Good review. I've had my '13 for 5 years. Today exactly now that I think about it (Happy anniversary to me!). 56,000 km and still enjoying it. Valves checked again earlier this year and still within spec! I put a Rally Raid Level 1 kit in it a few years ago which improves the ride a bit and gives better control in mid-corner bumps. It does everything I want. I think the motorcycle press and industry has done a great disservice at designating many bikes as "entry-level", leading to the riders feeling unhappy unless they can move up to the big bikes. My feeling is that many of these people stop riding either because they can't afford to move up or because they do move up and find the big bike doesn't suit them. Frankly, smaller bikes are more fun. The 500X hits that sweet spot. Small enough to be fun and manoeuvrable. Big enough to be capable on the highway.
The famous Norm ! Have read all your books or should say listened to all of them , he seems to be the sort of friend worth having ! Another great video , cheers Nick !
I bought myself a CB500X as a second bike/commuter last spring, to run alongside my fireblade....to my surprise it was so good that the fireblade never got a look in at all last year....I used the little Honda for everything .....fantastic little bike, with a real peach if a motor , it's so much better than the numbers on paper would suggest.
Some people just have the most natural voice to review things and your voice and precise info make for excellent viewing :) so thanks, liked and subbed ...Rob...
Real world review...the bike is a great machine...and as a Honda will go around the world or wee daily commutes without issues...keep the videos coming....stay safe
Back in the 70's and 80's we all thought of a 500 cc motorbike as quite a big motorcycle and with around 50bhp plenty powerful enough. Somehow as the years have gone by these middle weight bikes have become looked down on. However when we get to actually ride one we soon realise they are all the Motorcycle we need, great MPG, nice and light and basic to maintain. Like you said I would rather travel large distances on cb500x then any overweight BMW. Great review
After riding for a while and starting on a 1983 CB 550 Nighthawk that I loved and still have fond memories of, most of the motorcycle made now are a vast improvement in many ways then that bike. I agree 100% with your review and what is truly important. High end bikes are good for what they are, but I find that in the long run I would be very happy with a bike that most reviewers would find boring. Currently own a 2007 Yamaha FZ6 I bought new and am still happy 50k miles later.
I have just got a new to me 2016 (same colour) and took it for my first real ride yesterday with a small group on a nice twisty road. It is nice and has what I need at this time for me. 120 Kph no problem (unless u meet the fuzz - then that was 40 over and loss of license in this state) but nice and planted and room and size to keep up with the 750's. Givi panniers, tank bag, bark busters, frame rack, auxiliary lights & full sump and pipe guard. This bike I would take on an outback tour for 7K $A. Happy at this this time.
Great review thanks! Most reviewers talk about a beginner's bike but how about vintage bikers like me (74) who look for their last bike before giving up two wheelers altogether??? I wouldn't mind riding that Honda CB500X as I still do every day of the week on my 660cc Yamaha MT03.
Those bags on the bike look really nice, do you have any information about them (brand, price etc)? I’m riding a 2016 GSA myself, the Vario cases on it are heavy even when empty! Just started reading “Adventures on Borrowed Time” btw, it’s what prompted me to look you up on UA-cam.
@tonvanbart6606 Sorry, no idea, but I use soft, waterproof Nelson Rigg bags on my Eldorado and they are excellent. I hope you enjoy it. Currently working on yet another. Stay well. Nick.
I was going to offer up my 500X next spring for you to do a review as you appeared to have an interest in the bike when I ran into you on Lake Nipissing in the spring....but I log into youtube to find that you found one already ...same year,same colour lol I will be interested in your friends impression if he changes the front sprocket . These are great bikes and admittedly they tick many boxes .....could be a forever bike for sure . Till next time Nick ....
It was running into you that first got me interested in the bike. When my friend Norm got one, it was too good an opportunity to miss to give one a whirl. Norm's bike does have the 16 tooth sprocket. Dave's bike is identical except for the 15. I'll have to try it to see the difference. Stay well. You never know - our paths may cross again.
Good reveiw as ever Nick. I test ride one of these a few years ago, thinking of using it to complement my 1977 airhead. It did everything very well - I remember passing a car doing about 50mph, and as I passed glancing at the speedo and seeing 80 after what seemed like a short distance. Braking excellent. But. I found the ride a bit harsh, and overall I felt that the package lacked character, compared to the older bikes I'm used to. My current bike is a 2003 750 Breva, which I like a lot.
ONE thing I have heard from more than one person is in regard to the stock Chain. A UK Bike's chain rusted in the first 2000 KM. I understand it comes with a 520 Chain. I'm SERIOUSLY thinking of purchasing one in the next couple of weeks; And if I do, I then I'll upgrade to a 530 Chain. It SHOULD last longer, and not need to be adjusted as often. I rode a 2016 when they first came out, and LOVED it! I would have bought it then, but the dealer would not take the bike I had at the time in trade. I ended up with an 07 DR650, which is an EXCELLENT machine in its own right. At 66, and with age related concerns, my riding style has changed a bit, so I'm selling the Suzuki, and PLAN to buy the little Honda.
I don't know about the chain Bruce, but any chain will rust if not adequately and regularly lubed and a lot of UK bikes are parked on the street in all weathers. DR's are an excellent machine but a little leggy for some, especially if you have knee or hip issues. It's quite a height to swing a leg over, while the Honda is considerably lower and gives up nothing in performance despite the slightly smaller engine size. It's a fully capable motorcycle. Good luck. And don't let that age thing get to you. I have a few years on you and am hoping for at least another twenty in the saddle.
The stock chain on my 2014 UK bike lasted 36,000 miles. A Scottoiler looked after it properly, because as a year-round commuter I would never have kept it so good.
Sitting here at a wind farm storage site in Garden City, Ks. Just arrived and the notification far your video came up. Nice bike, but the question I would have to ask myself. Is it to good, to smooth that it would take the fun away? Engaging may be the word. Enjoyed the video. Time to hunt down the next one.
@@henryhawk7038 About $800US if you can find them (or get those nikisil plated with new pistons). Overall it looks complete but a bit rough. I think you could spend a lot of money there.
That would depend on the size of the rider and passenger and your expectations for comfort and performance. It wouldn't be my first choice for a cross-country tour, but if you're not too vast, local two-up rides would be fine.
Good review. I've had my '13 for 5 years. Today exactly now that I think about it (Happy anniversary to me!). 56,000 km and still enjoying it. Valves checked again earlier this year and still within spec! I put a Rally Raid Level 1 kit in it a few years ago which improves the ride a bit and gives better control in mid-corner bumps. It does everything I want. I think the motorcycle press and industry has done a great disservice at designating many bikes as "entry-level", leading to the riders feeling unhappy unless they can move up to the big bikes. My feeling is that many of these people stop riding either because they can't afford to move up or because they do move up and find the big bike doesn't suit them. Frankly, smaller bikes are more fun. The 500X hits that sweet spot. Small enough to be fun and manoeuvrable. Big enough to be capable on the highway.
The famous Norm ! Have read all your books or should say listened to all of them , he seems to be the sort of friend worth having ! Another great video , cheers Nick !
Thanks Vince. He's riding the latest KLR now - never stays with any bike long. Stay well and thanks for listening. Best wishes. Nick.
I bought myself a CB500X as a second bike/commuter last spring, to run alongside my fireblade....to my surprise it was so good that the fireblade never got a look in at all last year....I used the little Honda for everything .....fantastic little bike, with a real peach if a motor , it's so much better than the numbers on paper would suggest.
how tall are you? I'm 6.2 and thinking about this bike. I had Kawasaki z1000 but although this bike looks great I wasn't happy with the reliability.
Some people just have the most natural voice to review things and your voice and precise info make for excellent viewing :) so thanks, liked and subbed ...Rob...
Thanks Rob. Most appreciated. Stay well. Nick
Real world review...the bike is a great machine...and as a Honda will go around the world or wee daily commutes without issues...keep the videos coming....stay safe
Back in the 70's and 80's we all thought of a 500 cc motorbike as quite a big motorcycle and with around 50bhp plenty powerful enough. Somehow as the years have gone by these middle weight bikes have become looked down on. However when we get to actually ride one we soon realise they are all the Motorcycle we need, great MPG, nice and light and basic to maintain. Like you said I would rather travel large distances on cb500x then any overweight BMW. Great review
Thanks Paul. Heavy bikes do make long highway rides luxurious.....until you have to turn around in a narrow gravel lane 😁
My daughter has one of these, a 2015 CB500F. What a nice bike, thanks for the honest and detailed review
After riding for a while and starting on a 1983 CB 550 Nighthawk that I loved and still have fond memories of, most of the motorcycle made now are a vast improvement in many ways then that bike. I agree 100% with your review and what is truly important. High end bikes are good for what they are, but I find that in the long run I would be very happy with a bike that most reviewers would find boring. Currently own a 2007 Yamaha FZ6 I bought new and am still happy 50k miles later.
I have just got a new to me 2016 (same colour) and took it for my first real ride yesterday with a small group on a nice twisty road. It is nice and has what I need at this time for me. 120 Kph no problem (unless u meet the fuzz - then that was 40 over and loss of license in this state) but nice and planted and room and size to keep up with the 750's. Givi panniers, tank bag, bark busters, frame rack, auxiliary lights & full sump and pipe guard. This bike I would take on an outback tour for 7K $A. Happy at this this time.
They seem very popular and with good reason. Safe travels.
Found ya!
Thanks for the directions to Lavant and the quick chat.
Safe riding.
Wow. That was quick. Currently in. Calabogie for lunch. Enjoy the day, it's a good one.
Thanks Nick, I’m very interested in adding one of these to compliment the v7 , the ease of use appeals as I get older.
Hi from Aus.
I'd think the V7 must be very similar, but with the Guzzi twist. Can I borrow yours Paul?
Excellent, thank you. I've just bought the NX variant.
Thanks Nick for the review 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Great review thanks! Most reviewers talk about a beginner's bike but how about vintage bikers like me (74) who look for their last bike before giving up two wheelers altogether??? I wouldn't mind riding that Honda CB500X as I still do every day of the week on my 660cc Yamaha MT03.
Those bags on the bike look really nice, do you have any information about them (brand, price etc)? I’m riding a 2016 GSA myself, the Vario cases on it are heavy even when empty!
Just started reading “Adventures on Borrowed Time” btw, it’s what prompted me to look you up on UA-cam.
@tonvanbart6606 Sorry, no idea, but I use soft, waterproof Nelson Rigg bags on my Eldorado and they are excellent. I hope you enjoy it. Currently working on yet another. Stay well. Nick.
I was going to offer up my 500X next spring for you to do a review as you appeared to have an interest in the bike when I ran into you on Lake Nipissing in the spring....but I log into youtube to find that you found one already ...same year,same colour lol I will be interested in your friends impression if he changes the front sprocket . These are great bikes and admittedly they tick many boxes .....could be a forever bike for sure . Till next time Nick ....
It was running into you that first got me interested in the bike. When my friend Norm got one, it was too good an opportunity to miss to give one a whirl. Norm's bike does have the 16 tooth sprocket. Dave's bike is identical except for the 15. I'll have to try it to see the difference. Stay well. You never know - our paths may cross again.
Good reveiw as ever Nick. I test ride one of these a few years ago, thinking of using it to complement my 1977 airhead. It did everything very well - I remember passing a car doing about 50mph, and as I passed glancing at the speedo and seeing 80 after what seemed like a short distance. Braking excellent. But. I found the ride a bit harsh, and overall I felt that the package lacked character, compared to the older bikes I'm used to. My current bike is a 2003 750 Breva, which I like a lot.
ONE thing I have heard from more than one person is in regard to the stock Chain. A UK Bike's chain rusted in the first 2000 KM. I understand it comes with a 520 Chain. I'm SERIOUSLY thinking of purchasing one in the next couple of weeks; And if I do, I then I'll upgrade to a 530 Chain. It SHOULD last longer, and not need to be adjusted as often.
I rode a 2016 when they first came out, and LOVED it! I would have bought it then, but the dealer would not take the bike I had at the time in trade. I ended up with an 07 DR650, which is an EXCELLENT machine in its own right. At 66, and with age related concerns, my riding style has changed a bit, so I'm selling the Suzuki, and PLAN to buy the little Honda.
I don't know about the chain Bruce, but any chain will rust if not adequately and regularly lubed and a lot of UK bikes are parked on the street in all weathers. DR's are an excellent machine but a little leggy for some, especially if you have knee or hip issues. It's quite a height to swing a leg over, while the Honda is considerably lower and gives up nothing in performance despite the slightly smaller engine size. It's a fully capable motorcycle. Good luck. And don't let that age thing get to you. I have a few years on you and am hoping for at least another twenty in the saddle.
The stock chain on my 2014 UK bike lasted 36,000 miles. A Scottoiler looked after it properly, because as a year-round commuter I would never have kept it so good.
Nice review! Gives a good idea of the feel of this bike.
Thanks Dave - you should know.........
right you are Nick. And I do look forward to comparing my 15 tooth front sprocket with Nick's 16 tooth front sprocket shortly
GREAT HONEST REVIEW!!!
Great video
I just got one. 2022 version. First bike for me
Sitting here at a wind farm storage site in Garden City, Ks. Just arrived and the notification far your video came up. Nice bike, but the question I would have to ask myself. Is it to good, to smooth that it would take the fun away? Engaging may be the word. Enjoyed the video. Time to hunt down the next one.
Hi Dw. I looked at the ad. Original chrome bores!
@@nick949eldo yes, and I have no idea what 2 jugs would cost. What did you think of the price in relation to the shape the bike is in?
@@henryhawk7038 About $800US if you can find them (or get those nikisil plated with new pistons). Overall it looks complete but a bit rough. I think you could spend a lot of money there.
@@nick949eldo I'll keep focused on Vermont. Preciate it Nick.
Thanks for another interesting ride. Would like you to ride a 4 cylinder 500-550 just to get a comparison between the 2 & 4 Cylinder.
Any old bike MN. I'd love to take it for a spin although I have to warn you - I'm not fond of inline fours. Where are you located?
@@nick949eldo About a 100 miles SW of Thunder Bay. on the wrong side of the line. Maybe next year.
@@mnnorthwoods2520 Yep. For all kinds of reasons - but thanks for the offer. Stay well.
What brand/model of side bags are on the bike? Thanks.
Don't know Chris - they're just an old set of throw-over bags Norm had in his garage. Probably twenty years out of date now.
The CB500X can also be set up as a very good dual purpose bike.
Is this bike ok for two up riding?
That would depend on the size of the rider and passenger and your expectations for comfort and performance. It wouldn't be my first choice for a cross-country tour, but if you're not too vast, local two-up rides would be fine.
Can't be that much different to a KLE500, which is OK, but modern (has no character).