When it came to updating the Honda CB500X for 2022, the firm didn’t need to do a lot. It was already the class-leading 47bhp A2 adventure bike and consistently one of the most popular motorcycles on this website.
- Latest: The Honda CB500X has now been replaced by the Honda NX500
However, rather than simply chucking us a few token gestures, the Japanese firm set about making the best that little bit better - adding a shiny set of golden Showa Separate Function Big Piston USD forks and swapping the old 310mm single front brake set-up for dual 296mm discs and two piston calipers.
Elsewhere, there’s a lighter swingarm that shaves just over a kilo and adds a claimed more lateral flex and torsional stiffness. The five-stage preload-adjustable rear shock has also been revised to match the new forks. But the good stuff doesn’t stop there.
The 19in front wheel has been lightened and a new radiator shaves an additional 100g without sacrificing performance. Tweaks to the fuel injection are also said to help boost bottom-end torque and the weight distribution has been tweaked for a little more ballast over the front end.
Although quite drastic changes on the face of it, the results of these revisions are subtle.
Despite the new FI settings, the burbling engine feels much the same as before - gentle enough for novices and happily revved all day long. And all whilst returning more than an indicated 85mpg during certain sections of our ride.
Through the bends , the new chassis elements work with the steel frame to provide a composed cornering package, with bags of feel in the wet or dry - despite its wide adventure bike bar position.
Riding it along Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500, it’s hard to imagine a better bike for the job - with the only real criticism stemming from the basic switchgear and LCD dash, which looks like a cheap afterthought when compared to the TFT unit on the KTM 390 Adventure. Having to pay extra for a centre stand feels a bit cheeky, too.
Watch: Honda CB500X video review
Join Dan Sutherland as he tests three of Honda's 47bhp A2 heroes - this CB500X, the CBR500R and the CB500F.
