Honda is reportedly working on a new CB500 motorcycle to rival Royal Enfield’s popular 650cc lineup. The development comes as Honda aims to capture a larger share of the middleweight motorcycle segment, which has seen significant growth in recent years.
The CB500 is expected to feature a modern, street-naked design, similar to the recently unveiled CB500 Hornet. The bike will likely come equipped with a 471 cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, producing around 47 horsepower and 43 Nm of torque. The engine will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox, offering smooth and responsive performance.
The CB500 will boast a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, dual-channel ABS, and LED lighting. The bike will also feature 17-inch alloy wheels, a 41mm Showa SFF-BP fork at the front, and a Prolink mono-shock at the rear. The overall design is aimed at providing a comfortable and engaging riding experience.
Honda plans to position the CB500 as a premium middleweight motorcycle, targeting riders who are looking for a classic and powerful motorcycle. The bike is expected to be priced competitively, with an estimated price range of INR 5 lakh to INR 5.2 lakh (ex-showroom). It will most likely compete with Royal Enfield’s Super Meteor 650.
Royal Enfield’s 650cc lineup, including the Super Meteor 650 and Interceptor 650, has gained popularity for its classic design, robust performance, and competitive pricing. The Super Meteor 650, for instance, features a 648cc parallel-twin engine producing 46.3 horsepower and 52.3 Nm of torque. It also comes with dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and a 15.7-liter fuel tank.
Honda’s CB500 aims to challenge Royal Enfield’s dominance in this segment by offering a modern design, advanced features, and competitive pricing. The development of the CB500 is seen as a strategic move by Honda to attract riders who are looking for a contemporary and feature-rich middleweight motorcycle.
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