Honda Cbr500r
The Honda Cbr500r has a top speed of 185 km/h (estimated; manufacturer does not officially publish), produces 47 hp and weighs 192 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Honda CBR500R was introduced in 2013 as part of Honda's CB500 series, designed to bridge the gap between beginner and intermediate riders with a sporty full-fairing aesthetic. It underwent a significant update in 2019 with revised styling, improved suspension, and a Showa SFF-BP front fork, and again in 2022 with Euro5/BS6 compliance updates and further refinements. It is notable for offering approachable, A2-licence-friendly power in a genuine sporty package at an accessible price point.
47 hp
Power
43 Nm
Torque
192 kg
Weight
185 km/h (estimated; manufacturer does not officially publish)
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km or approximately 18.2 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Rock-Solid Reliability
The CBR500R's parallel-twin engine is known for exceptional longevity, often exceeding 50,000 miles with basic maintenance. Honda's build quality means fewer surprise repair bills compared to competitors in this class.
Strong Resale Value
The CBR500R holds its value better than most middleweight bikes, typically retaining 70-80% of its value after two years. Its popularity as a beginner-to-intermediate bike keeps demand consistently high.
Watch the Coolant Hoses
On used models (especially 2013-2015), inspect the coolant hoses and water pump for signs of weeping or corrosion — a known minor issue in early production years. A simple inspection or inexpensive replacement prevents bigger engine problems down the road.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced 471cc parallel-twin, ABS option, steel trellis frame, sporty half-fairing design debuted.
Revised styling, updated suspension, improved brakes, minor engine refinements, new color schemes introduced.
Showa SFF-BP fork, Nissin radial brake caliper, revised ergonomics, updated bodywork, standard ABS.
Used Buyer Review
"The smartest used buy for riders who value sense over sensation."
$4,500-$6,500 usedThe CBR500R is one of those bikes that doesn't get enough credit. It's not exciting in a knee-dragging, heart-pounding way, but that's honestly the point. Honda built this thing to be genuinely usable — comfortable enough for daily commuting, capable enough for weekend twisties, and reliable enough that you'll actually trust it. The parallel-twin makes around 47hp, which sounds modest until you're actually threading traffic or nailing a mountain switchback where smooth power delivery matters more than peak numbers. Used examples are everywhere and prices are reasonable, which is either reassuring or slightly telling depending on how you look at it. Check the fairings carefully — lots of owners drop these at low speed learning the ropes, so inspect for cracked plastic and bent levers. The suspension is a bit soft from the factory and previous owners rarely upgrade it, so budget for that. Chain and sprocket wear is the other thing to check; these bikes get ridden hard by newer riders who forget maintenance exists.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Honda Cbr500r — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALCheck voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V
Listen for rattling on cold start near engine top
Look for oil residue on lower fork tubes
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Very reliable, minor issues easily manageable
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Honda Cbr500r
Kawasaki Ninja 400
Aprilia Rs 660
Kawasaki Ninja 650
Suzuki Sv650 S
Honda Cbr650r
Compare Honda Cbr500r Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Honda Cbr500r vs Kawasaki Ninja 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbr500r vs Aprilia Rs 660
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Cbr500r vs Kawasaki Ninja 650
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Honda Cbr500r vs Suzuki Sv650 S
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Honda Cbr500r vs Honda Cbr650r
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More Honda Cbr500r Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Honda Cbr500r? +
Regulator/rectifier failure, kills battery: Check voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V (serious) | Cam chain tensioner noise at startup: Listen for rattling on cold start near engine top (moderate) | Fork seals leak, common on older units: Look for oil residue on lower fork tubes (moderate)
Is the Honda Cbr500r a good motorcycle? +
The smartest used buy for riders who value sense over sensation. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: New riders ready to skip starter bikes. Avoid if: You want excitement over sensible transportation.
What is the horsepower of the Honda Cbr500r? +
The Honda Cbr500r produces 47 hp @ 8,500 rpm, with 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 185 km/h (estimated; manufacturer does not officially publish).
Is the Honda Cbr500r good for beginners? +
Yes — the Honda Cbr500r is a reasonable choice for new riders (47 hp is manageable), weighing 192 kg. New riders ready to skip starter bikes
Is the Honda Cbr500r reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Honda Cbr500r, notably: Regulator/rectifier failure, kills battery (Check voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Honda Cbr500r good for daily use? +
New riders ready to skip starter bikes Fuel: 5.5 L/100km or approximately 18.2 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Honda Cbr500r? +
The Honda Cbr500r reaches a top speed of 185 km/h (estimated; manufacturer does not officially publish), producing 47 hp at 192 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Honda Cbr500r? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Honda Cbr500r, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/honda/cbr500r/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
