Honda’s often overlooked workhorse, the CB500 is aimed at commuters and those looking tour on a budget.

The bike is comfortable enough for all day riding, stable enough to be thrown around and reliable enough to be worry free. Honda claim the engine could be good for over 500,000 km’s. It does pretty much of everything well enough to satisfy most people looking at this type of bike.

The 499cc liquid cooled, parallel twin engine produces 59bhp, providing plenty of power for most things asked of it. Most owners have never discovered the hidden gem that lies above 8000 revs, a naughty powerband that sees the little Honda positively take off. The 6-speed gearbox is slick and smooth in operation and combined with a light clutch operation makes for an easy life.

The bike will easily top 120mph and 90mph cruising is not a problem, the small fairing on the ‘S’ version does not make the bike any faster, just a bit more comfortable on a longer journey.

Single disc brakes front and back are not startling in their performance, but are satisfactory. Wheels are 6-spoke alloy. Suspension is nothing fancy, adjustments for pre-load only on the rear twin shock setup.

Dependable, cheap and cheerful the CB500 should not disappoint.

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Last updated 09/03/02