Honda CL500 : Looking for a motorcycle that blends retro vibes with modern performance? The Honda CL500 is here to answer that call. As the UK motorcycle scene continues to embrace scramblers, the CL500 stands out with its versatile character, comfortable ergonomics, and city-meets-adventure styling. Whether you’re navigating city streets or kicking up dust on weekend getaways, this bike delivers the perfect balance of style, function, and thrill.
A Modern Classic: Overview of the Honda CL500
The Honda CL500 pays homage to the iconic scramblers of the past, yet it’s fully modern under the skin. Built on the reliable Rebel 500 platform, it takes a different direction with higher handlebars, upright ergonomics, and a design that’s all about attitude and adventure.
- Engine: 471cc parallel-twin
- Styling: Rugged scrambler-inspired aesthetics
- Target audience: Urban riders, casual adventurers, style-conscious commuters
- Segment: Middleweight scrambler class
The CL500 sits comfortably in the space between beginner-friendly ease and intermediate-level excitement. It’s approachable but far from boring.
Engine and Performance: Smooth, Responsive and Reliable
At the heart of the CL500 lies Honda’s tried-and-tested 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. This motor is renowned for its smooth delivery, forgiving nature, and excellent efficiency.
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Engine Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 471cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke twin |
| Max Power | 46.6 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 43.4 Nm @ 6,250 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel System | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Final Drive | Chain |
The engine delivers linear power, ideal for new riders yet peppy enough to keep experienced bikers entertained. Honda’s attention to refinement ensures the bike feels polished, whether in traffic or on winding B-roads.
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Design and Styling: Vintage Looks, Modern Feel
The CL500 takes visual cues from the scramblers of the 1960s and ’70s but integrates them into a fresh, purposeful design. The high-mounted exhaust, blocky tank, and minimalist bodywork all scream retro, while the LED lighting and digital dash remind you this is a 21st-century machine.
Key Styling Highlights
- High-riding twin exhaust with protective heat shields
- Retro-style tank with rubber knee pads
- Tall handlebars for upright riding posture
- Round LED headlamp with classic appeal
- Minimal body panels with clean finishes
This combination of old-school aesthetics and modern design language makes the CL500 a head-turner on UK streets.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for Real-World Riding
Riders looking for a bike that feels just right for daily use will appreciate the CL500’s setup. Honda has ensured the bike is ergonomically sound, offering a commanding riding position, great visibility, and manageable seat height.
Ergonomic Features
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Riding Position | Upright, relaxed |
| Handlebar Type | Wide, high-set scrambler-style bars |
| Foot Peg Position | Mid-mounted for natural leg angle |
| Suspension Travel | 150 mm (front), 145 mm (rear) |
| Weight | 192 kg (wet) |
Whether commuting in London traffic or exploring the countryside, the CL500 offers a fatigue-free ride experience.
Technology and Features: Simplicity with Substance
While the CL500 doesn’t overload you with gadgets, it gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t. The focus is on keeping things simple, reliable, and rider-friendly.
Standard Features
- All-LED lighting system
- Negative LCD display
- Assist and slipper clutch
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- 19-inch front wheel for improved rough road handling
The minimalist approach ensures fewer distractions, letting you enjoy the raw essence of motorcycling.
On-Road and Off-Road Performance: Ready for Urban and Light Trails
One of the biggest strengths of the Honda CL500 is its versatility. It’s not a hardcore off-roader, but it’s more than capable of handling rough back roads, gravel paths, and city potholes with ease.
Performance Breakdown
| Scenario | Performance |
|---|---|
| Urban Riding | Smooth, nimble, and easy to control |
| Highway Cruising | Stable up to 75-80 mph |
| Light Off-Roading | Comfortable on dirt and gravel roads |
| Fuel Efficiency | Approx. 27-30 km/l (real world) |
| Comfort | Excellent for long and short trips |
With its semi-dual sport tires and longer suspension travel, you’re not limited to tarmac.
Comparison with Competitors: Where the CL500 Stands
In the crowded middleweight scrambler segment, the CL500 brings Honda’s unbeatable reliability and approachability to the table. Let’s compare it to some of its rivals in the UK market.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Honda CL500 | Yamaha XSR700 | Royal Enfield Scram 411 | Triumph Scrambler 400 X |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 471cc | 689cc | 411cc | 398cc |
| Power Output | 46.6 hp | 72 hp | 24.3 hp | 39.5 hp |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 835 mm | 795 mm | 835 mm |
| Wet Weight | 192 kg | 186 kg | 185 kg | 179 kg |
| Price (UK) | £6,299 (approx) | £8,500+ | £4,999 (approx) | £5,595 (approx) |
| Best For | Daily, Light ADV | Performance Ride | Budget Trail Use | Entry-level Scrambler |
The CL500 fills a sweet spot – offering more power and polish than budget options, but with a more accessible and user-friendly feel than higher-end performance bikes.
Who Should Buy the Honda CL500?
This bike is ideal for a wide variety of riders in the UK:
- New Riders – Thanks to its forgiving nature and A2 licence compatibility
- Urban Commuters – Upright ergonomics and great visibility
- Weekend Explorers – Light off-road capabilities
- Style-Seekers – Retro-modern design with a Honda badge
- Eco-Conscious Riders – Strong fuel efficiency and low emissions
It’s a perfect mix of form and function that appeals to both practical minds and free spirits.
The Right Scrambler for Everyday Riders
The Honda CL500 hits a brilliant middle ground – combining the heart of a commuter with the soul of a scrambler. It doesn’t try to be the most powerful or the most extreme. Instead, it focuses on doing everything well, with style, reliability, and usability at its core.
For UK riders seeking a motorcycle that turns heads, tackles varied terrain, and remains approachable for everyday use, the CL500 is an outstanding choice.
Specifications and pricing are accurate as of the time of writing but may vary depending on dealership, location, and availability. Always refer to the official Honda UK website or your local dealer for the latest information.
