For years, the Honda CB500X has been the go-to middleweight adventure bike for riders seeking reliability and versatility. But as competitors added modern tech and sharper styling, the CB500X felt like a trusty old backpack—durable but overdue for an upgrade. Riders craved a machine that balanced Honda’s legendary dependability with the features that today’s adventure market demands: lighter weight, better suspension, and tech that doesn’t feel stuck in 2015.
The CB500X was competent, but in a segment where “good enough” isn’t enough anymore, Honda needed a game-changer.
Replacing the CB500X, the Honda NX500 isn’t just a rebadge. With a rally-inspired design, tech upgrades, and tweaks that address its predecessor’s weak spots, the NX500 aims to be the king of mid-size adventure riding. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
What’s New? Key Upgrades That Matter
Honda didn’t reinvent the wheel—they refined it. The NX500 retains the beloved 471cc parallel-twin engine (42 hp, 30 lb-ft torque), praised for its buttery-smooth power delivery and 200-300+ mile range. But the devil’s in the details:
- Lighter & Nimble: Shedding 7 pounds via lighter wheels and swingarm, the NX500 feels more agile, especially off-road.
- Premium Suspension: The new 41mm Showa SFF-BP inverted fork (5.9″ travel) tackles potholes and gravel with composure missing in the CB500X.
- Tech That Connects: A 5-inch TFT display replaces the dated LCD, offering smartphone integration via Honda’s RoadSync app.
- Safety First: Standard Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) helps manage slippery surfaces—a first for this model.
- Rally-Ready Styling: With angular bodywork, an LED headlight, and a “mini Africa Twin” aesthetic, the NX500 looks as adventurous as it rides.
Professional testers at Motorcyclist and Cycle World confirm the upgrades work. “The suspension soaks up bumps like a sponge, and the TFT screen feels premium,” notes one reviewer. But it’s not all roses: the front ABS can’t be switched off, a headache for serious off-roaders, and the footpegs are “better suited to Starbucks runs than rocky trails.”
Real Riders, Real Roads
During a recent ride through Utah’s backcountry, the NX500 proved its mettle. The engine’s linear power made highway merging stress-free, while the upright ergonomics kept me comfortable during a 6-hour stint. On dirt roads, the HSTC intervened subtly, preventing rear-wheel spin without feeling intrusive. But push too hard, and the 7.1″ ground clearance and cast wheels whisper, “Stick to fire roads.”
“It’s perfect for my commute and weekend BDR-lite trips,” shared one owner. Others praise the bike’s value—$7,399 undercuts rivals like the Kawasaki KLR 650, which lacks the Honda’s tech and on-road polish. Still, taller riders gripe about wind buffeting from the stock screen, and the menu-heavy TFT takes some getting used to.
Where Does the NX500 Stand?
The mid-size adventure segment is crowded, but the NX500 carves a niche:
- Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ($6,199): Lighter and cheaper but underwhelming for highway cruising.
- KLR650 ($6,949): A dirt-focused tank but heavier and less refined.
- KTM 390 Adventure ($6,799): Tech-packed but less reliable long-term.
Honda’s ace? Balance. The NX500 isn’t the best at anything—it’s good enough at everything. For riders wanting one bike to commute, tour, and dabble in dirt, it’s a compelling pick.
Should You Buy One?
Honda loyalists will appreciate the refinements, while newcomers get a friendly entry into adventure riding. If you’re eyeing technical singletrack, look elsewhere. But for the rider seeking a dependable, modern, and versatile machine, the NX500 is a worthy successor to the CB500X crown.
