Do I Still Love the Honda CB500X
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- čas přidán 13. 07. 2023
- At 10,000 miles I tried to answer the question “Is this Honda CB500X Capable of Long Distance Travel” this being more of a personal question to myself.
Having now reached 20,000 miles whilst travelling on a short 2,000 mile trip through England, France, Belgium and Germany, I was asked to give some further feedback on the bike and its capabilities.
The journey was a solo camping trip, moving day by day to new locations, for which there will be other videos, and I hope you find this one helpful.
If you would like to support the channel please feel free to donate whatever you can afford, it will go towards the cost of producing the videos and every little helps.
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The thoughts and actions outlined in the video are personal to me and everyone will need to view things from their own perspective.
Further information can be found here:
• Getting to know the Ho...
• Honda CB500X
• Isle of Bute Wild Camp
I have the 2023 bike and love it. Yes, there is slight vibration at around 6k but I fitted grip puppies to the handgrips and that helps a lot. I used to have a KTM 1090 Adventure with 125hp. Awesome bike with loads of grunt but I came to realise that I can't use/don't need that power. The Honda is enough for everyday use and the fuel economy is brilliant.
got to agree...I've subsequently re torqued the crash bars and engine guard along with fitting grip puppies.... life is good again!
The sweet spot for this engine is at about between 6000 and 6500 rpm. Near the 6000rpm vibrates after that goes smooth again. It can go all day long at a 115km/h in the back roads. If I go to the highway I use good boots and good gloves then I can ride it at 120/130 all day long.
Nice feedback and quite right about useable power v size/weight.. I’ve had several big adventure bikes over last few years and I think exactly the same! Coincidentally since the video I’ve also fitted grip puppies, re tweaked torque settings and started using my varifocal glasses so all good with the world 😆
I don't have bar vibration mines a 20 standard model no mods
@@christopherwatts1833 I’ve improved mine greatly with a few tweaks but still have a bit of vibration… probably all the gear I’ve put on!
Old boy putting bins out. Comedy gold…. ;)
Ha, lovely neighbour 😆
I’m currently touring Scandinavia on my 2020 CB500X.
Love it to bits. A puig screen extender solved buffering problems.
The bikes more than capable of legal motorway speeds and the small amount of buzzing I get doesn’t bother me. Of course a few bhp more would be useful, but any other similar bike offering that is too big for my stumpy legs ! Not to mention all the rider modes etc that I don’t want.
Interesting you had a problem with your garmin.
Several times my Zumo xt has displayed external power lost, and I’ve had to jiggle it around to keep it working.
The bike however has run faultlessly, gravel and forest roads no problem on the hunt for wild camping sites.
Thanks for the vid, ride safe.
Sounds a brilliant trip, be good to hear more of where you’ve been and heading as it’s a trip I’d like to make!
I’m working on the bike to solve the problem, firstly going to temporarily take off upper protection crash bars and see if that’s causing me additional vibs then just work through bike bit by bit… for all the reasons you’ve expressed I want to solve this as other than motorways it’s a fantastic little bike even as it is. I’ve also been testing out the riding using my variofocal glasses so I can see the clocks clearer and it seems to work, although having to adapt a bit with slight blind spots in this type of glasses….just involves moving head a bit more 😆
Been looking at the Garmin since back and don’t think it’s not an issue with wiring cable or device but same as you when wiggling it about on cradle it comes back on and I’ve found the cradle is a bit loose so need to take it apart and re attach! Those accessory bars do vibrate even if normal (at least mine always has) so possibly causing the loosening of the cradle? I’ll know better when get round to working on it.
Anyhow, enjoy your trip, make memories and keep safe 👍🏻
I can see you love it but are considering an upgrade. The new transalp has certainly got me thinking along those lines too! You've done some great journeys on her though it's commendable.
Yep, I feel at one with the bike… fits like a glove! I would have considered the Transalp but just don’t like tubed tyres, although it does look a great bike
I own one and agree with your opinions about the bike. I love the simplicity, reliability, economy, versatility etc. as well as the build quality and the looks. I am tempted by other bikes from time to time, but bigger capacity bikes tend to be more complicated, heavier and more thirsty........If the new Honda Transalp was offered with tubeless wheels though, I think I might find myself doing some sums! Cheers and 'hello' to the wife!
I think we all have similar thoughts on the 500x and tubed Transalp! Wife asked me if I’m comfortable in talking to camera….clearly she’s hasn’t watched any videos…..actually in truth she hasn’t 😂
If you want one, buy a Transalp. I had the same irrational thoughts when buying my Africa Twin due to the anxiety of forum posters, but in the seven months I have had it, I’ve toured in Scotland, Luxembourg, Isle of Man, Yorkshire Dales and taken it to the Farmyard Party bike rally without any issues. If I were to get a puncture, I would ring the AA, exactly the same as I would if I got one on my 500X.
@@garrywilliams4537 Thanks for your observations - Food for thought!
The only thing I'm really missing on the CB500x is the lack of cruise control (useful for occasional motorway riding), so the Transalp wouldn't work for me.
@@PhilWare1 Easy to get an aftermarket cruise control
Thanks, very honest review, just what I was looking for.
Thanks for that, appreciate you watching and commenting… I’ve subsequently sorted out the vibration issues I was having, a few tweaks here and there plus higher tyre pressures and using varifocal glasses helped with the clocks…now back to a state of happiness 😆 however the updated version for 2024 (NX500) looks like Honda were watching my video 😂
I owned a cb500x I kept it for 6 months after I realised I needed more power. I bought an African twin I had it for 2 years before I realised I need a cb500x and that’s what’s in my garage. It’s a 2020 and it will be with me until I no longer ride . It’s that good . The Africa twin was good but it definitely wasn’t twice the bike and definitely not worth twice the price.
I have to agree.... been sorting out my issues with the worse than normal vibration i was experiencing and started using my varifocal glasses so completely back in love with it 😍😂
Nice review. I owned a benelli trk502x some years ago and many of the things you highlighted about the honda are identical compromises with long distance touring. I then moved onto a 850gs and now have a 1200gsa and been absolutely honest the 1200 is actually the easist to live with in terms of "weight" due to the fact the boxer holds its weight so low down. Although the other bikes are lighter on paper they hold their weight higher and feel more top heavy when pushing around. My current plan is to keep the 1200 for my European tours but maybe look at something lighter for commuting and short uk trips....possibly something like the crf300. I think the middle weight bikes are always a compromise as they sometimes arent the best on highways but are probably to heavy for anything off road. Keep up the great work 👍 🇬🇧
Thanks Darren, having had several GS’s over my time I have to agree they carry their weight well and who wouldn’t have a few bikes in the garage 😆 👍🏻
Distance Glasses !! I had exactly the same problem but recently went to Vari-focals. Took a few days to get used to wearing them but reading the clock data on the bike is now perfect.
Seems I haven’t tried hard enough to use my varifocals, many of you have got through the barrier 😆
I have been looking at lots of videos on the bike, and I have say that I think you have made my mind up for me, I currently have a F800GS but want something a little smaller and easier to handle
Great little bikes, reliable, frugal, fun to ride (mostly 😂) and look the business! I’ve been sorting my vibration issues and seems to be sorted now… I’m definitely back in love with it 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791would be great to know how you solved the vibration problems. Did it only require grip puppies or was more required ?😊
What is your opinion on ear plugs for longer trips ?
@@davidroberts7490 the grip puppies have helped but largely Re torquing the engine bolts (crash bars and sump guard points) have mitigated most vibrations, along with more air in the front tyre 😬 😂 ..actually, more road based tyres would also help as mine are a 60/40s
@@davidroberts7490 I only occasionally use ear plugs, longer motorway riding, but otherwise don’t feel there’s any issues… obviously it’s a very personal thing!
@@thecampingbiker791 thats very interesting. Glad to know you found a solution and you can enjoy your bike even more. 👍🙂
I got a cb500x 2023 brought new. I love it, hated the seat at 1st but i brought a expensive Cool cover , not the cheapo Chinese things you see on ebay and it has totally transformed the comfort. It actually feels fast to me for what it is , nice power delivery without any annoying flat spots.
The newer version of bike is a nice evolvement of the mighty little Honda and a they’re a brilliant little bike.. I’ve largely sorted my post trip little issues and started using my varifocal glasses so back in harmony with life 😂 I’ve never had problem with seat but those cool covers look good quality 👍🏻
I've have the same bike and had it for 7 years now with full touring hard luggage and other extras. It's pretty weighty when fueled and loaded up but fine once on the move. Totally agree with everything you said and I just wish it had 10hp more as it would be pretty much perfect. I've been looking for something else with more poke but nothing quite hits the mark in the way this does. The closest is the honda NC750X but it's rather dull then the new CFmoto 700mt but the nearest dealer is over 80 miles away. We don't all have a 10k plus budget to spend or want to spend over 10k on a hobby. Am like you and don't want anything with a higher seat height or weight but like the style and riding position of these 'adventure' road bikes and the space for a pillion now and again. Great vids and thanks for the review of Rukins in the dales as I had a fantastic weekend Moto camping there thanks to your videos.
Did you consider the new transalp? It sits inbetween cb500x and the Africa twin.
Yeah, but again once you add the extras you are north of £12k which I just couldn't justify.
@@Crossers76 yeah true it's not cheap everything is expensive thesedays.
I have the 22 500x, standard gearing. Will do 80mph all day, no problem on the motorway. Very little vibes, none above 75mph.
I use a screen extender. Love the bike, but I'm interested in the Tiger 660 sport.
I did wonder if the engine had been tweaked on the 22, sounds interesting and screen extender must be useful… just need them to put bigger clocks on next version 😂 That Tiger 660 looks very good 👍🏻
A couple of days ago I've rented the RE Himalayan and spent the entire day on it for the sake of comparison with my 2020 cb500x, thinking of trading her in. While it's a great bike for the backroads, Honda is much more powerful and comfortable for long distance touring. I took the RE to the highway, and after just 30km it felt like an absolute torture. After I returned the RE and got on my honda again, it felt like a very big bike. I had to ride 50km back home on the highway, and it was sooo much more comfortable! So if you ever think of upgrading, "downgrade" first and get back on your bike to feel how good it actually is 😅
I think you make a very good point and whilst I guess we are always looking at other bikes (well I have all my riding life) the 500x is an excellent bike, reliable, good value, frugal and just fun to ride 👍🏻
My other bike is a 2022 RE Classic 350 Dark. which I still adore the truly classic looks of and is perfect for lazy daily commutes and pottering around the back roads. After mostly ridding my CB500X the RE feels so tiny! 😀
Andrew i think all CB00x owners know what you mean about the buzz on the motorway and can only guess that the autobahn would be worse ( ZXR750 what i had in germany) sounds like you need 2 bikes, a tourer for the long halls and the cb for the other 95% of your riding. Just remember that 1 bike generally doesnt fit everything without compromises, you just have to way them up. Looking forward to your solution. All the best from North Yorkshire.
Yes Kenny, the two bike option is the answer 😆
thank you, you did not mention the year of your bike. lm thinking of buying one and apparently there has been some improvement on 2024.
It’s a 2019, there was an upgrade in 2022 with new front forks and front twin discs and then 2024 has further upgrades with new front fairing, lights, larger tft display screen, traction control, minor tweaks to engine and now called the NX500….basically they keep making a good bike better!
As a follow up to that video I resolved some of the minor issues outlined with re torque of engine bolts, grip puppies and a change (increase) of tyre pressures.
If buying new it would now be the NX500 but you can’t go wrong with good secondhand 500x
Here’s a link to my latest discussion about the modifications on my 500x and happy hunting 👍🏻
Modifications on my Honda CB500X
czcams.com/video/mG8AWFPYvBc/video.html
Hi, excellent review, thanks for making this video. Just a quick thought, have you considered changing the drive sprocket to 16 teeth? Reports suggest a worthwhile modification for touring, drop the revs down by 500 thereabouts, offering more comfortable cruising over longer distances
Thanks Mark, I changed the chain set early in the year but didn’t bother with 16 tooth sprocket… for no particular reason but might think about it into next year
I have the 2019 not rode it yet .love the old chap
Me too
A wife who doesn't mind if you buy another bike is definitely a keeper!
Indeed 😊
I just purchased this 2023 bike and it is way better than what you are saying.
I think they’re a brilliant little bike…I’m still in love with mine after some torque tweaking and now using varifocal glasses 😆
Sounds like you had a good trip regardless of a few hiccups. I did a similar trip last month here in the states, camping off the bike for 10 days and covering about 1800 miles. The bike did a great job, though i agree with your points. She's buzzy at highway/freeway revs/speeds. On the days you need to do a lot of miles, you can feel where she falls a little short. But truth be told, i didn't buy her to do that kind of riding. I bought her for the secondary, dirt and gravel roads, the fire trails and forest roads.
As far as a new bike that might be in the same vein as the CB500X, i might suggest the Suzuki V-STROM 800DE. I got to test ride one yesterday, and it's not too much heavier than the CB500X (she carries her weight low), and she has the longer legs that you might be looking for!
It was a great trip, despite those odd days, actually when I think about it the worst was really the journey down through England to the the port at Dover and then the same return from Dover to the North of England… our motorways are busy, particularly further south and it’s a 7 hour overall journey with stops so in addition to that few hours ride to first stop in France it’s no wonder I was fed up with the bike…. However I’m still in love with the bike and no rush to change but I guess we always like to look at new bikes so you never know 😂
The vstrom is getting some good reviews and seems a well put together travel bike 👍🏻
I bought it new this year and preferred it over the new nx500. CB500X is simply amazing. I love it.
Both are excellent bikes, I’m now into the NX but basically the same with modifications..enjoy the 500X 👍🏻
I don't have a CB500X but what we have in common is that I'm long-sighted and now decided to wear verifocal lenses on the bike as I can not see any dashboard anymore. Unless it might be 1m away from me 🤪Safe riding Diana
I’ve now started using varifocals on my bike and it does help but takes a bit of getting the hang of it riding despite using them for normal activity… cheers Diana
Thanks! Interesting video. I'm actually downsizing this week from a T7 to a new 500 NX.
All of my riding these days is in Ireland and although the Tenere 700 is a fantastic bike it has too much of an off-road bias for the use I give it.
I'm 76 years old but still very active on my bikes.
I bought an old but very good 650 Suzuki Freewind a few months ago just as a winter hack to keep dirty winter miles off my newer T7. In many ways it's kind of a 26 year old version of the 500 X. More or less same power/torque. It's a fine old machine.
It made me realise that, for what I do, even the 700 Tenere was a tad overkill.
So...I looked for a more modern, more refined 21st century model of the old Suzi xf650 . The 500 NX seems to fit the bill.
Just wondering: Sometimes, as you mentioned, it's necessary, even for me in Ireland, to do the occasional couple of hours motorway stint at 120 kph.
Do you think these bikes will pull an extra half gear or so?
I put a 16 tooth front sprocket on the T7 which made a great improvement at motorway speeds.
Do you think the 500 Honda might fade a bit pulling a bit higher gearing.
I'm 5'9'' with a 30'' inseam. I weigh about 13 stone geared up and dont carry ever-so much in the way of luggage. Just a medium size top box and a 30 litre roll bag.
(No more camping....B&B for me these days)😂
Good choice, the NX is a brilliant evolvement of the 500X a, a worthy successor! Plenty of people do the sprocket change on the X but I’ve never bothered as like the low down grunt and the issues I was having on this trip with vibration were resolved through changes to tyre pressure and re torque of engine bolts.. now sit comfortably at 75-80mph . I’d give yourself time to decide and see how it works in standard form! To be honest I think you might find it okay, particularly without carrying lots of camping gear, the only time it would be an issue is two up touring with gear 👍🏻
I sold mine. Loved it on A, B roads and through the mountains but when I’ve had to do 3/4 hour motorway stints.. I found it harder work then it should be
I find it effortless on the motorway like all the other roads…just use earplugs…my other vehicle is a 90bhp van. Everyone is different
@@votronimatic If you're comparing it to a 90bhp van then obviously it'll feel effortless, try comparing it to other bikes with 70+ bhp.
@@flippy66 I had an mt07 before. I don’t really find the 500 lacking in power
I have a 2022 model. I don’t know if they have changed the gearing, but 70mph equates to about 5600 rpm on my bike, and I find it pretty smooth and trouble free. I down sized from a BMW 850gsa, and yes, I would love another 20 hp, but 95% of the time, this is a much nicer and more fun bike to ride. Low weight and size as I’m now in my late 50’s make such a difference. I’ll never go back to a full size adventure bike, but if a manufacturer brings out a CB style equivalent with a bit more grunt, then that would be perfect. As it is, I still love it.
Funnily enough I’m now running the NX500 and much smoother plus 70mpg at about 5500 revs! I think the problem I was having wasn’t helped through vibration issues which I eventually sorted with tyre pressure change and re torque of crash bars/engine guard…as I head towards 64 I’m very happy with size of bike and like you say 95% of time power is perfect 👍🏻
I am looking for a bike at the moment. So I had some views on construction plans of the engines:
The criticised vibrations are caused by the minimal mass balancing of the engine of the CB500X. The engine has one single balance shaft only.
In comparision to another bike the Suzuki GSX-8S has two balance shafts. This reduces the vibrations on one side but increases the costs on the other side.
I think the 500x (or soon to be NX500) is a very capable bike at a competitive price but there will always be some compromise on certain aspects and that will likely be one of them. I have subsequently improved things with re torque of engine bolts, grip puppies and running slightly higher tyre pressures so I do still love it 😊
You know the new KTM 790 adventure is waiting for you 😆
My 890 is sub 200kg and goes like a rocket..was averaging 65mpg in France and I can read the display...just.
Get a ride on one.
…don’t tell anyone but I went and sat on one, impressive 😆
Honda always has the best rider feel and really like this bike!
Yes, they are a very good bike.. I’ve been working on mine and sorted out the minor issues from the trip and very happy with it…back in love again 😂
If the screen is your biggest worry, and you can live with everything else, the CB500X is being replaced by the NX model that will have an updated TFT display and some mile engine tuning. The looks up front are getting completely redone as well.
I’ve started using my varifocal glasses and this has helped a lot but yes I’m seriously thinking of changing to the NX as it seems a very good evolvement of the bike and I’ve confirmed my RR suspension will transfer… watch this space 😃
Did a few thousand kms on mine last year, and going to tour all of August this year. Agree with everything. Stay off the motorways and it's great. Concerning riding in the dark, the headlight isn't great. Bright, sure, at close range, but the highbeam is hardly different than the lowbeam. I might add some extra lights to mine to help with high beam, as I tend to ride at all hours, depending on mood. I'd ride the bike for a year long tour, no hesitation. The vibrations could be inherent, maybe try some heavier bar ends, if they fit with the handguards. I'm considering getting a different size front sprocket, to bring the RPM down a bit. 5th and 6th gear are so close, and 1st is almost useless.
Yep, I’ll play around with Re torquing engine mounts and look at bar ends… coincidentally I’ve just been offered some driving/foglight combination bike lights free of charge from a US company…I often turn free stuff down but I’ve accepted the lights so watch this space 😆
I've got some spotlights mounted on my crash bars and they make a huge difference.
@@PhilWare1 good to hear, should be fitting mine next week 👍🏻
@michaelbigdongovic3295 lots of people do that, maybe something to think about
Just got back from a two week 2000 mile trip from Cornwall to Spain and around Andalucia mainly exploring the white villages, and it was great fun.. but we were two up on our 500X with an extra 25kg of luggage no problem! my tip for you would be slow down a bit on the motorway! whats the rush?..I mainly cruised on the duel carriageways at about 55/60mph and still managed 300+ mile days, never needed anymore power in the mountains and the overall trip mpg was 94.6mpg. The only mods. Hagon rear shock and a 16T front sprocket.
Sounds wonderful trip, one to do at some point! Yes, slowly but surely is the way to go.. usually find everything fine at about 65-70 on motorways, my particular issue with extra vibration should be solvable and I’m working through that as we speak! Other than motorways, dual carriageways are generally 55-65 and that’s normally perfect as are the mountain climbs… At nearly 63 I need to pace my life and riding a bit slower……. Nah, can’t do that 😂
Did the sprocket change make much difference and did it have effect on the hilly stuff?
@@thecampingbiker791 no effect on the hilly stuff she climbs anything with the 16t two up..i thought the gearing was to low with std 15t..
@@speedtwin1610 interesting to hear, one to think about 👍🏻
I've been looking at this Bike now for over a year. I had a 2017 FZ07 which I LOVED. I was finally able to find a 2023 CB500X. The dealer took months to get one. My only issue was that the gear shifter seemed very small and close to the engine. I was unable to get my riding boots comfortably under the shifter to shift properly. The dealer had a Scrambler SCL same engine as the CB500. I had no issues with that Bike at all. I don't have big feet and only weigh 156 lbs so I'm not a big guy. The salesperson had the same issue as me. I felt as if shifting would be a major problem with the bike. I've never seen anyone mention this.
I had same problem but you can easily adjust the leaver upwards to give a bit more room..there’s an adjuster at top of the rod under the rubber boot….I’ve also been considering having someone make me a new one using a complete spare I bought secondhand, but with adjustments to original it seems to work
I own a 2021 with 8k miles. Even with a Corbin seat, Grip Puppies, double Barkbuster bar end weights on either side, Voigt Moto Technik bar riser, and Michelin Road 5's.... I can 'still' feel vibrations. They are tolerable at low speeds. But as soon as I hit motorway it buzzes and becomes aggravating. I have a buddy who got a 2022. Same thing for him too. I'm thinking this 500 engine vibrates in general whether its an X, F, R, Rebel, and one reviewer even told me even the new CL has vibration too. Your analysis is accurate and very on point.
Mine has always vibrated at about 6k revs but at moment it’s a bit worse… I’m working through some trial and error tweaks so let’s see if I can sort mine out (as best can) but still a remarkable bike! I did wonder if the new version might be slightly better but doesn’t sound it 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 I absolutely agree. You mentioned as well what I feel is the #1 feature of this bike.... RELIABILITY. I've literally had to do nothing to mine in 8k (touch wood). Not even adjust a cable. For the outlay I think Honda's 500cc lineup is wonderful. Definitely worse choices brand wise out there. P.S. your hammer and 🛠 🔧 wrench hack to remove those silly factory bar end weights is still to this day my favorite 👍👍
@@findingneutral yep…proper bodgers job getting those off 😂 I’m fitting some grip puppies as part of my tweaking… about 22k on mine now but have seen some mega mileage on others
@@thecampingbiker791 Grip Puppies are awesome. For sure, I've seen some excellent high mileage reviews on the CB500X. Part of the reason I very hesitant to part with mine. Yours looks excellent with your upgrades too. Did you do the valve adjustment yet?
@@findingneutral no, not yet… I’ll be getting annual service in October so see then
Andy, get yourself to the optician and get some titanium frames" Ray ban make some nice ones that you can use with a helmet". Explain why you need em get some varifocal lenses and problem sorted. Been wearing em for years no issues.
Hi Steve, I do have varifocal that I use at home but never use them on the bike as feel don’t get good side vision but suspect titanium frames will be thinner?
I agree as a CB500X (2020) owner, that yes it isn't all that great on the major highways and it has a hard to see screen. Once I'm off the highways it's a perfect MC! I do intend to hold onto my CBX for a while longer yet. Mine is also kitted out with the Rally Raid Lvl2 kit.
When it comes time for my next bike, the Honda "Transalp" has certainly caught my eye, with it's more powerful 755CC motor and a black on white screen display. It's a great step up from the CBX500 but no where near as big and expensive as the legendary Honda Africa Twin.
I found the seat height of the Transalp not that much different (with my 6FT height) to my CBX500, when I had a chance to sit on one, whilst my CB500X was being serviced.
These little Honda’s are an amazing machine and I’ve sorted most of the vibration issues out but I think most of us agree on the major highway use.. I’ve also started using varifocal glasses to see if it helps issues with reading clocks and initial try’s have been okay!
Like yourself I’m sticking with the 500x and will see over next couple of years…
The Transalp looks a contender but I personally don’t want tubed wheels but possibly with professional application the rims could be taped?
Safe riding and thanks for watching
@@thecampingbiker791 I also wish the Transalpine was tubeless. Don’t get why the chose to go with tubed tires. The type of riding I don’t needed spoked rims Especially as a tubeless tire puncher can be fixed fairly easy on the side of the road with out needing to remove the wheel and then get the tire off the rim.
@@seanb1081 yes, I’ve fixed a few punctures at roadside and always carry a repair kit! I think it’s just down to them keeping costs down with these tubed wheels which seems the same with Yamaha T7 & the new Suzuki 800
Sounds to me like a Suzuki V Strom 650 would be perfect for you.
I purchased a 2017 model XT new in April 2018.
I have done 56,000 trouble free km and I love it. It has heaps of grunt and long legs. Mine has no vibration at any speed.
Ironically, I am waiting to test ride the new Honda 500 NX when it becomes available in Australia.
Why, because I have just turned 80 in March this year and I think I will need something a bit lighter and a little lower than the VStrom for ground handling. The new Honda has a much better and easier to read screen than the 500 CBX.
Good review by the way.
Thanks for that, appreciate your thoughts….what an inspiration you are to me riding into your 80s and do hope I’m riding at that great milestone!
Funnily enough I’ve just bought a new NX 3 weeks ago and I’m exceedingly happy with it.. some of the issues with vibration on the old 500X were sorted out with tyre pressure changes (tyre manufacturer v Honda recommendations…Honda prevailed) but in the end I decided the NX had enough positive changes to make it worthwhile for me to change. The NX is smoother, particularly at lower speeds, and I believe they’d done some tweaks to the engine which shows. The fairing is improved and the tft screen makes a big difference for me plus it’s slightly lighter than the 500x….excellent bike!
Here’s me collecting the bike.. 😊
What replaced the Honda CB500X
czcams.com/video/E79e4yMI31o/video.html
Nice review mate :) I agree with the motorway miles, but I also tend to avoid those and choose the back roads. I would suggest Grip Puppies for your hands, they do not totally stop vibration, but they do help to reduce the vibrations. I still love my CB500X, such a great little bike that does the job, with amazing range on a single tank! Happy riding and keep up the great content!
Thanks Steve! I have used grip puppies previously…think I’ll order some 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791Before I had my 500X I owned a Pan European for nine years. For some of that time I lived in Germany. Believe me no motorcycle is particularly good on the autobahn, it’s best to re-route on the roads that suit the bike or simply take a car.
@@davidmatthews3093 in truth, the worst part of journey was on UK motorways 😂
Interested to see if you can reduce the vibrations by loosening and then re-tightening the bolts. I have heard that if done from the front to the back it helps and as I have a similar set up on my 2021 500X with Givi engine bars, I would try it if it actually worked. My vibs set in at 104 kmh (62 mph) in 6th gear , much lower than yours and after two years ownership I am also thinking of updating the bike because of this. Really would like cruise control and tubeless tyres so rules the Transalp out. Maybe the Tiger 900GT.
I’ll definitely loosen then re torque engine bolts, possibly in next few days, then see how if it helps! Also, after that I think I’ll remove the crash bars temporarily to test and in autumn the RR engine guard will be coming off for re powder coating so that can be a further test…. Sounds like yours is getting a bit more vibs than mine, is that since fitting the Givi’s? Very disappointed that the Transalp has tubed tyres which ruled it out for me! I wonder what upgrades the 500x will get in 2025 or will it be new model… 🤔 👍🏻
nice video grts from belgium from danny
Cheers Danny
In a previous post between us I think we mentioned the New Transalp, and you said something like it would be the only bike I'd change the CB500X for. Well, I've been a Transalp anorak for years; I'll never sell my 600's, but tbh, I'm not convinced the new one is better though. Whilst I understand why Honda put it in, imo the NC750X engine or a version of it would have been more suitable for it's long distance torquey and exceptionally frugal character. As regards your motorway speed as suggested before, pop a 16 tooth front sprocket on your CB500X, or at least give it a try. Got 16's on both my Transalps. Atb, ride safe Cheers Wayne.
Cheers Wayne, might just do that 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791Why improve the motorway riding at the expense of the riding that you do most of the time? The 500X punches above its weight on backroads and hills because of its standard gearing.
@@davidmatthews3093 can’t disagree with that..I’m sure most people occasionally have thoughts of change coming into their heads
I would say, Suzuki VStrom DL650 for the next bike could be a good choice. I have one, it's an amazing workhorse with 60-62mpg.
Very good travel bikes, what’s your thoughts on the new 800?
@@thecampingbiker791 Here is a good comparison from Lamb Chops, from the neighbourhood (my friend's friend). The new Transalp is a possible upgrade as well.
czcams.com/video/O1Z3ZtKBqss/video.html
Im considering one as i have to go to Belgium from North Wales once every couple of months.
Were there any other models you considered ? Im by no means a speed freak, but the comfort issues on the motorways concerns me.
For having a bit of fun on the back roads near me it looks perfect.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend one..the vibration issues I had on the trip were mostly down to tyre pressures…I had Mitas E-07+ tyres fitted and run them at their recommended pressure but as an after thought and trial and error diagnosis put the pressures up to Honda oem recommended and cleared most of the vibration up, just leaving the minor vibration at about 80 mph on the motorways.
I suspect it is an issue of mechanical sympathy and personal preference.
On my way back from Italy i done 6 hours on the autobahn from Basel in Switzerland to Arnhem in Netherlands on my little KTM 390 Adventure. The wee gem buzzed along at a steady 80mph for the majority, nipping up to 90 for overtakes, all without approaching the red line.
I wouldn’t want to subject it to that regularly, but I wouldn’t want to do motorways regularly anyway.
I’ve been sorting through the issues and bike running much better now, I think age and tiredness made things worse but away from motorways the bike is excellent
My experience (2022 model) after about 8.000 kms is, the modest vibes I experience go away at about 110.
I’m working on the problem, actually I’ve had an improvement with re torquing engine bolts so should be okay however need to test ride again 👍🏻
I hear you. I really like my CB500X, also done about 20,000 miles, but a bit more power and better suspension would be good. I'd really hoped to trade up to the new TransAlp, or the Suzuki 800 DE, but they are just too tall. Yes, the problem is me - just way too short in the leg, but it's disappointing nonetheless. Anyway, look forward to the videos of your trip!
The RR level 2 has made a big difference with the bike, but at a cost! Bigger clock display would do me 😃 Yes, I did think Transalp might worth a look but I don’t want tubed tyres! First of the trip videos will be out on Sunday 6pm, it’s a bit of a new thing for me doing a daily video of the trip, hope it works out and in any case I’ll learn how to improve at the very least 😂
@@thecampingbiker791 yes I did RR but only level 1 to keep the height. The shock is good, and the forks are much more stable but you lose the plushness on the small stuff. C'est la vie. There's only so much you can do with limited travel and an economic design of the fork itself. Agree about the spokes on the new bikes. For real world conditions tubeless and the ability to plug punctures is the way to go. I'm sure the vids will be cracking :)!
@@stumpy200vetmx good to hear and it’s all a compromise, cheers for watching 👍🏻
Try the standard Africa Twin, I’m only 5’ 7” and more flat footed on my AT than I am on my 500X. There is no way I could ever ride the Transalp after sitting on it at my local dealer, and just being able to get one tip toe down!
@@garrywilliams4537 blimey... The AT is a monster!!! Trouble is I'm short (5' 6"), but then short in the leg for a man of my height (27" inseam on jeans) .... Hence I still have a (lowered) 2016 CB500X. I'd quite like the newer model in a number of ways, but the 19" front adds a couple of inches to the seat height that I just don't want, at least in UK conditions. Interesting to hear about the TransAlp. I've not been into a dealer to confirm the bad news. Can't say I'm surprised, but it's depressing for us shorties :(!
Would a Vstrom 650 be a good all rounder that can handle crusing at 70-75mph?
Yes, bit more powerful but I’m working on the Honda to try and sort some of the vibrations so I’ll see how it goes 👍🏻
The question is how much will the ideal bike cost?. CB500 X is good value for what you get
Yes, you are so right.. the 500x is probably the best value bike on the market taking everything into account
16t front sprocket has made my 2019 cb500x a lot better it will now sit at around 5500 rpm at 70mph and out of the vibration range.
I’ve held off doing so but many of you do recommend it… I’ll have to give it consideration I think
@@thecampingbiker791 its worth a try its cheap and easy to do
That’s fine for those who spend most of their time on fast boring roads but the bike doesn’t have the torque to use the higher gearing on the type of roads it loves with its standard setup, the type of road that most owners, including this CZcamsr use most.
@@davidmatthews3093 and again, just a personal viewpoint of the journey, including motorways, and how I personally felt on return as requested by some subscribers…so, just my individual view from a moment in time!
Had similar issues with vibration both when new and after installing crash bars, but I had the center stand I loosened and redid just the upper engine bolts to torque and that issue has been eliminated for me at freeway speeds up to and above 85mph. Obviously every bike differs but it may be worth redoing the engine bolts.
I’m planning on doing that tomorrow but also thinking of temporarily removing crash bars as an elimination test…I’ll try the re torque first 👍🏻
@michaelbigdongovic3295 doing that at weekend 👍🏻
Have you tried a Honda NC750x, best bike for touring and so frugal on fuel it's like getting a free pitch at the end of the day !!
No, never considered it really…always good to have great fuel consumption and very good point that I often raise with people about the frugality and travel
People ask me why I don’t change the alloy rims, I have a very reasonable motives. They are lighter, they are tubeless, they are well designed to be strong enough and most important reason they are not broken yet. I would only change them to spoked rims if them got broken. Until then alloy rims all day long for me. I would like to know what are your reasons? Thanks.
Exactly the same reasons, these are tough wheels, also much prefer tubed wheels, and in any case I felt replacing for wire wheels wasn’t necessary unless they broke and I have tried 😂
@@thecampingbiker791 also they don’t need maintenance other than checking for any cracks if there are which I have a close inspection every now and then and no there is no cracks at all. The alloy arms make sure the whole rim don’t have any fragile spot as others alloy rims with only three arms or so. Good thanks for the reply 👌👌
@@edukze keep safe and maybe after 3 or 4 decades we may have to change them 😆 👍🏻
An intro to Mrs Camping Biker!! She must be a good women letting you do what you do.
Back to the topic. I didn't expect anything else from the 500x. It's a great bike, at a price point. It's a Honda at the end of the day. You've put a bit of money into yours and it's made it the bike it is. 20k miles is just run in. It's got a lot more to give.
My old xt660r had 47hp and it went well with loads of torque. It wouldn't have bothered my to take it anywhere. Magadan was to destination until covid amd then Putin's war buggered that plan.
I have a ktm 1290 super adventure s, it has 165hp and I use about 70hp 90% of the time, 50hp 50% of the time. 165hp 1% of the time. It's nice to have but wasted most of the time.
Yamaha Tenere 700 is the way forward buddy. Might be a bit heavier than wanted but it covers all grounds at a sensible price.
Hope to see you on one soon.
Yep, Mrs Camping Biker is happy for me not be under her feet 😂 She’s an ultra trail runner so we have very diverse lives, meeting in the middle on occasions.. works well at 42 years of married life 😆
On a longer trip and to distant lands the compromise of the 500x power and use of motorways would be less relevant, probably irrelevant in many ways, and the 700 tenere is a great machine, I did have the xsr700 with same engine and it was brilliant.. just found I couldn’t flat foot on the tenere but always at the back of my mind because of that engine.
Happy days ahead, whatever we ride 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 get the Tenere professionally lowered and they can tweak the damping while they're in there. It'll still handle fine and do what us mortals can manage.
Whatever you choose, I'm sure it'll be interesting to hear your thoughts.
You found the golden ticket with the Mrs there mate 👌👍😎
@@575ban so many options, I’m not very decisive when it comes to change so no doubt I’ll still be 500xing over next year or two 😆
If I wanted the bike for mainly motorway cruising, I would go up a tooth on the countershaft. I like the stock gearing, but I live in the mountains and I'm a six-four 240lb lump. The bike has plenty of torque. It would handle the gearing easily. My 1972 450 Honda, a much less powerful bike would easily cruise at 80 mph plus (7000 rpm) all day long. It would be strange if the 500X can't do the same.
I’ve done a bit of tweaking to the bike also changing tyre pressures…end result the bike is much happier cruising motorways and I’m much happier with it..also started using varifocal glasses so can now read the speedo 😆 👍🏻
I upgraded from my CB500X to a Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and I love it! The extra power makes a huge difference in enjoyment of the bike. The Honda is a great starter bike but most riders will probably want to upgrade to something more exciting pretty quickly.
Looks a brilliant bike that’s well equipped, also good seat height for me personally getting feet down firmly…and love the clock display, I can read it 😂 I’m going to continue for now with my little Honda, tweaking here and there to reduce the annoying vibrations but it does have some advantages over getting a bigger bike and I’ve had a few in my time. You’re right in that it is seen as a starter bike and if I were starting off or younger I’d do exactly the same however there is another aspect to the 500x and that’s older riders who’ve gone up the ladder getting to a point where they come back down…and at 62 that’s sort of been me! Anyway with some wild days still ahead it’s time to go test ride the Ducati Desert X 😂
Hahah
I have a 550X also, finding a replacement for it would be a daunting task, would a different steed be that good for 90% of the time?
You’re so right, for that 90% it is perfect … wonder if they’ll put new clock display on the bike at the next upgrade 🤔
@thecampingbiker791 it will be interesting to see how good this new moto morini x cape 650. The specs with the 7 inch screen etc looks brilliant and the red one looks stunning
looks brilliant
@@petedorsett8264 yep, looks great… I’m just a bit unsure with long term support and dealerships but I’d kill for the clock display 😂
Hi Andrew. I have just exactly same bike. On the moment with 13 k km. In Poland, where I live bike is not that popular. Typical opinion is- "this bike could be good option for a girl but not for a serious biker". Of course bike has his limitations and cons but for me his positives like simplicity, low cost of buying and running, simplicity of maintenance are unbeatable. When I ride around 90- 100 km/h I got range around 500 km. Not every bike can do that, especially when we talk about small, budget bike. I love this. For me this bike is like swiss army knife. Of course you can have a better knife's. But this specific one is more Universal and still very solid. If I could of course I wish to have 4 cylinder engine like in cb 650 r with more power for better ride on the highway but still in form like in cb 500 x. CB 650 in Form of sport bike or naked bike are not for me. For the problem with vibration I use "hush puppies grips". Works not only on vibration but makes grips little bit more thicker and more comfortable for me.
Great analogy ‘Swiss army knife’ and very true! I have agree that these bikes are so frugal and as you’ll well know are a fun bike to ride…other than motorways 😂 Actually shorter motorway spells isn’t too bad but all day 😬 Coincidently, I’ve just ordered some grip puppies and they should be with me today 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 one of the user of the bike on yt called his bike "donkey". This describes a nature of this bike well. This is not spectacular Bike but do his job correctly. Without loosing a fun when you ride on it.
@@Sitting-Bull- great work horse
Can this take panniers and a pinion ? I have the Tiger 900 GTP which I find top heavy - how about this Honda ?
Tall height .
Yes, plenty of options for panniers plus top boxes and will take pillion. Seat height is 830mm and seat shape is good for me to flat foot (5’9”) Bike is 199kg so feels light enough riding and pushing around….the only thing to consider is you would be losing bhp compared to the Triumph, however gaining mpg and lower running costs.
😂 we've all been there before , justifying and rationalising the reasons to buy a new bike , it's a lovely bike but ...Go for it young fella 😃
Ha, done it all my life 😂
Many say that the best mod is the front sprocket one tooth increase. This drops the revs at 70 to just below the buzzy band and doesn’t affect the acceleration too much. But you might have already done this.
No, haven’t done that and I am on my second chain set.. possibly think about that next time I need a change
I see that you upgraded your slip-on exhaust. Did that improve the heel clearance when standing on the pegs? I'm 6'-3" and I can't drop my right heel properly when standing as the stock exhaust interferes with my right boot.
Yes, improved all round…much smaller
@@thecampingbiker791 Cheers, much appreciated!
Have you thought of varifocal specs it would be a lot cheaper than getting a bike with a larger screen jat
Funnily enough, I’ve started using varifocals since the video was made and after a period of adjustment find them much better… another reason to keep the 500x 😀
You want something with more horsepower but nothing heavier. You are splitting hairs. It is an outstanding motorcycle. As biker owners, we always seem to want the bike that we don't have.
I do love the bike, sometimes you just have odd frustrations, and as you say it’s outstanding, but I’m looking at a change…..
…to the new/upgraded NX500 😂 👍🏻
Does anyone know which crashbars these are? Thank you
Hepco & Becker bars, excellent quality and after 3 years of summer and winter use, including bags attached, are still like new! Couple of videos for you to look at, first is a brief overview after initial test ride and second full fitting video
Hepco & Becker Tank Protection Bars tested on 2019 Honda CB500X
czcams.com/video/2hOgG5G4Vh0/video.html
Fitting Hepco & Becker Tank Protection Bars to 2019 Honda CB500X
czcams.com/video/6TNWKxJ4C80/video.html
Thank you 🙂 it looks very nice. I‘ll check the other videos
@@cyb3rplis any questions, just ask
I'm selling my tenere 700 soon dude and I'm not so far away from the gasket.
Don’t tempt me! Actually, I’m working at a little cafe nearer to home now… still get in for a brew though now and again
What tyres do you have?
Mitas E-07+ Enduro Trail and very good, my previous set did 11,000 miles.. Here’s my final review of a set of reviews over there lifetime 👍🏻
Mitas E-07+ Enduro Trail Tyres | 11,000 Mile Final Review
czcams.com/video/kvUG-ADqY-0/video.html
@thecampingbiker791 thanks. I like the look of them, they suit the bike.
@@glenmayepete they perform well 👍🏻
You should take the transalp 750 for a ride
@@dodgierogie68 ended up buying the NX500 instead, didn’t want the tubed tyres on the Transalp but I believe it’s an excellent engine!
@thecampingbiker791 i had the Africa Twin 1000 and not long got the transalp,its a awesome bike not much heavier than the 500x( ive owned one years ago)
@@dodgierogie68 good to hear it’s working well for you…now, if they offered a tubeless version I’d give it some thought!
@thecampingbiker791 lots of people want tubeless,ive had tubed tyres since 2016 never had a flat tyre yet
@@dodgierogie68 sods law that, I had two in my 500X 😂
I currently own four bikes. I demo rode over 60 of them on and off road. I'm yet to find something to beat the value and versatility of X. I did 2000+ miles trip from Oregon to Texas, hauled it on hitch carrier of my pickup truck on vacations, used it for commuting to work, took it on few dirt roads (with inappropriate tires). Other than very bad weather and high wind, it can really do a lot. My limit on it around 400 miles per day and cruising for hours above 70mph is lil bit pushing it. It is definitely a keeper. In Europe, it probably makes more sense than 90% of bikes (if ergonomically fits the rider).
Excellent overview of the 500X in multi use from you and even if I buy another bike I will definitely keep the little Honda! Since making the video I’ve made a few adjustments and improved on the particular vibration issue on my bike, although at motorway higher speeds it still has some limitations, but we do forget it’s only a smallish engine…because it’s so great at everything else! I’ve also started using my verifocal glasses and that’s improved vision on the clocks… so happy days 😊 many thanks for watching and also your feedback 👍🏻
New Yamaha Tracer 7 is just as light but 650cc. A little more expensive obviously.
I’ve been looking at them as an additional bike…like them very much, I previously had the XSR700 and the engine was a peach 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 interesting... as I'm looking at my first big next year and xsr is in the mix for now 😂
@@hotdoug1000 excellent bike the XSR, lightweight, great handling and rapid… blip throttle at traffic lights and it throws you back if not prepared! Only problem for me was space for all my camping gear.. 👍🏻
I really don’t get your point about the ‘need’ to use motorways, that’s just not true. You might ‘need’ to use motorways to make your plans fit your timescale but that might mean your plans need improving. I use my 500X extensively and have ridden all over France, been to the Pyrenees twice and across to the Picos and Portugal yet have never ridden it on a motorway. Perhaps that’s just me as I avoid them whenever possible in my cars as well. Instead of saying how your RR prepared bike on 60:40 tyres isn’t great on motorways why not spend more time on telling your viewers about the roads it is great on, the roads that you use over 95% of the time? I think you’ve fallen into the CZcams influencer’s trap of believing that you have to rush across Europe on motorways to find good biking roads. That’s just not true.
…you’ve no idea as to what I did and why, obviously you’re very upset and angry, with other remarks calling me a liar, for which I do hope you desist. Remember, this is a hobby and I’m not a professional CZcamsr and you shouldn’t get so personal with remarks calling someone a liar.
varifocals are cheaper than a new bike ;-)
Funnily enough I do have varifocals for general use but struggle a bit with the bike and blind spots..might be the frames actually!! Might be time to have a trip to the opticians
I say: This bike is the NX650 of the 2020s.
I do believe you’re right….it’s already got a dedicated following
@@thecampingbiker791 When i parked my NX next to the cb500x i instantly thought of that. Its very similar in size and power. And also its good for anything beside of 2 things: Long highspeed and/or passenger/heavy luggage. If you put some 17" rims on the cb500x i think it would be a better streetbike then if you would fit 17" rims on a cr300rally. I will go testride the cb500x for sure in the next time to see what 30years of tech/ergonomic r&d brought to the table XD
@@DrSmile81 I think you will like it, on paper it isn’t the best at anything but very good at almost everything.. it’s an infectious bike to ride and own😊
@@thecampingbiker791 so you got me real interested in this bike and i just found out, that the 2018 model has/had 17" all around already so lets try to find one to give it a ride.
@@DrSmile81 sounds like a plan, let me know what you think after a test 👍🏻
I’m afraid I switched off when you started on about why you had to use a motorway, you’re now telling lies to justify a mistake.
Wow…that’s really impressive being able to know what and how I think…also very extreme and slanderous language in the use of the word lies! Hope you reflect on your use of language on social media, might get you in trouble with somebody that isn’t as thick skinned as me. Anyhow, sorry I upset you so much, although no lies in my viewpoint, and I’ll leave your post up unless there’s a continuation of similar slanderous language.
Rather an unnecessary comment and really quite rude !
shame it can’t handle higher speeds.
65 on uk motorways simply won’t cut it. every fucker does 80 on motorways. love the look for the bike but think i will go down the 650 vstrom route. 70bhp should
be more then enough for uk roads
To be fair others manage better speed on motorways, I’m working on mine to improve the situation… but I don’t think it’s a long haul motorway bike, other than that it’s fantastic 👍🏻