Is the 2023 Honda CL500 a Hidden Gem or a Scramble of Disappointment? First Ride Review.
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- čas přidán 9. 07. 2024
- By popular demand here is my first ride review of the 2023 Honda CL500....enjoy!
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It’s cheap, well engineered and reliable. They’ll sell millions, because Honda have such a good understanding of their worldwide market.
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" and all that. I actually like the looks of this bike. Decent budget, fun, all-rounder, and I like the blend of modern and retro in the looks. Not sure about the white plastic accessories, but otherwise it would be my choice of the Honda 500 range. Good review, and nice to see you review a bike you're not keen on, with an open mind.
Glad you like it!
The plastics would look much better colour coded.
Campervan bike...perfect sitting on the rear bumper to go get the ciders on once pitched up?
@@djwarren5081rattle can and spray it..what should i do..
Beholders requirement? Myopia
My first bike was a second hand R75/7. I was worried about the possibility of someone stealing it and a friend told me it was so ugly that no one would consider doing that. I rode many miles on that bike and like many women, it's the inner beauty that matters and the pleasure it gives. Honda build quality , dependability, and pricing is also a factor. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
Test rode one a couple of months ago in Düsseldorf and also found this bike than capable of dealing with all types of roads. A motorcycle that gives the impression of being very rugged.
The only things I would change is adding a GeL insert in the seat for long distance comfort and the exhaust to allow an extra pannier. The rest you’ve positively mentioned yourself, cheers… 🍻
I put knobby’s on mine, totally changed the look of the bike, in a good tough way.
I have been off the bikes for 20 years (use to have R65 and K100) and just returned to riding as a rural-small city commuter. Just bought a new CL 500 ... black with dark green tank. Looks great, handles well and good value.
Welcome back to biking Paul!
I purchased this bike in July of 23 and live in Southern Nevada and I love riding it here in the Lake Mead National Recreational Area. It gets 70 miles to the gallon so I can drive it on my one hour commute each way before I have to fill it up. I agree with the comment on the while plastic. I think it makes the bike look not good. I decided not to add that to my bike but I did add the side bag, back rack, 12 volt socket, brown and slightly higher seat, and the heated grips. I have put over 5,000 miles on this bike in the last ten months and will have 8,000 by the end of July which is its second oil change and minor adjustments interval. Working on this bike is easy and as a new rider this bike has made motorcycle riding very approachable for me. I was intimidated by the larger bikes and wanted something that I could handle while I was learning. Eventually I will buy a Honda Goldwing but for now and for then next few years I will enjoy racking up the miles and the memories on this bike.
I quite like the looks tbh. More interesting than just going for a standard 1960’s look like many others.
Fair enough!
I think this one (in some form or other) is going to become a classic. There's lots not quite right with its appearance, but the essential design concept of a simple, reliable, practical, economical and versatile bike for the everyday rider is just spot on. Anyone could take this machine anywhere, anytime. Now shoot me down!
it just joined the other 2 dozen bikes in its class that can do the same thing. Many in its class have way more character. I question why this bike was even made.
Design brief: use one of everything from the spares warehouse.
Another quality bike from Honda. Well built, comfortable and with legendary reliability. As a transportation device, few are better. And, it's also beginner friendly. Overall, it's a fine bike that will help bring new riders into the pastime. I approve heartily. Using each platform developed for several different looks is a Honda trademark. Nobody does it better, IMHO. Great review. I'm glad the ride experience was more than you anticipated.
Hamas are looking for someone new to lead their P.R. team, you sound perfect?
@@twowheelstouring482 And I’m pretty sure you get a job at the BBC
@@badgical640 😂😂😂
Tried this bike six months ago in Madrid. The only negative features are the weight and the horrible white mudguard. Nice and modern looking, great engine, awesome front stability due its 19" wheel and economical. If I would not have several bikes, I would buy it. After trying the naked, trail and custom Honda bikes with the same engine... I loved this one the most. Very decent bike.
Great review, thanks for your honesty
No problem!
Thanks Andy… as ever a fair review… not a bike for everyone but does that machine actually exist? It’s great to have so many choices for so many riders… well done and I look forward to the next review 👍🏻🙏🏻
Yes good point!
It sells quite well here in Germany, but I‘ve never met one on the road.
I have visited this bike three times at the dealer. Ultimately it struck me as a very good example of a thoroughly modern motorcycle. A new rider would be well served by this bike. I certainly prefer it to the fairing covered "sport bikes" in similar engine size configurations. Every review I've read or watched comments on the compliant suspension. Who knows, this bike may be the ultimate commuter (minus wind protection).
Thanks for your perspective review Andy.
Hi, I've been a sub of yours for over a year now and always look forward to your next video. I don't actually live too far away and a few years ago, travelled through your neck of the woods daily going to work. Love the channel and your reviews and these are also the reason that I now own a Triumph Trident 660. On occasion, I still ride in the Missenden area with its many country lanes. I'll give you a wave if we ever pass each other.
Please do!
Your review is spot on!
I’m glad you think so!
Not a bad bike, but I'd opt for a Fantic Caballero 500 - heaps of character and an Italian beauty.
I agree if we’re talking about appearance and character, hard to beat the Caballero in these categories. But I‘ve read a lot about unhappy owners when it comes to reliability and resale value.
Different size and price category I know, but I'd go with the Caballero 700 with the excellent, characterful, Japanese CP2 engine in it.
@@Paul-kp1tu. Yep, it's about the same ratio in Europe, too.
I'm kind of with you on the look of the bike. Maybe if the hand guards and top front mudguard were colour matched to the tank and the seat was black it would improve it for me. As it is, there are too many colours going on. As for the mechanics , you simply can't fault the Honda 500 platform. My wife has a 500 rebel, basically the same bike, and it is superb. Top quality for a budget price tag. It ain't gonna set the world on fire, but it will keep on not setting the world on fire comfortably, reliably and economically for many many miles.
I bought one and it’s an excellent motorcycle to own and ride. The build quality is great and I would recommend it for a multipurpose bike as there is no such motorcycle that fits every use with perfection.
I like this review for it’s honestly and some fair comments. It’s a bit disheartening to see so many comments about the bike which seem based on first views as opposed to actually riding it
My first bike was a NEW 1966 CL160. $700 out the door!! Fun, and easy to ride. Rode it, and beat it up, for a year before moving up to a 450. LOVED the little thing. Was ok in the dirt and on the street … as an old coot, I’m now on a Honda Valkyrie 1800. “Brilliant” 😁
Nice review Andy! I like it! The perfect runaround in any weather. ‘Scramblers’ aren’t usually for scrambling; most of them are stying projects. I’d add off-road friendly after-market mirrors, hand guards and decent off-road tyres, just so’s you could do a bit of off-road non technical tracks if you saw any. Vibrations through me nads? I’m off down the dealers! 😉😃
Yes that was an unexpected plus point….
I think your review is spot on, TMF (as usual). I feel like they just took a standard Rebel 500 and threw a few plastic, "scrambler" farkles on it. Probably a solid bike for a new rider and a city commuter, but pretty utilitarian. Good review.
Thank you!
It has many Rebel components from the lights to the display, engine and suspension. I had a Rebel 500 for 2 years and it’s a perfectly capable bike especially for a beginner
Love these reviews, Andy. I’m perplexed by this bike as well. I consider it Honda’s “gateway drug” for OTHER bikes in their lineup. I could easily see new riders approaching this one and having a blast, then deciding later on for more power, or a more cruise-type bike, or more ADV prowess, etc., and moving toward a TransAlp or AT, etc. I don’t like the looks either, but that price… 👀
It's definitely grown on you, honda reliability, I had a cb 500f to rebuild my confidence a few years ago
. Great bike for the money, hate the white plastic, what were they thinking. Fab honest review ☕👍🏽
The white stuff isn't standard anyway tho.
I'm sure the bike has its place in the market. But all the same, it was nice to see you give it an honest review. Especially considering they have it to you for that purpose 👍
Thanks for watching!
I am actively searching for a new motorcycle. My 2008 Triumph Tiger 1050 is definitely showing its age and was already 10 yrs old when I got it. I thought of downsizing and going with the Royal Enfield INT650 as it is a beautiful bike. Biggest issue with the RE is the dealer network here in the States is really poor. Nearest one is 1hr45mins away. Then Honda released the SCL500(CL500) and thought maybe this would be a better option for reliability and dealer network. After watching many different videos of both I think I've decided to keep saving and get my dream bike the Triumph Bonneville T120. It is such a beauty and has all the features I really want in a bike. Was always asking myself, is it really worth 2x the cost of the RE or Honda and I think it probably is. Another great video Andy keep up the good work.
Thanks - and yes, hold out for that Triumph!
In 2000 I bought a new Skoda Felicia because I had a 125 mile daily commute and I had to have reliability. It was the end of line model and I paid £4995, it had no power steering, no safety features and wind up windows. It was the ugliest thing you ever saw but it was built under the Volkswagen/Audi group in the days when that meant something. In 2006 I gave it to my brother at 162,000 trouble free miles and still on the original clutch.
If I’m working to a budget and I need dependable transport then how something looks is not really at the top of my priorities. I actually like the look of this bike and it’s a Honda too so I’m sure it’ll last forever. I like the look of the similarly priced Enfield’s more but as you point out they are not likely to be built to the same quality.
If I depended on the bike I would buy the Honda but if it was a bike for pleasure then I would probably look elsewhere.
I really enjoy your channel by the way!!
Glad to hear that - thank you!
I have to say I was of the same opinion, I didn't like the first look of it but it's now grown on me. Nice review.
Thanks for watching!
I “sorted” the seat instantly with a lovely, cheap £14 “sheepskin” from Amazon ! Totally transformed it. Anyway, as always, thanks for the review & taking the time to show us 👍
I think if I won this bike in a raffle, I would immediately opt for the cash alternative. This will be my new way of gauging whether or not I like a bike.
Yeah I’m with you on that!
its because you are not seeing it in actual
So it's a fine bike for sunny day wafting around but I think the new Triumph Scrambler 400 will beat it on many counts: lower weight, cheaper to buy, easier to fit luggage, greater fuel range (I think) and a bit more light off road ability. Oh, and the Triumph looks far better.
I 100% agree!
Don't forget the lower seat height on cl500. This is one of the reasons I am considering this bike.
I weighed up both the Honda and the Triumph before settling on the Honda. Apart from looks, which are subjective anyway, the only thing that the Triumph significantly beat the Honda on is ground clearance. Fuel capacity is near identical. I acknowledge that luggage capacity reduced by exhaust may be a factor for some, but I suspect most who want more luggage capacity won't be buying either bike (I have a K1600gt for that).
The honda engine is a bit of a gem and unlike that of the Triumph, it's well proven.
For me, the Honda is the perfect bike for exploring country lanes, which is the only thing my K16 wasn't ideally suited to. No doubt the Triumph will be also be ideal for that, but the engine and reliability of the Honda tipped it for me.
I’d love to have this as a second bike in the stable. Probably paired with something a little more speed or long distance focused while this becomes the around town bomber. The insurance is sure to be negligible and since it’s a Honda it wouldn’t mind a week or two of riding neglect and fire up immediately
Agree about the tank and exhaust
White plastics are only thing I don't like but looks a decent bit of kit for the money.
Morning TMF! For me, the base of that exhaust and the cheap swing arm is enough for me not to shell out my hard earned. A Scram 411 is much more interesting and prettier.
I don't think shell out applies to a 6000£ motorcycle built to a budget 😂
Vance and Hines pipe is $450 USD...wouldn't entertain a RE
Bike looks AWESOME!!!
I think it looks quite good . In keeping with the original cl back in the seventies. Just a bit of an all rounder.
#10 - Took me a few goes to read it, but was a good challenge! Enjoy your vids and thanks !
Great job!
Looks quite nice and for the money, it would be tempting! ✌️
I agree with you about the tank. Yep. Ignition on the side not what I like.
I quite like the looks of this bike. I prefer to remove the optional white mudguard and the hand guard and the white light cowling. Perhaps make the Aluminium heat shield black in colour. I like the shape of the feul tank. The instrument binnacle reminds me of the instrument cluster on the Triumph Trident. Overall I think if I wanted a big first bike I would put this on my shortlist. I think it's far better looking than the 500cc cruiser bike that Honda called their Rebel
When I first saw this bike I saw it as standard without all the extra bits no white plastic , brown seat and i really liked it but as soon as I found out it was based on the rebel I quickly lost interest, I test rode the rebel 1100 dct and hated everything about it except for the engine, I’ve now gone for the cbr500r which I absolutely love , even though I’ve taken a step down in power from my previous bikes it does everything I want a bike to do and more .
I am interested in your opinion regarding two bikes you have tested. Disregarding looks, which is best for back lane riding on country roads the CL500 or the Enfield 350 HNTR. I have not ridden either but fancy both.
Enfield.
I enjoy all your videos (apart from the car things) and was curious about the small print for the numbties. Took some doing to see it, but I agree with it. Its just a shame you have to do it at all. The modern world we live in I suppose...We must carry on regardless and all that.
Yes - makes me feel better that it’s there - amuses me that it’s so hard to pause and read it. Glad you agree with my points!
I quite like the looks of this bike. It just looks like someone has designed a "standard" bike without worrying about it looking "classic", it's a bit toned down from Honda's Neo Cafe bikes but in a similar vein. The bike is just a bit small for me unfortunately, it's properly dinky. If they had one that's big enough to seat two full sized adults I'd take it, having one if Honda's 750 twins or the 1100 would be nice too. A CL1100 would make sense to sort of mirror the Rebel range if anything.
All but called it cheap and cheerful. I appreciate the restraint 😂
Glad you appreciate my efforts!
i like it . have owned 3 , 500 x s ,a 500 r all good bikes with the same engine .
I spent lockdown looking at a bike to do Argentina to Canada on,everything from weight,accessories available,fuel range(there's no fuel stations to Tuktoyaktuk) and the best thing,was a Kawasaki X300 Versys(within budget),but this bike ticked a lot of boxes, so much so, i talked to Acerbis and Nomad about a L/R fuel tank(ignition would need moved). Biggest thing putting me off,is a 750cc version,because,if the internet is right,it's a much better looking/designed bike! Most offroad parts from the CB500X fit,wire wheels,sumpguard,etc...either those above,or you just buy a KLR650 in the USA and airfreight it south(costly,and would rather build the bike here).
P.S; Life of Burch has a nice exhaust on his one!
Good little machine for commuting on, or as a first big bike I would say, looks aside. Those plastics would have to go for me, but I dare say they could be painted to match the bike, if you are into that look so maybe not a deal breaker. Definitely can't argue with the price, very accessible for a new rider.
Headlamp cowling looks great...the other accessories... meh
The plastics are optional accessories, so you don’t have to buy them in the first place. I‘d also prefer color-matched add-ons.
I think a black one with those white bits painted to match would be fine.
That key position is exactly where Honda placed them on many of their bikes back in the 1970's so we could say it is attention to detail from the retro perspective. For riding in the rain I would prefer that location rather than postioned vertically up near the steering head/instrument cluster where it is exposed to water.
Fair enough (I’ve never had an issue with the ignition in the exposed to water position!)
I part exchanged my V-Strom 650 for an orange one of these, I love it as it feels like a fast(ish) Grom.
Mine has the white mudguard and cowl and seems to be loved by non bikers which is a bit weird. I agree that it looks a bit a bit odd but each to their own I suppose…
Absolutely - if it works for you then that’s great!
The bench seat is the only thing I like about it over it's CB and Rebel 500 siblings.
I get what Honda were trying to do across their 500 platform with sharing of parts across the Rebel cruiser, the CB500X "adventure bike", the CBR500R sports bike and this...but I would say this looks a lot like the fourth out of four choices. A bit like a multitool for a job rather than a bespoke item that does the one job you need, and only that job.
I'd get the Rebel or the CB500X I think, if I had to get a bike from this range.
Good overview, Andy. I'm sure this bike and it's various iterations will tick all the necessary boxes required from prospective buyers.
However, as a homage to the classic Honda CL/XL trail bikes of the 70s, this bike ain't.
Nooo!😄
Im in my 60s and I'm slowly coming round to smaller capacity bikes, another one for consideration.
A good winter ride maybe ? It’s a bit like it’s been made from a couple of different bikes but I don’t totally dislike it
Hi Andy. This bike reminds me of the CL175 my neighbor had when I was a was a young lad. This model is expensive in NZ.
I only just rode one from the dealership, and it’s a bit of a mess with the looks however the dealership had replaced the stock exhaust and had the plastics on as well as some decent tires and I must say I was surprised, they must have done something with the suspension as well for the price 10,500 AUD its just on point with the KLR 650 here so spoiled for choice. This is the go to for people wanting to step up to a BMW GS Urban later.
Nice one - congratulations!
I have a cb500x which is VERY similar mechanically ... However I wanted the old school/ scrambler look coupled with the Cb500x usability, and reliability. Interested in your review.
Someone commented in a different review that the fuel tank looks dead-on an inverted bed pan - and I CAN'T UNSEE IT!!!
Very good looking bike…👍👍
I like the concept of this bike. I often ride single track back roads in Kent where my 1200 Tiger Explorer and 1290 Super Adventure are just too big. My partner is also doing her CBT in Nov so I am considering something a little more 'toof toof' I can't see why I would buy this over a CB500X or KTM 390 Adventure though. The exhaust is simply ridiculous and the white plastic doesn't work for me. Colour coded would look so much better or even black. Maybe I should just get a Moto Gutless V7 and put knoblies on it or wait and see what the upcoming RE Shotgun is like. As I keep saying, we're spoilt for choice these days aren't we? PS: I rode the Tracer 9 GT+ a couple of weeks ago and that is a real stunner.
I think if someone had handed me one of those back in my University days in and around Lancaster, I would have been a happy boy.
Interesting vid. It's definitely a bit an oddball but I can see it's quirky appeal, especially for the price. I guess my issue is that I don't really know what it is or what's it's trying to do. Maybe I'm overthinking it but I'm just not sure who would buy one & for what.
I’m with you!
Personally I would go for the CBX in the 500 range, it is designed for what it does and would meet my needs better. Can't help but think I would want a real scrambler if I went that way, but then the real ones like the CRF are twice the price.
i love it. it looks like a baby R9t urban G/S
I remember the CZ 175 trail had an exhaust like that, it was really ugly then as well. It makes my MZ look pretty and well proportioned 😂
When I told someone that I had to start my CZ with the gear lever …they didn’t believe me!! 🙂
Good bike and good value for money!
Safe and friendly is a good description
This is one of those bikes I'm glad Honda makes, but like you, it really doesn't have a place in my garage. I lean more towards the ADV and touring genre, owning an Africa Twin and a BMW Rt1200, and this bike, I feel, doesn't fit in either. But, if I were looking for a retro Scrambler to commute and play on the weekends, I would seriously look at this bike.
I think the front end looks a little lost to much like a rebel, i really like certain aspects though, the exhaust i like, the rear mud guard and lamp units, overall i like it
Interesting!
I suspect this bike or similar would suit 80% of UK riding requirements.
As it's a Honda we all know it will be reliable and the excellent finish will last etc.
Why then are we all watching and reading the reviews of the new 1300 GS?
Think of all the touring holidays you could have with the £12K you would save.
You pays your money and takes your choice I guess😊
Always good to see your reviews TMF
Thank you!
Good bike.
The placement of the exhaust would be the reason I would pass on this one, complicates luggage placement.
Can you think of an older leaner approved bike in the 400 to 650 cc that has ABS that Is as nimble and easy to ride as this one that I could buy and service myself? Maybe some of the earlier Honda 500 or Triumph bikes. I really don’t know, but I did get a shock recently test riding a KTM 390 which I thought from CZcams reviews would be ideal for me but couldn’t stand. Then I tested this one and loved it for all the reasons you mentioned a learner moving up to a bigger bike would like. i’m finding a lot of good affordable secondhand bikes out there but not so easy to test ride. For example, many good cheap Suzuki.DL750 bikes that look good to me and are reliable, but maybe not so easy to handle as this little CL 500? Any advice much appreciated
I didn’t think it was for you i thought these videos were for your viewers 😂 I did have one for a weekend I found the riders foot pegs are in the wrong position when you put your feet down get in the way than brown seat is a extra as it’s more padded than the black stranded one plus the white bits are also extras
Thanks for video 👍
My pleasure!
I can imagine Australian farmers equipping their staff with these bikes. It’s a quality, rugged, reliable, scrambler. Looks kinda cool too, imo. 🤘
Glad to hear that!
I agree with you about the looks. While I think most of it looks good that tank is a deal breaker same as the Rebel.
Top tip there is a product called polywatch that polishes out scratches on watch plastic lenses. Will work great on your instruments
Ooh that sounds worth a look!
Right - ordered from Amazon….thanks for that!
A little goes a long way with Polywatch. It should do the job.
It looks purposeful, I quite like it.
Good to hear!
I looked at the Canadian version called SCL500, in green with the black seat and without the white hand guard and mud guard it looks good. I'm surprised they decided to bring it here, they don't import the NT1100 sadly...
Brown saddle needs a green bike. Brown and Blue is a mismatch
Yes im with you andy im not too keen myself
I’m left handed so having the ignition on the left is great for me haha and I do think it looks lovely but that chunky dual exhaust needs to go - makes it look ugly. An aftermarket exhaust is definitely needed.
What’s happened with night riding ,I have noticed it’s been missing for a while
It may come back in due course! I usually do that in my “in depth” reviews rather than the first ride…..
Is the side bag and windscreen standard?
I don’t think so no….
Lovely looking bike,great price for a Honda,but I don't like the white plastic ad ons,I think it'd look far better without.😊
Price wise, nobody could complain. Honda build quality and finish you certainly shouldn't complain. But looks...not for me. Actually think those 'accessories' probably go against it than improve it. But agree if recently passed test/moving up to a bigger bike, sounds like you could do worse.
Saw one at my local dealership. I really didn't like the Rebel style gas tank either. Blue version looks better though.
I think they look great, especially the dark green, but it is definitely not the reference of beauty like a BMW GS is.
I tried to be generous in my thoughts about this bike when it first came out, but the more I look at it the more I feel Honda took the “easy way out” in building a scrambler, and just built a “parts bin” bike. If they had made the gas tank cover the frame, added a “crease” down the length of the muffler and/or heat shield to match the dual outlets, and color matched the accessories, it couldn’t have cost that much more to produce and would have made it much better looking. But as you said, looks are subjective 😉.
I quite like this. It’s looks make me think of 1970s California for some reason, perhaps it’s those racing panels.
Hi Andy i'm with you on this one, the plastic addons seem to make it look Himalayan esque, so not for me either ? ATB Wayne..........
Glad we agree Wayne
If they XR'd it in the way there are KTM Adv R's I might of been interested. I don't need 90 hp off-road but I want more than 20-30 hp for road riding between trails and it needs to be light weight.
How are we supposed to read the bit at the beginning as it is only on the screen for a Millisecond
It’s to test your pausing skills…
It does serve a good purpose for me I can turn the sound off until it flashes up and I don’t need to here the annoying hay kids I love your channel but I hate that bit
I had the CL-350 in the early seventy's . For leisurely rides like you are doing it was C00L . As much the scrambler of the day as anything else back then . In other words , if you needed a bash plate you bought the wrong bike . I might pick one
T/C/E
A decent bike change the the white plastic for black or blue and I think it would be a great allrounder.
I like the look of this bike.
Not everyone wants to stand out and for local commuting and a simple riding bike this looks OK.
I think i have to agree with you bike looks like a bit of a mish mash of parts from other bikes stuck together. If that’s not an issue then a good reliable commuter bike. Just wondered if the distortion at the edges of the mirrors is an attempt to try and give you better view of blind spots?
Yes maybe….
What's that dress up kit called? Is it a Honda one?