Ive ridden my CB500X from Alaska to Mexico and back. 40,000 Km. So the question is a bit redundant, of course it is. Not only that...it's good value, reliable, and dependable in adverse conditions. We have ridden in snow and 121 degrees fahrenheit , mountains and deserts all over north America. Pound for pound...the best value available, nimble, sporty and powerful enough for most applications.
Hi Janice, wow, that’s some travelling and in all conditions…huge respect 👍🏻 I guess the question and answer is more for a less experienced rider or somebody just coming to biking and want to travel, but the brilliant thing is very experienced riders like yourself can contribute and expand on the question and for that reason it’s definitely not a redundant question as your contribution demonstrates….are you currently travelling or any plans if not so, be good to hear. Can I ask what tyres did you use for that trip and how did they perform? Thanks and keep safe, Andrew
I've done just over 45,000 miles on a 2021 Honda SH125i, as I do Uber, Delveroo and JE. Often over 100 miles in a shift, that is often 4 hours. So I think anything can be used to do long distance riding, a 125 is comfortable at 55 mph, mine will touch 70 provided it's not an incline or a head wind. I also did 35,000 miles on a primavera (2014) and find the Honda 16 inch wheels better than the 11 inch wheels on the vespa.
I am a female Aussie who purchased a brand new CB500X 12mths ago when I started riding. My husband and I have just completed an adventure where we travelled almost 8000kms round trip in 2 1/2 weeks to watch the Finke Desert Race. We rode both off road and black top with the bike loaded with 25kg of gear. Other than crash bars and Motoz tyres, the bike is stock. It performed faultlessly even after crashing in the bulldust four times. I will be upgrading the suspension to cope with the weights and conditions for future rides.
Hi Daisy, some great use being put on these bikes and sounds a brilliant trip! I think the 500x is one of those best kept secrets with those that know…know 😆 Although bike is capable I have found the RR suspension has transformed the bike, keep safe and good riding, regards Andrew
Great to read you made the right choice of Motoz tyres. I will buy too if available in Thailand before the big trip to Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Were they the Tractionator GPS?(unfortunately not available in size 17inches for my front wheel(model 2018 500X)
Thanks for this and all your other videos. I'm in a similar position / attitude to yourself. Just treated myself to a red 2021 CB500X as a self pressie for my 60th birthday. Haven't touched a motorbike in 35 years but just hopped on and rode it away. Have made similar additions to yours except the suspension. Agree with your comments and personally am super happy with my choice.
Sounds like you’re a very happy returnee, and your comments on just getting on and riding off sum the bike up…easy to get on with! Great birthday pressie, wish all mine were the same 😂 Enjoy the bike and look forward to hearing from you again, regards Andrew
56th birthday later this month, mod1 and mod2 tests next month*. Then, assuming they both go to plan, straight down to my Honda dealer to put my order in. I might name mine Mary Poppins - practically perfect in every way 👍 *Eventually! After much covid lockdown delays. I only got these tests following a cancellation. I’d better not balls them up!
@@dennisbuckley you’ll be fine mate, just plug away because biking at our ageis a wonderful thing 😊 Can’t go wrong in buying the Honda, it will do everything! Keeps us informed of how you get on and best of luck 👍🏻
Great bike! I have one myself. It is not too big and not too small, not too fast and not too slow, not too powerful and not too weak. I have it for 16 months and have almost 18k km (11k mile) and also did the Saddle-sore 1000 (1600 km in less then 24 hours). Absolutely capable of long distance, road and light off-road travel.
I’ve subsequently done many miles on it and they are an awesome little machine.. just changed to the NX500 about 6 weeks ago and it’s also proving to be a brilliant evolvement of the 500X
This is one of the best motorcycle reviews I've seen on RU-vid. Very honest and I like how you talk about how the bike and upgrades work for you. May not work for others but you explain how and why you are satisfied.
I have the 2019 cb500x and have fitted the Mitas e 07+ tyres after your review, they are a super tyre both on the track and road. I have left the suspension standard and have no issues as the tracks I use generally are light. Great motorcycle, great looking, very versatile and exceptional value.
Hi Andrew, good to hear another view on the tyres, it’ll be interesting to see what mileage we get out of them! You’re right about the suspension and if I wasn’t doing the rougher trails or going travelling (eventually) I’d have stayed with standard suspension 👍🏻
This has to be one of the most thoroughly explained, detailed, and thoughtful reviews I’ve seen. And I’ve seen many good ones. You’re right that your opinion is based on your own needs and preferences, but you explain so well WHY, that it’s easy to glean what I want to know and apply it to my own needs and preferences. Absolutely excellent review.
Thank you so much Santos, very kind words and appreciated…I think you have the right attitude and it’s worth taking time to decide what you need for your preferences and riding, it’s so much fun being a motorcyclist, indeed a way of life! Keep safe and all the best wishes, Andrew
Love my CB500X!! Have 36,000 km on it, and it performs flawlessly. I’m 1.7m tall, 59kg lady, and this bike is absolutely perfect in height, weight and balance. No mods necessary, it does everything I need it to, from running errands to long road trips.
I picked up my 2022 C500X from a dealer just north of St. Louis and rode it home 2000 miles to Kalispell, Montana via Green Bay, Wisconsin in late April. It was very comfortable, averaging 70 mpg, and didn't miss a beat. Great bike.
Yes, nice words. I have my own one 500X. All is simple, reliable and power? I think it has exact enough power what I need. Back roads...absolutely comfortable. My often speed is under 60 mph and 75 mph is enough for main roads (highway - this is not for us, maybe for some not patient racers). I bought this piece and every day it makes me happy. Smile under the helmet :-)
Thank you so much for an amazing very detailed and informed review. I have been looking to buy one of these for some time and watched most of the mainstream reviews, most of which are repetitive, but yours is unique, detailed, informed and completely rationale and pragmatic and your opinion is impossible to argue against . Out of all the reviewers - many famous ones - I value yours much more on this one . Brilliant thank you so much - and loved the format - just a discussion- fantastic review covering absolutely everything Thank you Rob
Thank you Rob, you’re so kind with your comments and it’s really appreciated. I’m pleased you found it helpful and wish you all the best regards, Andrew
Bought a 2017 with 350 miles on the clock, three years ago. 66,000 miles later, including an 11,000 trip across the US (trans America Trail), I'm still as happy with the CB as I was the day I bought it. The only part I've had to replace (apart from the usual, chain, sprockets, brake pads etc) is the bearing in the rear wheel hub. Rally-Raid suspension is definitely worth the money, imo. Makes a big difference.
Hi Tim, so good to hear of the mileage gettin B done on these bikes, how many miles did you do before chain/sprocket change and what did you put on…hope I live long enough to do the mileage you’ve done 😂 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 I'm getting about 10k miles per set. Sometimes more, sometimes less. Depends on the conditions, location, and how quickly i'm able to find replacements.
Im training up for the TAT myself. Im debating between 500x and crf300l. My concern is the more technical parts on the western half. Ive only been riding offroad for a couple years. Would you have any recommendation on bike choice? Or other experiences you'd want to share? Did you do a lot of camping or use hotels?
@@willyjimmy8881 Hi. As far as choosing between the CRF and the X, it depends really on how many road miles you'll be doing. For me, i needed a bike that could deal with hundreds of miles and days on tarmac, as i had to ride from Montreal to TN, via NC, just to get to the TAT. And later to ride from Moab to L.A, for instance. Sure the CRF would do that, but comfortably, not so much. Light weight is great ON, the trail, but less so on long tarmac stretches. The Western states are definitely more 'technical' than back east, but still not 'extreme'. My X did just fine, and the newer ones, with the 19" front wheel (mine was 17") can handle off tarmac even better. I camped, most of the time, either by the side of the trail, or in campgrounds, with a hotel every few days, for a good nights sleep, shower, etc. I did a write up, if you're interested: ukjeeper.home.blog/
Good honest review. I am in my late sixties and downsized from a GS1200 for the same reason as you. I have no regrets. I live in N. Ireland and recently did the NW500 with a few extra miles. I camped each night, covering roughly 150-200 miles each day. The bike was faultless.
The videos you produce are really inspiring. I know you are getting ready for your big trip but most of us will never do the world tour and your build up to the big trip video are letting us to get to know you. Personally I’m 6ft 2” and the bond CB500X isn’t a bike I’ll probably fit but your style of riding and location really appeals. Keep up the the videos and keep drinking the beers in the remote locations, it’s what it’s all about 👍🍻
Thanks Gary, appreciate your comments 👍🏻 yes, the bike seems perfect for me at 5’9” and I’ll keep having a beer in remote locations…but only the odd one 😆 👍🏻
Test rode a CB500X and then an NC750X-DCT straight afterwards. Loved the CB but for me the extra power coupled with the DCT of the NC won me over. Like the CB I found the NC seat terrible so replaced the OE with an aftermarket seat. Same with the screen. The frunk is priceless as is the low-down centre of gravity which made slow speed handling a doddle. Fuel economy was regularly 99.9mpg on a run, and rarely (if ever) less than 70mpg. Bought it to commute on and it didn't disappoint. Alas I eventually moved job and my daily 110 mile round trip became a 14 mile round trip and as such I decided to treat myself to something a bit bigger. Still miss the NC and funnily enough as I type I am keeping my eyes open for another one as I am looking to tour in the summer of 2024, though not too sure where yet.
Excellent fuel economy on the Honda’s, that NC makes a brilliant tourer and obviously great for commuting…what bigger bike did you buy? Even though I’ll probably buy another bike at some point, I’ll still keep the 500x as it so much fun…did I say fun and Honda in the same sentence 😂 but yes it is fun
Thanks for your video. I agree with you. I remember watching Long Way Round and watching Ewan and Charlie struggle with their BMW bikes and the cameraman, Claudio, on his small red bike (because his BMW broke down) and how much easier it was for him to control off road. I'm going to keep my Africa Twin, use it more as a tour bike with a little off road, but I think I'll get the new NX500 and modify it. I've watched so many videos, like from Itchy Boots, and thought to myself "I don't think in that situation I could manage a big bike." I'm a street rider and whenever I get off road my goal is to get from point A to point B and stay upright. Once again, thanks.
I’d have a bigger bike if wife still travelled with me but also have a smaller bike to run alongside.. I definitely prefer the smaller package, particularly and as I age, and the NX is perfect for that use..I’m sure you would be more than happy if getting the NX and modify to suit your needs. Let me know if you do and how you get on with it….all the best, Andrew
Fantastic review. Just found you. Subscribed. Thank you 😊 Im a 58 year old retired cop in Sussex / Kent. Considering a solo RTW bike adventure in 2022 depending on the current flu nonsense. Just got rid of my Suzuki GSX1250 FA for a lighter Triumph Speed Triple 1050. The bikes I have in mind for my adventure are narrowed down to 700 Tenere and this Honda CB500X. Found this review very helpful indeed 👍
Thanks for the kind words, it’s appreciated 👍🏻 I’m 61 and still on the extended planning stage 😂 but hopefully we’ll see things change over coming year! I’m ex Cumbria although that now seems a lifetime ago 😃 I think both the T7 & 500X are perfectly good bikes as a shortlist and although I went down the 500 route I suspect if it had been the T7 I’d still have been happy…I had the XSR700 until this time last year and it was a great little bike, the engine was superb! Can’t go wrong either way 👍🏻
Thank you Mikel, so nice to hear you are riding again and the mighty little Honda….I hope you keep in touch with me and if I make it to your part of the world it would be a pleasure to have a coffee with you, regards Andrew
good video as I bought a 2016 black one the other day after much searching and deliberating, looking for the right bike FOR ME, at 70yrs old, to ride from Bangkok to Uk and back again..Good to see others comments here of long distance rides on the same bike..I feel at ease now that in general a got a bike that is compact, economical and reliable, and easy to handle....well done..ride on..
Been thinking of a 2022 CB500X for mostly on road and light off road. Considered the Tenere but I think that’s more bike that I would need. I also have a 150 dirt bike that I use for dedicated off-road use, so this would be a primary road machine. Basically I want something comfortable, enough power without getting into trouble and reliable and I’m starting to think this bike is the one. Thank you for the video! Great information.
Thanks for the feedback, I’d originally planned to buy the T7 but in the end it just wasn’t right for me and I think for what I do and what you’re planning to do the 500x is a great bike and good value at that…all the best, Andrew
Just picked up a '17 plate as an experienced rider my initial 2p worth. Seat is hard like a new pair of shoes my rear will hopefully adjust. Worried it was tall but at 1.80cm its spot on. At the 65 - 70 it feels a bit laboured but there a power band just after but you've got to give a bit of revs welly. Nowadays points from speeding has too large of a financial consequence. It feels like Honda have hit a sweet spot for modern road conditions and considerations with the CB500X
@@djedUVprojector that’s a great initial view on the 500X and can only add to it by saying that the seat does give a bit and to be honest I find mine to be comfy enough….or is it just my backside is aged and tough like old leather😂
Great video! I just bought a 21 model last week! Looking forward to traveling on it! Great video. The birds in the background and the scenery made this most pleasant to watch
Interesting to hear your comments on the Tenere. I traded in my Tenere for a 2022 CB500X for the reasons you stated...it was just too tall and top heavy and the tubed tyres were a pain when I had a puncture. I should have bought the Honda sooner - it's been the perfect machine for me. The improvements to the front end of the '22 bike - the extra disc and new forks - were the changes which finally made me go for it, having thought about it for several years! Now for a trip to Bute! (PS Jane's the wife)
Hi Jane’s partner 😆 yep, I forgot the tubed tyres and coincidently why I’ve also discounted the new Transalp!!! Mine is now almost 20,000 miles and never missed a beat, averages about 80mpg and just keeps going. I like the fact the updated model is an evolvement of a very good bike and the 500x has a bit of a following now. Enjoy the bike and shout out if you randomly bump into me on your travels, remarkably many do 👍🏻
I really appreciate your comments LT, it always helps me to keep motivated to do what I do and next year I will be doing more travel videos on the little Honda so hopefully you will enjoy more as time goes on! All the best wishes, Andrew
Hello, I own the same bike and I am particularly satisfied with it. I even gave it a name: as it is thin and black in color, I called it "The black foxie". Other than that, I share your analysis on this bike and use it pretty much the same as you do. I think the best bike is the one you feel good with and at the moment the CB500 X is the one that suits me the best. I just subscribed to your channel. If you have 5 minutes, you can go see mine (The black foxie). I'm just starting this channel on You Tube. Friendly greetings from France. Sorry for my english which is not very good.
Hi, sorry I missed this message but thanks for commenting…I’ve now had a look at your site and subbed. Hope you keep enjoying the bike and will have a look at videos later 👍🏻
A great review and viewpoint, despite liking your delivery, I couldn’t take the time to hear what I’ve already believed! I’m an owner of a 2020 model! You have done justice……..
Thanks for commenting…if not watching fully 😀 brilliant bikes and I think the best all round medium size adventure/touring/commuting bike which just keeps going without trouble or worries and so economical…excellent!
I have had a 500x for the last 3 years.rode round spain & portugal in may this year on a 10 day tour.never missed a beat & great fuel economy.did 2115 miles.great bike
Lorelie at "itchy boots" just completed from the southern tip of Sth America to Alaska and is now in Morocco at the beginning of another Africa tour, all on this bike. I think it's OK to travel on
@@thecampingbiker791 Sounds great ... I've two videos labeled PALAWAN MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE 1&2..., Check out how we test the CB500X in off road environment.
I have been riding bikes for 55trs, from scooters to CB1300X4.. I rode my new secondhand CB500X the 700kms home thru northern Thailand in 13hrs..well I got lost for an hour or so didnt I...no google maps for me..hell sore arse but right as rain next day...and I am 70yr..the bike purred along thru a couple of twisting mountain ranges near Chiangmai and Loei..never missed a beat. vERY HAPPY.... I have seven Honda' s from 200cc to X4, so must like them, plus a Thruxton 900 and a Harley. I have a TT250 Pro Link somewheres and this little 500x reminded me of those riding days...I see GS1200 fanging by and shake my head because the rider is missing out on the country he/ she is travelling thru..The 500x allows you time to enjoy where you are going..if you let it..thanks
That’s a lovely assessment of your riding and the bike’s capability, indeed any smaller bike get you closer to people..thank you for telling us and 70 is but a number 😆
I own both a 2020 CB500X and 2018 Suzuki VStrom XT 650 here in Australia. The CB500X is not a good long distance touring machine in my experience. It's underpowered, handling is twitchy and vibey above 120 km/hr. I use the CB500X for around town commuting only due to its excellent fuel consumption at 3.5 l/100km, and adequate performance, although it's not an all traffic beater. The VStrom 650 is in a different class. For long distance travel (and around town if you can live with its 4.5 l/100km fuel consumption) the VStrom is a much better machine as it's more powerful, comfortable, smoother, has better switch gear and brakes (my Honda has a single front disc) and stable and can tour effortlessly up to 140 km/hr fully loaded. Need more speed? Get a litre + touring bike, but I've never felt the need.
If Des Cartes rode ATv, I could see him being good pals with this dude. Love your contemplative style of over think - very helpful! The CBx is on my short list, thank you for the thoughts! 😎✌️
I have a 2015 cb500x I've had since new. I put the level 2 rally raid suspension upgrade on it as well and abs off switch from them. I also have put on crash bars skid plate heated grips handguards everything you can think and I just love this bike. Shall be riding it like you said, it's going to be staying with me for a long time that's it already has and it's been problem free. And suspension upgrade transformed this bike for off-roading for sure, I'm here in Canada British Columbia
Hi Dolly, great bikes and so reliable! Sounds like you’re well set up with yours and presumably plenty of trail rides there in British Columbia…We are fairly restricted in the UK but there are still ones to find! I had wanted to travel through Canada, Us and on into South America but covid, shipping costs have delayed that idea and I’m ‘not getting any younger’ as they say 😂 thanks for watching and ride safe..regards, Andrew
Couple of years later but anyway after 13 V Strom 4 years ago I pulled the trigger on Yamaha FJ09 and now on 2019 Tracer 900 GT. However been missing 29” front wheel and off road riding. Was thinking about Versys 300 but after riding it decided that I might want something with more hp. It seems like CB500X might be the right choice as a second bike. Tracer GT for touring and CB500X for local riding and off-road. Looking at 2022 and up. Thanks for your great review.
You truly can’t go wrong, this bike is at its best running about in country roads and with right tyres a bit of trail riding.. I’ve just changed but to the direct replacement of a NX500, which is really just a modified 500X… very happy with it and looking forward to many more miles on this mighty little Honda! Those Tracers are a superb touring bike and I have thought about getting an additional bike myself, just for the fun of it, and would buy the Tracer 700 GT as for my use the size and power would be more than sufficient. Anyhow enjoy your search and let me know if you do get one, all the best Andrew
I have RR level 2 suspension fitted to my cb500x and agree it is night and day from the standard suspension. For me the rear shock is the biggest improvement. The damping is amazing and makes the bike much more stable on and off road and I could never go back. The front change isn't as noticeable to me over the original, it's still too bouncy.
I think you’re assessment is spot on, I haven’t yet changed my rear from the middle setting as fitted! It just feels so right, other than the progressive springs on front I don’t think there’s much more to be done…happy days though 👍🏻
I changed the fork oil on mine to a heavier viscosity and it made a very noticeable improvement. I also felt the front end was "bouncy" with the factory oil.
I don’t own a CB500X (yet), but I understand every word you say about him. I like this/your video(‘s) a lot. (I’m Dutch and I drive a Honda XL1000V myself, with a lot of pleasure, btw. 😊)
Good to hear your thoughts Valentijn and thank you for your kind words! Any bike is a good bike in my view, but some bikes you do have a connection with and for me I just love this one…keep safe and thanks again 👍🏻
Excellent summary on what this bike is. It isn’t perfect but no other bike will be. For me the vibrations are the Cb500x culprit as it does get to you after a few hours. One will eventually learn the right combination of speed and revs to mitigate, but other bikes are better. It is a great all rounder though. Thanks for sharing your views. Hope you continue enjoying Scotland. Take care.
Thanks Manuel, appreciate your feedback. As said, everything is a compromise and that goes for the 500x, but as a workhorse it just keeps on going, and to be fair the vibrations only really come into play, or at least are more noticeable for me, on motorways. I do like visiting Scotland and the wild camping there! all the best regards, Andrew
@@PhilWare1 might just be amplified by engine bars and sump guard? I forget what it was like as standard now, although others have said at 6k revs it does get a bit viby, you must just be a much smoother rider 😆 👍🏻
@@thecampingbiker791 yes, it seems the crashbar which are bolted on the front engine/frame increase the vibrations. Here is a short story. My best friend during a big trip in Thailand went to an accessories dealer in Udon Thani and fitted complete crashbars . the next day he rode 170 km to visit a temple and before the shop was close he came back and asked to remove them because the vibrations spoiled his ride. He had spent 7000 thb for the full crasbars and left them to the shop without getting back his money.
Great video Andrew. I also have a 2019 which took me around Europe, Morocco and Turkey over 9,000 miles and it was more than capable.Great bike and a bargain as well. I did the whole trip on one set of Dunlop Trailmax Missions. They did the whole trip and have over 5,000 miles left in them.
it was a 10 week holiday. One week was spent with the family who flew out to Turkey. Also met up with friends for long weekends in Lubliana, Slovenia and Istanbul, Turkey.
I’ve been thinking a 6-12 week trip and funnily enough suggested my wife meet me for a couple of weeks holiday in the middle of trip, although it will need to be next year now!
Have four ideas, firstly but not in any particular order: Travel through the old Eastern Europe countries meandering via Balkans to Turkey, spending time in Turkey then return via Greek mainland, plus a bit of island hopping, over to Italy and then home via France. Another one would be Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Russia (Western St Petersburg side, if possible!) and back via Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. …and the one I’d like most, but unsure I’ll ever manage this, is to ship bike to USA/Canada & travel between the two maybe breaking a longer trip into two periods. Anyhow, hope age doesn’t screw me up first 😂
Hi Andrew, great review and now a subscriber following our chat at Rivvy Barn today! Great to meet you( you let me sit on your new NX when I said I’m considering buying one) Look forward to watching your other reviews. Cheers Sheldon
I like the way you talk about this bike - i got the main informations about this Honda and you explain slowy and calm the for you important things. Very sympathetic !
@@thecampingbiker791 i am an absolute beginner - on friday i will have my driving exam. After that, i will pick up my new Honda cb500x . Thank you for your good wishes! Keep your own style: individual a anders
@@thorstenwei2264 excellent and very exciting for you…It will be interesting to hear your thoughts when you’ve got a few hundred miles on, let me know how you get on Thorsten
One of, if not the most, overlooked adventure bikes out there. I rode my wife's when my own bike at the time (so called indestructible modified DR650 with only 28000ks on it) to the north of Australia. Over 8000 ks and it was a little ripper with some decent tyres on it. Handled everything I threw at it and I would not have swapped it back for my DR. I would have no hesitation doing long distance travel on it.
Sounds an awesome trip Mosa, I’ve had MITAS E07+ on mine and just done 9k on them!!! There’s an update review video at that mileage coming out in next couple of weeks. All the best, Andrew
Very honest opinion Andrew, I totally agree regarding motorway riding , it could do with a bit more ‘ umph ‘ I wonder if Honda will bring out a 650X , I would be very tempted . Regards and enjoy the camping . Niall
Hi Niall, thanks for that and yes, I also wonder at some stage if they do something, but then I guess the 47bhp format is a good seller, although they could replace the 750👍🏻
Nice to hear your thoughts about the bike and tell us that it's your "Landrover"! It's a lot of years ago I sold my last road bike but the last one was a used 1982 Suzuki GSX400F (42 bhp). That bike took me from south of Stockholm/Sweden up to Lofoten/Norway, Trollstigen, Oslo, Copenhagen, Hirtshals/Denmark etc. I had two soft panniers and a small bag on top with all camping gear. I am 194 cm (6'4") and it was Ok also during long days on the bike if I took a break every hour or two. The most important comfort thing for me is the distance between footpegs to seat aka angle on the knees. I tried but can't drive a sports bike for more than half an hour before my legs are sleeping due to compression inside of the knee.
cracking vid andrew i have a 2017 crf250l which is a great little bike have travelled 9.5 hours to cornwall on her a few times and she hasn't missed a beat but if i were to change it would definitely be the cb500x thanks so much for your review i found it very interesting and i love all your camping vids keep up the great stuff andrew. cheers russell
Thanks for your observations - yes I reckon honda have done a reasonable job with the cb500x considering the entry price - at 47bhp it's accessible to new and seasoned riders alike - you have alluded to the soft suspension however most so called budget bikes are similar - personally I quite like the idea of a 500cc parallel twin however I think that I would spend a few quid more and opt for the nc750x - going back to the cb500x yes it's a good all rounder capable of doing most things expected of that style of motorcycle - I appreciate the fact that you are in it for the long run and not for just a fleeting acquaintance - your personal upgrades are always interesting and of course fine quality - the fact that you have now covered ten thousand miles is a testament to the bikes all round ability - keep those videos coming my friend
Hi Thomas, actually the NC750x would make a very suitable touring bike with a bit more power and better for two up! Thanks for the feedback on my videos and I’ll endeavour to do so 👍🏻
No, the NC750X has a small 14 liter tank situated under the seat which is real problem when your bike is fully loaded with luggage. Many riders will tell you the NC 750X is the most annoying bike ever built. Absolutely no character! the NC750X is a great commuter with the advantage you can go shopping your daily food and store it in the big box between your legs.No need for a topbox for your pizza!
I’ve had it in mind to step down to the Honda CB500X from my BMW 1200gs, I’m approaching 72yo at warp factor 8 and the BM doesn’t seem to be getting any lighter, I love the bike and it’s only the few minutes when moving it around that changing it comes to mind. I rarely ride beyond the 70mph speed limit except to overtake and quickly return to legal limits, so the CB500X would no doubt suit me fine, I think a test ride might resolve my dilemma. Thanks for your personal views.
Yes, I’m 62 this year but with some health issues and a little loss of strength, however the 500x is now my largest bike (the other being an MZ) and I’ve had plenty of big BMs including GSA1200s but my last heavy bike was a K75RT which had become more difficult to push about so sold it a year ago! I don’t miss a big bike, although only ride solo and if two up touring would look at slightly more powerful one for the job. The more I ride this bike the more I respect it and the 80mpg average fuel consumption! It may be initially difficult to adjust to power on motorways but it can sit all day at 75mph with power to overtake and on back roads it is supremely good…hope you enjoy a test ride and safe riding 👍🏻
Great info video. And I agree. I have had vstrom 1000's and 650's, BMW GS etc and KTM's. All too tall or too heavy. So I went for the CB500X. I have 2014 one. Great fuel economy and I can touch both feet on the floor. Now only if it had a 650 engine.
Thanks Bill and good to have your thoughts on the subject….I wonder if the rumor of a new Transalp will come to pass…could be an excellent bike if they get it right!
You are right about motorcycles and people. Some feel they have to tell you what bike you need. I much prefer people tell me about the bike they have. Well done.
@@thecampingbiker791 most welcome. I like your channel. This past summer I tried out motorcycle camping and enjoyed it. Probably why RU-vid put your channel on my feed. The CB500X was on my shortlist when I bought the NC750X in 2019. I wasn’t sure how it would be on the long distance trips. You answered that question very well. Take care
Thanks for the video. I watched this a year ago. It helped convince me to get a '22 500X. I rode 6.500 km this past year in Europe and southern Norway. Is it capable of long-distance riding? Very much so. I heartily agree with your assessment.
Thanks you so much for the feedback Phil, it really makes it all worthwhile! Good to hear of your real world use and I’m still as happy with the bike as I was then.
Really interesting to hear your thoughts re this excellent little (relative) bike. In the past I've had 3 GS's, put over 50k on all of them but in all honesty now I'm looking for something more modest and smaller. I live in North Yorks and I especially want a bike I can carry out photographic trips of the landscapes, in a car you can never stop where you want so a bike seems to be the obvious answer to me. I think the CB500X seems to strike a superb compromise between cost, performance, adaptability, economy and versatility! Thanks for sharing your film, I have subscribed to your channel ! Looking forward to watching more of your films.Cheers.
Likewise I’ve had a few GS and RTs along with a Yam Super Tenere, all good bike at the time of owning, but age/health dictate the bike now and I’m comfortable with that. I live in Lancashire and get into the Dales all the time, my favourite place! In all honesty for what you describe wanting a bike for you just can’t go wrong with the 500x, it will do everything for you. Let me know how that all works out, always interested and many thanks for watching 👍🏻
Indeed so, but I guess it’s about what your comfortable traveling with and compromises you wish to make. You are so correct about rider capability and my health has taken a big dip over last couple of years and in truth I’m not certain I’ve now got that in me…time will tell though!
I' m another old bloke 57 newish to biking And bought one of these in June! Done around 800 miles and so far so good. Passed my test on a honda 650.R which is a lovely bike, but for my height 6' it felt to small I was getting cramp in my legs/ hips and I just wasn't suited to it Where as the CB500X fits me better. And therefore I tend to want to ride it more At the end of the day it's a personal thing I suppose!!
Hi Pete, it’s not a bad life this biking 😆 It’s a great little bike and you find lots of older bikers (61 in October 😬) gradually move away from bigger bikes to ones easier to manhandle, and this for me is about right! If you ever feel you need a bit more leg room SW Motech make adjustable footrests which allows them to lower slightly. Keep safe and look forward to hearing how you get on over time, all the best Andrew
@@thecampingbiker791 Good idea Andrew! the motech foot rests could be a good option! Always nice to have a bit more leg room! Especially with my dodgy knees!! Great videos btw👍
Great little review bigger isn't always better and clearly the CB500X is a very capable bike. Stumbled across your channel and subscribed really enjoy your reviews. Thanks Dan
Any bike will do long distance it's wether you want to do it mines totally impractical for Moto camping still bloody doing it though.theres a bloke on RU-vid who has a cb500x and goes camping with his Mrs on the back and camping gear no problems.
No problem Richard, like I say in the video ‘everything is a compromise’ but taken overall this bike is one good means of transport and a joy to ride 👍🏻
Love the location, justifies the bike for those experiences alone. I've owned a 2021 CB500X for 4 months (3400km) now and I think your assesment of the bike is spot on except for the seat comfort. I hope you are right and it will eventually mold to my butt. I've added better tires, a RR skid plate and Barkbusters. I haven't concidered a suspension upgrade as I have found the stock suspenion more than adequate for almost all the off roading I do and I would rather turn around than risk getting myself to a situation I can't get out of buy myself.
Wonderful place, Charles, The Isle of Bute, and I was at peace with the world! I think the seat will give after a few more thousand miles but to be honest you could just get a small gel pad to help 👍🏻 You’re right about stock suspension, perfectly fine for most occasions and if I wasn’t doing what I do then I’d stay with stock! Keep safe and keep in touch, regards Andrew
I bought the cb500x for the roads I won’t take my Goldwing. I think the 500 can do almost anything you want. It’s not going to be fun on the interstate but it will do 60-65mph on the state highways easily. It won’t be fun on a gnarly rocky trail but a dirt road would be fun.
Hello i want to buy the 2023 cb500x on green please can you tell me is it very confortable to ride for long hrs? Because i have the cb500f wich ive done the mayday run and by the end in the day i was tired
Hi, I personally find it to be very comfortable and an all day seat…. as comfier than most bikes I’ve had, far better than the BMW GSA 1200 I once owned! As said it’s a very personal thing and some may disagree but you won’t go wrong with the bike and seats can be modified or gel seat pads used 👍🏻
Hi, getting itchy here to get mine going, I have a 2021 same as yours. Totally agree with your opinion and I think it's a great bike as well. Have the SW Motech skid plate and crash bars, they are likely the best available very well made. Looking forward to any more videos you have this year, cheers!
Cool video. The 2022 CB500X just announced and I plan to pick one up as soon as available here in Thailand. You are right, I've had a lot of bikes and there is no do it all bike. Almost every bike will need some modifications. Suspension will transform the bikes ride and handling, do not think of this as unnecessary - IF you are large and/or carry a pillion, it's a must. Tires for the conditions, rack(s) if you do trips.... For the riding I plan to do, I think it will fit nicely with my needs.
Thanks Richard, nice to hear from you and from the home of the mighty little 500x. I’m happy where I’m at with mine and I guess as I reflect the biggest transformation was the suspension upgrade, even just on the road! I’ll probably upgrade the chain and sprockets next year and that’s about it. Hope you enjoy the new bike when you can eventually get hold, regards Andrew
@@Richard.Cabeza I’m 5’9” and it’s perfect riding position for me, nearly 13k of riding and I find it very comfortable! You can get SW Motech footrests that allow a lower setting for those taller but for me standard height, although with RR wider off road footrests, works well 👍🏻
Thanks for the review on your bike. It was informative and interesting . I'm just left wondering, what is your height and weight? Since so much of what you said was dependent on 'for me it is good ' answers.
Pleased it was useful and appreciate your comments…that’s a good point regarding weight and height and I’ll amend the information to include it for future viewers. I’m 5’9” and 85kg (about 187lbs) Thanks again and keep safe, regards Andrew
I'm here in Brisbane Australia and I'm waiting on my 2021 model ordered over a month ago. Waiting patiently but have been doing so much research so really appreciate yours. Lookin 4ward!!! Cheers mate!!! Gratitude ✊🏿✊🏿
Thanks for watching Sean, here’s a follow up after a recent 2,000 mile trip to Europe…. had some bad vibration on the bike on motorways, which coincidentally I’m working through today, but in short my thoughts in this video were on the nail…incredible little travel bike but not brilliant at long distance motorway riding… I fell out of love and then back in love with it 😂 Honda CB500X | Do I Still Love The Honda | Post Trip Bike Review ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-4kDgppiYSxM.html
for me its the best choise . Smaller bike and ligh weight bike. and never carry too much laugage with you . those are my rules i always have for long distance,country to continent or round the globe adventure. I really please to have the new version of CBX500X since it has new suspension .
@@toxendon oh yeh…try to ignore all that and just live my life doing things I enjoy as much as possible for as long as I can 😬 Burying my head in the sand helps my mental state 😆 👍🏻
Thank you John, appreciate the messages and I think the ‘22 is a great evolvement of the 500x, as was the ‘19 over its predecessor. Currently out camping in really cold and windy conditions, the bike just does everything I ask of it 👍🏻
The question should be Is the rider capable of Long Distance. Personally, it's the driver who gets tired and not the motorcycle. Even a small 250 cc adventure can do the job.
That’s a very good point John, and I touch on that in other videos with some health related issues…I’ve also got a 41 year old MZ 250 and have contemplated a journey on that! In all honesty my personal health is the main issue I should concentrate on 😆 👍🏻
Hi Andrew what a great location and weather : what a lovely place to wake up to. The saddle on the 2017 model, which I ride, can become a bit on a "nut cruncher" after a few hours as it's quite wide at the tank end.Latest saddles are a few cm thinner and can actually be swapped over for £250 but I'm looking at getting mine shapped by a guy in Newport Gwent.I suppose we have to accept motorways as a must to travel to some great locations; the addition of some spot LEDs has increased my confidence that I will be seen by drivers.I'm still happy with my upper and lower Hepco crash bars.I'm up to Kendal in Sept to have a look at exhaust alternatives. Keep up the great work and ride safe.Cheers Richard (Bristol)
Hi Richard, it was a bit magical to wake up to such a view and lovely island. Yes, I understand there’s a difference from 2019 onwards with the seats, as said it’s all very personal with them but I’ve just found it comfortable….I’ve had several other bikes which haven’t been so and also had seats adjusted or rebuilt for them! Hate motorways but needs must sometimes, have also thought about lights but at the moment going to live without. Glad your happy with H&B bars, me also, and funnily enough I’ve just fitted an exhaust, although not posted the review yet!! Mine was from Max Torque Cans which are located near me in place called Burscough (Lancashire) and came recommended by a couple of subscribers who also pop into a bikers cafe I work part time. I’m originally from Kendal area so do know Fuel Exhausts and they look a great product, I simply chose supplier near where I now live for ease 👍🏻 all the best Andrew
