Honda CB500X: The Perfect Adventure Motorcycle for New Riders
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- čas přidán 6. 08. 2024
- There are tons of good bikes to start on the path of being a world churning adventure rider but there is only one PERFECT bike you can choose. This video is going to walk you through all the reasons why choosing the Honda CB500X is the best decision you can possibly make. I spent my first two years of riding with the CB500X with a Rally Raid level 3 kit installed and I traveled all over with it at that time. I did massive amounts of road miles on my way to off-road in The Badlands before I eventually did a 12,000 mile trip through Mexico and Central America. It was an amazing bike for all of those miles except for one small thing.
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I'm 68 years old and been riding my entire life
Now that I'm officially a geezer I think it's the bike for me!🤠
It is a great all rounder whether you’re a “geezer” or not. ;-)
🙂👍👍👍👍
Great review, just did one of my own review at 24000 km (2019 model) and fully agree with all you points. I bought mine to do a world trip that I had to cancel due to costs, but I got the bike to do it. Have done a lot trail riding already and also upgraded it with a full RR-kit. Very happy !
It is a great bike and I am excited when you do the RTW trip so keep us updated when you start. I have the goal of getting to some of those places but a long term trip seems amazing to me. Good luck when the time comes. Thank you very much for watching and leaving a comment. ;-)
I love my CBX. Its a great, all around bike.
Very true. I couldn't believe how well it would get me to everywhere I wanted to go.
That is so awesome to hear. I am glad you got through it well. It seems pretty easy once you get all finished with everything.
Great review. Thanks!
Thanks for the informative video! I’m a new rider and bought a cb500x today, I reckon I’ve made a decent choice :P I’ll definitely be considering the rally raid kit later. Cheers!
You are going to love that bike. I know my biggest surprise was just how much I would get into riding everywhere I could. If you are thinking of doing the conversion, this video was my guide through the whole process and made it all a ton easier. czcams.com/video/OyUFCtpwOuc/video.html
I wish you a ton of luck with your riding and I can't wait to hear of all your new adventures.
Thanks for video! Very interesting and informative video!
Glad you liked it!
Great video! ...I'd wanted a dual sport for a while (really love KLR's) but just got a good deal on a well loved/used 2015 CB 500X with a Rally Raid kit - just bought it earlier today! 😛 It's rad - I'm in love with it 🖤🖤🖤
That is a great bike and I was SUPER happy with mine while I had it. The bike is an absolute work horse. Good luck and enjoy every minute with your new bike. ;-)
Thank you for the informative video! Most helpful!
Absolutely. I’m glad you liked it.
Great review of what seems to be a great bike :-) it's on my wish list!
Good choice! You will have a ton of fun on this bike for sure.
Great informative video 👍🏾💯🇬🇧 now I want one
It is a great bike to have and I am glad you enjoyed the video.
Excellent review buddy
Thank you so much.
It's great all around bike for anyone not just beginners. Unless you want to spend a great deal of your time on highways at speeds of 75 mph or higher. That is NOT what it is made for. It's not the best at any one thing but very good at many things. You're right about the engine being bulletproof. 56,000 miles trouble free on my 2014 CB500X. Not the quickest bike but still beats 99% of cars on the road taking off from a stoplight. The power curve is predictable and friendly. Throttle response is excellent. No surging or flat spots. Very easy to ride.
It's also the most fuel efficient in its class. The worst I have seen is 62 MPG and my best tank was 77 MPG. It's cheap to buy, insure, maintain and operate. At 58 years old and a motorcycle rider for more than 40 of those years, I can say this is my favorite bike of many I have owned. The CB500X is also all day comfortable. I have ridden many days of 500 miles or more without getting sore or tired.
There are some great ADV bikes out there to choose from but this bike cost less than half of most but it's definitely more than half the bike!
Yeh, it worked really well for me for a long time but it was only at the top end where I finally lost interest. It is an exemplary bike for all styles as long as you are okay with the few deficiencies it has on the edges.
Thank you, loved this review!
You are so welcome! I am glad you got something out of it.
I’ve ridden big GSAs for years. I bought a brand new 1250GSA last August and have just sold it and bought a 2016 CB500X with the Rally Raid conversion. I love it!
Had few months of investigation last year for my first bike, now as a happy owner of one, completely agree with you.
I am glad you chose wisely. ;-)
It is a great all-rounder that pushes just about anything you need to do and I am happy to see another happy rider out there. I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment.
finally i get a 2019 new model CBX, my uncle have the older model so because of him and internet surfing I get the new one. Such a lovely machine it is, today i finished to install all the crash bars. great video tho
Thank you very much for checking out the video and leaving feedback. I was a big fan of my CB500X while I had it. You are going to love it.
I think you are right and reasoned understandable. Oh, and I have a 2017 CRF250L Rally, a 2017 NC750X DCT, a 2012 NC700X DCT, a 2019 CB1100EX and a 2020 Africa Twin CRF1100L ES DCT - which means I cornered the CB500X nicely. And yet I can see the appeal of a reasonable priced rugged bike for most of the driving needs.
Whoa...that is a MAJOR garage. I was very happy with the CB500X while I was learning and my move up to the AT, though needed, was bittersweet. If I could have held on to it, I would have loved to have the option of stepping back to it when I wanted a lighter bike. Unfortunately, I had to stick with only one and that was the AT but I will always have a soft spot for the CB500X.
I definitely agree with everything you say. I'm one of the people with over 100000Km on mine, took it a long way off road stock, with road tyres, and in the last few years added bash-plate, engine crash bars, better pegs and more suitable tyres and took it on some great adventures. And it's got plenty more in it to come!
I'm also one of the guys who never needed to upgrade, and I've met, and been responsible for, quite a few older riders downgrading from bigger bikes (especially when it first came out and every other rider wanted to know what it was - half of them didn't believe how cheap it was and how much it could do.
I really think you summed up the bike perfectly. I know from experience it's hard not to sound like a Honda Rep when reviewing it :)
Wow, nice job stacking up those miles. I only put 20k on mine before changing out but it was a really fun 20k. There will be a day, I am sure, where I will be happy to step back down to a smaller bike that I can throw around a little bit easier. Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment.
GREAT REVIEW!
I bought my son a used 2009 Kawasaki ex500 that is an amazing bike, especially for beginners which he was a few years ago. It will just chug along in 1st and has a GREAT top end. It is the easiest bike I have ridden in 50 yrs of riding BUT had it been just a few years later to its release I know I would have bought in this bike for him . PLUS it had to handle him being nearly 6'5'which the upright seating on this bike will do. I do not give many bike reviews but this is a pretty good bike and economical with plenty of off road accessories.
Thank you so much for your feedback. I totally agree with this being a great first bike option and has very little barriers to entry for most folks.
Thanks for the good review.
This bike is on my short list for my first motorcycle alongside the MT-03 and the Svartpilen 401.
I don't know those other two bikes but I can testify to the capabilities of the CB500X and the reliability of the Honda name for sure. Good luck.
Which bike have you chosen then?
Put a down payment on mine today and should have it tomorrow. Seems like the perfect bike for me and the Pacific Northwest of Canada. Very, very exciting. Thanks for your video.
Oh, the Pacific Northwest of Canada will be perfect for that bike. You are going to have an amazing time with it. I am glad you were able to get something from the video and we appreciate the feedback.
I love my CB500X. It was my first bike and as soon as I buy my second bike (pure naked) I will be converting the CB to a Rally Raid version. The engine is also run in the Honda Rebel 500.
This will be my bike forever.
The RR kit is a fun upgrade for the bike. It will feel like a brand new ride. I didn't know about the Rebel but this engine is an absolute tank and will definitely run you forever.
Considering this as my very first motorcycle ever, I really like it.
It was my first motorcycle ever and I had a ton of fun with it. It is a great way to learn and for most types of traveling it will continue being awesome long after you’re comfortable. Enjoy and good luck.
Great review. I’m 6’6” and 240lbs. With RR kit, risers, drop pegs and tall seat the bike is more comfortable than an AT for me. It does struggle at 80 fully loaded for a camping trip tho.
Itchy Boots just bought one so she can do some riding around Europe while awaiting her return to Peru and the resumption of her Patagonia to Alaska adventure.
I saw that and I am really excited to hear her impressions compared to the Himalayan...though I will REALLY miss hearing the way she pronounces Himalayan. ;-)
I think I might be even more excited about her newest adventures around Europe because that is a trip I could more likely see myself on that trip than the others she has taken.
@@BeGoneForGood Yeah, I'm anxious to hear her thoughts as well. Another channel I'm following is Rad Raven and he's currently posting a weekly video of his 'Baltic Venture' trip on a CRF 250 Rally, with over half being dirt roads and trails, that you might find interesting. I'm always on the lookout for smaller bike adventure channels, which is one reason I really like Itchy Boots.
@@brianwhite1189 go on #itchyboots.com and you’ll find a lot of information about her thoughts of the bike. Because of the reviews and videos if the CB500X I’m getting one for ADV riding...waiting for it to come in
@@tonimusgrave9530 Yep, I have read Noraly's comments regarding the CB500X. I guess she is doing the Rally Raid upgrade, which of course will make hers a better offroad bike, which isn't cheap. I'm excited for your purchase and wish you many, many safe miles of adventurous riding.
Spot on review, great bike. Can I ask which screen you have fitted..
I used the Madstad screen and was SUPER happy with it in a ton of different circumstances. Just be sure to install as per their instructions because I had to re-buy the screen after screwing up and losing it on the road somewhere in ND. madstad.com/products/honda-cb500x-2016
London boy age 70;.
Love this bike i am 6 ft 2 ins tall very good on ⛽
I have a 2014 fully converted RR, in my 32 years of riding a lot of differet bikes this is in my top 3, just love the damn thing 😊😊
I totally agree. It is a great all-rounder, capable of going anywhere and doing anything, especially with the RR kit installed.
What are the another two in your Top3 ??
I don't have a ton of experience at all so I couldn't even give you a top three. Between the two bikes I have owned, CB500X and the AT, I have all I can handle.
Have you ever considered the Africa Twin? I’ve heard good things about it...😜
As for CB500x I’d also suggest it is a good all rounder and adventure capable bike even for intermediate or experienced riders but who don’t want to park a ton of money in an adventure bike which might only see a small proportion of adventure use. I have a daily rider I love and would default to for 80% of my rides, but would honestly love a CB500x for either longer rides or more adventure oriented rides. Would I like a BMW1200 for the same thing? Not at all; I’ll spend my leftover $20K elsewhere and still ride where I want...nice job Chad. 👍🏻
I barely touched on the price for the bike but you are completely right about it being a major factor. I know it was one of the main reasons I opted for the bike. There are plenty of options for good bikes if you are willing to spend a bunch more but this has to be the best value for the dollar out there today.
And, you aren't going to get me to leave my AT. ;-)
My wife rides a 2015 decked out with all the goodies. Great tough bike chad.just ordered a new back tire for her.👍🏻👍🏻
There will be a day sometime when I will finally get to meet you two and see this bike for myself. ;-) Thank you so much for the continued support.
@@BeGoneForGood ya that would be cool. Enjoy your videos chad
Have the Japanese 400X…same bike. Love it!
Good choice!
I hate statement that 500cc is for new riders whereas 1200cc is for experienced ones. What's the fcking sense to have 1200 or higher engine in motorcycle? To consume petrol? Nowadays even 300cc engines are so strong that can move Himalayas.
I don’t think it is nearly that clear of a distinction but I do believe there is a safety aspect to the idea that new riders probably shouldn’t ride the most powerful bikes they can find. That notion makes 500cc bikes well placed for beginner riders. It doesn’t mean it’s only for beginners or that it is the only option for beginners. Obviously, everyone needs to make their own determination but there are absolutely pluses and minuses to these choices as they pertain to size and power ranges.
Agreed.
Ex owner of the CB500X. Great GREAT bike. Just had the 390 Adventure from KTM UK. Now that is an incredible bike and better in almost every way. The Honda does feel a little more refined and is smoother on the motorways. Either way, both are excellent. Great to have choices! I've also got an Africa Twin DCT on test at the moment, not my first choice for going off road as it's so heavy but it makes a lovely tourer. 👍
I had a BMW GS 1150 R Adv. for 5 Years. Great for touring but offroad not light enough. I think i will try the cbx 500 :-)
Bought a 2013 for 3000.00 (1 year ago), rally raided it for 2500.00 which saved 2000.00 off a new one and still run and love my cbx...
It is a great bike to have and the RR kit is pretty incredible. Once it is completely kitted out, there is almost no terrain it is denied from. Thank you very much for watching and commenting.
I bought a CRF Rally as my first bike because the dealer had sold their only 500X a few weeks prior and the Rally was used, cheap, and had the break-in mileage. I don't regret buying the Rally, because it's an awesome city commuter bike, and it's been nice learning to ride on a bike that weighs 90 lbs less. I have taken it on East coast interstate highways at speed, but I definitely realize there are some days I need just that littlest bit more motor since the 250 takes a big fueling hit over 70 mph. I might still eventually buy a 500X, though, specifically for the RR kit
I didn't spend a lot of time on the CB500X before the RR install so I can't compare it much but it was a GREAT bike afterwards. I was amazed how far and how well it took me. I think coming up from a smaller bike will also make the power feel more alive for you thank going the opposite direction. It was my first bike so it took a long time before I found any speed deficiencies and that was outside the US. In 99% of circumstances I think it would be perfect for my needs but I went up a bit in size and weight. Good luck with the new bike and enjoy the ride.
Yup...absolutely true
Thank you very much for the feedback.
You forgot It's also in the Honda Rebel 500 cmx500
Good review 👍
I didn't know that but it perfectly illustrates that point. So many engines out there and they are all great. Thank you so much.
Yes, that's fine ... but I'll take the Africa Twin. Excellent video too!
Very true. I am not trading back but I don't know that I would be riding today if the CB500X wasn't available when I started.
I have the twin!! Less is more sometimes. I love it but I up an adjustable height kit in it.
I have an Africa twin DCT and recently traded my second bike for a Cb500x that I equipped with a rally raid kit.
Now I think I might prefer the 500 for most adventures.
I did some of the CA BDR on the twin and with my experience level I think the 500 would have been better for me for that trip.
Oh man...I wish I had the chance to keep my CB500X when I picked up the AT. I don't know if I would have had the chance to ride it often but it was a sentimental thing. We are hoping to do the CABDR and as long as it wasn't a cross country ride, I think I would consider doing it on the CB over the AT. Unfortunately, I only get one bike so it will have to be done on the AT.
I am glad you stopped by and enjoyed the video.
not only suitable for novices/beginners, but also suitable for those who want to limit speed for safety
Great informative video, this one :). There are a lot of reviewers complaining about vibrations on the bike especially around 75 mph. How bad is that? Is it sth that irritated you? Do you think changing the front sprocket (16- tooth sprocket instead of 15t) might help here? Also, if you were to compare this bike and the suzuki v- strom 650xt, which would be a better option for a beginner? Safe trips and enjoy all the beautiful places you haven't discovered so far! :)
I have read a ton about vibration issues at high speeds but for whatever reason I must have been lucky to not have any problems. We spent a good deal of northern Mexico absolutely pegged and I didn't ever run into vibrations on the bike. Now, maybe that was because of my tires or because I am just naturally a stabilizing force on the bike :-).
I can't really give you much insight for the V-Strom because I haven't had a chance to ride it but I can tell you that Honda's maintenance and durability is what sealed the deal for me compared to the others. I am sure either bike would be great for any type of riding you are looking to start with but I am a Honda guy more than I would generally like to admit.
As far as the speed, I never had issue until I was riding with a much bigger (KTM 1190) on the way down to Mexico and realized that a little extra power would have gone a long way to make that trip safer and more manageable. If you are staying in the States or don't have desires to go too fast, this bike should be just fine stock. Changing the sprockets might give you enough of a boost to help out but I wouldn't worry about it right off the bat. Either the bike will grow with you or it will make a great jumping off point for the next one.
Good luck either way and I am glad you enjoyed the vid.
@@BeGoneForGood Thanks for UR super fast reply :) I am almost convinced I am going to be a honda kind of guy :). If you ever decide to visit Europe, come see me in Poland. I'll show you how beautiful my is. Safe trips! :)
I will certainly let you know when we make it to Poland. It might be awhile but it could happen.
Great video! Thank you. I planning ba world tour and seriously thinking of RR CB500X but I am afraid that the engine is lacking of joy? Does the Scorpion exhaust makes it more pleasurable? I am just concern it will do the job but without the banana smile?
I love the phrase "banana smile" and I might be using that in the future. The CB500X is a great RTW type bike. I would urge you to check out Itchy Boots channel for her thoughts on long term travel for the CB500X. It does lack a little on the top side but some might not miss it at all. I tend to ride a little fast, especially when I am passing, and found the CB500X just couldn't get me to that top end. I have an Africa Twin now which is more than enough but the bike is also MUCH bigger and heavier now.
The exhaust was a nice addition for sound but I didn't notice any improved HP or performance in general. I am sure it improved some but it wasn't recognizable to me. The bike will definitely do the job but if it is a banana smile you are looking for, maybe more power is a good idea.
@@BeGoneForGood 🍌 smile
Hello i own the cb500x also theAfrica twin and im planing a trip from houston to colombia which one do you think is better for this ? Thank you
So, it was my trip down to Honduras that motivated me to step up to the AT. I was pretty comfortable with the CB500X until I had to do massive amounts of highway miles and the CB just couldn’t keep up the way I wanted.
I can’t say what would work best for you but if I was staying on mostly paved roads, I’d always opt for the AT.
I am torn between this one and the Suzuki V Strom 650XT... I may go with the 650XT since the engine is a bit bigger.... I do appreciate your input on the CB500X!
I have the same hesitation
Sorry it took so long to get back to you but here I go...
The CB500X is an incredible bike and I almost immediately put the RR kit on it. It was obviously a lot more bike than I was a rider but as I got better and better, I found the one place where I wanted more bike. It was during my ride down and through Mexico that I wished for more power. When I was trying to pass some of these semis at 80mph it was tough on the CB500X because even if I could get more speed, it wasn't quick about it. Now on the Africa Twin I can call on that power pretty easily. I don't know how the V-Strom is in that category but unless you are pushing 80-90, it probably won't be an issue with the CB500X. I hope this helps a little bit and again, I apologize for taking so long to get back to you. Good luck.
@@BeGoneForGood Not to worry ! Thanks so much for help on this and keep the videos coming! All the best !
It’s a smart option for anyone, beginner or not.
It’s simply a great bike.
Too bad it’s so underrated.
Or maybe that is a good thing. If Honda knew what they really had on their hands it would be twice as much. ;-)
Thanks for the review! Would you recommend it for tall riders as well?! I am 6 foot 3 and I am considering this one
I’m 6’5” and had no problems with comfort even on really long days. There are also SO many modifications you can make for more comfort like seats, pegs, windscreens and handlebars that I’d be surprised if you couldn’t tailor this bike for just about any rider.
@@BeGoneForGood thanks mate!
@@BeGoneForGood I'm 6.1 do you feel cramped on it at all. And how is it for comfort.
I'm really considering one, the only thing I'm worried about is the lack of power. I ride with mates with big 1250 gs, s, etc, mainly on the road, I don't want to be fighting all day to stay with them... But I really do like the 500x, maybe a test ride is needed
Definitely a test ride is in order. I know I was very satisfied until I was trying to keep up with another rider on super fast highways. A test ride should tell you everything you need to know about the bike's top end capability. The rest of the bike is incredible.
How is the stock suspension and how is it compared to the Rally Raid upgrade? I'm 250 lbs and want to do some fun and fast single track trails with this bike eventually but I'm worried that the 430lb weight + my weight, and low suspension travel and low ground clearance would be an issue for off-roading. My other choice of bike would be the BMW g310gs with nearly 2 inches more suspension travel and 50 lbs less weight and also has rally raid upgrades available, but the superior power and torque of the honda has me stuck on the decision.
Sorry it took me so long to get to this question but I will do my best here. I didn't have the stock suspension on for too long so I can't speak to the stock system all that much. As far as the RR kit I don't imagine you would have much issue with the front forks and the rear has it's own reservoir and come in heavier capabilities. I don't know what the load requirements were for the heavy version but I am guessing they have dealt with heavy bikes before so you should be fine if it fits with your demands. I didn't do a ton of off-road and ZERO hard off-road but Juan Browne and J-Mo have run these bikes through some outrageous territory. If they can do it, I am sure the bikes can take it. I don't know how to compare it to the BMW but the Honda is a tank. Good luck and I hope it all works out for you.
I bought the Honda crf 250 rally as a beginner adventure bike. I tried the cb500x but it felt bigger and heavier as well as less capable off road. What do you think?
It was interesting for me that the price between cb500x and the crf250rally is almost the same. Make me feel that the components of the rally are better.
What do you think about it?
So I will be REALLY honest with you. I didn't and likely wasn't going to have a lot of off-road in my life when I first purchased my CB500X. Knowing that I was going to be doing an awful lot of road riding made the bigger bike a better choice for me. If you are going to be primarily off-road, especially if it is going to be rough, technical off-roading, then I would suggest going with the lighter bike for sure. If however you are going to be pushing miles the way I normally do with huge amounts of road riding before I go off-road at all, then the CB500X might be the better choice. Good luck either way because the Hondas are great bikes.
I'm looking into getting my motorcycle permit as soon as this pandemic clears up and dmvs reopen and I'm think about getting the CB500x to learn on. I'm 6' tall and on the hefty side (in the ballpark of 260-275). Do you think this bike would have enough power for someone my size, especially for highway riding? Not only maintaining highway speeds, but the power to pass or get out of the way of something if needed.
I hover right in the neighborhood of 200 and I didn't have any problems riding in the States. It wasn't until I took my trip down to Mexico that I noticed a lack of power for what I wanted. There were a couple of times where I was passing above 80 mph and the bike simply couldn't handle it. I couldn't say for sure what sort of experience you would have but I would strongly suggest trying it out before you buy because your hesitation is worthwhile.
@@BeGoneForGood alright, thanks for the input
Are there a good selection of sprockets rear & front for Gering to suit ?
The Honda CB500X is a part of a group of bikes that has a huge spread around the world so I would be surprised if there wasn’t plenty of aftermarket parts available for any specific need you might have for the bike.
I would like to see this bike with a DCT as Hond has experince on higher end bikes.
That would be a great addition but I wonder if it would price them out of the market a little bit for a mid-size ADV bike.
My girlfriend just bought the cb500x 2020, loves it, and now we're lookin' for a perfect pannier rack (that fits the 2020). We want to install the Backcountry 35L Mosko Moto bags, but are not sure what's the best option here. Saw some racks from Givi but we have to re-locate the indicators (?!) and put a little tube (don't know how to call it in English) at the end of the exhaust (I guess against heat...). Can you help? :) (btw, we're from Europe :p)
It is hard to say but I have a few different options from companies I trust. If you are looking for more complete racks you should get Tusk or SW Motech.
I don't know if you can use the Rally Raid stuff but I was really impressed with their products when I added the Level 3 kit to my CB500X. You will be really happy with the Mosko gear because it is super solid. Good luck with the new bike.
Tusk: mxpowerplay.com/i-30500594-tusk-pannier-racks.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjwka_1BRCPARIsAMlUmErBwwJbnug0_3Zl8aZp8HCLzkkJkIOPxEh-mYK7ljwwlV-m2tKBZN4aAo0GEALw_wcB
Rally Raid - www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=830
@@BeGoneForGood Thanks for the reaction! I did see the pannier racks Tusk offers, but I can't find any fitment for the cb500x (2019-2020) unfortunately. Think we'll go with the racks of SW-Motech (the evo, not the newest...). Again thanks (also for your reviews!)
@@SvenNijhof I also saw the Givi racks fitted on the 2019-2020 models even if spec'd for 2013-2018 models, yet have to move the indicators and add a pipe deflector not to burn your precious Mosko bag! Mosko states a few companies in their 'fitment' page. Good luck!
I already like the prospect of owning this bike as I would like to travel 80% road 20% off-road around Ireland & Europe. I am 6 foot 2 & 200 Lbs. How are the ergonomics?
I am 6'5" and just a shade under 200 (I know, I need to hit the gym) and I found the bike comfortable enough. I am on an Africa Twin now and it is slightly better but not a huge amount. I think with the possibility of different pegs, bar risers and seat changes, you can easily customize this bike to your exact liking.
I put TONS of miles on the bike over just a few short months so I feel pretty good about it not being uncomfortable but if you get a chance to sit on it, you will know fast if it works for you. Good luck and I hope you enjoy the riding as I would love some of those routes you're going to take on.
@@BeGoneForGood I'm 5'6 and thinking if this is rideable(easy to reach the ground when stopped) for me, i want this good bike, or should i just get a rebel 500 since it is lower.
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Is there a rally raid kit for the 2022 cb500x?
I think a lot of this stuff would still work for 22 but it may have to be mix and match with the OEM gear.
www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/honda-cb500x-cb500f
Would this be appropriate for someone who is over 6 foot 3 inches 230ish lbs? I am wanting to get into riding and have been looking at this bike at the local dealer
I’m 6’5” and never had an issue with comfort even on some really long days. 230 is probably about what I am with my gear and other than shearing the rear bolts on the sub frame I never had an issue. The bolts were only a a problem because I put way too much weight all the way out on the rear of the bike and was hitting “jumps” in Mexico. With regular riding and staying in the seat I’d think you should be just fine.
How does the CB 500 compares toVersys 300? I like adventure riding in Thailand back roads. Pls advice
I haven't been on the V3 but I can tell you them CB500X performs like a champ. It is a very capable bike and people other than me have really pushed it through its paces. I am sure either bike would do well but I am and likely always will be a big fan of Honda.
I'm not riding V3 yet. But CBX is really great for demolished black roads of Thailand. Trust me I'm born and living here and ride it to work everyday in center of Bangkok.
Please help me decide: I'm 5"7, 188lbs, and never ridden a bike. I want to go on a Namibia adventure next winter, will this CB500X do the trick? My budget, including mods, around$9K....Thank you in advance.
100%. This bike is great for new riders and will tackle anything you need. You may have to drop down a year or two for that budget and outfitting with gear. Best of luck on your trip and if you want any further info about the bike, feel free to ask me.
How tall are you?
Will my legs be too bent with my height 190cm?
Thanks for the answer
I’m 6’5” (195.5) with 36 inseam and I wasn’t too bent but I’ve been happier with my AT. I don’t think you’ll be uncomfortable at all but it all depends on how you ride.
I like it.is it tall am just 5 feet 6 inch only.I want my feet flat footed offroad.and the weight.
Thank you very much for the feedback and watching the vid.
Where in the Badlands did you go?
I don't quite know how to answer this question because as far as I could tell, the Badlands is really just a couple of drivable roads. We camped nearby and did day trips through the park and over to the Black Hills region. It was an awesome trip and the first long trip I ever did on a bike. So much learned and so many great experiences.
That engine is in the honda rebel 500 as well
Very true. Thank you for the added info.
Is it really a starter bike or the right bike for your needs?
I think it could easily be both but I think it is a great starter bike for all riders because it has so much versatility. It may not be a long term bike for everyone but it can accomplish so much that it works as a starter for anyone.
KTM 390 Adventure also looks like a great beginner adv bike.
KTM doesn't make bad bikes and the 390 probably will do a great job as well. My one worry or the reason I might stick with Honda over KTM is for the cheaper maintenance and the tried and true Honda reliability. I sure you would be happy either way but I always lean towards Honda.
@@BeGoneForGood My thoughts as well, Honda has such a great track record with reliability. I'm looking to pick up a cbx this spring, but i hope some of the tech and features on the KTM push others to keep updating. Thanks for the nice video 👍
390 is a great bike, but still...can't match the easy/cheap mainteance and reliability of japanese bikes. Overall everything back on the rider him/her self.
It doesn’t come with spoked wheels right ?
Mine didn’t but I don’t know if they have made that change to subsequent models. I added the Rally Raid kit to mine to get the spoked, bigger wheels.
Good bike for all riders, not just new riders.
Definitely a good bike for all riders but it IS the perfect bike for new riders. ;-)
In your description you say: "... It was an amazing bike for all of those miles except for one small thing."
what was that one small thing?
The one small thing was top end power. Sometimes that was to pass confidently and sometimes it was just to travel on the long straight roads at solid speeds. Now I will be the first to admit that both of those took place at speeds WAY outside of the norm (80s and 90s) but now that I am on an AT, I am happy to say that I have plenty of power in reserve for those moments. This bike will be perfect for 99% of what most riders are going to want to do. Some though will find a little bit extra to be very helpful in the type of riding they really want to do.
türkiye ye bu yıl gelecek. bizde çok büyuk bir hayran gurupları var heyecanla bekliyoruz
I don't know what any of this says but thanks for leaving feedback.
The bike costs 11,000 USD in India. Do you think its worth it? The other option is KTM 390 Adventure for 6,700 USD. What would you suggest as a better option?
I think it all sort of depends on what you are planning on using the bike for in your riding. If you are planning on doing off-road riding, then the KTM sounds like the clear winner. If you are going to be pulling longer distance road miles, then maybe the CB500X is the way to go. I think spending some time considering the things you like and dislike about each bike might help out but for me, I always err on the side off Honda. I just think reliability is one of my hallmarks and the Hondas are routinely pretty bulletproof, which I really like.
The honda is not worth double, I would go for the KTM at this price difference. In many regards the ktm is even better.
Is this bike capable of handling the Dalton Hwy in Alaska ?
I can't say personally because I haven't ridden it myself but these bikes have been in some pretty nasty conditions in other rider's hands. I would be surprised if there was a lot of places the CB500X couldn't go...as long as you don't mind going a little slower. ;-)
John hill. They are few CZcamsr riding Dalton Hwy on Honda 250 cc, any bike can ride it, but much depends on the weather and tires.
Enjoyed your review overall, but maintenance is important for me to be able to accomplish in my garage with no need for outside support . Let's talk valve tappet clearance . . . . . . hmmmmm . NOT a bike for me .
Great point! If full scale maintenance is your goal, I am thinking almost any modern bike might be tough to deal with long term.
@@BeGoneForGood - NC 750 X = adjustable valves & better power .
where to get such spoked wheels as yours?
They were a part of the Rally Raid upgrade kit.
@@BeGoneForGood Throw off the link to this store, if any?
This should get you there.
www.rally-raidproducts.co.uk/honda-cb500x-cb500f
@@BeGoneForGood thank you 🤝
So is your dad going with the 500x?
Probably not as he will just be dipping a toe in the ADV pool. We might be looking at renting or getting a used 250 so he can ride for a couple days to see what he thinks. We are taking baby steps on this one.
its not an adventure bike for beginners.
its a 500cc adventure bike.
get it?
I don’t think I do actually. It isn’t an adventure bike MADE for beginners but it is the perfect adventure bike FOR beginners. Sure plenty of others could use it as well but beginners will find it ideal.
You know, if they have small dic.ks they have to compensate it with big engines. 500cc is more than enough for most riders.
Yeh, that’s right...all riders of big bikes have compensation issues. I was really happy for a long time on my CB500X until it became apparent that I would need more power to ride and pass on my trips. Bikes are nothing but tools. Every tool has a job and the notion that ANY tool can do every job is just profoundly ridiculous.
Podunk Man i got a 500 and an 1100... what does this make of me? An average equipped guy? Stop worrying so much about your cock size and ride the bike, the size compensation story is as old as it is superficial. A 500 has it perks, a 1000 has others, is as simple as this.
Wind protection is not that good on the highway with the stock windshield, 100 km/h is already a bit too much. Knees are not well protected from wind either so, as soon as temperature goes below 20 degree C, this becomes a problem.
It's not all that extraordinary! It's good for the money, yes. But investing 2-3000 EUR in the RR upgrades takes to T7 base version money and it won't be that good probably.
The engine is very manageable.
Even stock it can do fairly bad unpaved roads.
I still think it's a very good beginner bike for adventure riding because of the new price, low power and reasonable performance on unpaved roads. But, it does require a lot of investment in wind protection, crash protection, center stand, etc. It can do 100 km/h and even 130 km/h and even more but, it doesn't feel like it's easy at all (this is good and bad) and wind protection is not good.
A BMW G650GS SERTAO is lighter, has 650cc engine that's won Paris Dakar rally twice and been round the world many times and has 21 inch front tyre, heated grips as standard, switchable abs.. But sadly discontinued...
So how about a ktm 390 adventure, lighter better suspension, and lean angle traction control, and switchable abs, colour tft screen...
Those are both great options but I would still put the Honda ahead of them partially because of price and the bulletproof nature of red products. Obviously, everyone has to find their own ride but I am glad to see so many different options out there for ADV riders.
How does it compare to the Royal Enfield Himalayan?
I don't know exactly but I have HEARD the build quality of the Honda far exceeds the Himalayan. Now RE has undergone some serious management changes in the last bunch of years so maybe they are working towards a better built bike. Itchy Boots seems to have loved both of her bikes and she has experience with both now. I would take her word for the long term capabilities of the two bikes.
I think Noraly has said she will be sticking with the Honda and not going back to the Royal Enfield.
The Enfield is a single 400, that weighs as much as a 650; the CB500X has true cross country capability with that extra cylinder smoothing out the buzz
Fantastic overall video with loads of useful information but please use auto focus when filming yourself otherwise a great and fantastic video 😁
Thank you so much for the comment and watching. Unfortunately, I am a little stuck on the AF thing because I am using a non-native lens and the GH5s is already a bit of a dog when it comes to auto-focus. The times I have tried it, the entire shoot is ruin by constant searching and whirring in the audio. No bueno indeed. Hopefully though, there will be a second camera coming soon.
Considering engine vibration - would you ride a stock CB500X at 75 mph for 6 hours and dirt thereafter
with the stock 15-tooth front sprocket?
I did a lot of road riding with the CB500X and I never really had engine vibration issues even at highway speeds for 10 hours. I never changed the teeth on the front or rear even with a sprocket change. So I guess long story short, I did off-road riding in The Badlands after a lot of road time on the bike and felt absolutely fine with it. My only issue with the CB500X was when I was calling on it for passing power if I was doing highway speeds. There and only there it struggled a bit to give me more power.
@@BeGoneForGood - Thanks for those details.
@@BeGoneForGood Engine vibration is unbearable at 120km/h, I have CB500XA 2019. and most likely I will have to replace it despite I really really like the looks.
That is too bad. I was lucky and never had any problems.
@@trumpetsnail - Did you speak with a dealer mechanic about that? It might be a common problem produced by poor assembly. I once had a Fiat that vibrated annoyingly at 4,000rpm. It turned out that although it was new, half the pistons were ones for a different engine!
When Honda will produce an adv bike , about 800cc , as a competitor of the new Yamaha Tenere 700?
It's in the works at the moment. 👍
I don't really know but it is awesome to see KTM to coming out with all sorts of new models.
And rebel 500?
I didn’t know that but it seems to also be in that bike as well. There are just a ton of these engines being made.
That’s the bike which “Itchy boots”, Noraly is riding now
She's using this for smooth European roads, for the rough adventures the Himalayan is her go-to bike.
I will be very curious to hear what her thoughts are between the two bikes. I don't know if they are direct competitors but for "budget" bikes they both have HUGE followings.
Well if it's good enough for Noraly AKA Itchy Boots, then it's good enough for anyone... ;-)
True story. She has got to be one of the most coveted product endorsements they could have received, especially as the women's market opens up.
I've been considering it, but the exhaust pipes are too exposed. Anyone who does trail riding knows you misfire traversing a log, or a big rock and you'll damage the pipes and possibly move the engine head. It's why BMW turned the cylinder head around on their 390s and Royal Enfield Himalayan has the pipe to the side well back. Not a serious issue for a dirt road rider, or an occasional trackie, but something to be very wary of. Otherwise it's an excellent bike, as most Hondas are.
I never did REAL off-roading with the CB500X but Juan Brown has done some major rides on the bike. I wonder if he has more coverage for the pipes because there have been some gnarly trails on his channel.
This is a great thing to think about if someone is considering this bike for major off road riding.
So I'm still a little confused. Do like this bike or do you NOT like this bike? Just kidding.....you could sell sand to an Arab! That was a great review and I agree with you 100%!
It is a great bike but honestly not every tool is good for every job and the same is true for bikes as well. There are plenty of things this bike does really well and others, not so much.
👍🏻
I appreciate the feedback.
Waiting for this bike in India for about 7 years now ☹️
Honda has either brought in cheap low quality stuff, or big wing kindof expensive stuff to India.
Unfair.
That is too bad because this seems like a great bike for heavily populated moto areas like India. I hope you see it soon.
A Suzuki DR 650 is a better starter and advanced ADV bike
I am not saying you are wrong but I would love to know why you think that the DR650 is better.
I had a dr650 and swapped to a cb500x, I find it a lot less agricultural than the dr and doesnt seem to be trying too hard at 60mph. I think the dr is more robust for hard out mud plugging and dropping but unless that's what your doing I much prefer the Honda anyday of the week.
Sounds like a smoother KLR. Good at a lot great at nothing. My kind of bike. I have a Africa twin now and it’s too tall and too heavy
That is a great way to describe the CB500X. I am an AT rider myself these days. Heavy weight for sure.
Smart marketing by Honda put parts on more bikes lower cost to buy and to build a new one and cheaper repairs for customers
Those engineers at Honda certainly know how to create a solid lineup that can stay on the road long term. I am very grateful to them for both bikes I have owned.
Excellent content. Suggestion- show more of the bike and riding and less of your face.
Thank you so much for the feedback and checking out the channel. Wait a second though...you don't think my face is as entertaining as the bike? ;-)
You forgot to mention how popular these bikes are for women riders.
I didn’t realize that was a thing but it makes sense given how manageable it is for a midsize bike.
Just follow Noraly AKA Itchy Boots the bike Vlogger, she's currently doing a series from Iceland back to Sweden on her CB500X. A facinating and informative woman.
She is the best spokesperson for that bike so far.
Perfect adv for beginners? First gear throtle is snatchy as F***.
I never had that issue but it is good for folks to see different perspective here. Thanks for the feedback.
RIDICULOUS just buy a KLR650
That might be another route but what is the advantage to the KLR over the CB500X, do you think?
KLR uses a lot of oil on prolonged highway speed trips ( bring your top up pack).Battery uses up electrolytes so constant maintenance or flat battery. Hopeles in the twisty's handles like a wet sponge. Brakes will fade under heavy braking, oh & when off road don't drop it on it's LHS or you'll damage your radiator. We won't mention its lack of torque through the gear changes or it's ergo's on a long ride but yeah if you want a bike you can play on over the weekend it fits the bill.
Show more, tell less
Very true and hopefully the past couple of years have improved my capabilities a little bit.
Lame
I guess you can't please everyone, am I right?