Buzzing into contention: Honda reveal revised CB500 Hornet to replace CB500F naked

Honda have revised their popular 471cc parallel twin offering for 2024, replacing their modest CB500F naked with a new CB500 Hornet that retains the same underpinnings with fresh bodywork inspired by the brand’s larger 755cc CB750 Hornet.

The liquid-cooled engine and chassis are the same as last year’s CB500F. This is no bad thing though, as that was heavily upgraded in 2022 with 41mm Showa Big Piston forks, dual front discs with radial calipers and a lighter swingarm. It’s a sweet-handling bike.

The changes this time are more subtle but should help the A2-friendly Honda keep pace with KTM’s freshly updated 390 Duke and Kawasaki Z400. It now has a 5in TFT display that’s operated by new left-hand switchgear, LED lights front and rear, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (ie, traction control) as standard.  

The new dash is a high quality unit, having been developed for the far more expensive CB1000R. It’s noticeably easier to read in bright sunlight than many screens because instead of an air gap between the cover glass and TFT surface, Honda fill it with a resin with the aim of reducing reflections.

The TFT also allows connectivity – crucial for bikes appealing to younger riders – so you can have turn-by-turn navigation via Honda’s RoadSync app.

It’s controlled by a four-way toggle on the new left hand switchgear, which, impressively, is backlit so you don’t blunder through the menus at night. Minor engine mapping changes are claimed to improve low-rpm acceleration, though peak power and torque figures remain unchanged. 

Honda CB500 Hornet spec

• Power 47bhp @ 8600rpm
• Torque 32lbft @ 6500rpm
• Weight 188kg
• Seat height 785mm
• Price TBC