Honda CB500X vs Africa Twin - should I upgrade? [QuickTest#1] 

I have a 2019 500x and agree with everything you say. There have been times when I would have liked a bit more power, heated grips and cruise control. But more often I have been grateful for it not weighing too much, using very little fuel and not costing too much when it fell over ( mud on road whilst travelling at 2mph). For 95% of the time I wobble around enjoying riding a bike.

I don’t have a CB500X, but from what I know of them, your comparison is spot on! Thanks! Ride safe my friend...

Quite frankly I wouldn’t bother. These days I just ride around town and day trips for which the 500X is much less bulky and more manageable. I’ve had a few large BMWs, HondaXLV750, Tiger 750 Trail.

I have just made this exact change about three weeks ago. After putting just over 18,000klm on my 2017 CBX it was time to get something a bit more capable offroad and with a bit longer legs for traveling. The CBX was good fun but it didn't have the clearance or the power to handle anything even half serious offroad, believe me I tried it. The AT adventure sports I bought I have now put around 3500klm on is nearly every bit the better bike. Now I live in rural Australia and the conditions on and off road are very different to Europe and the US with a lot more open country between urban areas and urban areas being a hell of a lot smaller than other countries and offroad tracks being a lot less used and well defined (of what I have seen in various videos anyway). The CBX hands down is an easier bike to ride around town due to its lower seat height and lesser weight making it feel a bit more nimble but that's probably the only thing I miss about it. Not getting blown across the road by large trucks and the ride being several times smoother and more comfortable makes the AT great for my daily commute to work too. My final thoughts are that the CBX is a great learner or starter adventure bike for someone but if you want to get serious the Africa Twin is the next step up (in Hondas anyway) though I too wish there was a 750-800cc version.

My eye still twitches a bit whenever I hear a complaint on power and hearing something like "I need 100hp to do everything". Dude.... My current bike barely does 15hp and I can still do hillclimbs and deep sand riding. Of course it is underpowered and begs to be shot whenever I do 100+ on the highway, but a 100hp?? I understand you are used to a whole different level of motorcycles and I wish I could do the same, but I honestly can't think of an argument that could justify a "minimum" of 100hp. I don't want to make this a "rich kid" argument because it's just stupid to do so, but I would still like to hear an argument for the minimum. Still.... I'm looking forward to getting myself a cb500x clone and not having to reach the rev limiter to cruise 120. Your first impressions were also very accurate, and give me the impression that Honda is just throwing more stuff at the AT to make it a more complete package, but honestly I can't justify the upgrade (were I to have a 1000 AT, or even a 750).

Yes a new 650/700cc Transalp would sell well.

Hey Rocketman, Thanks for your review. One major point that is overlooked...The Africa Twin is also called CRF: it's a big dirt beast that will swallow gnarly dirt roads here in Australia for breakfast and ask for more. It will cruise happily at 120kmh on most dirt road and will also tackle technical dirt with a bit of practice. I own a 2019 non DCT, it is ultra stable due to low center of gravity, super smooth and confidence inspiring. On dirt, it is in a completely different league than the 500X. With the AT you pay for ultimate versatility, proven reliability, and I still can't fault it on the black stuff nor in town after 3 month. My previous bike was a cb500fa, and I rod a 500x in Thailand, sweet bikes, but the AT will do circles laughing around both.

I've been taking a really hard look at the CB500X as my next bike, so I have really appreciated your reviews and videos! I couldn't agree more about the desire to see a CB650X, but the cynic in me wonders if such a bike existed, would the premium (higher profit) Africa Twin suddenly become a much harder sell for Honda? I mean a CB650X perhaps with spoke wheels and switchable rear ABS... Honda would have a tough time convincing half of that market that they need the higher priced Africa Twin.

Couple years ago, I've put brand new 2017 cb500x on the road for $6700 (US). This year, I could have put 2019 model for $6900. Couple extra 100's would justify changes and add on's. I've also seen unused earlier year models listed in $5k range (+fees and tax) which I think should be the appropriate price considering that it needs few mods for longer rides. Now, I did go cross country with my 500x (2240 miles in 7 days from Oregon to Texas.) My experience comparing with bigger size bikes is following (I also own 2019 Super Tenere.) For speeds up to 70mph (even 75mph) 500x is adequate. It is sensitive to wind conditions due to lower weight and power. You definitely feel the road and get more tired as you have to be engaged all the time. Cruising over 75mph for hours takes a toll both on machine and rider. Super Ten on the other hand just starts "stretching legs" at those speeds. You can cruise 80-90mph all day long and you just don't feel wind or anything on the road due to superior suspension. On 500x, I was covering 300-400 miles in a day and that was about limit for me. On Super Ten, 500-600 miles a day is quite reasonable in good conditions. As for city riding or slower curvy roads 500x is more than good enough. Probably better match than big bike like Super Ten. Afrika Twin is I think is in between those two. I wouldn't pay full price for Afrika but, I've seen left over models sold in US for $8k-9k which is about right. GS is in class or Super Ten and way more expensive than any mentioned here. The big advantage of GS and S10 is shaft drive vs chain, especially on long trips. Another viable options are NC750X and V-strom650. For more road oriented, Versys 650 or Tracer 900. Many also want Tenere 700 lately. Btw, I think 500x i little small for guys over 6'. I'm 5'10" and wouldn't mind an inch taller seat.

11:11am!! Make a wish! Hey great review. I love my 2019 cb500x, it's made everything happen for me. Took it from the Yukon to Newfoundland and had no problems with it. My only issues with the bike are the knee position and the weak first gear. I'd trade in for a 650x if they ever make it.

Good review - I think the A/T makes more sense if you live in a place like Oz with its vast stretches of unsurfaced roads. It can devour these conditions with ease, for many hours at a time & with bulletproof reliability. The main issue with Honda introducing a super competent mid capacity dual sport tourer, is it would instantly kill the sales of so many other bikes overnight. There's almost certainly an unwritten agreement between manufacturers to ensure no one ever knocks it out of the park & nails the market like this. An example of this was the Varadero - Honda gave buyers the amazing choice of the popgun 125, or the lard ass 1000, and nothing else in between - why ?....they knew if they made a 650 Varadero with all day comfort, manageable weight, decent off-road & luggage carrying ability (maybe shaft drive too) everyone else would be screwed, AND it would've effected sales of their own larger capacity bikes in all classes as well : )

If the 500X would have been available in 2010 - I would have never bought my F800GS. Comparing AFT and the 500X like comparing a Range Rover and a CRV (written before I saw your comparison). You don't "need " 100 HP. The AFT is half the price of a 1250 GS. You haven't heard of the 750x? You can get a new (not 2020) AFT in Canada for 9000 GBP. I just bought a new 2018 (wanted the 17" front) 500X for 3800 GBP. The new KTM 790 (8200 GBP in Canada) is the ultimate adventure bike regardless of size. BTW the 1250 GS "starts" at 13500 GBP and sells for 16500 in reality. Crazy expensive for what it is.

Nice review, thanks. You remind me of Peter Jones who voiced the book from Hitchhiker Guide to the galaxy. I can picture you riding along and saying "Space is big. Really big. You just won't believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is....." :-)

My first bike was a CB500x , brilliant little machine , then i had a NC 700 dct now i have an Africa Twin i would never go back this bike has evreything i missed in my previous bikes

Love how you commented on Jocelin Snow! She's a friend of ours in our riding community. Very cool person and yes, she eliminates the big bikes for big boys argument straight away.

I had the 2016 AT with the permanent indicator lights on. In a sea of white lights on a dusky evening I thought they were a great aid to others to "pick me out". I have no way of really knowing of course but do feel the benefit outweigh the perceived (or real) negative. I think most people associated the blink of the light with an indication rather than a solid light.

I just bought a CB500X and cant be happier. Was thinking of getting the Africa Twin as my next bike in a couple of years and you answered a lot of questions I had. Très bon accent français by the way!

Thanks for this vid I appreciate your way of speaking, clear with simple words so in spite of my poor english, I could understand everything you said and I agree with your philosophy. AT is truly a great bike but the 500X suits 95 % of our riding ... for half the price.

I have a 2017 AT and what appealed to me was the simplicity of the machine and the price I think Honda have gone to far down the technical route

The newest V-Strom 650 is wonderfully smooth and comfortable. It would do what you want without the excess expense. I'm getting old so I'll be keeping my 500F, but I really miss my Gen 2 V-Strom 1000.

ohhhh a CB650X could be a game changer. However, like you said earlier if they get to fancy it could ruin it. I'm all for a rock solid no frills comfortable medium sized adventure and that is why the 500x is such an attractive option. A touch more power and a spoke wheel option, oh and some optional colors in every market would make it perfectttttttt! Great video thank you sir.

Great appraisal of two great bikes. I've ridden a 500x around Thailand and had no complaints. Got my sights set on the Yamaha Ténéré 700 - ticks all the right boxes.

If I was going to get something bigger than the 500X I’d look at a Tenere 700. My R80GS was the best all round dual purpose bike I’ve had - 32 litre tank and shaft drive. R100GS was a mega handful off road- too bulky and heavy. I can’t understand for the life of me why so many people go for the 1250GS. I’m 5’8.

I have owned my Honda CB500x for literally 3 days, so far it's been okay, agree with you on the vibrations but overall a decent model without a crazy price tag. The Africa Twin is far too pricey and as you put it, with a higher profit margin, says it all. I will stick with the CB500x for a good while until there's a gap filler 650/700cc model introduced in the future with a sensible price tag

I have a 2017 DCT Africa Twin, bought with 1500miles last year. It was good value compared to the new model. I've done a 420mile day and 1800 mile week on the bike and seat comfort has never been an issue (and it has been on other bikes). It's not 'soft' comfortable, but works over distance, maybe because there is room to move around and change your position and therefore, pressure points subtly. If you ride one, 'Drive' mode is best left for dawdling in traffic or sightseeing, as it changes up very early. In Sport modes (choice of 3) things are much more normal feeling. A dab on the manual shift buttons easily overrides the auto programs and I find the shifts rapid and incredibly smooth, even when on the gas. It's like an up and down quick shift, and you can always ride in manual mode too. The 'factory fit' Dunlop tyres are poor in the wet, but many bikes have this issue. Fuel consumption is good for 1000cc and range acceptable. My biggest gripe is that it comes with tubed type rims, which means you cannot simply plug a puncture roadside, as with tubless. There are ways to run tubless tyres without tubes, but the good options arent cheap. One good thing about the bike is there is a great choice of accessories from many manufacturers, so you can make it 'yours' without having to buy Honda's very expensive options. It's a great bike and much better value than the latest model.

Brilliant honest video esp around 12.00mins! GREAT video!! Thank you, you have confirmed my personal thoughts. Keep up the GREAT work!!

I’ve been riding since I was 16 and I’m now 67 I got a cb 500x in November and I love it enough power for the real world riding and great build quality. Very comfortable for longer ride’s and economic too.

Great vid thx. I'm literally vacillating over which of these to get, I've been making offers on CRF's this week, but you have turned me back to the 500 X.

I have a 2017 CB500X. I get the feeling there already *is* a CB650X/mini Africa Twin, although it's not made by Honda. It's the Yamaha Tenere 700.

I own a 2017 CB500X & i still love it. But i really want a little bigger engine. The new Africa Twin 2020 seem awesome, but its way to much expensive! Its why i am dreaming about a future smaller or cheaper Africa Twin between 600-750 cc or a CB650X.

Owning a 2016 cb500x myself, I have often thought about replacing it for an AT which is some kind of my dream machine. But when going down to "rational", I share your thoughts and I am afraid my CB will stay with me for many years to come even if obviously an AT is a better machine overall. But simplicity and economy are great points and CB has no rival there, while being good at everything.

A CB650X (100bhp) with stainless spoked anodized alloy wheel rims, a gel padded seat, decent adjustable screen, Renthal bars, barkbuster handguards, grippy footpegs, a decent sump guard, a centre stand, a rear too box mounting plate/frame as standard, and the 2014 CB600F white red and blue livery; that'd be near perfect for me.😊 Factory extras.... fork gaiters/bellows, a rear hugger to protect rear shock, engine guard bars, aux led lighting, rear side pannier frame and panniers. Heated grips and usb aux power point.

Very good review, for the Africa Twin and Tenere 700! I also own a 2019 CB500X, and it's a just perfect all-rounder; we ride duo but its limited power keeps us from traveling with luggage in plus of our 130kg.. We tried a Moto Guzzi V85TT, it's very comfortable, but I agree that a CB650X woul'd be a good compromise, around 70-75hp and 70nm. Price, comfort and fuel range is hard to beat on the 500X.

I personally miss the 600-650cc single cylinder dual sport category. These simple, less electronics as possible bikes was my favorite.

Love this dude. Always makes sense. I am shortlisting bikes and cb500x after 20 years of not riding is on the podium.

Watching this in July 23 it was quite amusing at the end of the vid to hear you essentially describing the Transalp as the bike Honda should be building next. 😊

Very good review, RocketMan. Thank you!!! Happy New Year!

Excelent review RocketMan. Two year ago I bought a brand new CB500x MY18. It was my first bike, and I sign the order without ride it. I enjoyed the little 500, the way it handles, son nimble and light, but I felt it small for my 6'2", and its suspension very uncomfortable. I sold it after just 3500 km, aiming to a used 1200gs or Africa Twin. The Tenere 700 was not yet available. Finally decided for a used 2016 standard Africa Twin, with 9000km, very well equipped for a fantastic price. Just put more 1000km on, and am very happy, but ... still miss the lightness feel of the good old 500x. If the 500x had decent suspension and a little more wheelbase and height, probably it would cost more than my used Africa Twin. Cost aside, probably my choice would be Tenere 700. Comparing it against the AT (old model, manual gearshift) just a little less comfortable in Motorways. Its 76 hp are more than enough, and is as nimble as the 500x, with proper suspension. Have a nice 2020.

Hi Rocketman. Thanks for a great review. I have a test ride in a few days... So thanks to you I know what to look out for. Have fun and keep safe.

The permanently on indicators are now on a few new Honda bikes. The CB125R that I learnt to ride on and the CB650R are 2 that I know of. I agree, it is a very silly idea. Indicators should just be for indicating.

I totally agree with you. I'm enjoying my CB500X 2022, twin disk front but still suffering vibrations and a lack of power. Adding 10/15hp and this bike would be perfect for me. 👍

I enjoyed your video. I don't disagree with your comments; however, I purchased a new 2018 AT Nov 1, 2019. I came from an HD Road King so I get what you mean about the power plant, but it is definitely faster than the Road King it doesn't pull at low rpm. I'm only 5'4" and I find the bike very manageable, even confidence inspiring. I thought about the 500X, and for the most part it would be fine for me. In Canada we have a lot of pavement and you find yourself doing a lot of km's getting to where you want to be. I really like my AT it is black with black aluminum luggage, crash bars, centre stand, and larger windscreen. I'm very happy with it.

I own a CB500X for 4 months now. Independently from that and before even knowing I would get a CB I test rode an AT last summer, the 1000 cc model, and surprisingly was quite underwhelmed. The CB meanwhile does exactly what I expected from it: being a fun little, light weight, do it all, cheap bread and butter best buddy bike for every day use. Who needs a dream bike when having a CB?

Very good assessment of the two bikes. I don't have your experience, but I got a good sense of the trade-offs. A big thumbs up.

I rode the old Africa Twin for a long time. It was not really much cheaper than the 2018 model. I opted for an 2018 Africa Twin (in a special offers bundle with paniers). It was worth the price for me. I am happy with the handling and performance of the bike. I actually like the firmer seat and find it comfortable. I probably would not have opted for 2020 Africa Twin either. There are too many menues and buttons for my taste.

I have a CB500X as a second bike for local hopping around, which includes rough lanes and all year round use. My other bike is a T120 which is great for two up. If I could only have one bike I’d have to get the best all round that I could afford.

I'm considering to buy the cb500x. It seems to be a really versatile bike. Thanks for your review! I agree that they are trying to put in all kinds of gadgets here and there, better with simple and straight forward stuff.

AGREED! COME ON HONDA! Another EXCELLENT review comparison! 2016 CB500X owner here... considering the exact alternatives you've compared/reviewed! Due to your reviews (only watched them all in the past 24 hours) I'm happily sticking with the CB500X!

I 100% agree with your closing comment. A CB650X would be a perfect mid size machine

your french accent is perfect :O

At 75 years old and having ridden motorcycles for. 60 years I currently have a 2015 Goldwing Anniversary edition. It’s gorgeous, everything I wanted after riding two ST1300s more than 150k miles. The STs had simply gotten too too heavy for this old man. The GW has been a great ride but it’s still a bit much. My long riding days are done. The CB500X looks like a great day rider for where I live in Northern Arkansas. I don’t want something as tall in the saddle as the AT. I’m looking forward to setting this minimal bike up with some of the accessories available in the aftermarket. Bags, GPS, heated grips, bigger windscreen, hand guards should keep me busy for a while and better set me up for year round riding.

Used to ride a variety of BMWs from 650GS through 5 K1200RS and GTs. Love my 2016 Honda 500X. No more $1000 annual service costs. Do it all myself. Yes could use a little more power 2 up. Helped by changing front sprocket. Lower revs on highway. Did not like the AT at all. Felt like I was driving a tractor. 500x needs to be a 650. Perfect. Added bash plate, hand warmers, crash bars (mostly for better tie downs) top case for wife to rest against and it is more fun than a barrel of monkeys. Dual sport that I can pick up by myself after bouncing off dead wood on back trails.

Greetings from Oz and thanks for the review! I have a 2016 CB500X and am very pleased with its value. Still getting used to the change from a VStrom 650 though. 😁

Thank you for this review. Good exercise between the little one and the big sister. Congrats for your french accent ;) I'm getting my CBX very soon (2018 model), can't wait for it. Cheers.

I’ve olny been riding for 5 years . I started on a cb500f which was ok as a starter bike . I then decided I maybe needed a new machine so not wanting to kill myself I went for a 2017 Honda cb500x . I lived with this bike being 6,1 tall for 6 months covering over 4000 miles on it before deciding it was under powered for a an a licence holder such as myself so I decided to go for a used and well priced crf100l Africa twin dct. I didn’t want a dct but the guy who wanted to sell me his made me an offer I could not refuse. I had and loved that Africa twin for 2 full years covering a mind blowing 1750 miles in that 2 years of ownership . I just didn’t want to get it out of the garage to pop to the shop or commute to work simply because it was to big and heavy to be bothered with the hassle of getting it out. I sold it and bought a 2019 cb500x 6 months ago and we are about to hit the 4000 mile mark in the next few weeks . I don’t think I will ever buy another motorcycle this will do me . It’s not fast it’s nothing special at all but I just love it.

i tested both bikes and came to the same conclusion, an 80 HP twin CB650X without electronic and modes, that s what i m looking for ! Can you understand that Mr HONDA ? not an expensive , full loaded Africa twin 850, just a light weight, easy, comfy CB650X !! The CBB500X is a fantastic bike, it only need more power. Thank you Rocketman for your great videos

Wow! I can't imagine how you only have around 6000 Subscribers. I think you make one of the best motorcycle comparisons on RU-vid and I love to watch your videos. I really trust you the most when it comes to motorcycle reviews and the way you present an criticize the motorcycles is the perfect balance between the people which only point out the positive thing an those how do the opposite. It is a shame that your popularity is "so low" ( compared to others). Continue! I which you the best!

I came from the future to tell you that the cb500x 2022 is an amazing upgrade in comparison to the previous model. So, I really feel happy with my new bike.

Thank You for an earnest review we fully agree and went for an AffricaTwin 2019 DCT simple menus and with its throttle by wire it has actually become the perfecktion in motorcycles. But a 750 XX 55kw with sprocket wheels up and down front forks and adjustable rear suspension, a 16 spocket front chainwheel would give a higher gearing and les vibration , 40 kg less than the 998cc AfricaTwin would defiantly be a challenge for the 700 Ténéré , but sadly i do not think Honda are interested because they make a lot of money on much smaller bikes.

I love this video. Really informative and your video editing is very, very professional (to me at any rate). Brilliant choice of comparison and full of useful information. Nice one.

I took my 500x on probably one of the best biking roads in the UK; Masham to Richmond in Yorkshire. It was a beautiful day and the Bike just zipped along, agile and nimble the thing just flew along and was great fun. Uncomplicated bike that just lets you enjoy the journey. I will be on my third 500x when the new version comes out in 2022 and wouldn't want anything bigger.

Ive got a 2017 500X and my next bike will be the Tenere 700. I had considered my options with a new Africa Twin, but really I think it comes down to weight for me. the 50% bump in power for the Tenere but with the same weight and larger wheels seems to hit the sweet spot for me. Plus its hard to argue with the price. Great review!

Another great video. For me I'm comparing the 2020 CB500X vs 2020 Africa Twin Adventure Sport. 50 kilo difference. I like the fancy gadgets. I don't care about the price and I will be dropping whatever I get. I think you are really paying for the extra ground clearance and the highway capabilities. I rarely get over 6k revs on my current CB500X.

Excellent job comparing and contrasting these two bikes.It will be interesting to see how the “baby” Africa Twin (800 cc) measures up.Of the large adventure bikes,I would opt for the Super Tenere 1200, by virtue of its shaft drive and significantly lower cost over the GS.I haven’t ridden a CB500X yet, but by all accounts,I feel confident one will be in my garage in the not too distant future.It’s just that good in so many ways, reliable, and affordable.Thank you again, and be safe.Subscribed.👍

Brilliant review!! Thank you for taking the time. I’m in the market for a new bike and I’m asking myself if the Africa Twin is worth the extra money over the CBX. I don’t think the Africa is selling well in the states so there only about a $3-4000 difference but still significant if I’m in just using for weekend day rides. Ride safe!

I tend to agree with you. I also owned the Bmw GSA Ac and the GS Lc. They do tend to make you feel more special... however at their prices they damn well better . I now own a Transalp 650. 2007 model. It was suppose to an interim bike but guess what. I freaking love it. Cheap and more capable ( for me) off road with the less weight and the 21 inch front wheel than the Beemers I had. It’s a good reliable and very honest motorcycle. I was suppose to have my new Bmw already but I just Looovve the Transalp sooo much , I have postponed the purchase. I actually think that I am going to keep it, even if I buy a new Bmw or AT. Just love it and it is quite gutsy for it’s size. Anyway, I enjoy your videos and feedback. Keep up the good work.

as a previews owner of NC 750x I agree. I recently sold it and now I own Suzuki V strom 650. to my opinion, this is exactly the motorcycle you are wishing for in this video..:)

Your analysis is spot on!

I whole heartedly agree that a Honda 650-700cc adv bike would be absolutely perfect. I would eagerly trade in my beloved 500x on one. While the 2019 500x is certainly a huge step in the right direction over the 2013-2018(I have a ‘16), I think it needs that small bump in displacement to really come alive. Love the videos! 🤘🏻

A year ago i bought a used 2017 africa twin and could not be happier, less electronics, a bit more expensive then (actualy paid 8500 euros with all the accesories on it previously bought by first owner) cb500x but more power less vibrations and no pretending to be fancy with all that electronics that will get you stranded

I think u are spot on. The need is not for Africa Twin , but a Honda CB650X.

Thanks for this video! I had looked at the AT when I bought my CB500X in mid 2017. The only reason I went with the X was fuel economy. I've done over 60k km since and I'm taller than you. On a long journey I will discreetly stand on the footpegs on the ride, to stretch my legs when nobody is around. I bought and briefly rode a 25yo Diversion XJ900 last year, but it was a dog on the road, in terms of handling, compared to the X. The Diversion however left a legacy, when I sold it a month later, that had now knocked my 'dream bike', the AT, out of any future consideration - the shaft drive. I've now been eyeballing the VFR 1200 X Crosstourer Highlander DCT. I've looked at the 1200GS, but am not happy about BMW having much shorter service intervals than the Hondas. That, however, will be a plan in two years' time. Right now, I'm planning a trip from Oxfordshire to Olhão for Christmas, on my Halfrican Twin, Covid and quarantine rules in France and Spain permitting. We've already been to Mönchengladbach for breakfast the one day, but I fear I'm the weak link for this longer trip.

If I should need a adventure bike, I'll go for a Honda Transalp- I've never owned anything but Hondas. But of those 2 I'll take the 500X, It's nimbler and looks like a lot of fun to drive. Also a big thanks for your always honest comments and opinion

I recently went on an ADV ride through Patagonia as a group. I was riding the CB500X and found it an excellent bike. Not exciting, but excellent in the way an appliance is excellent. It was a good choice. Nevertheless, it could not keep up with the other bigger bikes and I was always tail-end Charlie when riding it. I had to flog it mercilessly to keep up, and there were no multi-lane highways either. Your rule of needing enough power to avoid pinning the throttle open seems right to me.

CB650X. Yes!

Excellent review and comparison. And the mention of the GS was spot on. I think a 650 CB that puts out 72 HP and somehow keeps the weight at 430 would be a nice bike. (Opps, I just described the Vstrom...) One thing I've observed is that ALL AT owners love their bikes. Its the most loyal following of a bike I've ever seen. Not sure if they are just victims of the super-powered Honda marketing campaign or if the bikes are really that nice to ride.... Oh and I totally agree with the egregious electronic options. I guess the options are selling bikes, but I'd rather have a set and ride mode that responded autonimously to moister, temperature, barametric pressure, wheel slip, etc. I don't need 3 variations plus a custom setting for road surfaces...

Excellent review RocketMan, I thought the same as you with the always on indicators at first however after chewing it over for a few weeks and being in several accidents at night one nearly costing me my life I was trying to work out why the cars are pulling out in front of me and why they couldn't see my bright white motorcycle headlight, and each time I had cars behind me. A few weeks later I was walking in rush hour in the dark and waiting to cross a multi lane road with one lane of stationary cars and other lane clear, as I looked down the road of queuing cars it was a sea of white headlights and if a motorbike was in the clear lane doing 30 mph it would of blended right in and been invisible. This is where the always on amber indicators score as you would see the amber lights moving against the back drop of car white headlights. Your point about someone thinking the bike is indicating, that someone is only going to think that if they can only see one of the amber lights and not both but even then most UK drivers have registered you are there and will usually use a little bit of care. In my accidents there was no care as they never saw me and I believe if my indicators where both lit it would of been unlikely "sorry mate I didn't see you" accidents would of happened, my body hitting a car at 40 mph is not fun. So I support Honda with their always glowing indicators, but I also accept it isn't a perfect solution.

As soon as Honda Canada figures Canadians are allowed I am purchasing a 2020 AT AS ES DCT as an upgrade from my '17 CB500X. I want something more touring worthy and more off road worthy. I love my CB500X and if I just used it for commuting it would be all I need. My multiple 5 day trips per year (and even longer ones in the future) has me wanting for a larger bike. Here a BMW R1250GS starts at $5000 more than the top AT AS and then you start adding all the accessories. The last quote I had for a 2019 R1250 GSA was $34000 plus tax with luggage and nav. 2020 AT AS ES DCT will be $25,000 plus tax after accessories. Honda parts and maintenance is way cheaper than a BMW. For me it's a no brainer if you want more than a CB500X. The announced 2021 AT 850 would probably be good too but I am not waiting another year.

Nice video, I stumbled upon it ! I have a 2021 CB500x. I really wanted the Africa Twin but could not justify the extra $10,000 USD higher price tag when the CB500x suited all of my needs . You are correct on the vibrations on the handlebars at higher speeds on the CB500x but overall it’s a great bike for the price .

First time I encounter you in RU-vid. Wasn’t expecting to see my home town 😂

Last comment from me on this: if you don't love the seat, there's at least 3 custom seat makers in business supplying after-market seats. Some of them are positively Goldwing-like. I did so love the unfussy, squishy seat on my old CB500 though. As did my wife, when she rode pillion. I think the stock pillion seat on the AT probably does need some upgrading.

The vibration on the cb500x. can be dealt with by changing out the front or rear sprocket. You lose a bit of low end, but it doesn’t matter that much, unless you are doing a lot of offroad. You would have to calibrate the speedometer, though.

Thank you so much for your review. That's what I needed!

As far as the screen complexity goes, you know you can select between "bronze", "silver" and "gold" screens, right? The bronze layout gives you just the basics, the gold, which you're on there, show you *everything* and can be a bit much. The beauty of the AT operating system is its configurability. Anything you're likely to need a lot, assign it to the star (favourite) key, so it's there at your thumb when you need it.

Yours is one of,if not the most outstanding reviews of these, or any other bikes I’ve ever seen.For true adventure riders,I feel the 500x has the advantage in being light weight, unlike the AT of GS.I look forward to throwing my 500x in the back of my truck and seeking out some trails.Thank you for comparing and contrasting these two very nice machines!👍

I’m down sizing from an R1200 GS Adv TU, great bike, top of the range, but I am no longer touring Europe and at 65+ she gets heavy on local runs. CB500X great grin factor, will take me to Norway, if I wish, can pick it up,if I slide off and fuel economy is astounding.

This is great comparison and great review. I'm loving the 500X and like the light weight - l never been one for heavy bikes. Many thanks.

YEP you are so right. I test rode both bikes today as I am looking for a commuter bike. I thought the CB500X would fit that need but to me it revved to high and the footrests where to far back for my liking and to high as well. I think if they did a CB650X set up more like the Africa Twin footrest placement it would be spot on and I would buy it for my commuter bike. I liked the Africa Twin but I do not need that big of a motorcycle for a commuter heck I have a Goldwing and a Super Cub that I use now for commuting. The Cub I have to take the streets and it takes about 15 more minutes to ride to work as on the Wing I can hope on the freeway and get to work a bit faster.

Great review. Exactly, I'm hoping the new trans alp 750 is the trick.

You’re absolutely right, Honda needs a lighter Adv bike like a CB650X, under 400lbs wet and it’s possible to have that little bit more HP in the 70’s with a lower CG at a lower price. Thanks for the comparison.

2017 Africa Twin owner whose riden a CB500X. The CB500X is too small for tall riders, under powered for freeways, has budget suspension, not deigned for off-road and has limited carrying capacity. The Africa twin solves all those CB500X shortcomings. I agree with you that the new 2020 Africa twins are pricey and that complicated unreadable dash is ridiculous. I’m definitely keeping my 2017 Africa twin with its RDL aftermarket comfortable seat.

Your conclusion was spot on! I totally agree.

Cb500X all the way. With the rally raid kit available, you can pick and choose the extra options that you would use. You would come out with a better bike and a lower cost

Interesting comment at the end about wanting a cb650x. You'll soon have your cb750x :)

what i want to suggest for update on cb500x is,kindly put a 2 disc caliper on the front brakes,and change the front fork shock to inverted fork to make it more agressive looking adventure touring bikes.

The reason that the turn signals are running always are per DOT requirements in North America.

Call me old fashioned but give me manual dials any day of the week. That aside, I also agree that the Africa Twin is more on the market for its off-road credentials. The BMW GS on the other hand is more at home on tarmac with above average pot hole population, I feel. Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman only went around the world on GS's because 1. KTM wouldn't give them bikes 2. They had a support crew in separate vehicles and replacement bikes when not repairable. Good video, enjoyable to watch.

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU COMPARISON VIDEOS , IT REALLY HELPS US WHEN LOOKING FOR OWN UNICORN MOTORCYCLE......CHEERS

I'll say this for comfort on a bike: the seat height is - imo - one of the biggest determining factors in terms of being comfortable with the riding position. I'm 5'11" and I took out a BMW F850 GS (standard model) with the standard seat height and really hated it - it felt like I was perched on-top the bike. Even when I got going, I didn't like that feeling of being sat on top of it. I took it back to the dealer, who kindly fitted the lowered seat option and took it out again. As soon as I sat on it, I could feel the difference - and WHAT a difference. I felt like I was sat in the bike, as opposed to perched precariously on top of it. I could get my feet flat and it felt so much more agile to ride. Moral of the story: don't make a final decision on any bike, until you've ridden it with the proper seat height for you. Also, don't be embarrassed about asking for the lower seat option for a test ride - I'm an inch under 6 foot (which ok isn't tall but it's not short, either) and I felt 100x more comfortable on the lower seat option.