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In what is easily the most shocking two-wheeler launch of the year, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has officially introduced its critically acclaimed CB500 naked motorcycle in the Indian market at an unbelievable price of Rs 2.75 lakh (ex-showroom). Known globally for its bulletproof reliability, ultra-smooth engine refinement, and beginner-friendly power delivery, the CB500 platform has finally arrived in a price bracket that makes it accessible to the masses. By pricing this parallel-twin naked bike so aggressively, Honda has bypassed its traditional premium pricing model to wage war on single-cylinder machines and established twin-cylinder retro cruisers alike.
Refined Power: The Heart of the CB500
At the center of the Honda CB500 is a highly refined 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This motor has been celebrated globally for its linear power delivery and incredibly flexible mid-range performance. It produces a healthy 47.5 bhp of maximum power at 8,600 rpm and 43 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a slick 6-speed gearbox that benefits from an assist and slipper clutch, preventing rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
What makes this engine special is its 180-degree crank design, which produces a characterful exhaust note alongside incredibly smooth power characteristics. Unlike high-revving single-cylinders that tend to vibrate at highway speeds, the CB500 is designed to cruise effortlessly at 120 km/h all day long without breaking a sweat, making it a dream machine for weekend tourers and daily commuters alike.
Cycle Parts, Suspension, and Electronics
Honda has not cut corners when it comes to the chassis and suspension. The CB500 is built around a lightweight steel diamond frame that balances torsional rigidity with high-speed stability. Suspension duties are handled by premium 41mm Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork Big Piston) upside-down front forks, which offer outstanding road feedback and handling agility. The rear suspension comprises a linked Monoshock with 5-stage preload adjustability.
Braking performance is top-notch, featuring dual 296mm petal discs with Nissin radial-mount calipers up front and a single 240mm disc at the rear, monitored by dual-channel ABS as standard. In terms of electronics, the CB500 gets a modern 5-inch full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity via Honda RoadSync, allowing riders to access turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and music control on the go.
| Specification Category | Honda CB500 Technical Details |
| Engine Type | 471cc, Liquid-cooled, Parallel-Twin, DOHC |
| Max Power Output | 47.5 bhp @ 8,600 rpm |
| Max Torque Output | 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with Assist/Slipper Clutch |
| Front Suspension | 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Pro-Link Monoshock, 5-stage preload adjustable |
| Braking Setup | Dual 296mm Front Discs, Single 240mm Rear Disc, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Seat Height & Curb Weight | 785 mm / 189 kg |
| Official Launch Price | Rs 2.75 Lakh (Ex-Showroom, India) |
Quick Pros & Cons
- Pros: Unbelievably aggressive pricing for a parallel-twin; top-tier Showa USD forks and dual disc front brakes; legendary Honda build quality and refinement.
- Cons: Limited BigWing dealership network may make sales and service access difficult in tier-2 and tier-3 cities; design is somewhat understated compared to flashy competitors.
Key Rivals in India
The Honda CB500 directly undercuts premium single-cylinders like the KTM Duke 390 (Rs 3.13 lakh) and Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 while offering the buttery refinement of a parallel-twin. It also poses a massive threat to the highly popular Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (starting at Rs 3.03 lakh) and the Aprilia RS 457, proving that Honda is ready to fight dirty for market share.
The CarTawk Verdict
By pricing the globally acclaimed CB500 parallel-twin at a staggering Rs 2.75 lakh, Honda has executed the single biggest market heist of the year. This is easily the most accomplished, versatile, and high-value performance motorcycle you can buy in India today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Honda CB500 require premium fuel?
A: No, the CB500’s engine is designed to run perfectly on standard 91-octane petrol, keeping regular running costs highly economical.
Q: What is the real-world mileage of the Honda CB500?
A: Thanks to its efficient fuel-injection system and relaxed gearing, the CB500 easily delivers a highly impressive real-world mileage of 26 to 30 km/l under mixed riding conditions.
