Category Archives: Honda

2024 Honda CB125R

2024 Honda CB125R

Honda’s uniquely styled Neo Sports Café 125cc machine receives fresh styling touches and a new full 5in colour TFT meter – inherited from the CB1000R – which is controlled by all-new switchgear. Four new colours for 24YM further enhance the appeal and presence of the CB125R, the gateway to Neo Sports Café ownership. Top level standard specification includes single-cylinder DOHC 4V engine, high-quality 41mm Showa ‘Separate Function’ Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks, radial-mount four-piston front brake caliper operating with floating disc, plus IMU-controlled ABS.

1. Introduction
When embarking on a two-wheeled career, there are certain fundamentals that every rider looks for from their first motorcycle: an easy-to-ride chassis, with engaging real-world engine performance, and super-agile handling. Wrap those fundamentals, however, in distinctive, classy styling and add a host of premium specifications, and the result can be an extra special machine with which to begin a life on two wheels.

It was for new riders looking for this kind of package that Honda introduced the all-new CB125R in 2017. The smallest member of Honda’s minimalist, bare-boned ‘Neo Sports Café’ family, the CB125R was launched alongside the CB300R and the flagship CB1000R, and represented a bold new, premium addition to the ranks of Honda’s entry level machines.

In 21YM the CB125R received a brand-new, 4 valve engine and major front suspension upgrade, keeping it at the head of a competitive field, and at the top of many young riders’ wish list.

For 24YM, the CB125R is compliant with new EURO5+ emissions targets and the addition of an all-new 5in full colour TFT display, all-new switchgear and four new colours heighten the appeal even further.

2. Model Overview
The attention-grabbing style of the CB125R is a real standout feature among its peers and sets it apart from the homogeneous crowd.

Peppy and fun to rev, the EURO5+ DOHC 4V engine delivers a healthy 11.0kW power with 11.6Nm torque. And 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks bring big-bike suspension quality to a small bike. Braking is equally impressive: a 296mm floating front disc is worked by a radial-mount, four-piston caliper with ABS controlled by Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). For 24YM a new 5in full colour display and new switchgear add further appeal.

The 24YM CB125R will be available in the following colour options:

  • **NEW** Matt Cynos Gray Metallic with Black sump guard and shrouds
  • **NEW** Pearl Cool White with Matt Cynos Gray Metallic sump guard and shrouds
  • **NEW** Reef Sea Blue Metallic with Matt Cynos Gray Metallic sump guard and shrouds
  • **NEW** Pearl Splendor Red with Matt Cynos Gray Metallic sump guard and shrouds

3. Key Features

3.1 Engine

  • Single-cylinder, DOHC 4V, liquid-cooled
  • 11kW peak power, 11.6Nm peak torque
  • EURO5+ compliant 

The CB125R uses its very own EURO5+ compliant 125cc, DOHC 4V engine design which produces 11.0kW @ 10,000rpm and 11.6Nm @ 8,000rpm. Top speed is 105km/h, with 0-200m covered in 11.3s. The gearbox is six-speed.

The 24YM CB125R features a new, catalyser in the exhaust system, with no loss in performance.

Bore and stroke is set at 57.3 x 48.4mm, with compression ratio of 11.3:1. PGM-FI fuel injection feeds cleanly through the inlet duct, air cleaner connector tube and resonator. The exhaust is underslung and exits through a dual-chamber muffler.

The new EURO5+ emissions targets, which will become a legal requirement at the end of 2024, sees the introduction of new ‘on-board’ monitoring of the catalyst, the lowering of the threshold for identifying a fault and therefore warning the owner earlier, stricter noise restrictions and improving long-term exhaust emissions.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa’s Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
  • Radial-mount 4-piston caliper and hubless 296mm floating front disc
  • ABS works through Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)

Underpinning the CB125R’s minimalism is its tubular and pressed steel construction lattice-style frame. The swingarm is manufactured from steel plate, irregularly shaped in cross-section. Both are designed to achieve high longitudinal rigidity and control torsion from wheel deflection without excess rigidity or weight.

The chassis’ core strength is anchored by the pressed steel swingarm pivot plates and swingarm, allowing the frame to deliver agile handling with stability and feedback; rake and trail are set at 24.2°/90.2mm.

A 51.5% front/48.5% rear weight bias provides a positive feel for front-end grip and easy steering which is also helped by the low, 130kg wet weight and compact 1345mm wheelbase. Fat bar-style handlebars turn through 40° and the 2.3m turning circle guarantees easy passage in jammed city traffic. Seat height is 816mm.

41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks use a pressure separation damper in one fork tube and spring mechanism in the other deliver high damper performance and lighter weight. Together with the use of a larger sized piston the result is increased feel, bump absorption and control. The rear monoshock is non-adjustable.

The rest of the running gear comprises a 296mm hubless floating front disc, gripped by a radial-mount Nissin four-piston caliper, the rear 220mm disc a single-piston caliper. Both are modulated by 2-channel ABS. The high specification system works through an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) to give precise front to rear distribution of ABS operation depending on the vehicle behaviour. A 150/60R-17 radial rear tyre is matched to a 110/70R-17 radial front.

3.3 Styling & equipment

  • New 5in full colour TFT meter inherited from CB1000R
  • New left switchgear
  • Industrial minimal styling with four new colours and new ‘big logo’ graphics for a bold visual impact
  • Full LED lighting
  • 10.1L fuel tank gives 460km range

The CB125R’s styling is unique to the machine, following the unmistakeable ‘Neo Sports Café’ design language of the CB1000R – minimalist retro styling with a very modern twist – and injects a harder-edged attitude to Honda’s entry level range. For 24YM, this styling has been enhanced with the addition of an all new 5in full colour high-visibility TFT screen inherited from the CB1000R. The screen offers three types of speed/rpm display – analogue or bar, according to rider preference – as well as fuel gauge/consumption, gear selected and customisable shift-up point on the rev-counter. Management is via the new left switchgear, which is both stylish and intuitive.

The cutaway tail unit is compact in the extreme and holds the rear mudguard mount. Both rider and pillion footpeg hangers are aluminium.

Full LED lighting – including indicators – adds a further premium feel and contributes to mass centralisation. The headlight uses a dual bar light signature, upper for low beam and lower for high beam and the taillight remains thin and stylish.

The 10.1L fuel tank is hidden underneath an angular cover and shrouds and houses an aircraft-style filler cap. With fuel economy of 45.5km/l (WMTC mode), the CB125R can cover over 460km from full.

The 24YM CB125R features colour matched big CB125R logos on the radiator shrouds, and negative coloured Honda Wing logos on the tank. The only exception is the Matt Cynos Gray Metallic colour scheme, which is unique in the line-up, with gold CB125R and Honda Wing logo on shrouds and tank respectively.

4. Accessories

A full range of genuine Honda accessories are available for the CB125R and include:

  • 5 stage heated grips with memory function
  • 15L rear seat bag, expandable to 22L, complete with rain cover
  • 12V ACC socket

5.Technical Specifications

ENGINE  
Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 4-valve DOHC single cylinder
Engine Displacement (cm³) 124.9cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore and Stroke (mm) 57.3mm x 48.4mm
Compression Ratio 11.3:1
Max. Power Output 11.0kW @ 10,000rpm
Max. Torque 11.6Nm @ 8,000rpm
Oil Capacity 1.5L
Noise Level 80.2 Lwot / 77.1 Lurban
FUEL SYSTEM  
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 10.1L
Fuel Consumption 45.5km/L (WMTC Mode)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM  
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity YTZ6V 12V 5Ah MF
ACG Output 180W/5000rpm
DRIVETRAIN  
Clutch Type Wet, multiplate with coil springs
Transmission Type 6-speed
Final Drive O-ring sealed chain
FRAME  
Type Inner pivot diamond frame
CHASSIS  
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2,025mm x 820mm x 1,055mm
Wheelbase 1345mm
Caster Angle 24.2°
Trail 90.2mm
Seat Height 816mm
Ground Clearance 140mm
Kerb Weight 130kg
Turning radius 2.3m
SUSPENSION  
Type Front 41mm (SFF-BP) USD forks
Type Rear Non-adjustable single-damper
WHEELS  
Rim Size Front 17M/C x MT3.00
Rim Size Rear 17M/C x MT4.00
Tyres Front 110/70R17M/C 54H
Tyres Rear 150/60R17M/C 66H
BRAKES  
ABS System Type Front & rear independent ABS with IMU
Type front 296mm hubless floating disc. Radial-mount Nissin 4-piston caliper
Type rear 220mm single disc a single-piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS  
Instruments 5in TFT colour meter
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

For more Honda Motorcycles UK news check out our dedicated page Honda Motorcycles UK News

or head to the official Honda Motorcycles UK website honda.co.uk/motorcycles.html

The CB125R receives four new colours

The CB125R receives four new colours, a new full colour TFT meter and EURO5+ classification for 24YM.

Ever since its introduction, the CB125R has been a bike that has stood head and shoulders above its peers. Powered by its fun and peppy 125cc engine, the CB125R has been the gateway for many into Honda Neo Sports Café ownership, all of whom have benefitted from rich specifications and minimalist retro styling presented with a very modern twist.

Together with the additional premium touch of a new 5in full colour TFT meter inherited from the CB1000R, the CB125R gains four striking new colour schemes for 24YM that ensure it will continue to stand out from the crowd for years to come.

The new screen offers the rider a choice of three types of display for speed and rpm, and clearly shows information on fuel consumption and gear selection; it also features a customisable shift-up point on the rev-counter. The screen is paired with an all-new left switchgear, which is both stylish and intuitive.

The 24YM CB125R will be available in four new colours: Matt Cynos Gray, Pearl Cool White, Reef Sea Blue Metallic and Pearl Splendor Red with colour matching rear fairing. All feature colour-matched big CB125R logos on the radiator shrouds, and negative-coloured Honda Wing logos on the tank. The only exception is the Matt Cynos Gray Metallic colour scheme, which is unique in the line-up, with gold CB125R and Honda Wing logo on shrouds and tank respectively.

For 21YM, the CB125R gained 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks from its Neo Sports Café sibling, the CB650R, bringing real ‘big-bike’ suspension quality to a 125cc machine. It also received an all-new engine that delivers a healthy 11.0kW power with 11.6Nm torque, which for 24YM, is homologated for EURO5+.

The new EURO5+ emissions targets, which will become a legal requirement at the end of 2024, sees the introduction of new ‘on-board’ monitoring of the catalyst, the lowering of the threshold for identifying a fault and therefore warning the owner earlier, stricter noise restrictions and improving long-term exhaust emissions.

For more Honda Motorcycles UK news check out our dedicated page Honda Motorcycles UK News

or head to the official Honda Motorcycles UK website honda.co.uk/motorcycles.html

Honda CB750 Hornet

Honda CB750 HORNET – A Legend Reimagined The Honda HORNET, this legendary motorcycle, which has captured the hearts of riders for decades, with striking aesthetics, powerful engine performance, superior handling, cutting-edge technology, and a host of other features, the CB750 HORNET set the standards of excellence in the motorcycle industry.

Read feature in full via the app

A vibrant new colour for the Dax, and cosmetic updates and new colours for the CB125F

A vibrant new colour for the Dax, and cosmetic updates and new colours for the CB125F round out Honda’s 24 year model line-up.

After an absence of 41yrs, the Honda Dax returned to Europe for 23YM, joining the Monkey and the MSX125 Grom in Honda’s unique mini-bike line-up. For 24YM, it gains a funky new Pearl Glittering Blue colour, joining Pearl Nebula Red and Pearl Cadet Grey, which carry over from last year.

With its iconic pressed steel T-shaped frame, no other motorcycle, big or small, cuts the same shape as the Dax. The frame, which extends from under the seat to the chrome handlebars, is reminiscent of a Dachshund with its short legs and long body, which led to the naming of the original ST50 Dax in 1969.

The 24YM Dax keeps the unmistakeable, iconic look of the original, with the frame (which also houses the fuel tank) providing plenty of strength for two up riding. Suspension is taken care of by 31mm USD forks matched to twin rear shocks. Completing the classic look, these are paired to blacked-out 12in mini-bike wheels with fat, balloon-like tyres which allow effortless around-town agility. Lighting is full LED and the Dax features a stylish negative LCD display, chrome handlebars and pillion grab rail.

The venerable Dax picked up a new accolade in 2023, with Portuguese artist Tamara Alves’s ‘Furiosa’ version winning Honda’s 4th annual customisation competition based around the Wheels & Waves festival in Biarritz (www.hondacustoms.com).

The perennially popular CB125F, has always been regarded as a tough, user-friendly entry-level motorcycle that offer the perfect first step into motorcycling. 21YM saw the CB125F receive a substantial makeover with a new engine, frame and new look including a LED headlight. Last year the CB125F was Europe’s second most popular 125cc motorcycle, with over 7,000 units sold.

For 24YM, the CB125F receives cosmetic updates including a new shorter muffler, longer chrome heat shield, a stronger aluminium pillion grab handle and two new contemporary colours – Imperial Red Metallic and Matt Marvel Blue Metallic – that join Black in the line-up. All three colours will also feature bright red detailing on the shock springs and spark plug cap for an added splash of colour.

The Dax will arrive in European dealers in December, to be followed in January 2024 by the CB125F.

2024 Honda CB1000 Hornet Summary

In the wake of the hard-hitting CB750 Hornet, a brand-new, big-bore Hornet spreads its wings, packing aggressively stripped back styling, stunning four-cylinder CBR Fireblade performance, high specification chassis and premium equipment.

The 23YM CB750 bought the evocative Hornet name back to Europe. And its combination of taut street fighter silhouette, exhilarating power and razor-sharp agility has justifiably earnt much praise and impressive sales, making it 2023’s best-selling naked bike in Europe year to date through August.

Now, for 24YM, the Hornet family has expanded with the introduction of not one, but two exciting new members. With the CB500 Hornet taking its place alongside the CB750 Hornet, headlining the trio is the new CB1000 Hornet which turns the excitement dial up to maximum. Powered by the 17 year model CBR1000RR Fireblade’s formidable engine, and designed as a potent cocktail of strong in-line 4 engine performance and ultra-sharp handling, the CB1000 Hornet delivers maximum riding fun from busy city block to twisting back road.

Designed in Japan, its transformative looks are driven by two words: AGGRESSIVE and PURE. Led by the piercing gaze of super-compact dual LED projector headlights, the Hornet-signature fuel tank – with wings folded forward – is broad shouldered up front but tapers radically to the rear, mirrored by the minimal seat unit that underlines the traditional narrow-waisted Hornet look. The new frame is also used as a design feature, but subtly blacked out – like the tubular trellis-style rear subframe.

The CB1000 Hornet’s huge performance potential, high-quality specification, compact dimensions and refreshing new style make it a hard bike to ignore, especially for those riders with a mid-capacity naked bike looking for their next step up the ladder.

The 24YM CB1000 Hornet will be available in the following colour options:

Grand Prix Red

Mat Iridium Gray Metallic

Pearl Glare White

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • 999cc, inline four-cylinder DOHC 16V engine: over 110kW peak power and more than 100Nm torque
  • Downdraught intake, 4-2-1 exhaust system
  • Throttle By Wire (TBW), 3 default riding modes plus Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and assist/slipper clutch
  • All-new steel twin spar frame
  • Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks, adjustable for compression and rebound damping
  • Showa rear shock operating through Pro-Link
  • Radial-mount four-piston front brake calipers and 310mm floating discs
  • 180/55-17 rear tyre; 120/70 ZR17 front
  • Full colour 5-inch TFT screen with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity
  • All LED lighting, with dual LED projector headlights

2024 Honda CB500 Hornet

Honda’s A2 naked twin-cylinder streetfighter joins the Hornet family, with aggressive new styling and aerodynamic improvements befitting the iconic name. Power and torque for the 471cc engine meet maximum A2 licence requirement– at 35kW and 43Nm – while an ECU update improves acceleration feel and Honda Selectable Torque Control is now standard. The high-quality chassis specification includes 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks, Showa rear shock and dual discs up front with four-piston calipers. A brand-new LED headlight opens up better visibility at night, while a new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, operated by a simplified and backlit 4-way toggle switch.

  1. Introduction

The naked CB500F – originally launched in 2013 alongside the adventure-styled CB500X (now NX500) and fully-faired CBR500R – quietly proved that one of Honda’s tried-and-trusted formulas for building popular motorcycles had an enduring relevance.

That formula? An entertaining twin-cylinder engine wrapped in a simple, lightweight, sporty chassis. And, while a 35kW peak power output made it suitable for A2 licence holders, the CB500F always offered so much more than ‘entry level’ performance. Sure, it was an easy machine to manage, ride and learn on, but those same attributes also made it a genuine pleasure for those stepping up from a 125 or coming down from a bigger machine. Sensible running costs, whatever the situation, added strongly to the appeal.

In 2019, the CB500F was redrawn with uncompromising lines that elevated its technical and mechanical aspects and 22YM saw it receive high-quality suspension in the form of Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks and dual front discs, plus new lightweight wheels and swingarm.

For 24YM Honda’s formula for the 500 streetfighter continues to evolve. Joining an iconic Honda family, the new CB500 Hornet follows in the wheel tracks of the impressive CB750 Hornet with aggressive new styling, high-end technology and a variety of detail upgrades that are sure to make it one of Europe’s most popular motorcycles.

  1. Model Overview

A new name and new look give the CB500 Hornet a fresh edge as it rides into 24YM. Premium new tech too, in the form of a 5-inch TFT screen – operated by an intuitive and easy-to-use lefthand switchgear – features the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

The A2-compliant, slipper clutch-equipped twin-cylinder engine benefits from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as ECU updates to improve acceleration.

Chassis specification includes Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks as before, with dual radial-mount four-piston brake calipers.

The 24YM CB500 Hornet will be available in the following colour options:

Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic

Grand Prix Red

Pearl Himalayas White

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • New streetfighter style incorporates aerodynamics that improve steering and agility
  • New LED headlight and taillight
  • New 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
  • New, simplified left hand switchgear is easy to use and backlit for night-time

The CB500 Hornet’s aggressive new look is inspired by the streetfighter DNA of its big sibling and was led by the design banner ‘Digital Dynamism’. A sensual form front to rear, it also offers mass contrast, with a ‘wedge’ silhouette weighted forward with very slim rear section, muscular fuel tank and sharp new nose cone fairing.

And there’s function to the form; the geometric angles of the fairing also incorporate headlight side ducts that channel airflow smoothly around to the upper fuel tank area. This aerodynamic package contributes to a linear steering feel with increased handling agility. A new LED headlight design maintains beam penetration but throws out wider light distribution, for increased visibility when riding – and cornering – at night. It’s matched to a new sleek taillight, and all lighting is LED.

Premium technology, in the form of a brand new 5-inch full colour TFT screen inherited from the CB1000R, uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight, a first for a Honda motorcycle. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced and backlight transmittance improved. It’s customisable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns and also offers the IOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

This new feature – alongside a simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. All an owner has to do is download the Honda RoadSync app from either the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the CB500 Hornet, and go.

Tapered handlebars offer intuitive feel and leverage. Seat height is low at 785mm, making the CB500 Hornet very easy to manage and its neutral riding position comfortably accommodates riders of any height.

Purposeful-looking aluminium footpegs are lightweight and add a sporting feel. Overall dimensions are 2080mm x 800mm x 1060mm, with 145mm ground clearance. The fuel tank holds 17.1L including reserve and combined with the engine’s excellent 3.5L/100km (28.6km/litre) fuel economy, gives a range of over 485km.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
  • Dual 296mm discs, Nissin radial mount four-piston calipers
  • Lightweight wheels and swingarm

Light, strong and unchanged for 24YM, the 35mm diameter steel diamond-tube mainframe has a tuned degree of yield that gives plenty of feedback to the rider as road surfaces change. The shape and position of the engine mounts, plus the frame’s rigidity balance, keep vibration to a minimum.

Wheelbase is 1410mm with rake and trail of 25.5°/102mm, and front/rear bias percentage is a perfect 50/50. Kerb weight is 188kg.

Like its sibling the CB750 Hornet, the CB500 Hornet features Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks which divide the functions – Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other – and reaction and ride quality are top draw.

The swingarm is constructed from 2mm steel and employs a hollow cross member; it is stiff rotationally, and flexible laterally to improve handling. The single-tube Showa rear shock absorber, with its large-diameter piston, ensures excellent response and temperature management and features 5-stage preload adjustment.

Dual 296mm front discs are worked by Nissin radial-mount, four-piston calipers; the rear 240mm disc by a single-piston caliper. Lightweight rims use 5 Y-shaped spokes; the 3.5-inch front wears a 120/70-ZR17 tyre, and the 4.5-inch rear a 160/60-ZR17 tyre.

3.3 Engine

  • Lively twin-cylinder powerplant now equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • New PGM-FI settings improve low-rpm acceleration and power delivery across the rev-range
  • Assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts and manages rear wheel through downshifts

Delivering maximum A2-licence performance, the friendly 471cc, 8-valve liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder layout offers a well-proportioned balance of physical size and willing, enjoyable power output, with an energetic, high-revving character and zappy top end. And it’s very much an engine whose overall performance and character belie its relatively small capacity; peak power of 35kW arrives at 8,600rpm, with 43Nm torque delivered at 6,500rpm.

A 24YM addition is HSTC to manage rear wheel traction for increased peace of mind and a real boost for rider confidence. The system compares front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear slip and controls the fuel injection to smoothly reduce torque. HSTC can also be turned off completely if the rider wishes.

Feeding the PGM-FI fuel injection is a more-or-less straight shot of airflow through the airbox and throttle bodies. Optimisation of ignition timing and air/fuel ratio equals more powerful acceleration feel from low rpm, with linear power delivery and throttle feel. The exhaust muffler features dual exit pipes, giving a sporting edge to each pulse, and a rasping high-rpm howl.

Bore and stroke are set at 67mm x 66.8mm and compression ratio is 10.7:1; the crankshaft pins are phased at 180° and a primary couple-balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s centre of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couple-balance and its light weight allows the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four frame hangers. Internally the cylinder head uses roller rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear. Inlet valve diameter is 26.0mm with exhaust valve diameter of 21.5mm. Piston shape is carefully designed to reduce piston ‘noise’ at high rpm. Friction is reduced by striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area, introducing gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication).

The ‘triangle’ proportion of crankshaft, main shaft and countershaft is efficiently compact and the crankcases employ centrifugally cast thin-walled sleeves; their internal design reduces the ‘pumping’ losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. A deep sump reduces oil movement under hard cornering and braking; oil capacity is 3.2L.

A slick-changing six-speed gearbox is managed by an assist/slipper clutch, eliminating rear wheel ‘hop’ under hard braking and downshifting.

  1. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the CB500 Hornet, as individual items or grouped in packs, and ready to bolt straight on:

Style Pack
For enhanced sporty looks, the Style Pack includes a Meter Visor for the instrument display and added wind deflection, a protective Tank Pad prevents paint damage to the tank, a Seat Cowl for the passenger seat that matches the colour of the rear panels of the bike, and a Wheel Stripe kit for a flash of extra colour.

Comfort Pack
Commuting made easier with the Heated Grips for colder days, an ACC socket to conveniently charge electronic devices while stored under the seat and a Main Stand that makes for easy chain maintenance and safer parking on uneven surfaces.

Travel Pack
Includes the 3L Tank Bag with see-through pocket for smartphones and a rain cover and the 15L Rear Seat Bag, expandable to 22L, which provide flexible and convenient carrying capacity for the weekend trips.

Outside of the main packs, a 35L Top Box and the Rear Carrier required for its installation are also available. All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled 4 stroke, DOHC parallel twin
Displacement 471cc
No of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore & Stroke 67mm x 66.8mm
Compression Ratio 10.7: 1
Max. Power Output 35kW @ 8600rpm
Max. Torque 43Nm @ 6500rpm
Noise Level (dB) Lurban 73.5dB Lwot 76.8dB
Oil Capacity 3.2L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.1L (inc reserve)
CO2 Emissions (WMTC) 80 g/km
Fuel Consumption (WMTC) 3.5L/100km (28.6km/litre)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery Capacity 12V 7.4AH
ACG Output 23.4A/2000rpm
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet multiplate, Assisted slipper clutch
Transmission Type 6 speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L´W´H) 2,080mm x 800mm x 1,060mm
Wheelbase 1,410mm
Caster Angle 25.5°
Trail 102mm
Seat Height 785mm
Ground Clearance 145mm
Kerb Weight 188kg
Turning radius 2.7m
SUSPENSION
Type Front Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks,
Type Rear Prolink mono with 5 stage pre-load adjuster, Steel hollow cross swingarm
WHEELS
Type Front 5Y-Spoke Cast Aluminium
Type Rear 5Y-Spoke Cast Aluminium
Rim Size Front 17 x MT3.5
Rim Size Rear 17 x MT4.5
Tyres Front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Tyres Rear 160/60ZR17M/C (69W)
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2-channel
Type Front Dual 296mm x 4mm disc with Nissin radial-mount four piston calipers
Type Rear Single 240mm x 5mm disc with single piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments 5in TFT Meter with customisable layout, including but not limited to Speedometer, Tachometer, Clock, Gear position, Shift UP Indicator
Headlight LED
Taillight LED
Connectivity Yes (Honda RoadSync)
USB No
12V Socket Optional
Auto Winker Cancel No
Quickshifter No
Security System HISS (Honda Intelligent Security System)
Cruise Control No
Additional Features ESS

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CB650R

For 24YM Honda’s naked four-cylinder jewel evolves its Neo Sports Café style with a sharp styling update from nose to tail. A brand-new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync connectivity, operated by simplified new 4-way toggle switch. Engine performance is unchanged at 70kW power and 63Nm torque, with an A2 option. The CB650R – alongside the CBR650R super sports bike – will be the first Honda to be offered with the option of Honda E-Clutch technology, which gives the rider choice of automatic clutch operation by simply using the shift pedal. Chassis specification includes Showa SFF-BP USD forks, dual four-piston radial mount front calipers and 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 tyre combination. Two brand-new paint options and two new colour combinations strike a contemporary chord.

  1. Introduction

Honda has always thrived on exploring new boundaries – in design as well as engineering. In 18YM, the CB1000R, CB300R and CB125R brought a fresh identity to its naked motorcycle line-up, mixing café racer inspirations with a forward-looking ultra-minimalist look under the ‘Neo Sports Café’ design theme.

In 19YM the CB650R joined the family and its combination of cool styling, exhilarating four-cylinder engine performance and light, versatile handling ensured immediate sales success. Building on the momentum, for 21YM it received a major front suspension upgrade, plus a range of detail improvements to enhance comfort, usability and practicality.

24YM is an important year for the CB650R and while updated style and functionality will get attention, this bike – alongside its naked sibling, the CBR650R – will go down in history as the first Honda to be available with Honda E-Clutch technology, which is designed to make motorcycling, from beginner right through to expert, even more enjoyable – and even more exciting.

Valerio Aiello, of Honda’s Rome R&D Department on the Neo Sports Café design aesthetic:

“The entire current Neo Sport Café range from Honda is the result of the CB4 Concept model presented at EICMA in 2015. Our desire was to explore the world of the café racer and reinterpret it in a modern key. We wanted to create neo-classics – that is, modern motorcycles showcasing classic design styles combined with modern techniques. 

I used inspiration from outside the world of motorcycles, in watches. I’ve always liked their technicality and one of the key concepts used during the Neo Sports Café design was ‘Mechanical Art’. This is the desire to show the beauty of the various mechanical elements to which Honda has always given great importance.”

  1. Model Overview

There’s a fresh look to the CB650R’s retro minimalism. A new headlight, radiator shrouds, rider/pillion seat, tail unit and taillight inject a more dynamic energy, while the fuel tank remains a strong presence above the beautiful inline four-cylinder engine.

A new 5-inch full colour TFT screen is designed for readability on bright days and features Honda RoadSync connectivity. Managed by a new, easy-to-use 4-way lefthand backlit toggle switch the rider can now enjoy on-screen, turn-by-turn navigation in addition to other smartphone features.

Performance is unchanged: 70kw peak power with 63Nm are fun figures for a naked bike,  and the classic in-line 4 cylinder ‘pick-up’ and high-revving top end power are longstanding Honda calling cards. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.

Available as an option on the CB650R, the new Honda E-Clutch takes away the need for the rider to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox.

The chassis is as before and a perfect package from city block to twisting back road. A steel diamond frame provides core rigidity while 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD front forks and Showa rear shock deliver high-quality suspension control. Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs and cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.

The 24YM CB650R will be available in the following colour options:

**NEW** Matt Laurel Green Metallic with Matt Vulcan Silver Metallic details

**NEW** Pearl Smokey Gray, with Matt Crypton Silver Metallic details

Candy Chromosphere Red with NEW Matt Crypton Silver Metallic details

Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic with NEW Matt Crypton Silver Metallic details

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Neo Sports Café styling evolves dynamically
  • New 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
  • New, simplified left hand switchgear easy to use and backlit for night-time
  • All lighting LED; new slanted headlight matched by new taillight design

Tightly wrapped, the CB650R’s Neo Sports Café style evolution features the signature compact ‘Trapezoid’ proportion of a new, sharper tail and short-overhang and new slanted LED headlight All other lighting is LED, and a new taillight tucks seamlessly into the new fairing.

From the front, via the new radiator shrouds backwards, the overall look is sinuous, more dynamic and with keen sense of purpose. The long fuel tank remains a key motif of the family design; its smooth lines accentuate the solidity of real metal surfaces and crown the engineering of the four-cylinder powerplant. It also houses the ignition. A 35° handlebar angle makes tight, slow-speed turns and U-turns straightforward.

The shape of the pillion and rider seats have been revised to match the new tail; seat height remains 810mm. There’s a USB Type-C socket located under the seat.

Premium technology – in the form of a brand new, 5-inch full colour TFT screen – uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced, and visibility improved. The display itself is customisable between ‘Bar’, ‘Circle’ and ‘Simple’ display patterns and also, for the first time on the CB650R, offers the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

Honda RoadSync – alongside a new simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls, listen to music or receive voice feedback of weather conditions. All an owner has to do is download the free Honda RoadSync app from either the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the CB650R, and go.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks 
  • Four-piston, radial-mount front brake calipers and floating discs
  • 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres

The steel diamond frame uses pressed swingarm pivot plates and twin elliptical spars with a rigidity balance specifically tuned (stiffer around the headstock and more flexible in the spar sections) to deliver excellent all-round handling characteristics with high levels of rider feedback. Rake is set at 25.5° with trail of 100mm and wheelbase of 1,450mm. Kerb weight is 205kg (207kg E-Clutch).

Showa’s 41mm Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks offer high-quality reaction. A pressure separation damper in one fork tube and spring mechanism in the other deliver high damping performance and lighter weight. Together with the use of a larger sized piston, the result is increased feel, bump absorption and control. Adjustable for 10-stage spring preload, the single-tube monoshock operates directly on the curvaceous gravity die-cast aluminium swingarm.

Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs, and are paired with a single-piston rear caliper and 240mm disc. The ABS is a two-channel system.

Cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.

3.3 Engine

  • 70kW peak power with 63Nm peak torque
  • 35kW A2 licence option available
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)

The 649cc, DOHC 16-valve engine is unchanged for 24YM. It’s tuned to create the purest, most enjoyable mid-sized four-cylinder performance possible, with the classically fast ‘pick-up’ through the rev range and hard-hitting, high-revving top end for which Honda’s in-line fours are renowned. Peak power of 70kW arrives @ 12,000rpm with peak torque @ 63Nm delivered at 9,500 rpm. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.

Direct cam actuation makes for a compact cylinder head; bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 46mm with compression ratio raised of 11.6:1. Iridium spark plugs are employed and twin air ducts – either side of the fuel tank – feed the airbox and produce a throaty intake roar.

Asymmetric piston skirts minimise bore contact and reduce friction. Ferrous spines on the outer surface of the cylinder sleeves reduce oil consumption (and friction) with improved heat transfer and a silent SV cam chain reduces frictional losses by using a Vanadium coating on its pins. Internal water channelling from cylinder head to cylinders does away with most of the exterior hoses.

The engine uses a compact internal architecture, stacked six-speed gearbox and starter layout with the cylinders canted forward 30°. An assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts while managing rear-wheel lock up under hard braking and rapid downshifts. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages rear wheel traction; it can be turned off should the rider choose.

Fuel consumption of 20.4km/l (WMTC mode) gives a range of over 300km from the 15.4L

fuel tank. EURO5 compliant, environmental efficiency has been updated with revisions to the ECU and catalyser, as well as the addition of an OBD2-2 sensor.

  1. Honda E-Clutch – see separate post
  • World-first technology allows the rider to start, stop and change gear without using the clutch lever – just the shift pedal
  • Available as an option from new; system adds 2kg to kerb weight
  • Honda E-Clutch also allows normal operation of the clutch lever
  • Brings more enjoyment and flexibility across a wide range of scenarios, for a ‘next level’ riding experience

Honda E-Clutch takes elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually-operated clutches and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique blend of these well-proven approaches, opening up a whole new aspect of the motorcycling experience for riders of every type and experience level. The clutch and transmission hardware themselves are no different from a conventional motorcycle, with the ultra-compact system weighing only 2 kilograms.

In operation, Honda E-clutch is simplicity itself, taking away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, bringing extra enjoyment to sporty riding. The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the system manages both scenarios smoothly, while taking away the possibility of the engine stalling when in operation, providing extra convenience and peace of mind to town riding involving frequent starts and stops.

In addition to enjoyment and convenience, Honda E-Clutch brings ultimate flexibility. Should the rider wish, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the Honda E-clutch system will re-activate after less than a second above a certain engine rpm; after 5 seconds at lower engine speeds. Should the rider wish to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the switchgear on the left handlebar. The change to manual operation is indicated by a letter ‘M’ on the instrument panel.

The Honda E-Clutch also allows the rider to select an ‘operation feel’ to set the strength of the force required on the shift pedal to make a gear change. Three settings are available: HARD, MEDIUM, and SOFT, each of which can be chosen independently for upshifting and downshifting. The technology will also advise the rider to shift down – via a symbol on the instrument panel – if it detects the motorcycle is in a high gear at a certain speed.

The Honda E-Clutch manages clutch engagement and disengagement based on its reading of parameters including vehicle speed, throttle opening angle, engine rpm, pressure on the shift pedal, clutch motor reduction gear angle, engine countershaft speed and gear position. The clutch is operated through an actuator unit with two motors situated inside the right hand engine cover. As the clutch is engaged or disengaged, the engine’s ignition timing and fuel injection are also controlled, resulting in smooth, shock-free shifting in any situation.

Junya Ono, Large Project Leader, Honda E-Clutch: “Our Honda E-Clutch is designed to offer motorcyclists a new kind of experience that can make their riding even more fun and exciting. It also adds peace of mind and comfort to town riding or the daily commute. We hope that many riders will try our new system to enjoy the unique mix of sportiness and flexibility it offers.”

  1. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the CB650R, both available as individual items and grouped in packs, and are ready to bolt straight on:

Style Pack 

Designed to complement the looks and style of the CB650R by adding high-quality aluminium inserts, Front Fender Panels, Radiator Shroud Covers, Side Cover Panels and Tank Side Stickers for added grip and protection. A red adonised Oil Level Gauge featuring the Honda logo adds a touch of colour and contrast.

Sport Pack 

Pumps up dynamism with a Quickshifter (for non E-Clutch model), instrument Flyscreen for added wind protection, a Pillion Seat Cover featuring a dedicated aluminium plate, an Under Cowl that enhances the sporty appearance and finally, a Tank Pad that adds practical protection.

Comfort Pack 

Cold weather rideability is improved with the addition of 5 stage Heated Grips with a memory function, plus the flexible, easy-to-attach carrying capacity of a Tank Bag with a see-through pocket for smartphones and an expandable 17L Rear Seat Bag that can be increased to 22L.

The line-up is completed with Wheel Stripes available in different colours. All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC inline-4 cylinder
Engine Displacement (cm³) 649cc
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 67.0 x 46.0
Compression Ratio 11.6:1
Max. Power Output 70kW/12,000rpm
Max. Torque 63Nm/9,500rpm
Oil Capacity 2.7L
Noise Level (dB) Lwot – 78.8, Lurban – 74.2
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 15.4L
Fuel Consumption 20.4km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V/8.6AH
ACG Output 380W
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet, multiplate disc
Transmission Type 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2130 x 780 x 1075mm
Wheelbase 1450mm
Caster Angle 25.5°
Trail 100mm
Seat Height 810mm
Ground Clearance 150mm
Kerb Weight 205kg

207kg E-Clutch

Turning radius  2.8m
SUSPENSION
Type Front 41mm Showa Separate Function front Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
Type Rear Monoshock damper with 10 stage adjustable preload, 43.5mm stroke
WHEELS
Rim Size Front Hollow section 6-spoke cast aluminium
Rim Size Rear Hollow section 6-spoke cast aluminium
Tyres Front 120/70ZR17 M/C (58W)
Tyres Rear 180/55ZR17 M/C (73W)
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel; hydraulic dual disc 310mm front, hydraulic disc 240mm rear
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments Digital speedometer, digital bar graph tachometer, dual trip meter, digital bar graph fuel gauge, gear position and upshift indicator, digital clock
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

 

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

Honda breaks more new ground with innovative Honda E-Clutch technology

With the introduction of its new Honda E-Clutch technology as an option on the CBR650R and CB650R for 24 year model, Honda will open up a whole new aspect of the motorcycling experience for riders of every type and experience level.

Honda E-Clutch takes elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually-operated clutches and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique blend of these well-proven approaches. The ultra-compact system weighs only 2 kilograms and the clutch and transmission hardware themselves are no different from a conventional motorcycle, which aids the feasibility of future applications.

In operation, Honda E-clutch is simplicity itself, taking away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, bringing extra enjoyment to sporty riding. The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the system manages both scenarios smoothly, while taking away the possibility of the engine stalling when in operation, providing extra convenience and peace of mind to town riding involving frequent starts and stops.

In addition to enjoyment and convenience, Honda E-Clutch brings ultimate flexibility. Should the rider wish, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the Honda E-clutch system will re-activate after less than a second above a certain engine rpm; after 5 seconds at lower engine speeds. Should the rider wish to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the switchgear on the left handlebar. The change to manual operation is indicated by a letter ‘M’ on the instrument panel.

The Honda E-Clutch also allows the rider to select an ‘operation feel’ to set the strength of the force required on the shift pedal to make a gear change. Three settings are available: HARD, MEDIUM, and SOFT, each of which can be chosen independently for upshifting and downshifting. The technology will also advise the rider to shift down – via a symbol on the instrument panel – if it detects the motorcycle is in a high gear at a certain speed.

The Honda E-Clutch manages clutch engagement and disengagement based on its reading of  parameters including vehicle speed, throttle opening angle, engine rpm, pressure on the shift pedal, clutch motor reduction gear angle, engine countershaft speed and gear position. The clutch is operated through an actuator unit with two motors situated inside the right hand engine cover. As the clutch is engaged or disengaged, the engine’s ignition timing and fuel injection are also controlled, resulting in smooth, shock-free shifting in any situation.

The new Honda E-clutch system is set to offer riders across Europe a ‘next level’ riding experience, and is another symbol that Honda, 75 years since its foundation, is committed to building on its rich history of rider-focussed innovation.

Junya Ono, Large Project Leader, Honda E-Clutch: “Our Honda E-Clutch is designed to offer motorcyclists a new kind of experience that can make their riding even more fun and exciting. It also adds peace of mind and comfort to town riding or the daily commute. We hope that many riders will try our new system to enjoy the unique mix of sportiness and flexibility it offers.”

2024 Honda CBR650R

The CBR650R evolves its race-inspired style with an aggressive update from headlight to taillight. A brand-new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync connectivity, operated by simplified 4-way toggle switch – a new design made very easy to use. Engine performance is unchanged at 70kW power and 63Nm torque, with A2 option. The CBR650R alongside the naked CB650R – will be the first Honda to be offered with the option of Honda E-Clutch technology, which gives the rider choice of automatic clutch operation by simply using the shift pedal. Chassis specification includes Showa SFF-BP USD forks, dual four-piston radial mount front calipers and 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 tyre combination.

  1. Introduction

Honda’s fully faired CBR650F, launched in 2014 alongside the naked CB650F, provided a healthy slice of four-cylinder middleweight performance, very much at the sporty end of the ‘sports touring’ spectrum. Five years later, the CBR650F became the CBR650R, the upgrade from ‘F’ to ‘R’ indicating an even more potent shot of sporty ability designed to be explored, used and enjoyed on the street.

In the process of its transformation the CBR650R became, deliberately, a rare breed: a four-cylinder sports bike that provides similar pleasure, enjoyment and adrenaline to an RR machine, yet with enough practicality – and sensible running costs – to make it a viable option as day-to-day transport in addition to weekend fun.

It’s a direction that was well received. In 21YM, the CBR650R was the best-selling sports bike in Europe as it continued its development curve with user-driven detail improvements and a major upgrade for the front suspension.

24YM is an important year for the CBR650R and while updated style and functionality will get attention, this bike – alongside its naked sibling, the CB650R – will go down in history as the first Honda to be available with Honda E-Clutch technology, which is designed to make motorcycling, from beginner right through to expert, even more enjoyable – and even more exciting.

  1. Model Overview

For 24YM, there’s a fresh look to the CBR650R’s stylish lines and a new headlight, fairing, rider/pillion seat, tail unit and taillight inject sharper sporting energy.

A new 5-inch full colour TFT screen is optically bonded for readability on bright days and features Honda RoadSync connectivity. Managed by new, easy-to-use 4-way lefthand toggle switch (also backlit) the rider can now enjoy on-screen, turn-by-turn navigation and other smartphone features.

Performance from the four-cylinder engine is unchanged; 70kw peak power with 63Nm are fun figures to play with, and the classic in-line 4 cylinder ‘pick-up’ and high-revving top end power are longstanding Honda calling cards. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.

Available as an option on the CBR650R, the new Honda E-Clutch takes away the need for the rider to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox.

The chassis is as before and a perfect package around town or on a twisting back road. A steel diamond frame provides core rigidity while 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD front forks and Showa rear shock deliver high-quality suspension control. Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs and cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.

The 24YM CBR650R will be available in two colour options:

Grand Prix Red Tricolour

Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Sports styling evolves aggressively, shaped for speed
  • New 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
  • New, simplified left hand switchgear easy to use and backlit for night-time
  • All lighting LED, with new headlight and taillight

With its four-cylinder power unit clearly on display, the CBR650R’s new wrapping ramps up pure sporting appeal and is shaped purely for speed. Led by redesigned dual LED headlights – which emit a penetrating stare – redrawn upper and lower fairings blend muscularity with slim lines and angles.

An aggressive riding position starts with clip-on handlebars that mount beneath the top yoke, matched to rear set footpegs. The new seat unit, too is even more compact and neatly truncates the rear of the machine, adding to the hard-edged sense of purpose. Trim side panels accentuate the minimalism, as does the steel rear mudguard/number plate mount.

Pillion and rider seat shaping has been revised to match the seat unit; seat height remains 810mm. There’s a USB Type-C socket located under the seat.

Premium technology – in the form of a brand new, 5-inch full colour TFT screen – uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced and backlight transmittance improved. It’s customisable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns and also offers the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

Honda RoadSync – through the a new simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls, listen to music or receive voice feedback of weather conditions. All an owner has to do is download the free Honda RoadSync app from either the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the CBR650R, and go.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks 
  • Four-piston, radial-mount front brake calipers and floating discs
  • 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres

The steel diamond frame uses pressed swingarm pivot plates and twin elliptical spars with a rigidity balance specifically tuned (stiffer around the headstock and more flexible in the spar sections) to deliver excellent all-round handling characteristics with high levels of rider feedback. Rake is set at 25.5° with trail of 100mm and wheelbase of 1,450mm. Kerb weight is 209kg (E-Clutch 211kg).

Showa’s 41mm Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks offer high-quality reaction. A pressure separation damper in one fork tube and spring mechanism in the other deliver high damping performance and lighter weight. Together with the use of a larger sized piston the result is increased feel, bump absorption and control. Adjustable for 10-stage spring preload, the single-tube monoshock operates directly on the curvaceous gravity die-cast aluminium swingarm.

Four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work 310mm floating discs, and are paired with a single-piston rear caliper and 240mm disc. The ABS is a two-channel system.

Cast aluminium wheels mount 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tyres.

3.3 Engine

  • 70kW peak power with 63Nm peak torque
  • 35kW A2 licence option available
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)

The 649cc, DOHC 16-valve engine is unchanged for 24YM. It’s tuned to create the purest, most enjoyable mid-sized four-cylinder performance possible, with the classically fast ‘pick-up’ through the rev range and hard-hitting, high-revving top end for which Honda’s in-line’s fours are renowned. Peak power of 70kW arrives @ 12,000rpm with peak torque @ 63Nm delivered at 9,500 rpm. A 35kW option is available for A2 licence holders.

Direct cam actuation makes for a compact cylinder head; bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 46mm with compression ratio of 11.6:1. Iridium spark plugs are employed and twin air ducts – either side of the fuel tank – feed the airbox and produce a throaty intake roar.

Asymmetric piston skirts minimise bore contact and reduce friction. Ferrous spines on the outer surface of the cylinder sleeves reduce oil consumption (and friction) with improved heat transfer and a silent SV cam chain reduces frictional losses by using a Vanadium coating on its pins. Internal water channelling from cylinder head to cylinders does away with most of the exterior hoses.

The engine uses a compact internal architecture, stacked six-speed gearbox and starter layout with the cylinders canted forward 30°. An assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts while managing rear-wheel lock up under hard braking and rapid downshifts. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages rear wheel traction; it can be turned off should the rider choose.

Fuel consumption of 20.4km/l (WMTC mode) gives a range of over 300km from the 15.4L

fuel tank. EURO5 compliant, environmental efficiency has been updated with revisions to the ECU and catalyser, as well as the addition of an OBD2-2 sensor.

  1. Honda E-Clutch
  • World-first technology allows the rider to start, stop and change gear without using the clutch lever – just the shift pedal
  • Available as an option from new; system adds 2kg to kerb weight
  • Honda E-Clutch also allows normal operation of the clutch lever
  • Brings more enjoyment and flexibility across a wide range of scenarios, for a ‘next level’ riding experience

The Honda E-Clutch opens up a whole new aspect of the riding experience for every type of rider from raw beginner to seasoned expert. It takes elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually-operated clutches and its unique Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique blend of these well-proven approaches.

In operation, Honda E-clutch is simplicity itself, taking away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, exactly as if using a quickshifter. During the gear change, it uses a harmonised combination of ‘half-clutch’ operation, fuel injection cut and ignition control to eliminate ‘shift shock’ for an ultra-smooth ride. The clutch control itself is managed through an actuator unit – similar to those used in Honda’s unique Dual Clutch Transmission gearboxes – housed inside the right hand engine cover. Total weight of the system is 2kg.

The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the Honda E-clutch system manages both scenarios smoothly, while taking away the possibility of the engine stalling when in operation.

If the rider desires, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal. If the clutch lever is used above a certain speed, the Honda E-clutch system will re-activate after less than a second; at lower speeds after 5 seconds. Should the rider want to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the instrument panel.

Honda E-Clutch takes elements of the technology and performance of quickshifters, manually-operated clutches and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission technology to create a unique blend of these well-proven approaches, opening up a whole new aspect of the motorcycling experience for riders of every type and experience level. The clutch and transmission hardware themselves are no different from a conventional motorcycle, with the ultra-compact system weighing only 2 kilograms.

In operation, Honda E-clutch is simplicity itself, taking away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, bringing extra enjoyment to sporty riding. The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the system manages both scenarios smoothly, while taking away the possibility of the engine stalling when in operation, providing extra convenience and peace of mind to town riding involving frequent starts and stops.

In addition to enjoyment and convenience, Honda E-Clutch brings ultimate flexibility. Should the rider wish, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal at any time. When the clutch lever is used, the Honda E-clutch system will re-activate after less than a second above a certain engine rpm; after 5 seconds at lower engine speeds. Should the rider wish to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the switchgear on the left handlebar. The change to manual operation is indicated by a letter ‘M’ on the instrument panel.

The Honda E-Clutch also allows the rider to select an ‘operation feel’ to set the strength of the force required on the shift pedal to make a gear change. Three settings are available: HARD, MEDIUM, and SOFT, each of which can be chosen independently for upshifting and downshifting. The technology will also advise the rider to shift down – via a symbol on the instrument panel – if it detects the motorcycle is in a high gear at a certain speed.

The Honda E-Clutch manages clutch engagement and disengagement based on its reading of parameters including vehicle speed, throttle opening angle, engine rpm, pressure on the shift pedal, clutch motor reduction gear angle, engine countershaft speed and gear position. The clutch is operated through an actuator unit with two motors situated inside the right hand engine cover. As the clutch is engaged or disengaged, the engine’s ignition timing and fuel injection are also controlled, resulting in smooth, shock-free shifting in any situation.

Junya Ono, Project Leader, Honda E-Clutch: “Our Honda E-Clutch is designed to offer motorcyclists a new kind of experience that can make their riding even more fun and exciting. It also adds peace of mind and comfort to town riding or the daily commute. We hope that many riders will try our new system to enjoy the unique mix of sportiness and flexibility it offers.”

  1. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the CBR650R, available both as individual items and grouped in packs, and are ready to bolt straight on:

Racing Pack 
Pumps up dynamism with Quickshifter (for the standard manual gearbox and clutch), colour matched Rear Seat Cover and 25mm higher Smoked Tall Screen. A carbon-look Tank Pad adds practical protection and proudly shows off a CBR logo. The pack is completed with an Oil Level Guage and transparent Side Tank Pads with the CBR logo.

Comfort Pack 
Increased cold weather rideability from Heated Grips, plus flexible carrying capacity in the form of easy to attach 3L Tank Bag and 15L Rear Seat Bag

The line-up is completed with Wheel Stripes available in different colours. All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC inline-4 cylinder
Engine Displacement (cm³) 649cc
Bore x Stroke (mm) 67.0mm x 46.0mm
Compression Ratio 11.6:1
Max. Power Output 70kW/12,000rpm
Max. Torque 63Nm/9,500rpm
Oil Capacity 2.7L
Noise Level (dB) Lwot – 78.3

Lurban – 74.3

FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 15.4L
Fuel Consumption 20.4km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V/8.6AH
ACG Output 380W
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet, multiplate disc
Transmission Type 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2120 x 750 x 1,145mm
Wheelbase 1450mm
Caster Angle 25.5°
Trail 100mm
Seat Height 810mm
Ground Clearance 130mm
Kerb Weight 209kg (E-Clutch 211kg)
Turning radius  3.0m
SUSPENSION
Type Front 41mm Showa Separate Function front Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
Type Rear Monoshock damper with 10 stage adjustable preload, 43.5mm stroke
WHEELS
Rim Size Front Hollow section 6-spoke cast aluminium
Rim Size Rear Hollow section 6-spoke cast aluminium
Tyres Front 120/70ZR17 M/C (58W)
Tyres Rear 180/55ZR17 M/C (73W)
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel; hydraulic dual disc 310mm front, hydraulic disc 240mm rear
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync , Digital speedometer, digital bar graph tachometer, dual trip meter, digital bar graph fuel gauge, gear position and upshift indicator, digital clock
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

 

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CBR500R

Honda’s A2 twin-cylinder sports bike gets a sharp, Fireblade-inspired style refresh for 24YM. Power and torque remain the same for the 471cc, engine – at 35kW and 43Nm – while an ECU update improves acceleration feel and Honda Selectable Torque Control is now standard. A high-quality chassis specification includes 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks, Showa rear shock and dual discs up front with four-piston calipers. Brand-new dual LED headlights open up better visibility at night, while a new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, operated by a simplified and backlit 4-way toggle switch.

  1. Introduction

Fast, frugal, affordable and – most importantly – fun, Honda’s fully-faired CBR500R, launched in 2013 alongside the naked CB500F (now CB500 Hornet) and adventure-styled CB500X (now NX500) injects a genuine sporting energy to its twin-cylinder ‘light middleweight’ trio.

Hugely popular with younger riders looking to move up from a smaller machine, the CBR500R instils the excitement of sports bike ownership into every ride yet also delivers sensible running costs, making it a great bike to both commute through the working week and enjoy at the weekend.

In 2016 the CBR500R assumed sharper styling and LED lighting to go with updated front suspension, followed by an even more aggressive makeover in 20YM. Developments were also applied to the engine for stronger performance off the bottom, a distinctive surge through the rev range to the redline and more distinctive exhaust howl.

Having proved its undoubted star quality alongside its siblings, for 22YM the CBR500R received a major suspension upgrade in the form of high-quality Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks, plus dual front discs, new lightweight wheels and swingarm.

For 24YM the CBR500R moves on again. Sharper new ‘RR-R’ style, updates for the engine and premium new screen technology and connectivity make Honda’s ‘pocket rocket’ even more desirable.

  1. Model Overview

Crisp new CBR1000RR-R inspired bodywork and LED headlights gives the CBR500R a keener edge as it scythes into 24YM. Premium new tech too, in the form of a 5-inch TFT screen – operated by an intuitive and easy-to-use lefthand switchgear – features the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

The A2-compliant, slipper clutch-equipped twin-cylinder engine benefits from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as ECU updates to improve acceleration.

Chassis specification includes Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks as before, with dual radial-mount four-piston brake calipers.

With a graphics update that keep it in line with the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and the new CBR600RR, the 24YM CBR500R will be available in the following colour options:

Grand Prix Red (Tricolour)

Matt Gunpower Black Metallic

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • New supersport style inspired by CBR1000RR-R Fireblade incorporates updated aerodynamics to improve steering and feedback
  • New dual headlight and taillight
  • New 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
  • New, simplified left hand switchgear easy to use and backlit for night-time

The CBR500R aggressive new bodywork is inspired by the racing DNA of its bigger Fireblade sibling and directed by the design banner ‘The Shape Of Speed’. Sharp edges front to rear exude the essence of what makes a CBR a CBR.

And there’s function to the form; the design includes winglets to direct airflow and the angles of the fairing. This aerodynamic package contributes to a linear steering feel with increased feedback and feel for front tyre grip.

New dual LED headlights maintain beam penetration but throw out wider light distribution, for increased visibility when riding – and cornering – at night. They’re matched to a new taillight; all lighting is LED.

Premium technology – in the form of a brand new, 5-inch full colour TFT screen – uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight a first for a Honda motorcycle. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced and backlight transmittance improved. It’s customisable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns and also offers the IOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

This new feature – alongside a simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. All an owner has to do is download the Honda RoadSync app from the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the CBR500R, and go.

Seat height is low at 785mm, making the bike very easy to manage and its sporting riding position comfortably accommodates riders of any height. Overall dimensions are 2080mm x 760mm x 1145mm, with 130mm ground clearance.

The fuel tank holds 17.1L including reserve and combined with the engine’s excellent 3.5L/100km (28.6km/litre) fuel economy, gives a range of over 485km.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks
  • Dual 296mm discs, Nissin radial mount four-piston calipers
  • Lightweight wheels and swingarm

Light, strong and unchanged for 24YM, the 35mm diameter steel diamond-tube mainframe has a tuned degree of yield that gives plenty of feedback to the rider as road surfaces change. The shape and position of the engine mounts, plus the frame’s rigidity balance, keep vibration to a minimum.

Nimble responsiveness is what the CBR500R is all about. The view forward from the cockpit is pure sports. The handlebars clip on beneath the top yoke and as a result the riding position is unmistakably aggressive. The footpegs are purposeful, lightweight aluminium.

Wheelbase is 1410mm with rake and trail of 25.5°/102mm, and front/rear bias percentage of 50.7/49.3. Kerb weight is 191kg.

Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks divide the functions – Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other – and reaction and ride quality are top draw. The four-cylinder CBR650R uses the exact same set-up.

The swingarm is constructed from 2mm steel and employs a hollow cross member; it is stiff rotationally, and flexible laterally to improve handling. The single-tube Showa rear shock absorber, with its large-diameter piston, ensures excellent response and temperature management and features 5-stage preload adjustment.

Dual 296mm front discs are worked by Nissin radial-mount, four-piston calipers; the rear 240mm disc a single-piston caliper. Lightweight rims use 5 Y-shaped spokes; the 3.5-inch front wears a 120/70-ZR17 tyre, and the 4.5-inch rear a 160/60-ZR17 tyre.

3.3 Engine

  • Lively twin-cylinder powerplant now equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • New PGM-FI settings improve low-rpm acceleration and power delivery across the rev-range
  • Assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts and manages rear wheel through downshifts

The A2-licence friendly 471cc, 8-valve liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder layout offers a well-proportioned balance of physical size and willing, enjoyable power output, with an energetic, high-revving character and zappy top end. And it’s very much an engine whose overall performance and character belie its relatively small capacity; peak power of 35kW arrives at 8,600rpm, with 43Nm torque delivered at 6,500rpm.

A 24YM addition is HSTC to manage rear wheel traction for increased peace of mind and a real boost for rider confidence. The system compares front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear slip and controls the fuel injection to smoothly reduce torque. HSTC can also be turned off completely if the rider wishes.

Feeding the PGM-FI fuel injection is a more-or-less straight shot of airflow through the airbox and throttle bodies. Optimisation of ignition timing and air/fuel ratio equals more powerful acceleration feel from low rpm, with linear power delivery and throttle feel. The exhaust muffler features dual exit pipes, giving a sporting edge to each pulse, and a rasping high-rpm howl.

Bore and stroke are set at 67mm x 66.8mm and compression ratio is 10.7:1; the crankshaft pins are phased at 180° and a primary couple-balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s centre of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couple-balance and its light weight allows the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four frame hangers on the engine. Internally the cylinder head uses roller rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear. Inlet valve diameter is 26.0mm with exhaust valve diameter of 21.5mm. Piston shape is carefully designed to reduce piston ‘noise’ at high rpm. Friction is reduced by striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area, introducing gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication).

The ‘triangle’ proportion of crankshaft, main shaft and countershaft is efficiently compact and the crankcases employ centrifugally cast thin-walled sleeves; their internal design reduces the ‘pumping’ losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. A deep sump reduces oil movement under hard cornering and braking; oil capacity is 3.2L.

A slick-changing six-speed gearbox is managed by an assist/slipper clutch, eliminating rear wheel ‘hop’ under hard braking and downshifting.

  1. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the CBR500R, as individual items or grouped in packs, and ready to bolt straight on:

Racing Pack
Maximising the sports style, the colour-matched Seat Cowl neatly replaces the pillion seat, adding a sharp shape designed integrally with the motorcycle. The Wheel Stripes highlight the rims, a carbon pattern Tank Pad protects the paint and features the CBR logo, while the 400mm taller Smoked Screen enhances air deflection and comfort at speed.

Comfort Pack
For longer journeys, the Comfort Pack features Heated Grips – with 5 heat levels, a memory function and full TFT screen integration. There’s an ACC Socket for smartphone charging under the seat and a practical, 3L Tank Bag (with see-through pocket) for easy-access storage, plus rain cover.

The accessory line-up is complemented by a practical 15L Seat Bag, a 35L Top Box and its required carrier. All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled 4 stroke, DOHC parallel twin
Displacement 471cc
No of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore & Stroke 67mm x 66.8mm
Compression Ratio 10.7: 1
Max. Power Output 35kW @ 8,600rpm
Max. Torque 43Nm @ 6,500rpm
Noise Level (dB) Lurban 73.5dB Lwot 76.8dB
Oil Capacity 3.2L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.1L (inc reserve)
CO2 Emissions (WMTC) 80 g/km
Fuel Consumption (WMTC) 3.5L/100km (28.6km/litre)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery Capacity 12V 7.4AH
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet multiplate, Assisted slipper clutch
Transmission Type 6 speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L´W´H) 2,080mm x 760mm x 1,145mm
Wheelbase 1,410mm
Caster Angle 25.5°
Trail 102mm
Seat Height 785mm
Ground Clearance 130mm
Kerb Weight 191kg
Turning radius 2.9M
SUSPENSION
Type Front Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks,
Type Rear Prolink mono with 5 stage pre-load adjuster, Steel hollow cross swingarm
WHEELS
Type Front 5Y-Spoke Cast Aluminium
Type Rear 5Y-Spoke Cast Aluminium
Rim Size Front 17MC x MT3.5
Rim Size Rear 17MC x MT4.5
Tyres Front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Tyres Rear 160/60ZR17M/C (69W)
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2-channel
Type Front Dual 296mm x 4mm disc with Nissin radial-mount four-piston calipers
Type Rear Single 240mm x 5mm disc with single piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments 5in TFT Meter with customisable layout, including but not limited to Speedometer, Tachometer, Clock, Gear position, Shift UP Indicator
Headlight LED
Taillight LED
Connectivity Yes (Honda RoadSync)
USB No
12V Socket Optional
Auto Winker Cancel No
Quickshifter No
Security System HISS (Honda Intelligent Security System)
Cruise Control No
Additional Features ESS

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CBR600RR

Honda’s middleweight supersport jewel returns to Europe, destined for road and track action. Its inline four-cylinder, 16V DOHC engine produces 89kW @ 14,250rpm and  features an assist/slipper clutch and standard fit quickshifter. Throttle By Wire control – derived from the RC213V-S – along with addition of a Bosch 6-axis IMU delivers 3 default riding modes, plus two custom User modes for adjustment of Engine Power, Engine Braking, Wheelie Control and 9-level HSTC. Cornering ABS and Rear Lift Control are also part of the package. The chassis comprises an aluminium twin-spar frame, aluminium swingarm, Honda Electronic Steering Damper, 41mm Showa Big Piston USD forks and Unit Pro-Link

Showa rear shock. Dual, radial-mount four-piston front calipers work 310mm floating discs. Designed to deliver best-in-class aerodynamic performance, the aggressive styling includes downforce-generating front winglets. A full colour TFT screen completes the specification. An HRC Race Kit will also be an option, for circuit use only.

Like all bikes in Honda’s supersport family, the 24YM CBR600RR will be available in HRC Grand Prix Red HRC TriColour and stealthy Matt Ballistic Black Metallic.

  1. Introduction

The much-loved CBR600RR has an impressive and hard-won racing pedigree. It was piloted to FIM World Super Sports championship victory every year from 2003 to 2008, and again in 2010, 2012 and 2014. It won the Asia Road Racing championship from 2012 to 2016 and the All-Japan Road Race championship ST600 class from 2003 to 2011, and in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2019. Its engine also provided the power for Moto2 between 2010 and 2018.

The 600RR departed from Honda’s European showrooms at the start of 2017 as the trend away from supersport machinery towards naked and adventure models accelerated. In the intervening years, the middleweight sports category has seen a revival, and the model was reintroduced for 21YM in Japan and Thailand.

Now the time is ripe for the purest of all road-legal sports bikes to make its return to Europe. Loaded with cutting-edge MotoGP-inspired electronics and aerodynamics, the new 24YM CBR600RR is a rare, beautiful thing – a free-revving four-cylinder motorcycling gem that exists in a class of one.

Born ready to carve an elegant line on the open road or closed circuit, there’s no other riding experience quite like it.

  1. Model Overview

Honda’s supersports icon returns to Europe with its 599cc, inline four-cylinder engine producing 89kW @ 14,250rpm, and benefitting from an assist/slipper clutch and standard-fit quickshifter.

An electronics package drawn from the RC213V-S and the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade includes Throttle By Wire control, 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Wheelie Control and Rear Lift Control.

At the centre of the action and managing all of the systems, including Cornering ABS, is a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) as found inside its sibling, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade. There are 3 default riding modes, plus 2 User modes for adjustment of Engine Power, Engine Braking, HSTC and Wheelie Control.

The chassis comprises a twin-spar aluminium frame, aluminium swingarm, 41mm Showa Big Piston USD front forks and Unit Pro-Link Showa rear shock. Four-piston radial-mount front calipers provide the braking power, and a Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) extra stability.

The full colour TFT screen includes Street, Circuit and Mechanic modes. A Shift Up indicator and lap timer are also featured. Honda’s Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Honda Ignition Security System (HISS) are included in the specification.

Like all bikes in Honda’s supersport family, the 24YM CBR600RR is available in two colour options: under-the-radar Matt Ballistic Black Metallic, and evocative Grand Prix Red HRC TriColour, the signature colourway of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).

  1. Key Features

3.1 Engine

  • Inline four-cylinder engine produces 89kW with 63Nm torque
  • Assist/slipper clutch

The CBR600RR’s 599cc, 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine produces 89kW @ 14,250rpm, with 63Nm torque @ 11,500rpm. To achieve the power output at this rpm ceiling the materials used for the camshafts, valve springs and crankshaft have been upgraded for its return to manage both high-rpm inertia force and durability. Bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 42.5mm, with compression ratio of 12.2:1.

Every aspect of intake, combustion and exhaust has been through development since the CBR600RR was last on sale in Europe. To flow enough volume at high rpm throttle body diameter is 44mm. The port of the throttle butterfly valve and the intake-side valve have been shaped to allow the cross-section of the entire port (including the inside of the throttle body) to run smoothly, reducing intake pressure drop.

The combination of this smooth intake passage and Throttle By Wire (TBW) delivers smooth throttle control, especially at partial openings from fully closed. The inlet ports have been re-shaped, increasing flow capacity by 2.2%.

Valve timing has also been adjusted: closing of the inlet valves has been pulled back 5° with the exhaust valves opening 5° later, improving the intake efficiency of the fuel/air mixture and exhaust of combustion gas. Inlet valve diameter is 27.5mm matched to 22.5mm exhaust. For maximum cooling efficiency around the cylinder head, long reach spark plugs allow the water jacket to sit close to the plug hole and exhaust valve seat.

The 4-2-1 exhaust uses large bore diameters to enhance high-rpm gas flow; wall thickness has been carefully managed to minimise weight gain. The catalyser is also physically larger, and an important part of the EURO5 homologation process.

An assist/slipper clutch manages rear wheel ‘hop’ through rapid down changes and hard braking. It also reduces the physical force needed to operate it by 32% over a standard design and employs die-cast aluminium cams at both transmitting and receiving ends, with clearance between both optimised to improve lever feel.

3.2 Engine Electronics

  • RC213V-S-derived Throttle By Wire (TBW) control system
  • 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • 3 default riding modes plus options to customise Power, Engine Brake, HSTC and Wheelie Control
  • Quickshifter standard fitment

The Throttle By Wire (TBW) used by the CBR600RR is drawn from the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and was developed on the RC213V-S. An Acceleration Position Sensor (APS), which interfaces with the throttle grip is built into the switchgear. It sends a signal to the ECU, which then sends a signal to the TBW motor that controls the butterfly. Crucially, the return spring and friction generated by the APS offers a completely natural throttle feel and control. It also offers the same controllability and feel across all of the power levels.

The electronic package that goes with TBW is also drawn from the Fireblade. 9-level (plus off) Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) uses slip rate control (which monitors the rate at which slip is changing based on the ratio of front/rear wheel speeds) to smoothly moderate rapid wheel spin. It gives smooth, intuitive grip management, with software developed from wide-ranging, top-level feedback from around the world, including HRC’s riders. Level 1 has the weakest intervention, level 9 the strongest.

There are three default riding modes: Mode 1 (Fast Riding), Mode 2 (Fun Riding) and Mode 3 (Comfortable Riding) with 2 User options for a full custom setup across all of the parameters. Modes can be switched while riding (from the left handlebar switchgear), as can the HSTC level when in User 1 or 2.

Power (P) operates through levels 1-5 with 1 giving ultimate outright power. Engine Brake (EB) manages performance on a closed throttle through levels 1-3, with 1 being the strongest engine braking; Wheelie (W) manages through levels 1-3 (plus off) with 1 giving the weakest intervention.

Wheelie Control uses information gathered by the IMU on the CBR600RR’s pitch angle, along with front and rear wheel speed sensors to maintain torque and deal with the wheelie without sacrificing forward drive.

A standard-fit quick shifter delivers razor-fast changes, with short fuel cut time while shifting, and smoother torque pickup after shifting. It offers 3-level adjustment for feel.

3.3 Chassis

  • Twin-spar aluminium frame, aluminium swingarm
  • 41mm Showa Big Piston USD forks 
  • Bosch 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
  • Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD)
  • Four-piston, radial-mount front brake calipers and floating discs

For this latest incarnation of the CBR600RR Honda’s development engineers picked through the bike, front to back, looking for weight savings with performance enhancement to complement the addition of a Bosch 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (rather than 5-axis of the 21YM model) to the electronic package.

The updated IMU is key to the bike’s ability to build speed and measures every dynamic aspect, in each plane, calculating 100 times a second using Honda’s own algorithm and in turn managing the HSTC and Cornering ABS, which is a new technology applied to the 24YM CBR600RR.

It’s 2.5kg lighter than the ‘Combined-ABS’ electronic system of the previous design and employs a Nissin ABS modulator and ECU – which takes input from the IMU and deceleration and slip rate from the front/rear wheel speed sensors to manage brake pressure in a straight line and while cornering.

Rear Lift Control is also a new feature, and again uses IMU input to maximise braking performance while minimising rear wheel lift.

At the heart of the chassis is a hollow, die-cast twin-spar aluminium frame. Wheelbase is set at 1370mm, with rake of 24 o 06’ and 100mm trail. Length from swingarm pivot to rear wheel spindle is 569mm; the aluminium swingarm is also 150g lighter than the previous model, with each part redesigned to save weight but also to give the desired rigidity balance. Kerb weight is set at 193kg.

Fully adjustable Showa 41mm Big Piston USD forks offer high-quality suspension reaction and control. They’re also 15mm longer in the legs to allow flexible geometry changes. The fully adjustable Showa rear shock operates through Unit Pro-Link.

Up front, dual radial-mount four-piston calipers clamp 310mm floating discs; a radial-piston master cylinder is also standard fit. A rear, single-piston caliper works a 220mm disc. Cast aluminium wheels wear 120/70ZR17M/C  front and 180/55ZR17M/C rear tyres.

A Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) – designed exclusively for the CBR600RR – operates relative to velocity and is ECU-controlled; at lower speeds its main valve opens, reducing damping force. At high speed the valve closes, increasing damping force for maximum stability.

3.4 Styling & Equipment

  • Best in class aerodynamic performance
  • Winglets generate downforce to enhance front tyre grip
  • Full colour TFT screen

While it’s a stunning looking motorcycle, the CBR600RR’s styling also provides two performance upgrades: as a fully equipped road bike, the lowest Coefficient of Drag in class, at 0.555 (with rider in a racing tuck), and winglets to improve corner entry stability and turning ability while accelerating.

A guiding phrase used by Honda’s development team for the bodywork was ‘Embody the functional design in pursuit of high-speed on-track performance.’ Everything learnt producing the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, and before it the MotoGP-derived RC213V-S, was applied with a focus on the mass centralisation of form.

As a result, the sharp, super-compact LED headlights, indicators and ABS modulator are lighter compared to the previous design. The riding position too has been made deliberately flexible for road and track; the fuel tank cover sits 10mm lower, allowing the rider to tuck in neatly at high speed. It’s also slimmer and designed to allow the rider’s arms to also have a natural place at speed. The screen sits at a 38°, to maximise aerodynamic efficiency relative to any position the rider might use on track. Seat height is set at 820mm.

Radiator cooling efficiency is focus of the mid-section of the fairing, and airflow speed and pressure into the front wheel housing has been optimised for both flow in and out. The lower fairing extends close to the rear wheel and is shaped to move airflow downwards. This reduces the amount of direct air pressure exposure against the tyre, reducing overall resistance.

The winglets generate downforce – maintaining front tyre load – on corner entry as the rider leans in and releases the front brake. And overall cornering stability is improved, as is corner speed. Carefully designed, the winglets do not interfere with the bike’s handling agility, with the vertical shaping suppressing the development of vortices.

A full colour TFT screen includes Street, Circuit and Mechanic modes. A Shift-Up indicator uses 5 white horizontal LEDs above the central display and turn on and flash at the pre-set rpm for shifting. Information available also includes lap time, number of laps and fastest lap.

Lighting is LED. The dual front headlights are lightweight in design and allow the optimal intake area for the central ram-air duct. Honda’s Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) is linked to the ABS modulator and activates the front and rear indicators under sudden, hard braking to warn other road users.

Honda Ignition Security System (HISS) uses interlock control between the ID tag in the key and internal ID of the engine ECU so there’s no way to start the engine without the key. A red LED on the dash flashes every 2.5 seconds for 24 hours once the ignition is off and even when it stops flashing, HISS is still on.

A small final detail to note – the CBR600RR wears its racing DNA in the shape of Honda’s signature wing on its fuel tank cover – exactly the same as the RC213V-S.

  1. Accessories

Two Genuine Honda Accessories Packs are ready to go for the CBR600RR:

Racing Pack
This pack underlines the racing pedigree and sportiness of the CBR600RR. The Oil Filler Cap includes an HRC logo, the Carbon Look Tank Pad wears a CBR logo and Wheel Stripes are finished in HRC Tri-Colour and Honda Racing Logo. A Seat Cowl replaces the pillion seat and is available in Black or Red.

Comfort Pack
Take the supersports experience further… Functional rear seat bag that is specifically adapted to the tapered shape of the rear seat. Featuring a capacity of 15L that can be expanded up to 22L and always stable during riding thanks to its specific attachment system. 5-level Heated Grips extend the riding year, while a USB-C charging socket adds convenience.

HRC Race Kit
HRC has developed a Race Kit for the CBR600RR that ups engine performance, heightens cornering ability and grip, and saves weight. Available to buy as a complete kit – and for circuit use only – all road safety items are neatly removed and HRC kit parts, including ECU, wiring harness, cylinder head gasket, big radiator, racing exhaust, front/rear suspension and brake discs plug straight in.

  1. Technical Specification
ENGINE
Type Liquid cooled 16-valve DOHC, inline-4
Engine Displacement (cm³) 599cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 67mm x 42.5mm
Compression Ratio 12.2:1
Max. Power Output 89kW @ 14,250rpm
Max. Torque 63Nm @ 11,500rpm
Noise Level Lurban – 74dB, Lwot – 77dB
Oil Capacity 3.4L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI
Fuel Tank Capacity 18L
C02 Emissions WMTC 128 g/km
Fuel Consumption 18.2km/L (5.5L/100km)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12-9.1Ah YTZ10S
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet, multiplate hydraulic clutch
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Aluminium twin tube composite twin spar
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,030mm x 685mm x 1140mm
Wheelbase 1,370mm
Caster Angle 24 o 06’
Trail 100mm
Seat Height 820mm
Ground Clearance 125mm
Kerb Weight 193kg
SUSPENSION
Type Front Fully adjustable Showa 41mm Big Piston USD, 120mm stroke.
Type Rear Fully adjustable Showa rear shock operating through Unit Pro-Link. 128mm axle travel
WHEELS
Rim Size Front 17M/CxMT3.50
Rim Size Rear 17M/CxMT5.50
Tyres Front 120/70ZR17M/C DUNLOP Roadsports2
Tyres Rear 180/55ZR17M/C DUNLOP Roadsports2
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel
Front 310mm floating discs with radial-mount 4-piston caliper
Rear 220mm disc with single piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments TFT-LCD
Security System HISS
Headlight LED
Taillight LED
Quickshifter Yes

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP takes a huge step forward in development, with its 1,000cc inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine in a new state of tune to deliver even stronger mid-range acceleration as well as huge top-end power. The cylinder head, compression ratio, valve timing and springs have all been revised; the crankshaft and con-rods are lighter and there are new, shorter ratios all the way through gearbox. 2-Motor Throttle By Wire adds precise control and feel at lower rpm, with more engine braking if required. The aluminium diamond-style frame has a new, more pliant character to improve steering accuracy and traction. Specification also includes an RC213V-S-style swingarm, six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD); full, race-quality suspension is provided by new Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC03) with Spool Valves and OBTi user interface. A new preload guide is also available on the instrument panel. Braking is by Brembo, with new Stylema R four-piston calipers up front. New winglets maintain downforce but with 10% less yaw moment in cornering. The riding position too has been adjusted to allow more control for the rider. A full-colour TFT screen offers intuitive control of riding modes and adjustment of Power, Engine Brake, HSTC, Wheelie Control and Start Mode; all settings have been revised to match the new power delivery and gearing. Cornering ABS now features an extra RACE setting. Honda’s Emergency Stop Signal and a Smart Key remains the finishing touch. A limited edition CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Carbon Edition is also available.

  1. Introduction

Since its original 1992 introduction Honda’s iconic Fireblade has evolved into an incredible 1,000cc super sports motorcycle. And it’s also been the base of a competitive race machine, on short circuits around the world and the roads of the Isle of Man TT.

But time – and competition – always races on and in 20YM Honda drew the line under where the CBR1000RR Fireblade had been and looked forward to where it was going. And, as a result, two brand-new motorcycles – the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade* and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP – were created with heavy involvement from Honda Racing Corporation to carry the legend forward.

Leaning heavily on the engine and chassis technology of the RC213V-S ‘street-legal MotoGP machine’, with aerodynamics drawn from the RC213V MotoGP bike, the new Fireblade was designed from the ground up – in terms of engine, handling and aerodynamics – for pure, outright track performance.

22YM marked 30 years of the Fireblade which saw the introduction of a variety of detail upgrades to the engine to boost acceleration; the intake ports, airbox, airbox funnels and exhaust mid-section were all revised to deliver extra mid-range thrust. The final drive sprocket also went up 3 teeth, to 43, with quickshifter performance upgraded. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) was also optimised for refined rear tyre traction management, and throttle feel improved.

24YM sees the Fireblade SP drive further up its development curve once again. A host of engine and gearbox updates deliver a healthy mid-range performance boost, with improved throttle response, alongside detailed riding position changes and upgrades from Brembo and Öhlins, with the aim of producing the bike you need to win out-of-the-box and, at the same time, elevating the riding experience out on the open road.

  1. Model Overview

The Fireblade SP’s inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine delivers 113Nm torque and makes peak power of 160Kw. And while the headline figures are familiar, the delivery through the rev-range has been completely changed – the product of a huge amount of HRC development and knowhow– to generate corner exit acceleration topped by huge top-end power.

The addition of 2-Motor Throttle By Wire (TBW) increases part-throttle control and allows amplified engine braking. Compression ratio has been raised, intake ports adjusted, and valve timing altered in conjunction with new valve springs, a lighter crankshaft and optimised, lighter titanium conrods. All gear ratios have been made shorter, to increase drive force to the rear wheel.

The 4-2-1 exhaust downpipes are ovalized and feed a titanium Akrapovič muffler now slightly larger in volume but 5dB quieter in operation.

Three default riding modes cover most conditions with options to fully adjust Power, Engine Brake, Wheelie Control and HSTC and all settings have been revised for the new output character. The electronics package also includes adjustable Start Mode and standard-fit quickshifter.

As before, the aluminium diamond frame uses the rear of the engine as upper shock mount while the swingarm is based on the RC213V-S design. The rigidity balance has been carefully optimised – and made more pliant – to exploit the engine’s performance in terms of feel for front and rear grip levels, and steering accuracy.

A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides accurate 3D estimation of riding dynamics and provides input to manage all of the electronic systems. It also controls the rod-type 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

The 24YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is the first bike in the world to use the new, third generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (SE-C3.0) 43mm NPX (SV) forks and TTX36 (SV) rear shock, that now use Spool Valve internals and offer race-quality suspension, with settings managed by Öhlins Object Based Tuning interface (OBTi). A digital spring preload guide via the instrument panel is also a new feature.

The front discs are worked by new Brembo Stylema R four-piston calipers and Brembo brake lever/master cylinder, while the Cornering ABS now features RACE mode, which allows the rear ABS to be turned off.

A redesigned fairing mid-section houses new winglets that generate downforce to improve braking stability and consistent front-end grip but with 10% less effort through high-speed corners. The riding position has also been adjusted to elevate control, with handlebars higher and footpegs lower.

The fully customisable 5-inch TFT display offers intuitive control via a four-way switch on the left handlebar. Now, on cold start, the redline moves up the rpm scale as operating temperature is reached.

Honda’s Smart Key system adds convenience and the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) increases visibility to road users behind.

The 24YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP will be available in Grand Prix Red (Tricolour).

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Carbon Edition

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Carbon Edition will be available in unique Mat Pearl Morion Black paint. It will feature a stealthy carbon fibre Front Mudguard, Under Cowl, Middle Cowl, Winglets, Front Shelter and Mudguard Cover to maximise its appeal.

Limited to only 300 units and featuring a commemorative plaque on the airbox cover, the Carbon Edition is 1kg lighter, with 10 – 40% weight saving per component.

  1. Key Features

3.1 Engine

  • Short-stroke, inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear train engine produces 160Kw @ 14,000rpm with peak torque of 113Nm @ 12,000rpm
  • Compression ratio raised for 24YM plus revised valve timing, with new 3-stage unequal pitch springs
  • Crankcase optimised for weight reduction, inertial mass reduction for crankshaft and con-rods
  • All gear ratios – and primary drive – shortened for improved acceleration and corner exit drive
  • Lightweight Akrapovič muffler features increased volume and noise reduction

The Fireblade’s 1,000cc, inline DOHC four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine was designed with heavy input from the HRC MotoGP development program. For 24YM it delivers peak power of 160Kw @ 14,000rpm with peak torque of 113Nm @ 12,000rpm.

A huge amount of HRC development has gone into the engine to change the way it delivers power and torque, throughout the rev-range, with a goal of increasing drive force to the rear wheel in every gear.

While continuing to share the same ‘over square’ 81mm bore and 48.5mm stroke as the RC213V, valve timing – duration and lift – have been revised for 24YM and compression ratio raised from 13.4:1 to 13.6:1. The inlet valves are 32.5mm diameter (and also lighter for 24YM) with 28.5mm exhaust; they’re operated by finger-follower rocker arms; valve angle on the intake side is 9°, reducing the surface area of the combustion chamber and improving combustion efficiency. Also new are 3-stage elliptical progressive springs for both inlet and exhaust, while the intake ports have been optimised for gas flow.

MotoGP technology is everywhere internally. Friction is reduced by the use of Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) on the cam lobes – just like the RC213V-S. 20YM marked the first time this process was used on a mass-produced motorcycle; it produces a reduction in valve train frictional loss of 35% compared to non DLC-coated lobes.

The valve train itself uses a semi-cam gear train system. To drive such high-rpm/high-cam lift performance the chain is driven from the timing gear located on the crankshaft via the cam idle gear; this makes it shorter in length. For 24YM the crankshaft pin and journal diameters have been optimised, saving 450g of inertial mass.

Forged TI-64A Titanium (a material developed by Honda) con-rods and con-rod caps save 50% in weight compared to the previous Chromium Molybdenum steel versions; they’re even lighter for 24YM (by 20g) and employ HB 149 Chromium Molybdenum Vanadium, (again a Honda development) steel bolts and do not use fastening nuts.

For durability the same configuration as the RC213V-S is applied to the sliding surfaces; the small-end bushings are made of shaved C1720-HT Beryllium copper (because of its high-rpm reliability) while the surfaces of the big-ends are treated with DLC. The pistons are forged aluminium for lightweight strength, durability and increased output.

To guarantee high-rpm wear resistance the piston skirts feature an Ober coating (Teflon and Molybdenum base) and nickel-phosphorous plating for the piston-pin clip-groove.

Managing temperature, the pistons themselves – now constructed from tougher material – use a multi-point piston jet which sprays cooling oil in multiple directions through each cycle. At low rpm (when not needed) check balls within the jets shut off the flow of oil in order to limit oil pressure loss and reduce friction. The oil ring features a new side rail barrel shape.

To reduce bore distortion (and thus friction), the cylinder features a built-in bottom bypass. This system circulates cool water from the radiator into the main water jacket, while the area below uses non-cooled water. The net effect is a lower, and more even, temperature at all points across the bores.

To minimise width, the engine is started by rotation of the clutch main shaft rather than the crankshaft. This design for a more compact crankshaft while double use of the primary driven gear (which itself has fewer teeth) to also transmit rotation from the starter motor saves space; the engine is short in length with short distances between the crankshaft, counter shaft and main shafts. The rear of the engine block also serves as upper shock mount; 250g has been shaved from the crankcase for 24YM.

Improving drive out of corners on track (and road), all of the gear ratios as well as the primary drive are now shorter.

Air is fed into the engine via a ram-air duct located at the high-surface pressure tip of the front fairing; the size of its aperture is equivalent to that of the RC213V MotoGP machine. A ribbed ‘turbulator’ to the right, left and above the duct entrance ensures maximum induction of moving air with minimal impact on handling. The draft angle of the aperture’s interior wall maintains flow under high-speed and acceleration.

To maintain stable performance across a wide speed range, pressurised air takes a straight shot through the headstock, around the steering stem and into the airbox. This smooth path is made possible by Honda’s Smart Key system and steering angle of 25°. To draw the volume of air needed the throttle bodies employ 52mm diameters.

The ‘dirty’ side of the air filter controls the direction of intake air separation and vortex generation, while on the ‘clean’ side, filtered air feeds slash-cut intake funnels. Mirroring the intake side, the four exhaust downpipes use an oval cross section.

Constructed from titanium, the Akrapovič muffler’s small physical size and light weight contribute to mass centralisation and right-side lean angle. It’s now 1L larger in volume; the exhaust valve was designed to deliver both low-rpm torque and high-rpm power – for 24YM the level of sound output has been reduced as the valve switches. 5dB quieter than the previous design, the exhaust note also rises linearly with engine rpm.

3.2 Engine Electronics

  • New 2-Motor Throttle By Wire system delivers smooth control for both acceleration and engine braking
  • 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) optimised for new power output character and gear ratios
  • 3 default riding modes plus options to customise the revised Power, Engine Brake, HSTC and Wheelie Control parameters
  • 4-level Start Mode standard fitment

The 17YM CBR1000RR was the first in-line four-cylinder engine from Honda to use Throttle By Wire (TBW). Derived and developed from the system used by the RC213V-S, it controls the throttle butterfly valve angle (relative to input from the throttle) to provide a linear delivery and puts precise throttle control – and a natural feel – in the rider’s right hand. It’s a critical area and in 22YM the TBW return spring load was reduced, further enhancing the response and linearity of throttle input.

To take the engine to the next level of control – and a first for a Honda – the TBW is now a 2-Motor system, 1 motor for cylinders 1 and 2, the other for 3 and 4. Through smaller throttle openings cylinders 1 and 2’s throttle valves open first to finely adjust output and generate crank rotation fluctuations. This makes the engine much easier to control and use through the lower rpm ranges. As revs climbs, all throttle valves open together, for a smooth rush of top-end power.

The other benefit of 2-Motor TBW is the amplification of engine braking. With the throttle fully closed during deceleration cylinders 3 and 4 open with the exhaust valve closed to increase the engine’s pumping loss – and therefore engine braking – while cylinders 1 and 2 are closed, ready to open smoothly on the next acceleration.

For the 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) another 22YM update improved feel. The gap between the intervention timing and slip rate control (which monitors the rate at which slip is changing based on the ratio of front/rear wheel speeds) – was changed to give much smoother, intuitive grip management, with software developed with wide-ranging, top-level feedback from around the world, including HRC’s riders. For 24YM the HSTC has been optimised for the engine’s new power output characteristics and revised gear ratios.

There are three default riding modes with options to change engine output and character. Power (P) operates through levels 1-5 with 1 giving ultimate outright power. Engine Brake (EB) manages performance on a closed throttle through levels 1-3, with 1 being the strongest engine braking delivered by the 2-Motor TBW; Wheelie (W) manages through levels 1-3 (plus off) with 1 giving the weakest intervention. All settings across the board have been revised for 24YM.

Wheelie Control uses information gathered by the IMU on the Fireblade SP’s pitch angle, along with front and rear wheel speed sensors to maintain torque and manage the wheelie without sacrificing forward drive.

The Fireblade SP is also equipped with Start Mode for race starts. It limits engine rpm at 6,000, 7,000, 8,000 and 9,000rpm set points, even with a wide-open throttle, letting the rider focus on clutch release (and lights) alone. The standard-fit 3-level quickshifter delivers razor-fast changes, with short fuel cut time while shifting and smoother torque pickup after shifting.

3.3 Chassis

  • Revised aluminium frame features new rigidity balance for enhanced steering accuracy and grip feel
  • Third generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC3.0) offers refined choice of settings, with new preload guide screen.
  • Öhlins 43mm NPX (SV) forks feature new Spool Valve internals, as does the TTX36 (SV) rear shock
  • New Brembo Stylema R radial-mount four-piston calipers managed by Cornering ABS now with 3 modes – STANDARD/TRACK/RACE
  • New riding position raises handlebars and lowers footpegs for increased rider freedom and control
  • Bosch six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) gives accurate calculation of dynamic behaviour
  • Showa’s 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) controlled by IMU for stability management

The diamond-style main frame is constructed from 2mm aluminium with an extremely accurate tuning of the rigidity balance; in manufacture, after the four main frame components are welded, the engine mounts in six locations improving machine handling.

For 24YM internal ribbing has been removed, the thin wall area expanded and shaping optimised. A total 960g has been shaved from the frame, with a further 140g from shorter engine hanger bolts. But the main aim of the work is to adjust the rigidity balance for a more supple handling feel with razor-sharp steering accuracy; lateral stiffness is reduced 17%, with 15% less torsional stiffness.

Wheelbase is set at 1,455mm with rake and trail of 24°7’ / 101.9mm. Wet weight is 201kg. Weight distribution is balanced at 53%/47% while a high c-of-g improves side-to-side agility.

The swingarm – constructed from 18 individual thicknesses of aluminium and as used by the RC213V-S – is 622.7mm long. Its horizontal and vertical rigidity are tuned to generate grip and feel.

For optimum design integrity (and to save weight) the top mount of the Pro-Link rear shock attaches to the rear of the engine block via a bracket. This also isolates the rear wheel from the headstock, improving high-speed stability and feel for rear wheel traction.

Round, thin-wall aluminium tubing forms the minimal subframe. It also mounts to the frame from the top to narrow the area around the rear of the fuel tank and seat, making for a compact – and aerodynamically efficient – riding position. Seat height is 830mm, and the riding position has been subtly adjusted for 24YM to allow more freedom of control – the handlebars are 19mm higher – and 23mm closer – with footpegs set 16mm lower.

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is the first production bike in the world to feature the third generation Öhlins 43mm S-EC3.0 (SV) NPX USD forks.  Using an internal spool valve structure, they improve ride quality and turning stability through the suspension stroke. Feel for front tyre grip is also enhanced. The forks are clamped by exclusive forged aluminium top and bottom yokes and their length also offers greater freedom for geometry changes. Matching the race-quality front end is an Öhlins TTX36 S-EC3.0 (SV) rear shock.

In conjunction with the hardware, Öhlins Objective Based Tuning interface (OBTi)

offers much finer suspension adjustment front and rear; both can be set independently from the default settings and 3 individual modes can be set and stored, allowing the rider to configure multiple settings for conditions such as weather, tyre wear or fuel load – and to switch instantly while riding. A new feature is a front/rear spring preload guide, accessible via the meter, which recommends the correct setting for the rider’s weight.

New Brembo Stylema R four-piston radial mount brake calipers are operated by Brembo master cylinder and brake lever and offer consistently high braking performance at the high temperatures generated on track. They grip 330mm diameter/5mm thick diameter discs that dissipate heat efficiently. The rear brake caliper is the same Brembo unit used by the RC213V-S.

A Bosch six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) delivers accurate calculation of pitch and roll for precise control of the bike’s behaviour. The Fireblade SP is also equipped with Showa’s Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD), a lightweight, through-rod design that mounts on the bottom of the steering stem and attaches to the bottom yoke. HESD is controlled by input from the wheel speed sensors and IMU; 3 levels of control are available.

Rear lift control and ABS-managed brake force relative to lean angle boost confidence on turn-in. New for 24YM the system features now features 3 switchable set ups; STANDARD mode focuses on road-riding performance, with high brake force and less pitching, while TRACK mode offers performance in braking from much higher circuit speeds and does not suppress rear lift. RACE mode switches off the rear ABS function completely, with no Cornering ABS input.

The rear 17-inch 5-spoke cast aluminium rim mounts a 200/55-ZR17 sized tyre, minimising the change in chassis geometry when going from street to track rubber. The front 5-spoke cast aluminium rim mounts a 120/70-ZR17 tyre.

3.4 Aerodynamic Package & Equipment

  • Redesigned middle fairing includes new winglet shaping for high-speed agility; lower fairing features rear aero step to improve rear traction feel
  • 5-inch colour TFT screen and four-way left-hand switch offer intuitive control of riding systems; redline now slides up rpm scale only when engine is at operating temperature
  • Fuel capacity increased to 16.5L
  • Smart Key operation adds convenience

An aggressive fairing design is no mere styling exercise: it’s designed to create a class-leading drag coefficient (with a tucked-in rider under track conditions) and restrict lift under acceleration while improving braking stability.

The fairing mid-section houses re-shaped, more forward-set winglets which now generate downforce ­– to reduce wheelies under acceleration and increase stability on braking and corner entry – with an aerodynamic frontal step. The new design reduces yaw moment through a corner by 10% to make high-speed turning easier.

To make steering easier a convex surface on each side of the front mudguard moves air flow away from the front wheel, smoothly directing it to the fairing sides. Cooling air for radiator and oil cooler is optimised by aerodynamic management of both velocity and pressure of air flowing from the tyre.

A new lower fairing design extends close to the rear tyre and now features an aerodynamic step to reduce airflow around the rear tyre improving handling.

To let air flow around the rider’s feet with minimum resistance the sides of the rear hugger are carefully shaped, while its upper side is cut-out to vent air that channels up from underneath either side of the swingarm, decreasing rear lift.

The fuel tank cover is set low, decreasing the frontal area with the rider prone. It’s been re-shaped to improve the rider’s knee grip and fuel capacity has been increased .4L to 16.5L. At a 35° angle the screen smoothly channels airflow from the upper fairing over the rider and seat cowl, which itself presents the minimum possible drag resistance.

For full and intuitive control of the Fireblade’s systems there’s a high resolution, full colour 5-inch TFT screen. It’s fully customisable to show exactly what the rider wants to see. The compact left-hand switchgear houses a four-way switch; fast and easy to use, the top/bottom buttons set riding mode parameters, while the left/right buttons cycle screen display information.

A new function – to protect the engine – moves the redline down to 8,000rpm on start up; as the coolant temperature reaches its operating zone the redline moves up to just over 14,000rpm.

Honda’s Smart Key System operates the ignition without having to insert a key, and the handlebar lock. This is both convenient in day-to-day use and allows use of a competition-style top yoke, with optimum space for the ram air system. The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade also features Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), that on sudden braking the rear indicators are activated to warn road users behind.

  1. Accessories

A range of Honda Genuine Accessories are available for the 24YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP both individually or as part of the Racing or Comfort accessory Packs.

HRC Race Kit – (not for road use)
HRC has developed a Race Kit for the CBR1000RR-R that ups engine performance, and heightens cornering ability and grip. Available to buy as a complete kit – and for circuit use only – the HRC kit parts include ECU, wiring harness, cylinder head gasket, clutch, quick release rear axle and racing exhaust.

Racing Pack
Adds the detail of speed; Frame Guards and a Tank Pad provide protection, an Alcantara Seat injects style matched by a Red or Black Seat Cowl. An Oil Filler Cap, Sprocket Protector, Wheel Stripes and High Smoked Screen are the finishing touches.

Comfort Pack
Ready to go the distance: A USB Type-C socket makes for easy smartphone charging, plus the flexible carrying capacity of a Tank Bag and Rear Seat Bag.

  1. Technical Specification
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC Inline-4
Engine Displacement (cm³) 1000cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 81mm x 48.5mm
Compression Ratio 13.6:1
Max. Power Output 160kW @ 14,000rpm
Max. Torque 113Nm @ 12,000rpm
Noise Level Lurban 76.2dB, Lwot 81.1dB
Oil Capacity 4.0L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI
Fuel Tank Capacity 16.5L
C02 Emissions WMTC 155g/km
Fuel Consumption 14.9km/L (6.7L/100km)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12-2.3Ah HJ12L(Li-ion
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet, multiplate clutch
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Aluminium Twin Tube composite twin spar
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,105mm x 750mm x 1,140mm
Wheelbase 1,455mm
Caster Angle 24°7’
Trail 101.9mm
Seat Height 830mm
Ground Clearance 130mm
Kerb Weight 201kg

200kg Carbon Edition

SUSPENSION
Type Front Öhlins 43mm S-EC3.0 (Spool Valve) NPX USD forks, with preload, compression and rebound adjustments, 125mm stroke.
Type Rear Öhlins TTX36 S-EC3.0 (Spool Valve) Pro-Link swingarm with preload, compression and rebound damping, 143mm stroke.
WHEELS
Rim Size Front 17 inch x MT3.5
Rim Size Rear 17 inch x MT6.0
Tyres Front 120/70-ZR17 M/C (58W)

Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3

Bridgestone RS11

Tyres Rear 200/55-ZR17 M/C (78W)

Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3

Bridgestone RS11

BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel
Front 330mm disc with radial-mount 4-piston Brembo Stylema R caliper
Rear 220mm disc with 2-piston Brembo caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments TFT-LCD
Security System Honda Smart Key
Headlight LED
Taillight LED
Auto Winker Cancel Yes
Emergency Stop Signals Yes
Quickshifter Yes

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda NX500

Honda’s A2-compatible mini-adventurer gets a new name – and even more rugged style – for 24YM. Power and torque remain the same for the 471cc engine – at 35kW and 43Nm – while an ECU update improves acceleration feel and Honda Selectable Torque Control is now standard. New wheels save 1.5kg of unsprung weight, adding to an overall weight loss of 3kg, and are matched by revised settings for the 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks and rear shock. Dual discs up front are worked by two piston calipers. A brand-new LED headlight opens up better visibility at night while a new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, operated by a simplified and backlit 4-way toggle switch.

  1. Introduction

The CB500X, originally launched in 2013 alongside the naked CB500F (now CB500 Hornet) and fully faired CBR500R, injected crossover adventure style to Honda’s fun-focussed twin-cylinder ‘light middleweight’ trio.

Right from the start it was a motorcycle that, without fanfare, quietly got on with the job of being supremely competent and adaptable for a wide variety of owners.

The usefulness was down to a straightforward equation – a perky, well-regarded twin-cylinder engine which produced real torque and drive from low rpm while revving hard up top – plus a chassis that gave a supremely comfortable ride both around town and out on the open highway, all wrapped up in distinctive adventure styling.

It slipped between the role of short-hop commuter to weekend tourer effortlessly. Long travel suspension ironed out irregular road surfaces, wide handlebars provided leverage, and the upright riding position offered both comfort and a wide field of view for the rider.

In 2016 a first upgrade brought with it a larger fuel tank, more wind protection and taller screen, as well as LED lighting, spring preload-adjustable front forks and adjustable brake lever. The 19YM evolution delivered more sophisticated adventure style, more engine performance and a number of chassis upgrades. 22YM saw the addition of high-quality Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks, dual front discs, lightweight swingarm and redesigned front wheel.

For 24YM Honda’s equation for this bike is improving, but not changing in its essence. The name is new, however. The NX500 is carving out its own identity, with aggressively redesigned styling, premium technology and a variety of detail upgrades that are sure to continue its journey into the hearts and minds of European riders.

  1. Model Overview

The letters NX have quite a history with Honda and the single-cylinder NX650 Dominator – which debuted in the late 1980s with unique mix of road and off-road style – is fondly remembered across Europe.

NX means ‘New X-over’ which is exactly what the new NX500 is. Fun on a winding road, fun on a gravel trail and ready to go the distance, its all-round credentials are reinforced with an impressive update to its adventure styling. The wheels too are lighter, and the suspension settings front and rear have been upgraded to improve ride quality.

The A2-compliant, slipper clutch-equipped twin-cylinder engine benefits from the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as ECU updates to improve acceleration.

The 24YM NX500 will be available in the following colour options:

Grand Prix Red

Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic

Pearl Horizon White

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Sharp new adventure style incorporates aerodynamics to improve stability at speed
  • New LED headlight and taillight
  • New 5-inch full colour TFT screen includes Honda RoadSync connectivity for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and access to other smartphone functions
  • New, simplified left hand switchgear easy to use and backlit for night-time

Directed by the design theme of ‘Daily Crossover’, wherever it goes – city block, winding road, highway or gravel trail – the NX500 looks the part, wearing new style that mixes compact adventure-style usability with an imposing silhouette and solidity of form

A new LED headlight design maintains beam penetration but throws out wider light distribution for increased visibility when riding – and cornering – at night. It’s matched to a new LED taillight. All other lighting is also LED.

Premium technology – in the form of a brand new, 5-inch full colour TFT screen inherited from the XL750 Transalp – uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight, a first for a Honda motorcycle. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin glare is reduced, and backlight transmittance improved. It’s customisable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns and also offers the IOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

This new feature – alongside a simplified, easy-to-use, backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. All an owner has to do is download the Honda RoadSync app from the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the NX500, and go.

A slim seat profile allows for free movement around the machine and aids easy ground reach and, to help manoeuvrability, the steering angle is 38° from centred to full lock.

Gunmetal grey tapered steel handlebar elevate control further still. Seat height is 830mm and the upright riding position is very accommodating, while providing excellent visibility. Overall dimensions are 2,165mm x 830mm x 1,415mm, with 180mm ground clearance.

The fuel tank holds 17.5L including reserve, and, combined with the engine’s excellent fuel economy of 3.6L/100km (27.8km/l) (WMTC mode), gives a range of over 480km.

3.2 Chassis

  • 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks and rear shock feature fine-tuned settings
  • New, lighter weight wheels
  • Dual 296mm discs, Nissin axial mount two piston calipers

Light, strong and unchanged for 24YM, the 35mm diameter steel diamond-tube mainframe has a tuned degree of yield that gives plenty of feedback to the rider as road surfaces change. The shape and position of the engine mounts, plus the frame’s rigidity balance, keep vibration to a minimum.

Wheelbase is 1,445mm with rake and trail of 27.5°/108mm and front/rear bias percentage of 48.7/51.3. Kerb weight is 196kg – 3kg lighter than the CB500X.

Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks divide the functions – Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other – and reaction and ride quality are top draw. They feature 135mm axle travel (150mm cushion stroke) and have new spring rate and damping settings to improve reaction and feel for both road and off-road riding.

The single-tube shock absorber, with 135mm axle travel (60mm cushion stroke) has new settings to match the front and its large-diameter piston ensures excellent temperature management; it offers 5-stage preload adjustment. Constructed from 2mm steel, the swingarm employs a hollow cross member – it is stiff rotationally and flexible laterally to improve handling.

Completely new are the cast aluminium wheels. Going from a conventional Y-shaped 7-spoke design to Y-shaped 5-spokes saves 800g front and 700g rear. This reduction of unsprung weight works with the revised suspension settings to improve handling and feel in all situations. The 19-inch front is matched to a 17-inch rear; trail-pattern tyres are sized 110/80-R19 and 160/60-R17.

Dual 296mm front discs are worked by Nissin axial mount, two-piston calipers; the rear 240mm disc a single-piston caliper.

3.3 Engine

  • Lively twin-cylinder powerplant now equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • New PGM-FI settings improve low-rpm acceleration and power delivery across the rev-range
  • Assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts and manages rear wheel through downshifts

The A2-licence friendly 471cc, 8-valve liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder layout offers a well-proportioned balance of physical size and willing, enjoyable power output, with an energetic, high-revving character and zappy top end. And it’s very much an engine whose overall performance and character belie its relatively small capacity; peak power of 35kW arrives at 8,600rpm, with 43Nm torque delivered at 6,500rpm.

A 24YM addition is HSTC to manage rear wheel traction for increased peace of mind and a real boost for rider confidence. The system compares front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear slip and controls the fuel injection to smoothly reduce torque. HSTC can also be turned off completely if the rider wishes.

Feeding the PGM-FI fuel injection is a more-or-less straight shot of airflow through the airbox and throttle bodies. Optimisation of ignition timing and air/fuel ratio equals more powerful acceleration feel from low rpm, with linear power delivery and throttle feel. The exhaust muffler features dual exit pipes, giving a sporting edge to each pulse, and a rasping high-rpm howl.

Bore and stroke are set at 67mm x 66.8mm and compression ratio is 10.7:1; the crankshaft pins are phased at 180° and a primary couple-balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s centre of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couple-balance and its light weight allows the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four frame hangers. Internally the cylinder head uses roller rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear. Inlet valve diameter is 26.0mm with exhaust valve diameter of 21.5mm. Piston shape is carefully designed to reduce piston ‘noise’ at high rpm. Friction is reduced by striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area, introducing gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication).

The ‘triangle’ proportion of crankshaft, main shaft and countershaft is efficiently compact and the crankcases employ centrifugally cast thin-walled sleeves; their internal design reduces the ‘pumping’ losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. A deep sump reduces oil movement under hard cornering and braking; oil capacity is 3.2L.

A slick-changing six-speed gearbox is managed by an assist/slipper clutch, eliminating rear wheel ‘hop’ under hard braking and downshifting.

  1. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories designed in parallel with the motorcycle for perfect cohesion are available for the NX500, as individual innovative parts that complement the unit or grouped in packs, and ready to bolt straight on with an official Honda guarantee:

Adventure Pack
For the rigours of the open road, the Adventure Pack enhances the off-roader appearance while adding extra comfort and protection. Fog Lights improve visibility in poor weather conditions and are mounted on top of the Front Side Pipes, finished in black, which help to protect the motorcycle. The Knuckle Guards protect the hands from the cold and flying debris, while the Smoked Screen and Wheel Stripes add style. A Tank Pad shields paint from zip damage.

Travel Pack
A set of dual 16.5L semi-rigid plastic panniers with an easy attachment system combine with a Rear Seat Bag with up to 22L of capacity make traveling easier.

Urban Pack
For daily riding in and out of town this is the perfect setup; a 38L Top Box offers plenty of storage space and comes complete with Pillion Backrest and handy Inner Bag. The Main Stand allows easy chain maintenance and convenient parking on uneven surfaces.

Comfort Pack
For added comfort and practicality, the Heated Grips take the cold out of winter days, with up to 5 heat levels and memory function while being displayed on the TFT. The Wind Deflectors help keep turbulent traveling air away from the rider’s lower body. An ACC Socket offers a charging point under the seat and the 3L Tank Bag allows convenient carrying with a see-through pocket for smartphones and a rain cover.

All the accessories featured in packs can also be purchased individually.

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC parallel twin
Displacement 471cc
Bore and stroke 67mm x 66.8mm
Compression Ratio 10.7: 1
Max. Power Output 35kW @ 8,600rpm
Max. Torque 43Nm @ 6,500rpm
Noise Level Lurban 74.0dB Lwot 77.0dB
Oil Capacity 3.2L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.5L (inc reserve)
CO2 Emissions WMTC 82 g/km
Fuel Consumption (WMTC) 3.6L/100km / 27.8km/l (WMTC mode)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery Capacity 12V 7.4AH
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet multiplate, Assisted slipper clutch
Transmission Type 6 speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L´W´H) 2,165mm x 830mm x 1,415mm
Wheelbase 1,445mm
Caster Angle 27.5°
Trail 108mm
Seat Height 830mm
Ground Clearance 180mm
Kerb Weight 196kg
Turning radius 2.4m
SUSPENSION
Type Front Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks,
Type Rear Prolink mono with 5 stage preload adjuster, steel hollow cross swingarm
WHEELS
Type Front Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Type Rear Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Rim Size Front 19M/C X MT2.5
Rim Size Rear 17M/C X MT4.5
Tyres Front 110/80R19M/C59H
Tyres Rear 160/60R17M/C69H
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel
Type Front Dual 296mm x 4mm disc with Nissin axial mounted two piston calipers
Type Rear Single 240mm x 5mm disc with single piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments 5in TFT Meter with customisable layout, including but not limited to Speedometer, Tachometer, Clock, Gear position, Shift UP Indicator
Headlight LED
Taillight LED
Connectivity Yes (Honda RoadSync)
USB No
12V Socket Optional
Auto Winker Cancel No
Quickshifter No
Security System HISS (Honda Intelligent Security System)
Cruise Control No
Additional Features ESS

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

New Honda CB1000 Hornet, return of the CBR600RR and innovative Honda E-Clutch

New CB1000 Hornet, return of the CBR600RR and innovative Honda E-Clutch headline Honda’s full 24YM European line-up reveal at EICMA.

Today at EICMA in Milan, Honda unveiled its full 24YM line-up, featuring four new model names, significant upgrades to a further four models – two of which will be available with a world-first motorcycle technology – and a concept version of the next all-electric vehicle destined to join Honda’s uniquely broad and varied range.

New CB1000 Hornet
Headlining the unveiling is the introduction of the new head of Honda’s growing Hornet family – the CB1000 Hornet.

The new flagship naked will be powered by a retuned version of the in-line four-cylinder powerplant from the 2017YM CBR1000RR Fireblade, that delivers peak power of over 110kW and more than 100Nm of torque.

Wrapping the engine is an all-new steel twin spar frame that will offer a unique blend of dynamic cornering performance and stability, via Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) suspension adjustable for both compression and rebound, matched to a Pro-link rear Showa shock.

The styling is pure and aggressive. Led by the piercing gaze of super-compact dual LED projector headlights, the Hornet-signature fuel tank – with wings folded forward – is broad shouldered up front but tapers radically to the rear, mirrored by the minimal seat unit that underlines the traditional narrow-waisted Hornet look. The new frame is also used as a design feature, but subtly blacked out – like the tubular trellis-style rear subframe.

Electronic aids will run via Throttle By Wire and allow the rider to choose between 3 riding modes, displayed on the 5-inch TFT colour display; connectivity is available for both Android and iOS devices via Honda RoadSync.

New CB500 Hornet
The Hornet family will have a new third member in Honda’s 24YM line-up – the CB500 Hornet, which brings new, aggressive styling inspired by its two bigger siblings, and aerodynamic performance that befit the iconic Hornet name.

The CB500 Hornet’s fairing incorporates headlight side ducts that channel air to the upper fuel tank area, contributing to a linear steering feel with outstanding handling agility. A new LED throws its light out wider for increased visibility.

Power and torque for the 471cc engine meet maximum A2 licence requirements – at 35kW and 43Nm – while updated fuel injection settings improve acceleration feel from low down, and the CB500 Hornet now features HSTC for increased peace of mind.

The high-quality chassis specification includes 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks, Showa rear shock and dual discs up front with four-piston calipers, while a new 5-inch TFT screen offers Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity.

New CBR600RR
After a six-year absence from Honda’s European line-up, the much-loved – and razor-sharp –  CBR600RR returns for 24YM to reinvigorate the middleweight super sports category. Loaded with cutting-edge MotoGP-inspired electronics and aerodynamics, the new CBR600RR is a free-revving four-cylinder motorcycling gem powered by an engine substantially upgraded from its previous incarnation to deliver peak power of 89kW at 14,250rpm and 63Nm of torque at 11,500rpm.

The sweet-handling chassis package deliver both instant changes of direction and stability through its twin-spar aluminium frame with aluminium swingarm, 41mm Showa Big Piston USD front forks, Unit Pro-Link Showa rear shock and fairings featuring MotoGP-derived winglets.

The CBR600RR’s new comprehensive electronics package benefits from the use of a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), as found in the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, and includes Throttle By Wire control, 5 Riding Modes, Cornering ABS, 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Wheelie Control, Rear Lift Control and Emergency Stop Signals. Honda Electronic Steering Damper, an assist/slipper clutch and quickshifter are also standard fit.

New NX500
The iconic ‘NX’ designation returns to Honda’s line-up in the form of the new NX500.

Meaning ‘New X-over’, the NX500 is designed to be enjoyed on everything from a winding road to a gravel trail or long-distance adventure. Building on the popularity of the outgoing CB500X, it features new styling and a range of specification and performance upgrades.

Handling dynamics and feel are improved thanks to a 3 kilogram reduction (1.5kg of which comes from new lightweight 5-spoke cast aluminium wheels) in kerb weight to 196kg, revised spring rate and damping for the Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) upside down forks, and sharper acceleration thanks to new fuel injection settings.

Further spec upgrades come in the form of a new 5-inch TFT screen, Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity and HSTC. Led by a new headlight, the styling is completely refreshed, with new plastics from front to back mixing compact adventure-style usability with an imposing silhouette and solidity of form.

CBR500R
The gateway machine to Honda’s CBR super sports family is also significantly upgraded for 24YM.

Crisp and comprehensively updated, the Fireblade-inspired styling includes new headlight and taillight, plus revised bodywork featuring winglets for improved front end feel. New graphics and colours amplify the CBR500R’s ‘baby Blade’ look and new fuel injection settings improve low rpm acceleration.

The new 5-inch full colour TFT screen is operated by easy-to-use backlit switchgear, and is the interface for the new connectivity of Honda RoadSync.

CB650R and CBR650R
Honda’s CB650R naked middleweight and its sibling, the CBR650R, both receive a style refresh and new technology for 24YM.

The CB650R’s Neo Sports Café unique look has evolved to make it a sinuous, more dynamic and purposeful-looking machine. Led from the front by the new slanted LED headlight, it features new radiator shrouds and a sharper new rear fairing complete with new taillight.

For its CBR sibling, redesigned dual LED headlights are matched with updated upper and lower fairings that, along with the redesigned tail unit, combine muscularity with slim lines and attractive angles to ramp up the CBR650R’s pure sporting appeal.

Both bikes feature Honda RoadSync connectivity a new 5-inch full colour TFT screen designed for optimal readability on bright days.

Honda E-Clutch
The CB650R and CBR650R are also the first Honda motorcycles to be available with the innovative Honda E-Clutch technology, the world’s first fully automatic clutch for a multi-geared motorcycle, designed to make motorcycling, from beginner right through to expert, even more enjoyable and exciting.

Honda E-Clutch takes away the need to use the clutch lever to make a shift either up or down the gearbox. The rider simply has to operate the shift pedal for ultra-fast, consistent gear changes, exactly as if using a quickshifter. During the gear change, it uses a harmonised combination of ‘half-clutch’ operation, fuel injection cut and ignition control to eliminate shift shock for an ultra-smooth ride.

The clutch lever is also not needed when pulling away or coming to a stop. Becoming active as soon as the engine is switched on, the Honda E-Clutch system manages both scenarios smoothly, and if the rider desires, they are able to operate the clutch lever as normal. Should the rider want to turn off the system for a particular ride, this is also possible via the instrument panel.

CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP
24YM sees the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and its SP version drive further up their development curve with a host of engine and gearbox updates that produce a major mid-range performance boost and improved throttle response.

Harnessing a huge amount of HRC development and knowhow, the delivery of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP’s 113Nm torque and 160kW has been substantially changed to generate even more corner exit acceleration alongside its prodigious top-end power. This is further heightened by new shorter gear ratios and primary drive, redesigned middle fairing with new winglets plus a revised, lighter and more pliant frame.

The addition of 2-Motor Throttle By Wire increases part-throttle control and also allows amplified engine braking. Lighter crankcases, crankshaft and conrods, together with revised valve timing and raised compression ratio, ensure that the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP draws more performance from every combustion cycle, while changes to the standard fit Akrapovič muffler reduce exhaust volume by 5dB..

The SP version of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade is the first bike in the world to use the new, third generation Öhlins Smart Electronic 43mm S-EC3.0 (SV) NPX USD forks. It also features a digital spring preload guide via the instrument panel, which has been developed to allow riders a clear and easy way to set their Fireblade up perfectly. New Brembo Stylema R four-piston radial mount brake calipers offer consistently high braking performance.

CRF1100L Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports
EICMA will also mark the public debut of the 24YM CRF1100L Africa Twin and its Adventure Sports variant, which carry a series of performance and practical updates for 24YM.

Both models benefit from a 7% increase in maximum torque – delivered 750rpm earlier in the rpm range – thanks to changes in compression ratio, valve timing, intake ports and ECU settings. Revisions to the Dual Clutch Transmission gearbox bring earlier downshifts to match the new engine performance, improved cornering detection and a more natural feel on initial take off and between first and second gears.

Practicality is improved with the addition of tubeless tyres for easier roadside repair, and a larger, 5 way adjustable screen.

The CRF1100L Africa Twin itself will now be available for the first time with the option of Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERA), which offers optimised damping in all riding conditions, as well as the ability to change rear spring preload on the move via the 6.5in touchscreen display.

The road-going capabilities of the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports are heightened by a new 19” front wheel and wider front tyre, plus more weather protection from a broader front fairing and the larger screen, plus greater comfort from the more thickly-padded seat.

SC e: Concept
Also on display at Honda’s EICMA stand is the SC e: Concept, a concept version of the company’s second electric two-wheeler for European customers, following the arrival to key markets of the EM1 e: electric moped in 2023.

The SC e: Concept features distinctive, ultra-modern design lines, large flat floor and long wide seat. It will be equipped with two of the swappable Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries for a longer riding range, supporting customers looking for emission-free, quiet, compact urban mobility with the added benefit of being able to recharge in the comfort of home.

The ‘SC’ stands for scooter, meaning anyone with an A1 licence will be able to ride the mass production version which is due to arrive by 2025.

Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, Ltd.
“Following the resounding sales success of the new Hornet and Transalp in 2023, which has helped grow our sales volume by over 30%, the addition of four more new model names and significant upgrades to flagships like the Africa Twin and Fireblade promise another bright year ahead in 2024.

We continue to enhance and enrich our range with the arrival of the beautiful new CB1000 Hornet, the return of the much-loved CBR600RR and the addition – for the CB650R and CBR650R – of the unique Honda E-Clutch, which marks another world first for Honda.

Alongside this, it’s exciting for us to be introducing the SC e: Concept, which will go into production by 2025, and is a sure-footed next step on the electrification journey for our two-wheeled line-up.”

New colours for 2024 Honda ADV350, Forza 125 and Forza 350

Three of Honda’s most popular European models receive striking new colour updates for 24YM.

The ADV350 will be available in four new contemporary colours: Matt Coal Black Metallic, Pearl Falcon Gray, Matt Pearl Cool White and Matt Pearl Pacific Blue.

Introduced in 22YM, the ADV350 mixes the sophistication of a premium scooter with the ability to deal with the roughest of tarmac and comes wrapped in rugged adventure styling. Taking its style inspiration directly from the X-ADV, the ADV350 features motorcycle-style USD forks, tubular steel frame, remote reservoir rear shocks, ample ground clearance, underseat storage space for two full-face helmets, plus a USB charging port and the convenience of Smart Key operation. The screen is height-adjustable and the LCD instrument panel integrates with Honda RoadSync to keep riders connected while on the move.

This combination of unique styling, practicality and versatility made the ADV350 Honda’s best-selling model over 125cc in 2022, a position occupied by the CB750 Hornet in 2023, closely followed by the ADV350.

Both Honda’s smaller Forza scooters also receive new colours for 2024. The Forza name has long been a powerful force in Honda’s two-wheeled line-up, offering a premium mix of sporty and GT elements. Last year, the Forza 125 and Forza 350 received a sleek new redesign, with new chiselled dual headlights and front fairings inspired by the range topping Forza 750. Both boast an extensive standard equipment specification including HSTC, electric screen adjustment, USB Type-C socket, underseat storage space for two full-face helmets, full LED lighting and Smart Key operation.

The Forza 125 – which has sold over 115,000 units since its introduction in 2015 – will be available in new Pearl Sienna Red, which joins Matt Cynos Gray Metallic, Pearl Falcon Gray and Matt Pearl Pacific Blue which carry over from last year. The Forza 125 Special Edition, in Matt Cynos Gray Metallic with red wheels, seat stitching, dial surrounds, logos and detailing, blacked-out pillion footpegs and stainless-steel floor plates, is also still available.

The Forza 125’s stablemate Forza 350 has sold over 73,000 units since its European introduction as the Forza 300 in 2013. For 24YM, it will be available in new Pearl Nightstar Black and Matt Pearl Cool White, which join Matt Pearl Pacific Blue (which for 24YM now features new black wheels) Matt Cynos Gray Metallic and Pearl Falcon Grey.

All three models are manufactured at Honda Italia Industriale SpA on the Adriatic coast. With a history that dates back to 1971, the factory has produced 40 different types of motorcycle and 30 different scooter models.

See behind the scenes at Atessa:

The Forza 125, Forza 350 and ADV350 will start to arrive to dealers by in December.

2024 Honda SH125i

The SH125i is of Europe’s most popular scooters for many reasons: its rich specification includes a four-valve eSP+ engine with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Idling Stop, sleek signature SH style with flat floor design, LCD dash, full LED lighting, 28L storage space, USB Type-C socket and Smart Key operation.

For 24YM the new SH125i Vetro headlines the broad line-up, which also includes a new colour and five new colour combinations to maintain its premium desirability.

  1. Introduction

Part of the million plus selling SH family whose founding member, the SH50, went on sale in 1984, the four-stroke Honda SH125i first hit the market in Europe in 2001. Ever since, it has quietly and consistently gone about its mission to provide stylish, fun and fuss-free transport – becoming one of the continent’s favourites along the way.

That first machine laid down the blueprint for success: a frugal-natured but lively engine tied to nimble, sure-footed handling underpinned by the stability that large diameter 16-inch wheels deliver – all wrapped in elegant, premium styling.

Fuel injected with PGM-FI in 05YM, over the last 19 years the SH125i has come to represent the ultimate in urban transport with the perfect balance of style, reliability, economy and downright usability.

And of course, its story is one of constant, careful evolution reflecting the developing needs and expectations of owners, and Honda’s desire to keep on giving them an even better version of their SH. In 13YM it gained Honda’s eSP (enhanced Smart Power) low friction engine and Idling Stop, boosting both power delivery and fuel economy. And in 17YM the look was refreshed with more chiselled design lines, and LED front/rear lights and Honda Smart Key added.

In 20YM the SH125i – manufactured at Honda’s Atessa factory in Italy – was, effectively, a brand-new scooter. Standing squarely on the shoulders of its forbears it instantly became faster, even more stylish, comfortable, convenient to use and as cost-effective as ever to own and run.

24YM sees the arrival of a new colour, five new colour combinations and a very special celebration of Honda Italia Industriale that adds extra desirability to one of Europe’s favourites two wheelers.

  1. Model Overview

The SH125i is built for life and features plenty of ever-useful storage space plus a USB socket. The rear suspension geometry is optimised for comfort, 16-inch wheels roll smoothly, while stylishly simple bodywork and front signature define and reinforce the SH125i’s presence. Full LED lighting and crisp LCD dash are premium finishing touches.

The EURO5+ compliant four-valve eSP+ engine produces 9.6kW @ 8,250rpm power, 12Nm torque, returns 45.7km/l (WMTC mode) and features Idling Stop technology. HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) to manage rear wheel traction is also a bonus for an owner’s peace of mind.

Five configurations are on offer:

Standard SH125i without accessories

SH125i with Smart top box

SH125i with Smart top box, knuckle guards and windscreen

SH125i with standard top box

SH125i with standard top box, knuckle guards and windscreen.

For 24YM SH125i will be available in the following colour options:

Pearl Falcon Gray with NEW blacked out wheels and details

Matt Pearl Cool White with NEW blacked out wheels and details

Matt Pearl Pacific Blue with NEW blacked out wheels and details

Pearl Nightstar Black with NEW blacked out wheels and details

Two sportier colour schemes are also available with additional black detailing around the controls and front and lower fairings. Red stitching on the seat and bold new graphic, add further contemporary appeal:

**NEW** Matt Pearl Cool White – with red SH logo on side fairing and large white Honda logo on a black lower fairing

Matt Coal Black Metallic – with red SH logo on side fairing and a NEW large red Honda logo on the lower fairing

The new 24YM SH125i Vetro is available in the following colour option:

Vetro Green with Shadow Black lower fairing – with silver SH logo on the side fairing and a large white Honda logo on the lower fairing

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Stylish, SH signature flat-floored design
  • 28L total under seat storage capacity, with USB socket
  • All lighting LED with LCD instrument dash
  • New range-headlining SH125i Vetro

Smooth and solid describe the sleek, unified body style, with the tension between the two reinforcing a premium presence. And the SH125i’s ‘face’ sets it apart – the fairing-mounted headlight (almost an LED ‘H’) features a central main beam splitting dual dip beams, while position lights reside above on the handlebar nacelle.

The elegant looks are matched to effortless practicality. The overall compactness, flat floor and upright riding position (essential for ease-of-use and visibility in busy town traffic) are conspicuous hallmarks of the SH look. Less obvious is the 28L of underseat storage, capable of holding a full-face helmet. A USB charging point is also included.

The flat seat provides plenty of support and room to move around and its carefully contoured shape, plus slim floor width, makes reaching the ground easy. As many journeys around town involve a pillion there’s plenty of room for two; retractable aluminium pillion footplates tuck away when not in use and provide a stable platform – especially under braking – when needed for the passenger.

The rear light is LED with a chrome surround, matching the front, and the LCD dash presents all warning lights – including Smart Key, HSTC/ABS and Idling Stop operation – neatly around a central digital speedo/odometer display. All operations on the dash are carried out via A/B buttons on the left handlebar.

The SH125i Smart Key resides in the rider’s pocket and does away with the need to constantly insert and withdraw a key for ignition, fuel cap and seat. It has two switches: the smart function on/off and ‘answer back’, which flickers the indicators for identification from a distance.

With the Smart Key present one push of the machine-mounted main switch powers it up and makes it possible to turn, giving the rider control of the ignition and steering lock, and, via two rocker switches, the fuel cap and seat. It also illuminates when pushed – or from the answer back function of the Smart Key – with a blue light.

For 24YM the SH125i Vetro (meaning ‘glass’ in Italian) is a celebration of the craftmanship and technical skills of the team at Honda Italia Industriale’s factory in Atessa on Italy’s Adriatic coast, and a model unique in the marketplace.

Production of the Vetro’s distinctive semi-transparent unpainted green fairing panels produces 9.5% less COemissions over a year of production compared to those of the ‘standard’ colouring schemes – a new way of reducing environmental impact.

The SH125i Vetro also features a black front mudguard and black lower fairing with a bold white Honda logo. A silver SH logo also appears on the upper fairing.

3.2 Engine

  • Four-valve eSP+ engine produces 9.6kW peak power and 12Nm torque
  • First Honda engine to meet stronger EURO5+ emissions regulations
  • Also employs Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • Idling Stop and low-friction technologies

The SH125i’s lively 125cc liquid-cooled four-valve enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) engine produces peak power of 9.6kW @ 8,250rpm with 12Nm torque delivered at 6,500rpm, and is the first Honda engine to meeting the stronger EURO5+ emissions regulations.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is technology to boost rider confidence in wet conditions and works in the background to deftly manage rear wheel traction. An indicator flashes on the dash when HSTC is actively reducing wheelspin and the system can also be turned off completely.

Bore is set at 53.5mm with stroke of 55.5mm; compression ratio is 11.5:1. The compact engine is a masterpiece of mass centralisation. The radiator, rather than being mounted at the front of the machine is built into the engine itself for a simple, light layout. Its highly efficient core allows for the use of an ultra-compact, light cooling fan.

Low-friction technologies are employed internally; the cylinder sleeve uses minute splines on its outer surface to keep oil consumption low and improve cooling and the cylinder is offset to keep frictional losses to a minimum. Rolling resistance within the transmission is kept in check by the use of three main bearings, all designed to deal with the loads they each individually receive. The result of all these measures is an outstanding fuel economy (without Idling Stop activated) of 45.7km/l (WMTC mode).

Another key fuel-saving technology incorporated into the SH125i is Idling Stop. It’s operated via a switch on the right handlebar and, when enabled, automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle and re-starts it instantly when the throttle grip is twisted.

It is seamless in use, thanks to a swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake, and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance due to compression. The ACG starter also generates electricity, doing away with a conventional system’s motor and gears.

3.3 Chassis

  • High-tensile tubular steel underbone frame 
  • Optimised rear suspension geometry ride comfort
  • 16-inch front and rear wheels deliver sure-footed confidence

The high-tensile tubular steel underbone frame sites the 7L fuel tank under the floor beneath the rider’s feet, which frees up 10L additional space. Wheelbase is set at 1,350mm with rake and trail of 26°/85.2mm and turning radius of 2.05m. Seat height is 799mm with wet weight of 133.9kg.

For ride comfort the engine hanger link angle and rear suspension angle are optimised to reduce rotational load toward the engine link, making for supple bump absorption and control.

Lightweight 16-inch aluminium die-cast wheels have always been key to the SH125i’s sure-footed handling ability and stability on a variety of road surfaces and mount Michelin City Grip tubeless tyres sized 100/80-16 front and 120/80-16 rear.

The rear shocks feature 5-step preload adjustment with 83mm axle travel. The 33mm telescopic front forks, with 89mm of travel, ensure excellent road holding and are tuned to give a compliant, yet controlled ride. ABS is fitted as standard; both front and rear discs have a 240mm diameter; the front caliper is a two-piston design, the rear a single.

  1. Accessories

A range of genuine Honda accessories are available for the SH125i including:

  • Colour-matched 35-litre Top box & rear carrier kit, available with both Smart technology and manual with Honda One-Key system
  • A clear tall Windscreen adds weather protection to the rider.
  • The Knuckle guards deflect cold wind away from the rider’s hands.
  • Outdoor Cover
  • Top box inner bag with the Honda wing logo and adjustable shoulder belt and carrying handles.
  1. Technical Specifications 
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC
Engine Displacement (cm³) 125 cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 53.5 x 55.5
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Max. Power Output 9.6kW/8,250rpm
Max. Torque 12Nm/6,500rpm
Oil Capacity 1L
Noise Level (dB) Lwot – 75.1

Lurban – 73.8

FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 7L
Fuel Consumption 45.7km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V7Ah
ACG Output 570w/5,000rpm
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Automatic; centrifugal
Transmission Type CVT
Final Drive V-Belt
FRAME
Type Tubular steel underbone
CHASSIS
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2,090mm x 730mm x 1,130mm
Wheelbase 1,350mm
Caster Angle 26°
Trail 85.2mm
Seat Height 799mm
Ground Clearance 145mm
Kerb Weight 133.9kg
Turning radius 2.05m
SUSPENSION
Type Front Telescopic 33mm
Type Rear Dual-damper unit swing arm
WHEELS
Rim Size Front 16M/C x MT2.50
Rim Size Rear 16M/C x MT2.75
Tyres Front 100/80-16 inch
Tyres Rear 120/80-16 inch
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2 channel
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments Honda Smart Key, USB charger
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda SH Mode 125

Honda’s fashionable SH variant received a full refresh in 2021. Updates included a LED headlight, next-generation enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF), enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine, and wheels fitted with fuel-saving tyres. Included in the specification is a glovebox with USB Type-A socket, generous under-seat storage and Smart Key operation. 

For 24YM the SH Mode receives two new contemporary colours to maintain its appeal and desirability with European riders.

  1. Introduction

Since the arrival of the original SH50 in 1984, the enduring popularity of Honda’s SH scooter series has earned it the status of a brand within a brand, relied upon by people all over Europe as an integral part of their daily lives.

During that time, the SH family has constantly grown and evolved, with sales totalling over 1.2 million units produced since its introduction thanks to excellent engine performance and fuel economy plus nimble, sure-footed handling and reassuring stability – from 16-inch wheels – on rougher roads.

On sale in Europe since summer 2014, the SH Mode 125 has broadened the appeal of the SH family to a younger audience. It’s proved a smart scooter in every sense, very much of the moment, with its deft combination of on-trend style, confidence-inspiring performance and low running costs.

In 2021, a brand-new SH Mode 125 was unveiled. Designed to reflect the evolving aspirations, desires and expectations of an ever-growing audience of young Honda riders, for 24YM the SH Mode 125 benefits from two new contemporary colours for heightened visual appeal.

  1. Model Overview

A chic refresh enhanced the SH Mode 125 in 21YM, led by an attractive LED headlight for its distinctive face. Underneath, the SH Mode 125 benefitted from a new, lighter steel ‘enhanced Smart Architecture Frame’ (eSAF) and more powerful (and fuel efficient) enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine and new aluminium wheels wearing fuel-saving tyres.

Practically was also improved. Storage space was increased under the seat and a handy glovebox was installed on the left inner fairing, with a USB Type-A socket for charging duties. Smart Key operation of ignition and seat – from the rider’s pocket – was the premium finishing touch.

For 24YM, the SH Mode 125 receives two new contemporary colours that join the classic Pearl Jasmine White and Mat Techno Silver that carry over from last year.

The 24YM SH Mode 125 will be available in the following colour options:

**NEW** Candy Luster Red

**NEW** Matt Galaxy Black Metallic

Pearl Jasmine White

Mat Techno Silver Metallic

  1. Key Features 

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Wide, flat floor for ample leg room
  • LED headlight for sharp front look
  • Generous storage under the seat, USB charging socket in the glovebox
  • Smart Key operation of ignition and seat as standard

The elegant 2021 update added more appeal and desirability to the SH Mode 125, with a sharp LED headlight elevating road presence. Practical enhancements were not overlooked, with an extended flat floor giving more generous leg room.

The 765mm seat height and other specifications are unchanged for 24YM. The glovebox on the left houses a USB Type-A socket for charging a smartphone. The 18.5L under-seat storage compartment includes luggage hooks for load security.

The SH Mode 125 uses a Smart Key. Kept in a pocket, it controls both ignition and seat locking, adding genuine convenience in support of busy urban life.

The meter panel is laid out so all the most important information is instantly easy to read. A large, dial-style central speedometer is surrounded by Idling Stop indicator and turn signal warning light. A fuel gauge is located to the centre and the odometer, trip meter and clock are housed in a central LCD display; buttons control information displayed.

The main stand is carefully sited at just the right contact area on the ground for the rider’s foot, making it easier to use. In addition, a side stand is standard equipment. Passengers are not forgotten, either. They have a comfortable space plus folding footplates and grab rails integrated into the large die-cast aluminium rack.

3.2 Engine

  • eSP+ four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine
  • The engine features Idling Stop
  • 50km/l fuel efficiency

The SH Mode 125’s enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine delivers 8.4kW@ 8,500rpm, with peak torque of 12.1Nm @ 5,000rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 53.5 x 55.5mm, with compression ratio of 11.5:1.

The flat linear torque curve from low rpm is perfect for urban environments and riders with diverse riding experience. And, thanks to the engine’s fuel efficiency of approximately 50km/l, (WMTC mode) and 5.5L tank, range is approximately 275km between fill ups.

Honda’s eSP low-friction technologies are found throughout the engine; clever packaging of items like the oil pump (which is built in to the crankcase) help to further ensure efficiency. A compact combustion chamber and PGM-FI fuel injection optimises burning velocity and cooling performance.

An offset cylinder reduces friction caused by contact between piston and bore, efficiently transmitting combustion energy to the crankshaft. A ‘spiny’ cast-iron sleeve – with tiny surface extensions – keeps in check any distortion of the inner bore diameter. This design lowers tension in the piston ring, reducing friction.

A high-efficiency radiator – integrated into the exterior of the right-side crankcase – employs a small, light fan reducing frictional losses and lowering drag. Rolling resistance within the transmission unit is reduced by the use of three low-friction main bearings, all designed to deal with the loads they individually receive. The drive pulley features a fin design that lowers air resistance and the follower pulley reduces pressure on the drive belt, cutting transmission losses.

The electronically controlled, brushless ACG starter is an integrated component mounted directly on the end of the crankshaft, serving as starter motor and alternator. It spins the engine directly, eliminating any noise from gear engagement or meshing.

Idling Stop automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle when the scooter is stationary and the brakes applied, and re-starts it instantly when the throttle grip is twisted. It’s seamless in use thanks to ACG and the swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake, and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance from compression. It has the functionality to ‘read’ the battery charge and turns itself off to avoid excessive drain.

3.3 Chassis

  • Light enhanced Smart Architecture Frame
  • Tyres reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency

The SH Mode 125 features an enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF) Constructed from lightweight pressed steel it offers good handling feel, with enhanced stability, ride comfort and durability.

Rake is set at 26° 30’, with 69.5mm trail and wheelbase of 1,305mm (from 27°, 68mm and 1305mm). Overall dimensions are compact: (LxWxH) of 1950mm x 670mm x 1100mm, with a ground clearance, at 150mm. Combined with a kerb weight of 118kg, the overall result is an outstandingly agile and user-friendly city scooter.

The telescopic forks feature 89mm travel, the rear suspension – with 5-stage adjustable spring preload – has 75mm travel. The 16-inch cast-aluminium front wheel mounts an 80/90-16 tyre, the 14-inch rear wheel a 100/90-14; with tyres designed to reduce drag and improve overall fuel efficiency.

Up front the 220mm hydraulic disc brake links to a rear 130mm drum via CBS, ensuring smooth and evenly distributed braking force at all times, including hard and emergency stops.

  1. Accessories

A range of genuine Honda accessories are available for the SH Mode 125 including:

A 35-litre Top box & rear carrier kit, with Honda One-Key system lock

  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC
Engine Displacement (cm³) 125 cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 53.5 x 55.5mm
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Max. Power Output 8.4kW@ 8,500rpm
Max. Torque 12.1Nm @ 5,000rpm
Oil Capacity 0.9L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 5.5L
Fuel Consumption 50km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V7Ah
ACG Output 570w/5,000rpm
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Automatic; centrifugal
Transmission Type CVT
Final Drive V-Belt
FRAME
Type Tubular steel underbone
CHASSIS
Dimensions (LxWxH) 1950mm x 670mm x 1100mm
Wheelbase 1,305mm
Caster Angle 26° 30’
Trail 69.5mm
Seat Height 765mm
Ground Clearance 150mm
Kerb Weight 118kg
Turning radius 1.97m
SUSPENSION
Type Front Telescopic 33mm – 89mm travel
Type Rear Dual-damper unit swing arm. 5 stage adjustment
WHEELS
Rim Size Front 16M/C x MT2.50
Rim Size Rear 14M/C x MT2.75
Tyres Front 80/90-16 inch
Tyres Rear 100/90-14inch
BRAKES
System Type CBS
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments Honda Smart Key, USB charger
Headlight LED
Taillight Bulb

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice

Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CMX1100 Rebel

The CMX1100 Rebel receives two brand-new contemporary colours for 24YM. The dedicated touring CMX1100T Rebel remains available and receives a colour update of its own.

As ever, serious performance is on tap from the 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine, plus meaty character and evocative exhaust note. Honda Selectable Torque Control with integrated Wheelie Control, Cruise Control and 3 default riding modes working through Throttle by Wire make up a comprehensive package of supporting electronics. High-quality running gear includes 43mm cartridge-style front forks, ‘piggyback’ rear shock absorbers and four-piston, radial-mount front brake caliper. All lighting is LED, with negative LCD instrument display. A 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) option is also available.

  1. Introduction

The A2 licence-friendly 500cc twin-cylinder CMX500 Rebel, released in 17YM, fused tradition with ground-breaking new ideas to capture younger riders for whom a motorcycle is so much more than just transport – riders for whom their motorcycle is a lifestyle, an attitude and an expression of individual identity.

The Rebel’s combination of a timeless ‘bobber’ look and unique, forward-looking, contemporary style earned it immediate popularity in its first sales season. And it has been far from a one-year wonder: in both 2021 and 2022, the CMX500 Rebel was the best-selling custom style machine in Europe. Accessible, easy to ride and live with, by going its own way the Rebel proved an accomplished success in standard trim. And as a blank canvas for customisation, it has been a machine more than ready for whatever its owner’s imagination has had in store for it.

For 21YM, where the CMX500 Rebel led, a new motorcycle followed – the CMX1100 Rebel. It took the essence of what’s made the smaller bike so special and added more performance, more character and a wealth of Honda’s most advanced technology.

Armed with all of the above, and a keen price tag, the CMX1100 Rebel offers a step up – or across from a different segment altogether – for a wide range of riders looking for something that extra bit different.

For 23YM, the family expanded once again with the introduction of the CMX1100T Rebel, a dedicated touring version ready for the call of the open road.

This combination of performance, specification and accessibility has clearly resonated with riders across Europe. The CMX1100 Rebel sits second behind its smaller sibling in the custom bikes sales chart for 2023 year to date.

For 24YM, it carries on mechanically unchanged but the standard model gets two  striking new colours and the CMX1100T benefits from a new colour combination to maintain its broad appeal.

  1. Model Overview

The CMX1100 Rebel has a dual personality. It’s been designed for a leisurely laidback cruise, but also to offer an exciting riding experience when a twisty road presents itself. Riders moving up from smaller bikes will appreciate the manageable dimensions and weight (seat height is a mere 700mm), while more experienced riders will find instant, accessible enjoyment from the chassis’ handling potential, with its stiff tubular steel frame, quality naked bike-spec suspension and high-powered braking.

All-comers will love the character and performance of the 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine (as used by the CRF1100L Africa Twin), which has been re-tuned for super-strong bottom and mid-range punch and character, plus an evocative, enhanced exhaust note.

Throttle By Wire management brings with it sophisticated rider aids: there are 3 default riding modes with a cluster of different parameters to suit riding conditions or rider mood, including engine power delivery, engine braking, the level of Honda Selectable Torque Control (with integrated Wheelie Control), and the shift schedule of the optional Dual Clutch Transmission technology. Cruise control comes as standard.

As a 21st century bobber, the big Rebel’s stripped-back style speaks volumes with its minimalism. Steel mudguards front and rear sit atop fat tyres; the circular headlight mixes old school looks with new school LED bulbs and mirrors the round, negative LCD instrument display. For modern day convenience, there’s a USB-C charger in the under-seat storage space.

In 23YM, the family was expanded with the arrival of the dedicated Touring version, the CMX1100T Rebel featuring a broad aerodynamic half fairing and hard panniers for extended comfort and long-distance adventures.

The standard 24YM CMX1100 Rebel will be available in the following colour options:

**NEW** Glint Wave Blue Metallic

**NEW** Iridium Gray Metallic

The CMX1100T Rebel will be available in the following colour option:

Gunmetal Black Metallic with NEW bronze wheels

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Raw style a statement of muscular, stealthy simplicity
  • Full LED lighting with 4 bulb LED headlight
  • Ignition key also opens the seat, which hides storage space and USB Type-C socket
  • Cruise control standard
  • Touring option adds an aerodynamic half-fairing and panniers

The blacked-out CMX1100 Rebel offers a simple, raw and ‘unprocessed’ look created by the same US-based Honda R&D studio that laid down the style of the CMX500 Rebel. Long and low, with narrow body crowned by a scalloped, two-tone 13.6L flangeless fuel tank, its minimalist presence has real depth, with proportions that are complemented naturally with a rider on board.

Both front and rear mudguards are drawn from 1mm-thick steel and mount with die-cast aluminium brackets. And everywhere you look there are design cues that reinforce the unique overall Rebel look. The low set 175mm diameter headlight has a classic form but houses four LED bulbs with thick inner lenses for a well-defined frontal signature. The small 55mm circular indicators, too, have classic looks but the oval, clear-lensed LED taillight strikes a contemporary note and chimes with other Rebel details.

The seat is contoured to support the rider under hard acceleration but with soft density for comfort. The Rebel rider can go solo or carry a passenger, as the rear seat pad quickly and easily unbolts. Under the seat there’s a 3L storage compartment which features a USB Type-C charging point.

An offset 120mm negative LCD instrument display offers intuitive information delivery. The ignition key locates on the left side of the frame and also opens the seat without having to be removed from the ignition. The uncluttered handlebars mount with substantial 1-inch clamps and the left-hand switchgear manages the riding modes and the optional DCT. And for long highway days, cruise control is fitted as standard.

The CMX1100T Rebel is designed for the rider that wants all the potential the standard bike offers, but also the ability to cover larger distances with in-built comfort and useful carrying capacity. The fork-mounted half-fairing, available only for the CMX1100T Rebel, is both stylishly evocative and – with its bespoke stubby screen – offers good wind deflection. Hard rear panniers, with hinged top lids, blend in perfectly and offer a full 35 litres carrying capacity (right 16L, left 19L) – an additional 11 litres compared to the nylon accessory saddle bags.

3.2 Engine

  • 1,084cc parallel twin-cylinder engine
  • Strong performance, with well-defined character and delivery 
  • Throttle By Wire engine management and tuned exhaust note

The CMX1100 Rebel’s 1,084cc SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine produces peak power of 64kW @ 7,000rpm with 98Nm @ 4,750rpm peak torque. These are healthy numbers in this segment of the market, and a guarantee of strong performance. Increased inertia from a heavy flywheel mass means the low-rpm response is not only extremely strong but delivered with real character.

Compact dimensions (thanks to the Unicam drive train and semi-dry sump crankcase) centralise mass neatly, make for a low centre of gravity with maximum ground clearance when coupled with the Rebel’s low-slung frame design.

A 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval ensure character. But also a unique exhaust system, valve timing and lift generate an even stronger ‘pulse’ feel. And, in keeping with the Rebel’s dual personality, the engine pulse changes from one that responds harmoniously at low revs to all throttle inputs, to a more boisterous, sensation-heightening ‘throb’ as the rpm rises.

Engine management is via Throttle By Wire (TBW) and PGM-FI feeds the throttle bodies from a 7L airbox. Adding to riding satisfaction is the exhaust note, which has been tuned to deliver a deep, low-frequency sound pulse through the 5.3L oval-section muffler below 4,000rpm married to a much more powerful, high-frequency note as rpm climbs.

The crankcases split horizontally, and the water pump is housed within the clutch casing with a thermostat integrated into the cylinder head. Manual and DCT versions of the engine share common crankcases with only minor external differences. Secondary vibrations are neutralised by the mutually reciprocating motion of the pistons, while primary inertial and coupling vibrations are cancelled by the use of biaxial balance shafts. The water and oil pumps are driven by the balancer shafts.

A crank pulsar – with relator teeth spaced at 10° intervals – manages misfire detection, important for OBD2/EURO5 compliance. In addition, for EURO5 Linear Air Flow (LAF) sensors in the downpipes give accurate measurement of the air/fuel mixture ratio.

3.3 Engine Electronics

  • Throttle By Wire (TBW) control
  • 3 default riding modes to choose from, plus USER customisation
  • 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control

TBW manages engine performance and character, plus the level of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with integrated Wheelie Control. There are pre-set 3 modes for the rider to choose covering a wide variety of riding conditions. Mode selection is managed from the left-hand switchgear; an indicator in the instrument display activates when HSTC is working.

STANDARD offers a middle setting for engine power delivery, engine braking and HSTC, delivering a relaxed ride at low rpm and speeds, while unleashing much more of the Rebel’s potential as the revs rise.

RAIN transmits low engine power delivery and braking, matched to high HSTC, for relaxed riding and extra reassurance on wet or slippery surfaces.

SPORT gives aggressive engine power delivery and standard engine braking, with low HSTC intervention to allow maximum performance.

USER mode offers the ability to customise between the settings for the preferred combination. Once set, the USER setting is automatically stored so there’s no need to re-set each time the ignition is turned on.

3.4 Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

  • 3 default D mode (automatic) shifting schedules mirror the riding modes
  • USER mode offers customisation

Honda has sold over 240,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F in 2009. For the CMX1100 Rebel, since its introduction 57% of owners have chosen the DCT option.

DCT delivers consistent, seamless gear changes and very quickly becomes second nature in use. It uses two clutches: one for start-up and 1st, 3rd and 5th, the other for 2nd, 4th and 6th, with the mainshaft for each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging.

Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear using the clutch not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged as, simultaneously, the second clutch engages.

The result is a consistent, fast and seamless gear change. Furthermore, as the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption of the drive to the rear wheel, any gear change shock and pitching of the machine is minimised, making the change feel direct as well as smooth. Extra benefits include durability (as the gears cannot be damaged by missing a gear) impossibility of stalling, low stress urban riding, reduced rider fatigue and extra ‘brain space’ to concentrate on pure riding aspects such as riding line, cornering, braking and acceleration points.

The DCT system offers two distinct riding approaches – the Automatic settings, with pre-programmed shift patterns which constantly read vehicle speed, gear selected and engine rpm to decide when a shift should occur, and the Manual Transmission setting for gear changes using the paddle-shift style triggers on the left handlebar.

Through TBW control, the DCT shift patterns are linked with the 3 riding modes.

In STANDARD riding mode, the DCT shift pattern offers a balance between high-gear, low-speed cruising and low-gear, full-throttle excitement.

RAIN selects higher gears more quickly for a super-smooth ride.

SPORT delivers higher-rpm and lower gears, holds onto revs for longer before upshifts, and downshifting at higher rpms for more engine braking effect.

The USER option also allows the rider to adopt any of the three DCT shift patterns in any riding mode according to preference.

3.5 Chassis

  • Signature tubular steel frame underpins Rebel styling
  • Steering geometry provides stability with easy handling characteristics
  • 43mm cartridge-style front forks and piggyback rear shocks, both spring preload adjustable
  • Radial mount four-piston front brake caliper and 330mm floating disc
  • 130/70B18, 180/65B16 front and rear tyres

A styling statement in itself, the CMX1100 Rebel’s tubular steel frame is based around the raw and simple design of its sibling and features the same defined ‘theme’ line running diagonally front to back, with the fuel tank playing its part sat above the 35mm diameter main tubes which, naturally, are larger than the CMX500 Rebel’s. The 50.8mm diameter swingarm, too has an ‘engineered’ look to match.

Wheelbase is 1,520mm; the forks have a 30° angle for cruiser style, 2° offset from the 28° ‘rake’ line itself; trail is 110mm. This combination delivers the right look, but also straight-line stability and accurate, easy handling. Wet weight is set at 223kg with manual transmission, and 233kg for the DCT-equipped option. The CMX1100T Rebel weighs in at 238kg manual and 248kg in DCT form.

Seat height is a very manageable 700mm and the triangle between handlebars, seat and mid-mount footpegs places the rider firmly ‘in’ the motorcycle. The overall geometry allows generous lean angles of 35° each side (as measured by Honda), meaning the CMX11100 Rebel can enjoy a twisty ‘canyon’ ride and clip apexes with the best of them.

The cartridge-style front forks feature blacked-out 2-piece lowers (manufactured from both extruded and die-cast aluminium) mated to 43mm stanchions finished in a dark navy titanium oxide coating. Twin rear shocks feature a 12.5mm rod and pressurised ‘piggyback’ reservoir. Both front and rear suspension are adjustable for spring preload.

Braking power is served up by a front radial-mount monoblock four-piston caliper biting a 330mm floating disc and rear single piston caliper/256mm disc, both managed by ABS. Cast aluminium wheels feature 5 sporty Y-shaped spokes and wear fat tyres; a 180/65B16 rear and 130/70B18 front.

  1. Accessories

As a motorcycle born to be accessorised there are a range of Genuine Honda Accessories ready to bolt straight on to the CMX1100 Rebel.

There are two packs available that have grouped accessories into two categories with different customer styles in mind: the ‘street’ and the ‘tour’ line-ups:

The Street Pack includes:

  • Wadding Seat ­– black or brown
  • Tank Pad (Side & Centre)
  • Headlight Cowl
  • Short Front Mudguard
  • Wheel stripes

The Tour Pack includes:

  • Nylon Saddlebags (right 10L / left 14L) & Supports
  • Passenger Backrest
  • Backrest Pad
  • Rear Carrier

All accessories can also be purchased individually and the following accessories are also available:

  • Solo Carrier
  • Protective Film
  • Screen Cowl & Attachment
  • Brown Pillion Seat
  • Grip Heaters
  • Wind Shield – only available for CMX1100T Rebel
  1. Technical Specifications 
ENGINE
Type SOHC liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve parallel twin with 270° crank and Uni-cam.
Displacement 1084cc
Bore & Stroke 92mm x 81.5mm
Compression Ratio 10.1:1
Max. Power Output 64kW at 7,000rpm
Max. Torque 98Nm at 4,750rpm
Oil Capacity 4.8/4.3 (5.2/4.7 DCT)
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 13.6L
Fuel Consumption 20.4km/l (4.9L/100km) – MT and DCT
Noise levels (dB) Lurban75.7dB, Lwot79.6dB – MT;
Lurban 75.5dB, Lwot 79.9dB – DCT
CO2 Emissions 114g/km – MT and DCT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V/11.2AH
ACG Output 0.419kW
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type MT:Wet multiplate clutch

DCT: Wet multiplate hydraulic 2-clutch

Transmission Type MT: 6-speed Manual Transmission

DCT: 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission

Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2240mm x 853mm x 1115mm – MT
2240mm x 834mm x 1115mm – DCT
Wheelbase 1,520mm
Caster Angle / Fork Angle 28° / 30°
Trail 110mm
Seat Height 700mm
Ground Clearance 120mm
Kerb Weight CMX1100 Rebel – MT: 223kg / DCT 233kg

CMX1100T Rebel – MT: 238kg / DCT 248kg

SUSPENSION
Type Front Preload adjustable 43mm cartridge style
Type Rear Preload adjustable twin piggyback rear shock
WHEELS
Type Front Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Type Rear Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Rim Size Front MT3.50
Rim Size Rear MT5.00
Tyres Front 130/70B18 M/C
Tyres Rear 180/65B16 M/C
BRAKES
ABS System Type 2-channel ABS
Type Front Radial mounted monoblock four-piston brake caliper, 330mm floating single disc
Type Rear Single piston caliper, 256mm single disc
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments Offset 120mm negative LCD instrument display, USB-C charger
Security System HISS
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

2024 Honda CMX500 Rebel

The CMX500 Rebel, Honda’s hugely popular A2 licence-friendly 500cc parallel twin-cylinder compact cruiser, receives two brand-new paint options for 24YM. Standard specification includes assist/slipper clutch, LED lighting and gear position indicator. An ‘S’ version with factory-fitted accessories (headlight cowl, all-black fork covers and gaiters plus diamond-stitch style seat) – now finished in Pearl Shining Black paint for 24YM  – remains available.

  1. Introduction

For many riders in their early 20s – Generation Z, who have grown up through the digital age – motorcycles mean so much more than just transport. They need to represent a lifestyle, an attitude, and allow them to express their own individual identity. These riders’ expectations are different to those of the motorcycling mainstream and the machines that speak to them reflect this. They have to fit in with their life but must also contain the potential for further individualisation. Fusing tradition and ground-breaking new ideas and perspectives, the CMX500 Rebel set out to be that motorcycle.

Showcasing a classic, timeless look, but imbuing it with a forward-looking, contemporary style all of its own, the CMX500 Rebel was an instant hit on its introduction for the 2017 season and has continued its popularity ever since, becoming the best-selling European model in the ‘custom’ category in both 2021 and 2022.

Since its introduction, the CMX500 Rebel has undergone a number of regular updates. For 20YM, it received more comfort and practicality thanks to a revised seat and suspension settings, plus a gear position indicator. Both the headlight and taillight were new, and the addition of LED indicators meant all lighting became LED. A refined exhaust system, including new exhaust sensor, ensured EURO5 compliance.

21YM saw the Rebel family expand across Europe with the introduction of the CMX1100. It took the essence of what’s made the CMX500 Rebel so special and added more performance, more character and a wealth of Honda’s most advanced technology.

Accessible, easy to ride and easy to live with, the CMX500 Rebel goes its own way but is also a blank canvas, ready for whatever its owner’s imagination has in store. It carries on mechanically unchanged for 24YM but gets two brand new – and suitably cool – standard paint choices and a new stealthy colour for the ‘S’ Edition.

  1. Model Overview 

Development of the Rebel began in North America, with an outlook geared toward firing the imagination of a younger generation of riders in a different way to traditional cruiser motorcycles. Powered by a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine, with strong bottom end torque and a smooth, linear power delivery, the Rebel is A2 licence friendly. It’s also slim, with a low seat height and therefore easy to manage at low speeds. The riding position is relaxed and neutral, with gently outstretched arms matched to mid-mounted footpegs.

The CMX500 Rebel’s tubular steel frame draws fresh, contemporary lines into stripped-back, fat-tyred ‘bobber’ style. Blacked out to the maximum, with the minimum of paint, it switches from solo-only to pillion-possible via two bolts.

The 24YM CMX500 Rebel will be available in the following colour options:

Seal Silver Metallic **NEW**

Matt Laurel Green Metallic **NEW**

Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic

The 24YM CMX500 Rebel ‘S’ Edition will be available in the following colour option:

Pearl Shining Black **NEW**

  1. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

  • Lean and low ‘bobber’ styling
  • Negative LCD display with white backlight and gear position indicator
  • Pillion pad and rear pegs easily removed for customisation
  • Factory fitted accessory kit available

Two key words ran headlined throughout the Rebel’s development programme: ‘SIMPLE’ and ‘RAW’. But to do so much with so little is an art form in itself, an exercise in minimalist design where every detail matters.

And the Rebel does not disappoint; rolling on fat tyres, its low and lean ‘bobber’ silhouette – crowned by the steeply raked 11.2L fuel tank and fat handlebars – sits the rider firmly ‘in’ the machine. From every angle of its stripped form, it expresses an off-beat individuality.

Everything that can be is blacked out, which highlights the Rebel’s lithe design as well as underlining the subtle paintwork. All lighting is LED, and the evocative round headlight features a compact 175mm diameter lens and die-cast aluminium mount. The ultra-thin oval tail-light and licence plate light match the Rebel’s low-down stance; mini circular LED indicators measure only 55mm in diameter, with a circular position light included in the front indicators.

The speedo is a compact 100mm dial with negative LCD display and white backlight and is both striking and effective and features a gear position indicator and fuel consumption display. The ignition is housed below the left side of the fuel tank

The pillion pad and rear footpegs are easily removed and the accessories line-up includes a rear rack, backrest, tank pads and flyscreen, a nylon saddlebag also available alongside the leather items.

An ‘S’ edition – now finished in new stealthy Pearl Shining Black paint for 24YM – comes complete with factory-fit headlight cowl with smoke screen, retro front fork covers and gaiters and a special brown diamond-stitch style seat and bronze wheels.

3.2 Engine

  • 471cc liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine, A2 licence compatible
  • Torque heavy bottom-end output
  • Assist/slipper clutch aids control
  • 120mm ‘shotgun’ style exhaust

The Rebel’s 471cc 8-valve, liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine is drawn from the sporty CBR500R. For cruising duties, revised PGM-FI fuel injection mapping and different valve and ignition timings mean its character is shifted away from the high rpm-focused performance of the CBR to a torque-heavy bottom-end output, with smooth and linear delivery throughout the rev-range. Punchy maximum torque of 43.3Nm torque @ 6,000rpm combines with peak power of 34kW @ 8,500rpm.

It’s a power unit that strikes a great balance between physical size and flexible output. Bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 66.8mm with compression ratio of 10.7:1. Internally the cylinder head uses roller rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against dust. Inlet valve diameter is 26.0mm with exhaust valve diameter of 21.5mm.

Friction is reduced by the addition of striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area, introducing gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication). An AB 1 salt bath process, used after isonite nitriding, forms a protective oxidisation membrane.

The crankshaft pins are phased at 180° and a primary couple-balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s centre of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couple-balance and its light weight allows the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

The crankcases use centrifugally cast thin-walled sleeves. Their internal design reduces the ‘pumping’ losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. A deep oil sump holds 3.2L. Slick to use up or down the six-speed gearbox is designed to offer effortless changes, especially around town. An assist/slipper clutch makes the shift lighter and smoother, and controls rear wheel ‘hop’ on rapid downshifting.

The 2-1 exhaust scrubs spent gases in its catalyser, which then speeds them through its first chamber into the second resonator chamber; the sound produced has a heavy-duty pulsing feel that fits the torque delivery. A Linear Air Flow (LAF) sensor and internal adjustments to the 120mm diameter ‘shotgun’ style muffler help the engine’s EURO5 compliance.

3.3 Chassis

  • Low slung tubular steel frame
  • Compliant, supple damping front and rear; shocks nitrogen charged
  • 130/90-16 front and 150/80-16 rear tyres

To support the Rebel’s low-slung, look its attractive tubular steel frame grips the engine in three places and is designed to be as narrow as possible around the rider’s inseam. The fork spring rates and oil volume are optimised to give compliant damping and a smooth ride. Trail is set at 110mm with 28° rake; the 30° off-set of the forks, combined with 1490mm wheelbase, allows a low 690mm seat height. Mid-mounted footpegs help ensure a natural riding position, with balanced and neutral steering.

The frame includes an innovative rear loop that separates the thicker seat from the textured metal mudguard; the bolt-on cast aluminium subframe provides further scope for customisation.

At 230mm apart the 41mm front fork stanchions are set wide for handling rigidity, comfort and style. The tubular steel swingarm has a 45mm diameter and works twin, nitrogen-charged shock absorbers that feature 5 step preload settings.

Dunlop tyres are fitted as standard sized 130/90-16 front and 150/80-16 rear. The style of the 16-inch cast aluminium wheels is crisp and simple, with the 296mm front disc acting as mirror to the spoke pattern. A twin-piston front caliper is matched by a single-piston rear.

  1. Accessories

As a motorcycle born to be accessorised, there is an extensive range of Honda Genuine Accessories available both individually or as part of a specially developed pack, that are ready to bolt straight on to the CMX500 Rebel.

The Comfort Pack is intended to enhance the practicality of the Rebel, by adding the following accessories:

  • Rear Carrier
  • Pillion Backrest
  • Meter Visor
  • Adjustable Brake Lever
  • 12V Socket

The Travel Pack increases the carrying capacity of the Rebel and includes

  • Right & Left Nylon Saddle Bags

The Special Pack is available in two colours and includes accessories that emphasize the “rebel” style:

  • Tank Pads (Centre & Side)
  • Front Fork Covers & Gaiters sets (standard fitment for the ‘S’ edition)
  • Headlight Cowl (standard fitment for the ‘S’ edition)
  • Custom Rider & Pillion Seats (available in black or Brown (standard for the ‘S’ edition)

The following accessories are also available

  • Solo Carrier
  • Leather ‘throw-over’ Saddle Bags,
  1. Technical Specifications
ENGINE
Type Liquid-cooled, DOHC
Engine Displacement (cm³) 471
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 67 x 66.8
Compression Ratio 10.7:1
Max. Power Output 34kW/8,500rpm
Max. Torque 43.3Nm/6,000rpm
Oil Capacity 3.2 litres
Noise Level (dB) Lwot 78

Lurban 74

FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation PGM-FI
Fuel Tank Capacity 11.2L
Fuel consumption 27km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity 12V
ACG Output 0.5kW
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type Wet multiplate
Transmission Type 6-speed
Final Drive Chain
FRAME
Type Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (LxWxH) mm 2,205 x 820 x 1,090
Wheelbase 1490mm
Caster Angle 28°
Trail 110
Seat Height 690mm
Ground Clearance 125mm
Kerb Weight 191kg
Turning radius 2.8m
SUSPENSION
Type Front 41mm Telescopic forks
Type Rear Showa twin shock
WHEELS
Rim Size Front 16M/C x MT3.00
Rim Size Rear 16M/C x MT3.50
Tyres Front 130/90-16M/C 67H
Tyres Rear 150/80-16M/C 71H
BRAKES
ABS System Type Two channel
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments Digital
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

Please note that all specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice. Fuel consumption figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.