2022-2024 Honda CB500X: Competent, reliable, affordable – the perfect lower middleweight allrounder
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Highlights
- Proper big bike dimensions to attract riders of all skill levels
- Reputation for bulletproof reliability
- Cheap to run, frugal on fuel
At a glance
Owners' reliability rating: | |
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Annual servicing cost: | £150 |
Power: | 47 bhp |
Seat height: | Medium (32.7 in / 830 mm) |
Weight: | Medium (439 lbs / 199 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesWhen it came to updating the Honda CB500X for 2022, the firm didn’t need to do a lot. It was already the class-leading 47bhp A2 adventure bike and consistently one of the most popular motorcycles on this website.
- Latest: The Honda CB500X has now been replaced by the Honda NX500
However, rather than simply chucking us a few token gestures, the Japanese firm set about making the best that little bit better – adding a shiny set of golden Showa Separate Function Big Piston USD forks and swapping the old 310mm single front brake set-up for dual 296mm discs and two piston calipers.
Elsewhere, there’s a lighter swingarm that shaves just over a kilo and adds a claimed more lateral flex and torsional stiffness. The five-stage preload-adjustable rear shock has also been revised to match the new forks. But the good stuff doesn’t stop there.
The 19in front wheel has been lightened and a new radiator shaves an additional 100g without sacrificing performance. Tweaks to the fuel injection are also said to help boost bottom-end torque and the weight distribution has been tweaked for a little more ballast over the front end.
Although quite drastic changes on the face of it, the results of these revisions are subtle.
Despite the new FI settings, the burbling engine feels much the same as before – gentle enough for novices and happily revved all day long. And all whilst returning more than an indicated 85mpg during certain sections of our ride.
Through the bends , the new chassis elements work with the steel frame to provide a composed cornering package, with bags of feel in the wet or dry – despite its wide adventure bike bar position.
Riding it along Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500, it’s hard to imagine a better bike for the job – with the only real criticism stemming from the basic switchgear and LCD dash, which looks like a cheap afterthought when compared to the TFT unit on the KTM 390 Adventure. Having to pay extra for a centre stand feels a bit cheeky, too.
Reasons to buy CB500X:
- Overall reliability is superb. Numerous owners of older CB500X models claim to run machines with mileages in excess of 100,000 miles without issue. As an overall package the CB500X is bulletproof.
- Running costs are modest. Servicing costs are generally under £200 for an annual inspection; anyone with even basic mechanical knowledge could service a CB500X at home – access to the engine is excellent. Valve clearances aren’t until every 16,000 miles.
- The 2022-2023 CB500X benefits from a number of useful updates over the previous model, including a lighter radiator, upside-down 41mm Showa SFF-BP forks, 2-pot radially mounted Nissin front calipers, lighter wheels, and a redesigned swingarm.
- The CB500X makes a great allrounder, capable of the demands of commuting (a near 80mpg average being a major boon), long distance (it’s very comfortable), carrying pillions, and weekend blasts. Few ‘adventure’ style packages offer the same VFM.
- With light, precise controls, a manageable overall weight and seat height the CB500X makes a great first ‘big’ bike and a perfect stepping stone to bigger adventure machines, such as Honda’s own Africa Twin.
Reasons not to buy a CB500X:
- Experienced riders may find the 47bhp motor lacking in performance. But even then, as a second bike or a weekday commuter, the CB500X makes an ideal compliment to a larger main ride.
- Failing water pump seals are an issue that had dogged the CB500X throughout its model run. Inspect the pump thoroughly when buying – indeed, ask the seller if it’s caused any issues – and keep a close eye on engine temp and coolant level as part of the ownership experience. Fortunately it’s an easy to spot issue and fairly easy and cheap to fix.
- Vibration can be an issue, especially on low mileage bikes – it’s at its most noticeable through the bars at between 60-70mph. Owners do comment that the issue eases and disappears as the bike covers more miles, however.
Watch: Honda CB500X video review
Join Dan Sutherland as he tests three of Honda's 47bhp A2 heroes - this CB500X, the CBR500R and the CB500F.
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Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineHonda have gone to town updating the CB500X for 2022 - adding non-adjustable Showa Separate Function Big Piston upside down forks and replacing the 310mm single front brake set-up for dual 296mm discs and two piston calipers.
Adding to this is a 5.9kg swingarm that shaves just over a kilo and adds a claimed 18% more lateral flex and torsional stiffness. The five-stage preload-adjustable rear shock has been revised to match the new forks and the bike runs on semi-knobbly Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour rubber. The 19in front wheel is now lighter, too.
⏱️ Join @DanielJS46 for #60secondswith the 2022 Honda CB500X. pic.twitter.com/svaJpYXBRy
— Motor Cycle News (@MCNnews) September 25, 2021
Whilst numerical claims of increased stiffness at the rear are hard to quantify, the bike changes direction with predictable precision. There was nothing wrong with the old one’s set-up, but now it feels more stable – holding a line at speed and flicking from one corner to the next like a lightweight roadster – never mind a raised adventure bike.
Updated alongside the naked CB500F and fully-faired CBR500R, it’s a more engaging riding experience, with the 19in front wheel and well-damped forks providing excellent front end feel, come rain or shine. You’re also sat less in the bike and adopt a more commanding presence on the road.
Complementing the composed springs are the uprated brakes. Oddly, its 17in-wheeled siblings - the CBR500R and CB500F - both got sexier dual four-piston radial calipers in their 2022 updates, but the X’s axial-mounted stoppers offer the best set-up of the bunch.
Squeeze on the six-stage span-adjustable brake lever and the front-end doesn’t dive like a pogo stick – working with the progressive calipers to provide controlled, novice-friendly stopping power, with no intrusion from the ABS.
Along a country road, it’s hard to fault and it’ll cruise all day in top – smashing out hours of motorway drudgery in comfort. Around town it’s predicable too and narrow enough to get through the traffic. That said, the taller seat height, wide bars and slightly heftier kerb weight of 199kg may be intimidating to some shorter riders.
Since publishing this articles, several MCN owners' review have remarked on the Honda having a rather stiff or firm ride – and one less comfortable than they'd expect from the bike. A handful of owner reviews suggest the harsh ride could be down rider lightness, and one owner remedied the issue by installing a more comfortable aftermarket seat. It's something to think about if you're on the lighter side, and/or if you'll be piling the miles on.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe 471cc parallel-twin engine remains largely unchanged for 2022. It’s a stressed member in the chassis and was actually made Euro5 compliant back in 2020.
Already producing 47bhp - the performance cap for the A2 licence class - Honda have now fiddled with the fuel injection settings to improve low-end torque. They’ve also bolted in a slightly smaller radiator, which shaves a further 100g off the total weight.
Producing a gravelly burble and spitting back at you with each blip of the throttle, the über smooth unit still feels exactly the same as before, but this is no bad thing.
It’s nicely fuelled, and the light gear change is crisp heading either up or down the six-speed ‘box – helped further by the slipper clutch.
It won’t pull your arms off as a new rider and it needs to be worked hard to get the best out of it when you fancy having some fun. That said, it’ll cruise in top gear all day long and would have no problem ferrying a rider and luggage into Europe for a spot of light touring. Whether it would do the same with a passenger remains to be seen.
It’s also fabulously frugal and actually returned a claimed 85.4mpg on the dash on parts of our ride – despite this tester making no concerted effort to save fuel.
What’s more with a bit more frontal area and a large screen sheltering the rider from the wind, the rumbly soundtrack remains audible at speed – popping and banging off the throttle and adding to the grin-factor. This is something that’s lost above 65mph on the smaller CBR and CBF.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueOur Honda CB500X owners' reviews show generally decent scores for reliability, although one owner does note that the bike could do with some longer overhangs on the mudguards. This is easily rectified by aftermarket kit, though.
We put the CB500X through its pace in an intensive three-day, 500-mile test, and had every indication that the new model would be as reliable as the last. Since publishing this review, MCN owners' reviews have not suggested the new CB500X is any less reliable than the previous bike.
Although not a reliability issue, it's worth mentioning that the CB500X may not look as shiny once you start adding the miles; the Honda's polished headers take the brunt of the road fling, so may lose some of their gleam over time.
What goes wrong with the Honda CB500X?
- Rear wheel bearings: some owners report rear wheel bearing collapse, but this could be down to over enthusiastic jet washing. Avoid spraying the hub when cleaning to lessen the chance of water ingress.
- Water pumps: CB500X water pump issues are common. The problem is down to failure of the unit’s main internal seals. Repair is relatively easy and inexpensive, however. Look for drips on the floor or water gathering on the pump’s lower edge.
- Servicing: Minor servicing on the CB500X is every 8000 miles; major services every 16,000. Valve clearances should be checked and adjusted if needed every 16K. Some owners report the clearances closing up way before schedule – as early as 9000 miles in some cases. If the engine feels flat, check the valves.
- Engine paint: The finish on the engine, particularly the block, isn’t fantastic. The paint can blister, leading to it chipping off and exposing the metal underneath – an open invite for corrosion.
- Vibration: Most CB500X owners report their bikes suffering from vibration at cruising speed between 60-70mph. But there is good news. Said vibration tends to disappear the more miles you put on the bike, as if it’s bedding itself in.
- Headlamp: Okay for being seen, but not so great for picking your way along unfamiliar roads in the dark. Fitting a set of auxiliary lights is the answer, say many owners.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentThe Honda CB500X has been a hit with everyone from novices to commuters, to globe-trotting explorers, with 75% of all buyers being experienced riders.
Looking at the spec sheet it’s easy to see why – with a claimed circa 300 miles from a tank of fuel, service intervals of every 8000 miles and a strong dealer network. And that’s before you mention the easy handling, comfy riding position and grown-up looks.
In 2023 the new price for the Honda CB500X was £6699 – making it one of the most expensive bikes in its field.
That said, the CBX was already a class leader in A2 motorbikes and the updates for 2022 only strengthen its hold on the crown. But what else could you consider when parting with your cash?
Starting in Europe, there’s the £5435 single-cylinder BMW G310GS – the entry point to the most iconic family name in modern adventure motorcycling. It’s got the right beaky nose, golden USD forks and the 313cc motor has some decent low-down kick, but it lacks the smooth refinement of the Japanese CB.
Following the buzzing German is the £5849 A2-friendly Austrian KTM 390 Adventure. Another single-cylinder go-anywhere option, it is actually more at home on the road, with the relatively low bars making standing up awkward and the suspension offering less sympathy than some of its rivals.
This includes the £4699 much cheaper Royal Enfield Himalayan, although that lacks the refinement and power output of its competition – which may deter some. You may also consider the dull but capable Kawasaki Versys-X 300 on the used market and Honda’s more off-road focused CRF300 Rally is also A2 compliant.
Equipment
The Honda CB500X feels very well made and the gold USD forks and contemporary design work have all the hallmarks of a bike costing double the money. However, for a machine set to be over £6250 when it arrives in dealers, it’s rather lacking in standard features.
For starters, there are no optional riding modes or electronic aids outside of the mandatory ABS. They’re not things that the bike needs, but even certain 125cc Honda scooters are starting to feature traction control to help new riders, so the option would be nice.
And then there’s the slim LCD dash, which is fairly underwhelming when compared to the mobile-connectable TFTs now emerging on KTM’s A2-compliant 390 range. It’s also fairly dull, making some details harder to spot than on some its contemporaries.
The switchgear is also basic, but that’s okay because the Fisher Price buttons feel like they’ll stand the test of time and plenty of year-round usage.
A span-adjustable brake lever is a nice touch, too and there’s great visibility from the sturdy mirrors – helped further by the gentle engine.
Reducing rider fatigue is a tall standard screen, which deflects plenty of wind for hours of easy miles in the saddle. A handy rail above the dash and thick, wide bars are also ideal for mounting a satnav.
To make the CB500X your own, optional extras include heated grips, a tall screen, magnetic tank bag, a top box and more. Although a wide range to suit most riders’ needs, certain elements like a centre stand really ought to come as standard – especially when it costs much more than its rivals to begin with.
Our test bike came with the magnetic tank bag installed, but it’s too small for anything more than the essentials and requires an external wrap-around condom to keep the contents dry.
Other changes on the new machine include revised LED lighting up front. Low beam now gets an extra LED and the indicator stalks produce a constant orange glow for additional visibility. This upgrade is also shared in the naked roadster Honda CB500F.
Since publishing this review, new CB500X owners have commented on the great legibility of the bike's new screen – but also the poor performance of the Honda's new revised LED lighting. A handful of owners suggest adding an additional set of lights onto the bike if you're planning on taking it to the countryside – and especially if you're riding at night.
Specs |
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Engine size | 471cc |
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Engine type | Liquid-cooled, DOHC 8v parallel-twin |
Frame type | Steel diamond |
Fuel capacity | 17.7 litres |
Seat height | 830mm |
Bike weight | 199kg |
Front suspension | 41mm Showa USD forks, pre-load adjustable |
Rear suspension | Monoshock, pre-load adjustable |
Front brake | Single 240mm disc with single piston caliper. ABS |
Rear brake | Single 240mm disc with single piston caliper. ABS |
Front tyre size | 110/80 x 19 |
Rear tyre size | 160/60 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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Average fuel consumption | 78.5 mpg |
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Annual road tax | £84 |
Annual service cost | £150 |
New price | - |
Used price | £6,000 |
Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
Warranty term | Two years |
Top speed & performance |
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Max power | 47 bhp |
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Max torque | 31.7 ft-lb |
Top speed | 105 mph |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 301 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
- 2013: First generation parallel twin-cylinder CB500X launched to meet the new 47bhp A2 licence regulations.
- 2016: The CB500X gets a taller screen, new suspension with adjustable preload, an adjustable brake lever, revised LEDs, and more.
- 2019: The latest generation X gets Africa Twin inspired styling, a claimed 4% increase in grunt, longer travel suspension, a 19” front wheel (replacing 17-incher) for tackling light off-road trails, more steering lock, taller bars, new wheels and an LCD dash.
- 2020: Honda 500 range updated for Euro5 compliance.
- 2022: Honda update the CB500X alongside the sporty CBR500R and naked CB500F. Like its siblings, the X gets Showa SFBP forks, and a new dual disc and axial caliper set-up up front. Other changes include a lighter swingarm, revised shock settings, redesigned front wheel, more powerful LEDs and more. The CMX500 Rebel cruiser is traditionally updated at a separate time.
- 2023: Honda announces NX500 will replace CB500X in 2024.
Watch MCN's 2019 Honda CB500X video review here:
Other versions
- There is only one version of the Honda CB500X, however Honda have four bikes in their A2-compliant 471cc parallel-twin range. These are the sporty CBR500R, a naked CB500F, the adventure styled CB500X and laidback cruiser CMX500 Rebel.
- All use the same basic 471cc parallel-twin engine, with the Rebel getting a different frame and ancillaries to achieve its low-slung look.
Watch MCN's 2022 Honda CMX500 Rebel review here:
Honda's 2024-on NX500 is the upgrade and replacement for the CB500X:
The Honda NX500 is essentially a renamed CB500X with new styling, a TFT dash with connectivity, lighter wheels, tweaked suspension, traction control, and minor ECU updates for better acceleration. Despite not being a flashy bike, its sharp looks, practicality, comfort, and versatility make it excellent for city riding, highways, and spirited B-road adventures. The parallel-twin engine is smooth and punchy, while upgraded suspension and lighter wheels enhance ride quality, complemented by a clear new dash with smartphone connectivity. High-quality components like Showa SFF-BP forks, Nissin brakes, and Dunlop Trailmax tyres contribute to a refined riding experience, making it easy to handle in various conditions. At just 196kg, the NX500 is nimble in town and plush on bumpy roads, with great economy figures and a solid reliability record. While it lacks some standard features like an adjustable screen, its balance, ease of use, and affordability make it a fantastic A2-friendly adventure bike.
Owners' reviews for the HONDA CB500X (2022 - 2023)
8 owners have reviewed their HONDA CB500X (2022 - 2023) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your HONDA CB500X (2022 - 2023)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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Overall rating: | |
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Ride quality & brakes: | |
Engine: | |
Reliability & build quality: | |
Value vs rivals: | |
Equipment: | |
Annual servicing cost: | £150 |
Year: 2022
Annual servicing cost: £100
Pleased with the Little Honda, I'm 70 and have always had sports/sports tourers. The CB500X is a pleasure to ride, I think I will get more use out of this bike my last bike was a Fireblade and stayed in the garage as I get sore riding it, did I say I'm old and creaky now. The upright position and seat are comfy enough for a couple of hours e joyment. The buzz engine is vibey but I think I might of made it worse fitting a bash plate.
The ride is comfy and relaxed the brakes are very good.
Buzzy but I'm getting an indicated 89mpg.
No problems too date
Dealer service for warranty was £230. I'll do my own servicing from now.
Firstbike I've had with gear indicator.
Year: 2023
I've owned many of these over the years and ridden plenty of motorcycles. My last cb500 was 7 years older and I was surprised how much improved this model was. Absolute joy to take out. Commute into London is enjoyable but I really enjoy motorway trips up to the midlands as well as rides into the countryside. Gives great feedback at low speed and it feels like it smiles when you wake it up in the Twisties. I love riding my Harley and never expected to find a mainstream bike I'd connect with so well. Love it.
I agree with other comments that the seat could be more comfortable for longer rides. But aside from that, the bike has a great feeling to it, provides assured handling, clear rider feedback at all speeds and is capable of turning into a nimble 'flyer' when you want to open the throttle, as well as deliver the qualities of an off-roader on demand.
Very capable and a solid proven history. Incredibly economical and able to deliver enjoyment when being very sensible, as well as giving much more to demanding riders.
Never had any issues with any of my previous cb500s but loses a mark because the engine light came on after torrential rain. Bike cut out initially but would start and rode fine. Dealer found no issues and reset, so not sure if this might resurface.
It's incredibly economical to run and has a proven history of class leading reliability. I don't think you can beat the value this bike gives unless you need something different from a bike.
Extras are expensive but worth having the side stand and heated grips if you ride all seasons. The bar above the display provides a great place to mount a phone holder for sat nav, so I don't have issues with lack of connectivity. I use a scala for instructions and music. I have a scottoiler for looking after the chain and after market auxiliary lighting. I have a top box and panniers. The bike could have a few things as standard but I've no real complaints here.
Buying experience: My local Honda dealer is a joy to use. 21st Moto in Swanley. Good advice, lovely staff, great service.
Version: XA
Year: 2022
Annual servicing cost: £200
Best feature fuel economy (caveat - the speedo reads high, so your MPG reads high too). Worst feature is the new LED headlight, I suspect that is why you cant get a Lumens specification anywhere, if like me you travel unlit country roads at night then you will need to add spotlights.
brakes great, ride is not as smooth as I would have wished, most seem to find it really comfortable but I am 5'11" and only 10.5 Stone, I think most of the reviewers who have given it better rating have maybe more natural padding (sorry no offence meant.)
Its built to a budget and is great for the money however it would have been nice if the words and detailing were painted on and not stickers
this is excluding parts
Very basic accessories, as I said before aux lights are a must. I put on the comfort kit, but with hindsight I would have bough Barkbuster guards and Oxford heated grips. The 12v socket is useful and the center-stand good for chain maintenance. I also fitted a wider sidestand foot, bars to mount my spots from and a top box. there is no protection from muck for the rear shock either.
Buying experience: Dealer - Brilliant
Year: 2022
Annual servicing cost: £150
Great fuel economy for size, smooth linea engine. Accessories expensive, instruction and general service and wiring information are hard to obtain.
Ride quality is good but beyond an hour and a half my butt is beginning to need a rest, I feel the seat is too firm and bought an aftermarket seat cover. However there are mixed reviews, I am tall slim light and boney, I think those with natural padding may find it fine. Brakes are great and progressive, no issues there.
Smooth modern engine, again no issues so far.
Generally we'll built and sturdy, but mud guards front and rear both short, need front extender and a rear shock cover and a bit longer under number plate to stop top box being splattered.
Service plan good to get 3 years cover up front. Fuel economy is good on my commute through country lanes and villages I average a recorded 90mpg, however speedo reads about 3% high so really it's about 85mpg however motoway running at 70mph drops mpg down to around 70mpg faster and at 80mph mpg drops to about 60ish.
Great riding position. All very basic, ABS is the only modern toy, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. Dispay is OK on full brightness but could be so much nicer. The LED headlight is poor (no lumens spec available). I fitted a set of zmoon yellow/while 6000 lumen running light/spots, I can now see properly in the country lanes best upgrade thus far.
Buying experience: I ordered a green version from my local dealer in March due for delivery August, in July I was told Sept or October. I saw a Red version in a dealer 200 miles away and ordered it - it was delivered the following week. New bike delivery it seems is patchy because of silicone chip shortages holding up production and post covid shipping issues, but this problem is not limited to Honda. I paid RRP which was I think good value.
Version: red
Year: 2022
Fuel economy...real world over 70mpg. Quality build. Worst? Feels a little wobbly between 65-75 while behind traffic,
maybe a little soft but its not too bad!
Smooth, quiet, very little vibes.
Built like a honda!
300 mile range....thats not a difficult thing to achieve!
Has two keys, on and off button, flasher for the head light and a horn.... Seriously the screen is great, clear and has plenty of info in there!
Buying experience: Fantastic. Booked the test in December @ Newcastle Honda and Paul ordered the bike there and then....it was ready for when i passed the test! Only delay was cos i failed at the first attempt! - Donut!
Version: Latest model.
Year: 2022
Screen is a bit fiddly to operate but it can be adjusted at least. Great beginner bike (april 22 test passed) and done 3000 miles. (200 of them in the first two months).
Bit soft for my liking but for the money it’s great.
Smooth. Great on fuel. Not a great noise but it’s a commuter twin ‘adventure’ bike not a v twin Italian at 4 times the price.
Just superb quality. As you would expect.
Ave fuel over 70mpg real world. First tank was 85mpg given I was brand new to riding and a big chicken. 8000 mile intervals so not got the first one done yet. I will be back to Newcastle Honda to get it done though.
Not much to comment on. Everything works as it should and as you would expect from a Honda. Just not much of it to talk about.
Buying experience: Bought from Newcastle Honda. Paul ordered the bike in December when I made the enquiry to book lessons and do the test. Bike was ready for me in the April, should have been March but Thats my fault and I am not telling why 😂. Superb guy. What he says he will do he does. Almost ready for my next bike Paul…..
Version: Green
Year: 2022
Comfortable bike but needs a bit more padding in the seat for me, after an hour I'm beginning to feel it.
Ergonomics good, seat is hard.
Excellent but marked down for the buzziness. Vibes through the accessory bar make attaching a phone for filming my rides too shaky to watch.
Surprised at the velcro attaching some panels.
owned for 4 months 600m service was about £140.
Would have been nice to have heated grips hand guards and 12v socket as standard
Buying experience: Bought from dealer
Year: 2022
I bought this bike new this year as a runaround here in the Canary Islands. As an experienced biker I was wondering if an A2 compliant machine could deliver, but I need not have worried. The little Honda is a pleasure to ride, light controls and willing engine which delivers enough power riding solo, with a top box and with a (light) pillion. It looks great too with the 2022 spec gold forks and twin discs. Is is susceptible to side winds, perhaps more than a larger machine. Overall I am very happy with this bike.
It is well sprung even two up, handles beautifully and stopping power is good, particularly the front. Seat is comfortable with or without pillion.
Whilst an A2 performance is never going to be exciting, the performance is more than adequate for my local environment. The engine is commendably smooth with no serious vibes.
Typical Honda build quality.
Only had its 1000km service which was not dear, and fuel consumption is commendable low.
I paid extra for a centre stand, which is not unusual these days and put on a top box, Shad which is way cheaper than Honda’s offering.
Buying experience: Dealer