Hi Juan: Just wanted to say thanks for all the effort you've put into all your CB500X videos, I'm sure it's helped a LOT of people realize that they didn't really need a 1200+cc machine to do serious adventure type touring. I'm a smaller guy and getting a little older too, and a huge bike makes no sense for me - I just can't manage the weight any more. I thought the 690 was the way to go, but your videos have made me rethink my priorities. I am now the happy owner of a 2017 CB500X, Madstad screen, RR 440 racks and Siskiyou luggage. Same with my wife (hers is lowered). For those wondering, we recently had BMW F800GS's for a few years (I put 95,000km on mine), but honestly the 500X does the same thing for less than half the price - not to mention the incredible decrease in cost of ownership and amazing fuel economy. Plus they are MUCH easier to manage in sketchy situations. The RR level 1B kits are a future upgrade we are looking forward to, but for now the 500X is a perfect lightweight touring machine. Riding out to Osoyoos BC tomorrow - it's going to be great! Appreciate your work, you're one of the good guys. Thumbs up.
dang every time I start to consider a more powerful bike you bring me back to the cb500x. I just wish we had some here in the states that could bring it up to rally speed besides rally raid. thanks Juan.
I just found and bought a barely used 2015 CB500X (300 miles!). Yesterday I ordered the Level 3 RR kit. I have a WR250R, which I'm keeping, and a Tiger 800XC, which I'm also keeping. The CB500X will be my ride for the solo trips to out of the way places. It lacks in power... but it brings the hooligan in me. Go figure... Anyway, I can't wait to get the RR kit and start building my small adventure bike. Thank you for your great videos.
You should have tried a $3,000 build of a dr650. Rally tank and fairing, seat and suspension. Luggage racks.. dr650 would have done the trips you want to do. No electronic jazz.. very reliable. Enjoyed your videos on the rally raid stuff.. And jenny. Have fun!
Awesome comparison video. More and more I research this, the Rally Raid CB500X continues to check all the boxes for me. Your videos is helping me out alot. Looking forward in viewing more of your adventures on the CB.
Excellent review and comparison of two representatives of middle weight ADV rigs. Appreciate the differences between the two yet their overlapping purpose. Hope other manufacturers will add their versions to the mix.
@@donniebunkerboi9975 - The 500 is a lot smother and a fair bit quicker than the crf. The crf has better suspension, but the seat is lot harder and X is a lot more plush. I think I have most rides covered without spending a lot of money and I get Honda reliability in both bikes. A t700 or KTM 790 would cost me another 7K over and above what I have spent on both bikes.
dude I just realized I have been watching your chanle for quite a while. but recently you have been my go-to source for updates on the Orville spillway crisis.
You have a great Chanel here Juan......I stumbled on your u tube spot while looking for real info about the Orville dam...since i have family in that town.I then found your other videos on motorcycles I have a long love of motorcycles,quads three wheelers. Any how i appreciate the effort you put in to video your adventures for us inn u tube land. Joe Silva Eureka Calif
yeah you did it!!!! Thanks Juan. Wow you sold me buddy. These were seriously big biggest two contenders. I couldn't agree with you more about the big bike mentality. I feel like the cb hits the sweet spot for weight/power/smoothness. Too bad to get the cb set up it will still cost a fair amount.
Thanks for a great video. Was not considering a KTM, but you answered some questions I keep getting about the Honda. I bought a CB450, new, in 1973, and it was a fantastic machine. The 500x seems like an improved, and refined version of it.
What a great comparison. Too cool. I was in the the market for another fast street bike but that CBX really resonates with my membrane...street with a little hint of adventure and hooligan.
So cool to see a different type of review. Awesome awesome awesome. I own the 2016 690 enduro r and just put the lynx r fairing on. Looking forward to warmer weather here in mn winter.. looking into a long range larger adv bike but cant decide on one because of the weight of the 1000cc+ bikes. Its too much even though Im 23 years old i know how heavy a bike can be after youre exhausted on the trail. Seriously considering the cb500 now. Thanks for the review!
Great video! I applaud you still riding a bike as tall as the KTM. I'm only 5' 9" and whenever I bring up seat height I always hear about how someone 5' 2" is riding a bike with a 37" seat, like it's a badge of honor. As I've gotten older I've become tired of all the extra work it takes to ride a tall bike.
Spot on in every subject. For a bike you want to trash around out in the wild for a weekend - KTM. For an Alaska to Usuaia trip or RTW trip - the Honda. Also the fuel milage on the CB500X is extremely well
Thanks for the details and your thoughts on each bike. To be honest with myself, I ride on the street. Not much in the way of trails here. So, I love my Kaw Versys 1000. But, I’m really thinking about getting a dual sport too. And, there’s a KTM dealer about 90 miles away...
Thanks for the video, Juan. I've had some great adventures on my 650 Vstrom. ( And I'm in the same demographic as you!) If I outlive my bike, I'll be on a a Rally Raid X for sure!
Thanks for what you provide . I am looking forward to my duplicating your CB500X. Wouldn't have known , if not for you putting it out here. Again, much enjoyed and appreciated. Rod
+ckyrooster Excellent! Keep us posted. Loads of really useful info in this large advrider thread, indexed on page 1...advrider.com/index.php?threads/rally-raid-products-honda-cb500x.1012021/page-119
Sir, I have watched all your videos with great interest. I have always looked at the CB500x as my next bike, but when Rally Raid made this adventure conversion package, it brought me over the top. This is like a match made in heaven. Thanks to your amazing videos, you have eliminated all my guess work on my next bike. Unfortunately, I am in Jordan and they will not let diplomats ride bike here so I will have to wait some time. The CB500x 2016 will soon be out soon and hope the conversion kit will still be applicable. In my humble opinion, this has been a big missed opportunity for Honda to make a fantastic lower displacement adventure machine.
+Nicholas Bisceglia Thanks! yes I agree a missed opportunity for Honda! Keep us posted from Jordan on your next bike, and yes I'm sure Rally Raid will insure their kit will fit 2016 and subsequent models of the CB500X.
blancolirio do you know any good trails around Feather Falls just got it DRZ400 and I live right there at Lumpkin and Enterprise Bridge new to the area thought you might know some good trails?
Juan, just saw this video. Disregard my last request on why you switch. I get it. I went to my dealer for parts today and sat on a 690. Mostly for serious off roading, not for super long gravel roads. Been there done that on my other dirt bikes, KTM, 520mxc, 450xcw, 300exc and 300xc. No fun on those kinds of bikes. I live in So cal (big desert).
I always do that, I comment as I'm watching the video, then just about every question I could have is answered, lol I just get too excited and impatient. hahaha oh well. Thanks for the bike tour.
My dream bike was always the Honda African Twin, but the bike is too big and heavy for me. I had hoped they would come forward with a more reasonable size with the new model, but no. Seems that the CB500X is my little African Twin. Thanks for the comparism!
"And At My Age" says it all. as you get older you want a bit more comfort...even if you sacrafice some power. I think the yamaha xt660z tenere fits nicely between the both of these bikes.
Thanks for the review! I like the 690, but just too tall and it's hard to beat the reliability of a Honda. Nice Luscombe too! Used to fly in one with my dad when I was a kid.
I agree with you...adventure bikes should not go the way of pickup trucks and SUV....become houses. You lose touch with the adventure, and get stuck in the bike. Plus, a motorcycle should be affordable, and many of the newer ones are just not. The important things are a balance of power and maneuverability, reliability, ease of maintenance/repair, and fuel economy, and good enough capability on/off road. Bikes like the KLR650, DR650, 650GS, ktm 690 adv, maybe the f800 tops. These are in the league of better adventure bikes, if you ask me. Anything else is overkill. Like buying a Cadillac SUV...why?
+Frederick Couch Just to put it from a different perspective - I HAD the KTM 690, but found it to be absolutely dreadful on the highway (even with a ton of farkles). The 690 was pretty great off-road, albeit still felt large for single track. I traded the 690 in for an 1190 and have zero regrets. The 1190 is light years better on-road and gobbles up anything two-track + larger. Sure single-track sucks now... but that's not where I have fun anyways. I can have fun with the supersports AND go off-road.... What's not to love? In terms of buying a "Cadillac SUV" I'm not sure how comparable that is..... Some of the larger bikes are far more capable than you would think, keeping in mind they are NOT dirt bikes ;) Anyways, different strokes for different folks. I may still get a light dirt bike down the road for single track shenanigans.
looks like a Lynx fairing on the KTM....i had a tricked out GS800, big mistake, to heavy...i prefer 1 track with minimal camp gear....cool vids...happy trails!
Your review could include ease of changing the air filters and ease of lifting. Two of the biggest hassles when adventure riding. I think that 500 RR kit will go far.
Really enjoy your video's. I own a 2013 KTM 690 Enduro R and am looking to get my adventurous wife a Honda CB 500x. We are just day trippers at this point but hope to expand our travels. How do you rate the KTM and Honda for mild adventure riding in stock trim? Also when are you going to video riding in the PNW? Thanks again and happy trails.
+Norm w PNW...got me looking at the WABCDR...the KTM 690 is a bit expensive, tall, range limited and overly 'race ready' for mild adventuring. The stock CB500X is perfect for mild adventuring.
Hi blancolirio, I love your vids, very informative from all angles. my question, i have just been introduced to bike riding 52yr old, 78kg weight and live in Australia, i have a 30 yr old DT175, and love it but next yr I want to buy a 1 bike to do all. commuting and your off road type riding you do in your vids. I watched the 500x RR doing the Simpson desert challenge which proved its worth as an adventure bike along with what you do with it..... people have said not to buy a small 250 or similar dual sport because in no time youll want to upgrade to more power later. I want to keep it for years and enjoy it. I like the africa twin concept as its ready to go without any mods, but its too heavy and expensive for me. I am trying to toss up between DRZ650 or the cb500x. and possibly rally raid it....there is quite a difference in final weight. DR-166kg and 500x RR 206kg. I dont want to ride fast but i want it to go anywhere when and if. as you commented i was worried about the exhaust position where it leaves the engine as you have knocked it and dented it, in one of your vids, do you think this may be a problem for the 500x. is the RR stage 3 kit all that would be needed to make the 500x into a 1 bike for all adventure machine. would love to hear your thoughts as you have had both. thanks again for your vid work and giving us newbys an insight to bike knowledge, you have a great way of explaining things. well done. whos the winner DR or CB
CB for all the well thought out reasons you mention above, the RRP CB500X is a KEEPER! The best all around bike I've ever owned (and I've tried 'em ALL). Now go for it!
thanks for the reply, appreciate your thoughts, love the places you visit in your great quality vids. i feel like im watching a documentary, your RR upgrade show how to vid was excellent...well done
I am seriously considering this bike. Worried about my weight for this bike. I am 6' 280 lbs. Will this bike be sufficient to pull me around on the freeway to the woods? I have owned and have years of time on DR650, Husqvarna 610, KTM 640 adv, Yamaha Super Tenere. Love the DR but at 70 - 75 MPH I didn't have any real ump to pass. Plus not that comfortable. Second question- On giant loop it looks like they are out of the RR conversion kits. Cant find anything about it. On RR site you cant get a kit but you can get pieces of the kit. Can you advise on how i can get the kit? Or if it is no longer made please? If i cant get that kit then I am not going with this bike. I believe it is a must have for this bike to do what I need it to. Going riding with thumpers but I want to be able to take a nap on the way back 150+ freeway ride. ha he
What year model is the ktm? The 2019 seems to be another thing, less animalistic 🙂. I agree with your assessment, but still exploring some alternatives. Great channel!
I think you've got your wish granted. Next year is going to be featuring a bunch of 250-500cc dual sport/adventure motorcycles! Good times! ...I the most excited for Yamaha's T7 prototype that's due to come out in 2018!
New to the adventure riding scene, ALL my experience is on a 1991 DR 250 5 years of developing and mapping trails in Mexico ( long story) at this point I am looking at the Versys X 300 and now the Rally Raid CB 500 X ! The Versys is so nimble, it feels to me sitting on it at the shop. Did you check out the Versys? Shed some light on me please, I feel our ADV goals are similar. I am 53 - 6'2 -235 lbs Simi solid, earnestly working my way down to 200 solid. Thanks
I just went from Honda CRF 250 L to 690 Enduro. I was thinking about buying CB 500 X but I still bought KTM. I like to ride with my KTM, but that Honda reliability is something I am missing with KTM. On every ride I listen to my bike and worry is there everything ok with it, is my fuel pump or rocker arms gonna explode or something. I have no issues so far with 690, but with Honda I never had to worry about these things. I rode that little CRF 250 L even in winter, I had spike tires on it. Even at -30° C it started up just like in summer. Still wondering, would CB 500 X be better bike for me.
The Honda NC 750x is very similar in specs to the CB500x, with about 50 lbs more weight. Do you think the rally raid kit would fit the NC750x? I know Honda does a lot of crossover on parts for their different models. I'm looking at selling off my Yamaha super tenure (which I have loved) and getting something a bit more manageable as I get older, but I still want to go 2 up with my wife and I'm not sure the CB500x can pull off long days, two up. What are your thoughts?
Jackrabbit the NC is a great adventure bike. I went from Germany till China with two people and a lot of luggage and it handled everything well (see my videos) and we had a lot of off-road :)
Hey, what's with the "Paton" stickers on the forks of the KTM? Caught my eye for obvious reasons! I have a 690SMC myself, and a WR250X and I agree about the peace of mind thing. Even though the KTM has never really let me down, it just has niggles now and then, and you see horror stories online. It's a weight off my mind to be out there on the WR over the KTM, even though the KTM is the pinnacle of thumper adventure and dual sport bikes... I was going to say in my humble opinion, but it's pretty hard to argue against, 90% of people would agree even if they don't choose the 690 themselves. I wish more manufacturers would try to compete with it, we need bikes of that class
Thanks for doing this comparison! After watching, I still feel like the 690's quirkiness is worth it to save 100(!!!) to 130 pounds of extra weight when it comes time to lift the bike back up and maneuver during a ride. I feel like the fatigue you experience lugging around that extra weight on a cb500x would be noticeable enough to want to learn to wrench a bit better and negate the 690's issues. Although, Noak Horak has ridden his around more miles than anyone without any issues. But then again on light duty it may not matter much anyway. I just am always concerned with the worst case scenario I guess!
+Justin Regan Thanks Justin. I learned alot from Noah's 690 vids...like how to clean clogged injectors in the field, and do valve adjustments every 6000 miles...I'll send your comment up to the maintenance department here for further disapproval ;-). As shown on the video, the weight difference is real, and when you reach an age where a good bowel movement in the morning is far more exciting than a day of video games, you too may understand the value of the RRP CB500X Adventure, Cheers! JB
Speaking of "By Request Video", any chance of you getting around to that Rally Raid suspension tuning for the neophyte video? :-) Some of us are eagerly anticipating the arrival of that video.
I'm really surprised the CB500x weighs that much... I test drove a couple and it was very manageable. So smooth. Not sure why (with all the new models coming out) that none want to make a 2 cylinder fuel injected six speed sub 400lb bike..... Have you seen the new KTM Super Duke 1290? That bike weighs 450lbs and I've seen a picture where a guy put Super Adventure shocks on one and a 21" wheel... Would you notice the extra 20lbs I wonder??? Wish I could find video. The new Africa Twin weighs 500lbs and they're claiming it's very capable off road but when I think about a wet single trail on a bike that heavy I cringe...
There's more to a motorcycle than the numbers. Honda knows a thing or two about lowering the centre of gravity. The AT doesn't feel nowhere near the weight listed on the spec sheet plus its narrower at the seat which means your two legs work like center stands on both sides. The AT's centre of gravity is perfect and all the mass is in one place over the engine, plus the suspensions make it feel like a much smaller motorcycle.
I gave you a thumbs up because I was interested and you spent the time on this video, but somehow don't think these 2 bikes are in the same class...The KTM being a streetable dirt bike and the Honda being a street bike converted to take off road. I agree there are people and rides for both bikes but it really matters how much you are streeting and how much you spend off road. I just bought a 2016 F800GSA and know it won't replace my XR650R for real desert work, but it is real nice to street ride out to dirt roads... BTW how much does it cost to install the Stage 3 kit?....
Well you are correct if trying to approch my 650's suspension performance....but I knew I was buying a street bike capable of dirt roads...I will admit this...my suspension is very lacking on the F800...:)
Now, if we could just lower the 690 by 2 inches instead of one and fit 19-17in Aprilia caponord tubeless wheels(some extra weight would be welcome) plus a steering dumper, we sure would have a really capable touring everywhere machine...
How do you think the CB500X performs on the highway compared to a V-STROM 650? I have a 07' V-STROM and it's super comfortable on the highway and has plenty of power, however it's heavy and vulnerable off-road with it's cast wheels. I'm up in North California where freeways are 80+ and I want to do a lot of long distance touring, but also want to be able to follow any trail I see and do some camping. Do you think the CB500X can beat the V-STROM for all that?
Absolutely! No comparison off road- at all. (RRP CB500X Adventure vs V-Strom). Start here...advrider.com/index.php?threads/rally-raid-products-honda-cb500x.1012021/
No skid/bash plates on the CB500X? I see those exhaust pipes hanging there with no protection and it gives me chills just imagining your trip ending in a bad way alone in the middle of nowhere.
+dring83 A distant third, however a used KLR is still a great, bulletproof inexpensive starter adventure/ do it all bike. (I prefer the earlier A model). czcams.com/video/XK119R1QtJ0/video.html
Lets be truthful - you rarely see anyone using a KTM thumper. I'm going down from a F800GS to a LEVEL1 CB 500X. And I'm 5'10. Level 3 is just asking for trouble unless youre an ex racer.
Being short sucks, especially on black diamond tracks. I have a KLR560 right now for an adv. and while it's fine on pavement, gravel and easy trails, it's absolutely ridiculous once you get into expert-level terrain. At 5"9' I'm right on the edge of being forced to lower it for where I ride which then gets into ground clearance issues. I'm a B+ level expert but these tall bikes really screw me up in the good stuff.
+blancolirio All of the scuttlebutt says that it will use as many parts from the Duke as possible to keep the cost close to the $5000 range where they sell the Duke and RC, so hopefully that will include the lower seat and conventional gas tank. Otherwise, I may either have to mod a Ducati Scrambler a bit or wait and see if they import the Benelli 502. . :-D
Hi Juan:
Just wanted to say thanks for all the effort you've put into all your CB500X videos, I'm sure it's helped a LOT of people realize that they didn't really need a 1200+cc machine to do serious adventure type touring.
I'm a smaller guy and getting a little older too, and a huge bike makes no sense for me - I just can't manage the weight any more.
I thought the 690 was the way to go, but your videos have made me rethink my priorities. I am now the happy owner of a 2017 CB500X, Madstad screen, RR 440 racks and Siskiyou luggage. Same with my wife (hers is lowered).
For those wondering, we recently had BMW F800GS's for a few years (I put 95,000km on mine), but honestly the 500X does the same thing for less than half the price - not to mention the incredible decrease in cost of ownership and amazing fuel economy. Plus they are MUCH easier to manage in sketchy situations.
The RR level 1B kits are a future upgrade we are looking forward to, but for now the 500X is a perfect lightweight touring machine. Riding out to Osoyoos BC tomorrow - it's going to be great!
Appreciate your work, you're one of the good guys. Thumbs up.
dang every time I start to consider a more powerful bike you bring me back to the cb500x. I just wish we had some here in the states that could bring it up to rally speed besides rally raid. thanks Juan.
I just found and bought a barely used 2015 CB500X (300 miles!). Yesterday I ordered the Level 3 RR kit. I have a WR250R, which I'm keeping, and a Tiger 800XC, which I'm also keeping. The CB500X will be my ride for the solo trips to out of the way places. It lacks in power... but it brings the hooligan in me. Go figure... Anyway, I can't wait to get the RR kit and start building my small adventure bike. Thank you for your great videos.
+TheCDANet Excellent! Keep us posted!
You should have tried a $3,000 build of a dr650. Rally tank and fairing, seat and suspension. Luggage racks.. dr650 would have done the trips you want to do. No electronic jazz.. very reliable.
Enjoyed your videos on the rally raid stuff.. And jenny. Have fun!
Awesome comparison video. More and more I research this, the Rally Raid CB500X continues to check all the boxes for me. Your videos is helping me out alot. Looking forward in viewing more of your adventures on the CB.
Marvin Lee I guess I will have to sale my cruiser... pain in the rear but excited
Excellent review and comparison of two representatives of middle weight ADV rigs. Appreciate the differences between the two yet their overlapping purpose. Hope other manufacturers will add their versions to the mix.
5 years later. CRF250 and a CB500X Your vids and a couple of others put me on to the 500.
Thanks
How do u like it
@@donniebunkerboi9975 - The 500 is a lot smother and a fair bit quicker than the crf. The crf has better suspension, but the seat is lot harder and X is a lot more plush. I think I have most rides covered without spending a lot of money and I get Honda reliability in both bikes. A t700 or KTM 790 would cost me another 7K over and above what I have spent on both bikes.
@@wave6413 does the weight bog you down? Any problem chugging the twin?
dude I just realized I have been watching your chanle for quite a while. but recently you have been my go-to source for updates on the Orville spillway crisis.
I miss that twin cyl engine of the Honda, I once had a CB500F, I wish i have that engine in my CRF250L that is the perfect adventure bike.
Wow and finishing up with a rare BOC recording makes thus surreal! Thanks Juan. My 22 latest version due anytime
Contrast and compare. Memories from my 9th grade “English” class. Oh, the pain! At least the two subjects held my fascination. Thank You, Juan!
You have a great Chanel here Juan......I stumbled on your u tube spot while looking for real info about the Orville dam...since i have family in that town.I then found your other videos on motorcycles I have a long love of motorcycles,quads three wheelers. Any how i appreciate the effort you put in to video your adventures for us inn u tube land. Joe Silva Eureka Calif
yeah you did it!!!! Thanks Juan. Wow you sold me buddy. These were seriously big biggest two contenders. I couldn't agree with you more about the big bike mentality. I feel like the cb hits the sweet spot for weight/power/smoothness. Too bad to get the cb set up it will still cost a fair amount.
You picked a great comparison. Checking out both of these machines...
Thanks for a great video. Was not considering a KTM, but you answered some questions I keep getting about the Honda. I bought a CB450, new, in 1973, and it was a fantastic machine. The 500x seems like an improved, and refined version of it.
What a great comparison. Too cool. I was in the the market for another fast street bike but that CBX really resonates with my membrane...street with a little hint of adventure and hooligan.
thanks for all the info, and answering our questions. really liking the Honda.
So cool to see a different type of review. Awesome awesome awesome. I own the 2016 690 enduro r and just put the lynx r fairing on. Looking forward to warmer weather here in mn winter.. looking into a long range larger adv bike but cant decide on one because of the weight of the 1000cc+ bikes. Its too much even though Im 23 years old i know how heavy a bike can be after youre exhausted on the trail. Seriously considering the cb500 now. Thanks for the review!
Great video!
I applaud you still riding a bike as tall as the KTM. I'm only 5' 9" and whenever I bring up seat height I always hear about how someone 5' 2" is riding a bike with a 37" seat, like it's a badge of honor. As I've gotten older I've become tired of all the extra work it takes to ride a tall bike.
+giff74 Yes! it hurts my back after awhile climbing on and off it
Wow Juan, I watch a lot of your videos and I'm shocked I never came across this one. Great insight.
Spot on in every subject. For a bike you want to trash around out in the wild for a weekend - KTM. For an Alaska to Usuaia trip or RTW trip - the Honda. Also the fuel milage on the CB500X is extremely well
great comparison, I would love to see a rally raid conversion for the FJ09 :)
Thanks for the details and your thoughts on each bike. To be honest with myself, I ride on the street. Not much in the way of trails here. So, I love my Kaw Versys 1000. But, I’m really thinking about getting a dual sport too. And, there’s a KTM dealer about 90 miles away...
Excellent overview presentation. Very helpful perspective. Thanks.
Thanks for the video, Juan. I've had some great adventures on my 650 Vstrom. ( And I'm in the same demographic as you!)
If I outlive my bike, I'll be on a a Rally Raid X for sure!
+Stephen Bushway Thanks! Get you one! (Great for us 'seasoned' riders-Lol)
Thanks for what you provide . I am looking forward to my duplicating your CB500X.
Wouldn't have known , if not for you putting it out here.
Again, much enjoyed and appreciated.
Rod
+ckyrooster Excellent! Keep us posted.
Loads of really useful info in this large advrider thread, indexed on page 1...advrider.com/index.php?threads/rally-raid-products-honda-cb500x.1012021/page-119
ckyrooster yeah I'm about to buy a 690 soon and now I'm having second thoughts. I like the Honda in this video.
Dude, I didn't realize you do both aviation and bike videos! LOL! Cool!
Sir, I have watched all your videos with great interest. I have always looked at the CB500x as my next bike, but when Rally Raid made this adventure conversion package, it brought me over the top. This is like a match made in heaven. Thanks to your amazing videos, you have eliminated all my guess work on my next bike. Unfortunately, I am in Jordan and they will not let diplomats ride bike here so I will have to wait some time. The CB500x 2016 will soon be out soon and hope the conversion kit will still be applicable. In my humble opinion, this has been a big missed opportunity for Honda to make a fantastic lower displacement adventure machine.
+Nicholas Bisceglia Thanks! yes I agree a missed opportunity for Honda! Keep us posted from Jordan on your next bike, and yes I'm sure Rally Raid will insure their kit will fit 2016 and subsequent models of the CB500X.
blancolirio do you know any good trails around Feather Falls just got it DRZ400 and I live right there at Lumpkin and Enterprise Bridge new to the area thought you might know some good trails?
Thanks for the data.. sadly, I am going to forgo the CB 500 X.. and move to the road bike
CBR 650 more appropriate out in my neck of Asia.
As always great video. Very informative and practical.
Love your videos! I'm also loving my CB500x!
+SidecarBandit Thanks!
That was a cool video liked it a lot, keep them coming
Juan, just saw this video. Disregard my last request on why you switch. I get it. I went to my dealer for parts today and sat on a 690. Mostly for serious off roading, not for super long gravel roads. Been there done that on my other dirt bikes, KTM, 520mxc, 450xcw, 300exc and 300xc. No fun on those kinds of bikes. I live in So cal (big desert).
Thanks for that info, love all your videos.
Planning on getting the new 2016 cbx and doing a conversion later. Just wished they shave some weight on these bikes.
I always do that, I comment as I'm watching the video, then just about every question I could have is answered, lol I just get too excited and impatient. hahaha oh well. Thanks for the bike tour.
Im 56 and love my 690! I sold my Africa Twin due to always passing on it to ride the 690.
I agree I have a 690 To tall I need to lower my. Great video. enjoyed it.
My dream bike was always the Honda African Twin, but the bike is too big and heavy for me. I had hoped they would come forward with a more reasonable size with the new model, but no. Seems that the CB500X is my little African Twin. Thanks for the comparism!
Thanks, this video was very helpful on my decision.
some good comments, love both bikes and makes. off road the KTM is the bike. old man adventure riding, the Honda is a good choice
CB 500X is a fantastic bike I’ve just got one and I’m very happy with it
Like your honesty 👍👍
y results suprisingly different.... they come from different angles.. great vid cool stuff
excellent video, thanks.
Great comparison video. I was considering the RR CB 500 until in threw a leg over that Africa Twin.
Keep us posted how the big AT does off-road.
+blancolirio Will do.
"And At My Age" says it all. as you get older you want a bit more comfort...even if you sacrafice some power. I think the yamaha xt660z tenere fits nicely between the both of these bikes.
Great insightful comments. Well said. Unfortunately, I want both bikes. Haha!
Thanks for the review! I like the 690, but just too tall and it's hard to beat the reliability of a Honda. Nice Luscombe too! Used to fly in one with my dad when I was a kid.
Haa you know about Luscombes! Yea, I tried to love the 690....sold it.
Do you notice an increased roll resistance over rough terrain on the Honda versus the KTM due to the smaller wheel sizes?
I agree with you...adventure bikes should not go the way of pickup trucks and SUV....become houses. You lose touch with the adventure, and get stuck in the bike. Plus, a motorcycle should be affordable, and many of the newer ones are just not.
The important things are a balance of power and maneuverability, reliability, ease of maintenance/repair, and fuel economy, and good enough capability on/off road. Bikes like the KLR650, DR650, 650GS, ktm 690 adv, maybe the f800 tops. These are in the league of better adventure bikes, if you ask me. Anything else is overkill. Like buying a Cadillac SUV...why?
+Frederick Couch Just to put it from a different perspective - I HAD the KTM 690, but found it to be absolutely dreadful on the highway (even with a ton of farkles). The 690 was pretty great off-road, albeit still felt large for single track. I traded the 690 in for an 1190 and have zero regrets. The 1190 is light years better on-road and gobbles up anything two-track + larger. Sure single-track sucks now... but that's not where I have fun anyways.
I can have fun with the supersports AND go off-road.... What's not to love? In terms of buying a "Cadillac SUV" I'm not sure how comparable that is..... Some of the larger bikes are far more capable than you would think, keeping in mind they are NOT dirt bikes ;)
Anyways, different strokes for different folks. I may still get a light dirt bike down the road for single track shenanigans.
looks like a Lynx fairing on the KTM....i had a tricked out GS800, big mistake, to heavy...i prefer 1 track with minimal camp gear....cool vids...happy trails!
+endonutz Excellent point! the GS800 is TOO BIG for real offroad adventuring. I bet u spent a fortune tricking it out too! Thanks! yes, Lynx fairing.
great Video!
Your review could include ease of changing the air filters and ease of lifting. Two of the biggest hassles when adventure riding. I think that 500 RR kit will go far.
+Nerb1 Yes! Great points!
I tagged my Honda xr650....what a riot it was off road and on road..... Now I'm all about the light weight...200 exc KTM is my weapon of choice.
Really enjoy your video's. I own a 2013 KTM 690 Enduro R and am looking to get my adventurous wife a Honda CB 500x. We are just day trippers at this point but hope to expand our travels. How do you rate the KTM and Honda for mild adventure riding in stock trim? Also when are you going to video riding in the PNW? Thanks again and happy trails.
+Norm w PNW...got me looking at the WABCDR...the KTM 690 is a bit expensive, tall, range limited and overly 'race ready' for mild adventuring. The stock CB500X is perfect for mild adventuring.
Hi blancolirio, I love your vids, very informative from all angles. my question, i have just been introduced to bike riding 52yr old, 78kg weight and live in Australia, i have a 30 yr old DT175, and love it but next yr I want to buy a 1 bike to do all. commuting and your off road type riding you do in your vids. I watched the 500x RR doing the Simpson desert challenge which proved its worth as an adventure bike along with what you do with it..... people have said not to buy a small 250 or similar dual sport because in no time youll want to upgrade to more power later. I want to keep it for years and enjoy it. I like the africa twin concept as its ready to go without any mods, but its too heavy and expensive for me. I am trying to toss up between DRZ650 or the cb500x. and possibly rally raid it....there is quite a difference in final weight. DR-166kg and 500x RR 206kg. I dont want to ride fast but i want it to go anywhere when and if. as you commented i was worried about the exhaust position where it leaves the engine as you have knocked it and dented it, in one of your vids, do you think this may be a problem for the 500x. is the RR stage 3 kit all that would be needed to make the 500x into a 1 bike for all adventure machine. would love to hear your thoughts as you have had both. thanks again for your vid work and giving us newbys an insight to bike knowledge, you have a great way of explaining things. well done. whos the winner DR or CB
CB for all the well thought out reasons you mention above, the RRP CB500X is a KEEPER! The best all around bike I've ever owned (and I've tried 'em ALL). Now go for it!
thanks for the reply, appreciate your thoughts, love the places you visit in your great quality vids. i feel like im watching a documentary, your RR upgrade show how to vid was excellent...well done
I am seriously considering this bike. Worried about my weight for this bike. I am 6' 280 lbs. Will this bike be sufficient to pull me around on the freeway to the woods? I have owned and have years of time on DR650, Husqvarna 610, KTM 640 adv, Yamaha Super Tenere. Love the DR but at 70 - 75 MPH I didn't have any real ump to pass. Plus not that comfortable. Second question- On giant loop it looks like they are out of the RR conversion kits. Cant find anything about it. On RR site you cant get a kit but you can get pieces of the kit. Can you advise on how i can get the kit? Or if it is no longer made please? If i cant get that kit then I am not going with this bike. I believe it is a must have for this bike to do what I need it to. Going riding with thumpers but I want to be able to take a nap on the way back 150+ freeway ride. ha he
Great bikes, the 2018’s have a lot less teething issues then the older ones
What year model is the ktm? The 2019 seems to be another thing, less animalistic 🙂. I agree with your assessment, but still exploring some alternatives. Great channel!
That was an '09 KTM 690...Beast!
thnx really nice review. I think you have real world arguments. But what about the new Honda africa twin??
+Antoine Schemkes Don't know yet...still waiting here in the States for the new AT!
I think you've got your wish granted. Next year is going to be featuring a bunch of 250-500cc dual sport/adventure motorcycles! Good times! ...I the most excited for Yamaha's T7 prototype that's due to come out in 2018!
Outstanding!
Nice work
love the 500x twin size of engine, a man really needs to bikes something like a crfx250x and ktm690rr
two bikes? yes, I keep a KTM 350 EXC-F and the RRP CB500X...
New to the adventure riding scene, ALL my experience is on a 1991 DR 250 5 years of developing and mapping trails in Mexico ( long story) at this point I am looking at the Versys X 300 and now the Rally Raid CB 500 X ! The Versys is so nimble, it feels to me sitting on it at the shop. Did you check out the Versys? Shed some light on me please, I feel our ADV goals are similar. I am 53 - 6'2 -235 lbs Simi solid, earnestly working my way down to 200 solid. Thanks
I din't know much about the Versys, nor what aftermarket parts are available to make it more off road capable.
What are your thoughts on the approach of the 2013-14 Husqvarna TR650 Terra as a good mid-size bike - placed right between the KTM and Honda?
I don't know much about the husky Terra, it might just fit in between these 2 bikes nicely. It is still a single thumper like the KTM...
I just went from Honda CRF 250 L to 690 Enduro. I was thinking about buying CB 500 X but I still bought KTM. I like to ride with my KTM, but that Honda reliability is something I am missing with KTM. On every ride I listen to my bike and worry is there everything ok with it, is my fuel pump or rocker arms gonna explode or something. I have no issues so far with 690, but with Honda I never had to worry about these things. I rode that little CRF 250 L even in winter, I had spike tires on it. Even at -30° C it started up just like in summer. Still wondering, would CB 500 X be better bike for me.
Little update. I sold my KTM and purchased 2021 CB500X and I'm in love with it. That's the bike I should've bought much earlier. ❤
Great review.
Thanks MD!
The Honda NC 750x is very similar in specs to the CB500x, with about 50 lbs more weight. Do you think the rally raid kit would fit the NC750x? I know Honda does a lot of crossover on parts for their different models. I'm looking at selling off my Yamaha super tenure (which I have loved) and getting something a bit more manageable as I get older, but I still want to go 2 up with my wife and I'm not sure the CB500x can pull off long days, two up. What are your thoughts?
The CB is a bit small for extended 2 up riding plus gear. I don't think RRP will rally the NC.
Jackrabbit the NC is a great adventure bike. I went from Germany till China with two people and a lot of luggage and it handled everything well (see my videos) and we had a lot of off-road :)
very informative.
Hey, what's with the "Paton" stickers on the forks of the KTM? Caught my eye for obvious reasons! I have a 690SMC myself, and a WR250X and I agree about the peace of mind thing. Even though the KTM has never really let me down, it just has niggles now and then, and you see horror stories online. It's a weight off my mind to be out there on the WR over the KTM, even though the KTM is the pinnacle of thumper adventure and dual sport bikes... I was going to say in my humble opinion, but it's pretty hard to argue against, 90% of people would agree even if they don't choose the 690 themselves. I wish more manufacturers would try to compete with it, we need bikes of that class
Perry Paton Suspension, our local suspension guru...did a Great job on the 690!
Thanks for doing this comparison! After watching, I still feel like the 690's quirkiness is worth it to save 100(!!!) to 130 pounds of extra weight when it comes time to lift the bike back up and maneuver during a ride. I feel like the fatigue you experience lugging around that extra weight on a cb500x would be noticeable enough to want to learn to wrench a bit better and negate the 690's issues. Although, Noak Horak has ridden his around more miles than anyone without any issues. But then again on light duty it may not matter much anyway. I just am always concerned with the worst case scenario I guess!
+Justin Regan Thanks Justin. I learned alot from Noah's 690 vids...like how to clean clogged injectors in the field, and do valve adjustments every 6000 miles...I'll send your comment up to the maintenance department here for further disapproval ;-).
As shown on the video, the weight difference is real, and when you reach an age where a good bowel movement in the morning is far more exciting than a day of video games, you too may understand the value of the RRP CB500X Adventure, Cheers! JB
Speaking of "By Request Video", any chance of you getting around to that Rally Raid suspension tuning for the neophyte video? :-) Some of us are eagerly anticipating the arrival of that video.
+Gar Nelson Ha! I was just talking about that on Advrider. Weather permitting I'll get her done soon! Thanks Gar!
+blancolirio Excellent news. :-)
Shame you guys never got the 660Z Tenere into the states.
I'm really surprised the CB500x weighs that much... I test drove a couple and it was very manageable. So smooth. Not sure why (with all the new models coming out) that none want to make a 2 cylinder fuel injected six speed sub 400lb bike.....
Have you seen the new KTM Super Duke 1290? That bike weighs 450lbs and I've seen a picture where a guy put Super Adventure shocks on one and a 21" wheel... Would you notice the extra 20lbs I wonder??? Wish I could find video.
The new Africa Twin weighs 500lbs and they're claiming it's very capable off road but when I think about a wet single trail on a bike that heavy I cringe...
There's more to a motorcycle than the numbers. Honda knows a thing or two about lowering the centre of gravity. The AT doesn't feel nowhere near the weight listed on the spec sheet plus its narrower at the seat which means your two legs work like center stands on both sides. The AT's centre of gravity is perfect and all the mass is in one place over the engine, plus the suspensions make it feel like a much smaller motorcycle.
smaller, lighter adventure bikes coming soon!
I gave you a thumbs up because I was interested and you spent the time on this video, but somehow don't think these 2 bikes are in the same class...The KTM being a streetable dirt bike and the Honda being a street bike converted to take off road. I agree there are people and rides for both bikes but it really matters how much you are streeting and how much you spend off road. I just bought a 2016 F800GSA and know it won't replace my XR650R for real desert work, but it is real nice to street ride out to dirt roads...
BTW how much does it cost to install the Stage 3 kit?....
$3000...I bet you'll spend more than that on the 800GS getting it squared away and still not be satisfied (off road)...
Well you are correct if trying to approch my 650's suspension performance....but I knew I was buying a street bike capable of dirt roads...I will admit this...my suspension is very lacking on the F800...:)
The 690 took a lot of dough too to get it all squared away (range, tuning suspension ect.)...no easy way out I guess...maybe airplanes.. (LOL).
Hi Bancolirio, where can I buy the fairing of the KTM 690, you have mounted on your bike.
Christian Eulerich Britannia? Fairing
wouldnt the cb500x be better with a 21" wheel in the front like all other off-road capable adv bikes? Is it even possible to fit one on??
No, The Thai race team tried it...(I think Rally Raid tried too)-it's too big, hits radiator.
The 19" is perfect for the short wheelbase of this bike.
Sweet bikes! How many miles can you go with a full tank of gas for the CB?
200 to 250 miles.
Now, if we could just lower the 690 by 2 inches instead of one and fit 19-17in Aprilia caponord tubeless wheels(some extra weight would be welcome) plus a steering dumper, we sure would have a really capable touring everywhere machine...
Now that the Honda Africa Twin has been out for a while have you compared the africa twin to the rally raid cb 500?
No, the AT, is much too large for the kind of off road riding we do on the RRP CB500X.
@@blancolirio Guess i will wait til the Tenere 700 hits the states.
How do you think the CB500X performs on the highway compared to a V-STROM 650? I have a 07' V-STROM and it's super comfortable on the highway and has plenty of power, however it's heavy and vulnerable off-road with it's cast wheels. I'm up in North California where freeways are 80+ and I want to do a lot of long distance touring, but also want to be able to follow any trail I see and do some camping. Do you think the CB500X can beat the V-STROM for all that?
Absolutely! No comparison off road- at all. (RRP CB500X Adventure vs V-Strom).
Start here...advrider.com/index.php?threads/rally-raid-products-honda-cb500x.1012021/
Awesome, I'm definitely interested in one of these... do you know of anywhere I could see one in person?
great comparison though
No skid/bash plates on the CB500X? I see those exhaust pipes hanging there with no protection and it gives me chills just imagining your trip ending in a bad way alone in the middle of nowhere.
meh...20,000 miles mostly offroad and just a small ding in the headers. Quit worrying and start Adventuring!!!
I am interested in the cost of each bike in it's present form.
+Ben Brookens The Honda- about $8k...the KTM about $10500 used!
can the 500x be jacked up without the rally raid kit? If so how much it cost?
Not that I know of...the full Rally Raid level 3 kit including spoke wheels is about $3000 US.
It would be awesome to see a ccm 450 gp added to this comparison!
I would need to own it for awhile before I could honestly compare it.
What seat do you have on the CB500x? Looking to upgrade mine.
stock.
you said you owned the klr 650 how would you put that bike up to these two?
+dring83 A distant third, however a used KLR is still a great, bulletproof inexpensive starter adventure/ do it all bike. (I prefer the earlier A model).
czcams.com/video/XK119R1QtJ0/video.html
can we talk scat tubing/hose and bikes? would be interested in one on one convo
sure, friend me on facebook is easiest. Juan Browne
Honda Cb500x vs ktm 500exc
Drag race test ?
0 - 100k/h ?
The KTM would win...but that doesn't say much about the practical world of long range adventure riding.
Lets be truthful - you rarely see anyone using a KTM thumper. I'm going down from a F800GS to a LEVEL1 CB 500X. And I'm 5'10. Level 3 is just asking for trouble unless youre an ex racer.
Got my interest. Might need some new wheels.
Please do Africa twin vs... Thanks
I would have to own one for awhile to do a fair comparison like this...
Being short sucks, especially on black diamond tracks. I have a KLR560 right now for an adv. and while it's fine on pavement, gravel and easy trails, it's absolutely ridiculous once you get into expert-level terrain. At 5"9' I'm right on the edge of being forced to lower it for where I ride which then gets into ground clearance issues. I'm a B+ level expert but these tall bikes really screw me up in the good stuff.
Is that other bike in the corner a BMW 1150?
Deric Kettel yep!
What about cost difference between the two bikes . Also cost to set.them up for adventure.
+Thomas Snarr KTM 690 considerably more $$$ once all set up for adventure...also more expensive to own, operate and maintain.
Will Honda make a CB250X?
+Albert Tran Looks like they're considering the CRF 250 Rally bike...pretty exciting stuff...www.revzilla.com/common-tread/honda-crf250-rally-concept
👍
Do you think that the rumored KTM 390 Adventure from India will be a bit shorter?
+Joe M Don't know. I have a KTM 350 EXCF that is quite tall (taller than the CB500X).
+blancolirio All of the scuttlebutt says that it will use as many parts from the Duke as possible to keep the cost close to the $5000 range where they sell the Duke and RC, so hopefully that will include the lower seat and conventional gas tank. Otherwise, I may either have to mod a Ducati Scrambler a bit or wait and see if they import the Benelli 502. . :-D
+blancolirio I did see an older KTM 640 Adventure on line that had been dropped 4 inches for a lady rider, but it looked a bit odd.
+Joe M That is a real 'paint shaker' ( I had one for awhile).
+Joe M This sounds very interesting.
The Ducati is great looking but is not very dirt oriented.