ever being able to invest in a Ducati or top-line BMW tourer, your work gives us a little taster of them which is wonderful. This machine, however, is firmly in the realms of feasible opportunity for many of us. Hence, your efforts to give us a good thorough grounding in the machine is as enjoyable as all the others but also invaluable to assess the real possibility of ownership. This, for me as a short, is right up there on my radar and I've really taken to them at shows but I constantly get the usual nonsense from bikers that if it ain't 150bhp or cant do mach1 or doesn't drop womens clothing at 50 yards etc etc, it's useless. Most frustrating as I like,e 'em and think it could well do me nicely. So, when a positively marvellous chap from Missenden offers to go out in all weathers and toil over costs and up/downsides just to help me.........well I think I owe said gentleman at least a chunky-sized 'thank you're......possibly even a bf sized bacon sandwich and a brew, should we bump into each-other at a bikers cafe. Please consider the thank you duly delivered and the butty&brew awaiting delivery, mate! Take care, friend...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

How will I recognise you to claim my free bacon sarny???

[@georgezuss2925]

@@TheMissendenFlyer oh, easy, friend.......I'll be the very tall handsome, extremely wealthy chap, riding a Ducati....honest, guv' 😉

[@horn5t804]

This is the video that convinced me to buy a CBR500R and almost a year later I have to say it was the best purchase I have ever made. Such a smooth but fun bike and it's also just so incredibly beautiful, I still always have to look back and stare at it every time I get off 😅

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear!

[@debenhamdave4314]

Hi TMF, great review of what looks a cracking bike. Like yourself been riding 10 years and consider myself to be an intermediate rider, my bikes range from 113bhp to 140bhp, which for me personally is the ideal range, but totally get this A2 friendly Honda looks fantastic. Cheers Andy

[@axeman6560]

These smaller capacity bikes a so easy to live with, love that Honda in red.

[@dsimon9s29]

Thank you for posting. As a rule, you can't go wrong with a Honda.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

dsimon9 s My first motorcycle was a Honda, my first generator was a Honda, my first boat motor was a Honda.....can’t say anything bad about any of them.... except they weren’t all built in America....

[@EricBanner571]

Had a 2014 CBR500R as my first bike and loved it. This has to be one of the best learners or general commuters bike on the market.

[@mattknight1036]

I bought a 2016 model last year for my first bike and I absolutely love it. Like you say, a great beginners bike and the fit and finish are what you'd expect from a bike that would cost a lot more, also it's definitely fast enough to scare me lol. I ride it every day and never get tired of it. Keep the great videos coming.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad we concur!

[@yorkshireperson]

How do you find the running costs? I'm really keen to commute on a bike but I am worried about the maintenance costs being more than what my car costs to run.

[@mattknight1036]

It will depend on the distance, I ride approximately 50km a day 5 days a week and only use a tank of fuel each week with a little riding on the weekend. If you can service it yourself, the cost will be a lot less too and be prepared to go through tires, but because they are a bit smaller than larger cc bikes they too are a bit cheaper. It also depends on what car you are currently driving too. There can be a common misconception that bikes are cheaper to commute on, my registration and insurance is cheaper, but I'll go through tires quicker, get wet in the rain and dodge trucks and buses, but that is part of the fun. It took me 20 years to finally get a bike and I wish I had done it earlier.

[@Gofr5]

I love the updates on the new gen 3 CB500 series bikes. Fantastic machines. Started on the 2016 CBR500R (gen 2) and am now going into my third year with it this year. It's just that great.

[@thedonnybrookghost8394]

I've had lots of bikes over years everything from 250cc to 1000cc 41 years of experience Ive had the CBR 500R 3 days and absolutely love it they are just brilliant for the money 5250 pounds ride away in Australia

[@pukavita]

“Donnybrook” ghost… I’m guessing from WA? The CBR500R went up in price. It’s now just over 10 grand (AUD) with on road costs in Perth. But it’s still good value compared to the competition which, by the way, also went up in price. I’m not sure what’s going on around the world but here in Oz Covid pushed the prices up for EVERYTHING (except our income of course).

[@palantir135]

I remember that when I was a teenager, a 500cc bike was already a big bike. 750cc was a monster bike. Nowadays it’s a light bike. Honda’s are all: just sit on the bike and you feel comfortable and they will outlive you. Suzuki’s are similar. I ride big bikes for seven years now. Mine is a 1000cc Honda cbf1000f with side cases.

[@mikecoyne9025]

Another great review. Also wanted to say thank you for your ‘back catalogue’. I have been enjoying watching your U.K. trips and tours during the lockdown and I am really inspired to follow in some of your footsteps (wheel-tracks) once the Scottish and Welsh borders are reopened. 😄🏍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

thank you!

[@pigsy2400]

This was going to be my 1st big bike but I went with the ninja650 instead which I don't regret but I have to admit, looks wise the Honda is stunning.

[@markjackson7650]

Trying to convince my Mrs to do her test. Reckon this bike is hands down the one I'd get for her. Beautiful wee bike and I'm sure it's got enough shove to put a smile on your face

[@gprider1525]

My Mrs has this bike and loves it, wouldn't change it for anything. She's had bigger, faster bikes in the past but just clicks with this better. Every time I take it for a spin I really enjoy it too and I normally ride an s1000r.

[@robholloway5935]

I think this is really all what you need isn't it for an A2 rider !!! If it wasn't so thrown over the front I might be interested myself 😂 great review Andy cheers 😁

[@spetersonmusic]

That just makes a great package and looks fantastic. Kudos to Honda.

[@petewebb6952]

I had a Kawasaki GPZ500S once. That was a great bike to progress up to as well.

[@johna6968]

A bit too much power for a2 licence but about £5.5k less money

[@chrisredfield3240]

I had a G reg one of those in red and white. Was a fast little bike for what is was.

[@samfox8773]

Agreed, the GPZ500 was a fab bike, seemed to have a powerband of I remember correctly. A long time ago now.

[@markmoore3180]

Great video as always TMF! One of my favourite bikes was the CBR 600rr.

[@Lazirus64]

i had a cbr500r for ny first bike (in Australia) and it was a fantastic bike. Sadly had to sell it before coming back to the UK. Very tempting to get another one now even though i have my full licence.

[@peterboissier2090]

I’ve got a 2018 model and it is a fun bike to ride,I’ve also got 2 other bikes of bigger capacity and been riding for over 30 years and you don’t need 100 plus hp to have fun on a bike

[@crispernator]

My theory is this will it do the maximum speed limit without to much stress, to is it light weight so if you fall of you dont bust your clacka trying to get it up , does it have good fuel economy or is it a juice guzzler ,and last will it do what i want it too i have a 2015 cb500x .

[@peterboissier2090]

crispernator I had a 2014 cb500x,good bike

[@iainian]

The main gripe with the modern Hondas is that the horn button and indicator button reversed..........so when riding you tend to blow the horn occasionally when trying to signal! (Horn button above indicator switch)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it!

[@mickthemaverick5998]

Interesting summary as ever Andy, In terms of build quality and finish it is the same as my NT650 which is great, I just wish they would make the screen rivets, starring in your rearward facing camera shots, a little more "blended" to the fairing. Other than that great first proper bike option! (When I started riding a 500 was a big bike and a 750 the tops!!)

[@pshreekumar]

Excellent summary. Waiting to hear about the cons. Cheers!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Coming in the next video!

[@mikehorton8603]

Great midsized bike. I'm planning to get a used CB500X and modify with the rally raid kit.

[@djwarren5081]

Amazing how the mirrors appear and then disappear between frames. TMF video magic.

[@garethtemple6242]

It does make you wonder why we bother to buy larger capacity bikes with £10-15k price tags.

[@tweetchris46]

Indeed it does.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

After years of high capacity bikes, the last FIVE all Hayabusa's, I now ride a Honda NC750X-DCT. It is in almost every way, more fun than the 'Busa. Obviously it does not have the speed or mental acceleration, but it is way more fun, and the fact it is the longest I have owned any bike I think says it all....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Absolutely....

[@lionelzerafa3727]

MOOOOAAARRR POWEEERRR

[@TreyyDaMenaceFan]

its nice to have that extra power in reserve

[@motorman7113]

Cloudy day, sunglasses and a tinted visor. Must be like riding at night! Hope you don't miss seeing something at a crucial moment, Andy. We want you around for a lot longer.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have very sensitive eyes and tend to always wear sunglasses outdoors....

[@LIKWID]

Fantastic little video and agree with it all. Honda made a really great all rounder in this one!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@bfarm44]

Really like the black and orange color a few years back but red is nice too. It’s just an all around perfect ride if you over your hair on fire years or just coming up

[@garthhowe297]

Oooh... brrrr... don't remind me about February... just finally getting into the 20's later this week, in the colonies (Canada). Been a very chilly Spring here.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...we've had one of the best Spring's I can remember - 23C today, rising to 27C on Wednesday :0) ....happy days

[@imahungrybiker]

Thanks for the CBR 500R videos mate. I await it's launch here in India. Sold my KTM Duke 390 and looking forward to buying this as my next one. Cheers mate!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one!

[@GIGABACHI]

Ohhhh, that's a nice daily while still looking VERY sporty.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

If social distancing does become the norm, then I forecast a very bright future for the two-wheeled market. People avoiding public transport will only sit in their tin can car for so many weeks or months before the 30 minutes train commute that is now a 90+ minute car commute will get to them. A few may indeed try a pushbike, but most folks I know don't live within cycling distance.....so a motorbike it may well be.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Let’s hope so!

[@sandydennylives1392]

Save the whales, ride e baby. Beecykules and M/bikes.

[@dardobartoli]

Andy, it so comes across that you really don't enjoy doing these bike reviews (I suspect the statement was a ruse to ensure Noraly kept her focus on adventures ;-) ). In all seriousness, thanks again for a great video, it is difficult with such machines to not be enthusiastic and it does make you think twice about the cost of some bikes and what really is suitable for the streets. A year back with 10,000 miles under my belt (after a 20 year absence), 6 months with the fabulous Street Triple 765R and 6 with the ultimate value utility bike, the Tracer 900GT, I was thinking I should get the BMW S1000XR, but why? Just because I can, doesn't mean I should. The Tracer is perfect for my variety of rides and capable of more than I can throw at it (though I do wish it had that Honda build quality). Take care (especially with the double tint, still don't know how you can see like that).

[@richardmourdock2719]

Good one Mr. Dunn. Noraly is such a phenomena… the over-used terms "exploding on the internet" only seem appropriate to her rise. As a retired geologist I was watching a geology instruction vid live chat the other day. Someone chatted about the instructor, "He makes geology so interesting." Someone fired back, "You think he's good, you need to check out Itchy Boots"

[@diegocella6791]

Do the parked white van count? I say yes if it's on the same side of the road! Ok now back to important business, this is a proper honda! Love it!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Nice bike, better review! I’d like to see or hear your comparison to the bigger A2 restricted CBR650R. Same max power with 4 cylinders. Slightly heavier. Similar looks, more sports biased with the upside down Showa PPF!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'd love a go on it having enjoyed the 500 so much....

[@alexmoring3900]

TheMissendenFlyer Agreed TMF definitely has to do an A2 cb650r/cbr650r review. The amount of views you would get as their is no English content on this and would also love to hear your opinions on the bike itself and how it rides restricted. Good work TMF another great video I personally love the 500

[@thechrissyb]

I've got a duke 390 as my first bike ( second actually after my kawasaki ae50 21 years ago). I like the looks of this as well as though. Looks good value for money.

[@jeffreyhurst9552]

Piskeylowe’s criticism makes me think a roll on test(s) should be considered (or have I simply missed that part). Cheers, Flyer from the colonies.

[@RutgerSmets]

Given that it is a true, cool starter bike, there will be great deals available of used ones after their owners upgraded. But shhhhtt, don't mention it to the Honda dealer trying to sell them ;) Thanks for the video, Andy!

[@Gofr5]

Bought mine used 3 years ago from a guy that only had a scant 3200km on it for half of what it would've cost me from the dealer. He even had some bonus mods already done for me (tail tidy and flush turn signals). It was a heck of a deal. All I did was get a gear indicator, slip on, and exchanged the mirrors for aftermarket mirrors with built in LED turn signals to give it more of that "big bike" flair to it. (plus as cool as the flush turn signals were, they were a bit of hazard as you couldn't see them well from head on, so that needed to be addressed) Fantastic machine for sure and definitely great deals to be had on the used market for them.

[@rogerwilliams2902]

Bloody hell, its actually got throttle cables !. Yes, cracking looking bike too.

[@farmansd3574]

My favorite ❤️ bike ... Always love that stunning look

[@lynsmith1096]

Another good video TMF

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks 👍

[@alexp6409]

I had been looking at the CB/CBR500s as a "next step" replacement for my CB300F, but quite a few dealers have prior generation (2018-2019) Kawasaki Z650s marked down to prices that are competitive or lower than the Honda 500's...so I am leaning heavily in that direction. It seems like a no-brainer to go with the Z, but is there anything I'm overlooking?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I've not ridden the Kawasaki so I can't really comment...

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

This is a great starter bike. And you don't really have to ever "upgrade". Excellent city commuter.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@lovegar]

I've bought one of these in Thailand as my runaround Agree 100% on all the points albeit the front suspension I have found totally inadequate. I will need to get the fork springs upgraded. I give the bike a bit of a toasting hence hitting the handling limits including the braking which again I will need to look at. I think the issue is more me lol ad I have much more powerful bikes back in the UK but 500cc is a sensible limit in Thailand due to the road conditions

[@CNDUK-q8r]

7:46 Looks like you've finally found a steed you can safely ride to its limit. :-D

[@denism5008]

Well done, great review as per usual.👏👏👏👏 I'd love to hear your thoughts on the Gen 2 Hayabusa. 😊

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So would I!!

[@johna6968]

Agreed it is a good looking thing.

[@richardmourdock2719]

Having owned both Honda and Yamaha bikes, I've come to understand that "Honda" in Japanese translates to "bullet proof". Yamaha in Japanese means, "almost Honda". Have often found myself shaking my head when riding with my friends when we come to a stop and look for the parts that have vibrated off their machines.. Seriously. Gas cap, gear shift levers, you know, stuff like that. And I suppose I'd like BMW's, but with the cost of one of those machines vs. the bullet proof and nearly bullet proof brands, I can only ask "why?"

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair point!

[@russelllocke7180]

Honda make some great machines. I’ve certainly owned several over the years. Don’t know why I don’t own one now? Good review TMF, my how riders are spoilt with choice these days. 👍😷🏍🇦🇺

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@nathangreen6286]

Another top vid. Can’t wait to get one

[@philipspencer1834]

I ride a 2017 CBR500R, it is truly a great bike. I have just noticed on your video that the handlebar mounts are below the top yoke... mine are above it. Which of our two bikes is wrong? Or has something changed. Funny, because I would like my handlebars a bit lower!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

How weird! No idea why that is...,

[@clinster78]

I have owned gsxr600 and 1000cc bikes don’t own any at the moment the mrs got cbr500r 2018 model I have had go it’s fun can ring its neck and the showing 83mpg average it do 110mph flat out more fun ride in slow bike fast........like TMF says it’s in the goldilocks of fun thinking of getting one my self and join the mrs club

[@chrisredfield3240]

Bet I could get 100mpg out of one.

[@chrisredfield3240]

@Bunnyshooter 223 got 80mpg out of a f800gs 2up so it can't be that hard

[@clinster78]

Update I got myself cbr500r pick it up next week in white joining the mrs club fun bike cheap as chips

[@stuieing2012]

Nice to see you on sub 900cc bikes. How about getting hold of a Z650, I've had one for the last 2 years and would love to hear your views on it. (you really need a kawasaki in your garage Andy 😂) and maybe a motorcycle alarm review sometime ? Keep up the great vids 👌

[@SheldonElectricals]

Great review, great bike....but can it really better the Duke 390 given that it is currently nearly 30% more expensive? Is it really 30% better????

[@kyotosal]

Hi Sir. On a number from 1-10 what did you feel was the comfort value?........Thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

About a 7/8

[@SweeneyTTodd]

I do miss mine I think on the next niggles video the "upside down horn indicator buttons" might get a mention , took me while to get used to Beeping people when you want to turn happened quite a lot ! Great review best regards Shaun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it! - Same on my Honda CRF....

[@simonrobinson7536]

Top video 👍

[@michael1061]

im on my third one now love em

[@philipjames250]

Tut tut what did your wife say 🤕🤕🤕🤕🤕🤕🤕🤕😆😆😆😆😆😊👍

[@Thirsty_Fox]

@@philipjames250 That's why he keeps getting the same model... "What do you mean new bike? I've always had a CBR 500!"

[@robshaw2319]

Great review thanks. The Honda CB500R and the others of the CB range look great - but their designs and aesthetic are carefully managed to suggest premium quality but not convince. A slightly narrower tank shape, the angle of an exhaust or the colours and graphics are deliberately developed to promote aspiration and prompt us to trade up and spend money. Design moves on and I've no problem with that...as you say in the review - 'budget' bikes, like the CB500R, are well built, look good and are real value for money.

[@iamtherealzombie]

For what it's worth, telling you the 5 things he loves about a bike isn't a "review" as such as it intentionally leaves out any negative points.

[@robshaw2319]

@@iamtherealzombie I'll admit it's a bit Julie Andrews but if we can't sing about our favourite things now, when?

[@stevepovey2489]

I totally get this. I love my KTM1290SA to bits but I have come to the conclusion that bikes and touring have kind of become too perfect. I tour a few times a year and it would be nice on one of them to go with a 'back to basics' vibe. I am thinking KTM390 Adventure, CB500x, Moto Guzzi V7 or Z900RS. (I know the Kawasaki has a lot more power but it would take me back to my teen years and would look great in the garage next to my CBX1000 :-)

[@stevepovey2489]

I forgot, Tracer 700 is also on my shortlist

[@robertbelasco3859]

I would like your comparison to he Royal Enfield Interceptor 650,similar power and weight.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Completely different ride though....

[@Camps2630]

New to riding. Never had a bike. Going to a private seller to look at the 2014 Honda cbr500r. Hopefully it’s worth it for my size (6’2 250) and $4000CAD for 7k km.

[@niknoks7638]

Will be interesting to hear your negative points on this bike. I’ve been doing quite a bit of research on the CBR 500R and watching plentiful amounts of KZbin reviews as I’m looking to eventually upgrade from my CBR 125 but I have to say I’m torn between this bike and the Kawasaki Ninja 500.....one overriding negative viewpoint with the CBR does seem to be the poor visibility of the dash in certain daylight...look forward to your next post 👍

[@AAARREUUUGHHHH]

Ninja dash is much nicer, but the CBR is better looking. What decided it for me is that the CBR is much cheaper for me to insure than the Ninja for some reason. Probably just due to the name, you know what insurance companies are like.

[@Thirsty_Fox]

@@AAARREUUUGHHHH I've been debating between CBR500R and Ninja 400 and was surprised that (in Canada) the Ninja is about 30% higher insurance rate, despite the smaller engine class. I think it's because the 400 is generally a first bike which may have more claims, whereas the 500s are usually not a first bike so the riders perhaps make fewer claims.

[@andrewwilson8317]

Would make a cracking single make race series? Fast enough to be exciting, cheap enough if kept close to stock and challenging enough to be rewarding to race?. Seems to have everything that made theSuzukiSV 650 such fun?

[@simonthomas5367]

Hey TMF! Useful stuff, thanks. Is it a comfy bike to ride? Or is that on the list of forthcoming niggles? Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

it's comfy.....

[@simonthomas5367]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Important at my age..... 😢

[@Phil480]

Nice review TMF. Mrs480 loves hers. Will be interesting to see the negatives, I bet I can guess one of them haha

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Go on then Phil?

[@Phil480]

TheMissendenFlyer The position of the indicators and horn controls!

[@The333]

Those trusty Honda 500s are great bikes! Great review as usual. #hondalove

[@alfienichols9524]

I like that bike, it's a couple of steps lower than a sports bike

[@grahamtricker4103]

I can't imagine there is a better bike for the price... 👍

[@FrankFurther]

KTM 390 Duke is cheaper faster and more fun. Not as reliable of course but does save you having to tell people you ride a Honda.

[@neilhaughey6869]

Hi Andy, be interested to hear how comfortable this bike is for longer journeys and daily long commuting. I am on a YZF-R125 on a CBT at the moment but pretty much set on one of these when I get my full license. Really like clipons, screen and some protection for my legs but really not enjoying the random combination of back, neck and wrist ache from the angle its putting my body at.

[@philipe.9466]

I bought my CBR500R last year when it came out. Since then I've been riding the hell out of it. For me the seating position is perfect. Just the right amount of sport paired with the comfort I need for a 5+ hour tour, or for commuting. It's really a jack of all trades. The fairings also do a decent job of protecting you against some rain.

[@timmasonguitar]

A really good review

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks....

[@simey5639]

Hello friend! What earplugs are you using :)

[@BONTHEBLOCK]

thinking this for first motorcycle for my girlfriend as long she passes the A2 license , what's your opinion ?

[@itiddles4419]

I don’t know why I’m watching a review of my own bike but here I am

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hehe!!

[@Daniel143.]

Could you try the honda cbr650f that would be interesting to compare these two

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes would love to

[@simond5208]

Blue anodised fork tops? Really? Do they sell a matching bolt kit, bar ends and mini indicators to match or is the optional upgrade an aluminium finish? Apart from that - nice bike, nice review!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not sure I understand your point re the fork tops??? Can you elaborate??

[@kwak1k]

He thinks they're tacky I'm guessing TMF. You know, when you see those bikes sometimes that have gold levers, gold engine bolts, gold rear sets, gold piping on the seat etc, that the owner thinks look the dogs danglies, when in fact it look's SHIT! Sorry TMF. Hardly a fair comparison though.

[@simond5208]

Yes, sorry. They look to me like the nasty tat that accessory shops used to sell for bikes in the back in the 90s.

[@brizolidis]

that yeehaw in the end.

[@lordgibbness]

Alex from carthrottle has one of these!

[@crispernator]

hi TMF you should see if they will let you borrow an 500x i own a 2015 model and the latest has some substantial improvements over the 2013 2018 /9 models , take care 4 degrees grrrrrr stuff that .

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it's nearer 25 degrees today - much better :0)

[@crispernator]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I forgot to mention a friend of mine has a 2013 model x and he has over 100,000 km on it and still going strong

[@SBKPete]

It is a great looking bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sure is!

[@FOOLSGOLD7875]

Japanese bikes are pretty reasonable for the price. I really liked my old NC750x but the forks got into a terrible state within 14 months. Cause was potentially due to Chinese parts and I did look after them in anycase.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough...

[@stevenbrady8279]

Have you tried the CB500X yet?

[@AndyvM284]

First of all thank you for the top 5. Second I get the cbr500r delivered tomorrow. But I was searching for good aftermarket exhaust a slip on or complete new system. I was wondering anyone could recommend some to me. Thanks

[@scotthaywood7452]

Would you test drive 500 x

[@Purnizzle]

As a new (A2) Rider - would you suggest this over a restricted CB650; despite the potential of the 650 lasting longer once i'm ale to derestrict? Or likewise could it be the other way?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ve not ridden the 650 yet so hard to say!

[@jimmyjam8795]

@@TheMissendenFlyer on your review of the CB650F you said it made a great noise but really didn't feel like it was fast. It must be a dull bike in restricted guise then.

[@bmp72]

Since you're in bed with Honda, any info on a possible Rebel 1100 ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm not sure I'm "in bed" with Honda - and no, no information....

[@leedriver1544]

I have 1 it's great

[@peter2679]

How would these bikes go comfort and power wise as a tourer?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

OK one up but not their primary purpose clearly....

[@joshhdye1166]

thinking of trading my RC390 in for this, itll be a brand new 20 reg and priced at £5,700, just cant decide haha

[@jimmyjam8795]

It's definitely a good bike, and it's comfortable position makes it a nice ride. Honda, however, needs a more powerful twin range to match Yam700, Suzi SV650, Kawasaki Z650 for non A2 riders.

[@ashleyreynolds6604]

Following on from some comments here about bikes and their popularity, has there ever been TV advertising for motorcycles in UK?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not in the last 35 years that I know of!

[@ashleyreynolds6604]

@@TheMissendenFlyer about time that changed then 🙂👍

[@davidfennessey2727]

Well Honda sort have with the impossible dream advert 10 years ago kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKO0oKKcZqtlmbM

[@brucekendall52]

Thanks.JHB-SA