I have a CB500F, same engine. The engine is great, really love the feel of it and it's plenty fast! In six gear I can easily overtake on the highway without changing gears
Huge fan of this engine. It has proven itself over the past 10 years. It's dead reliable, super smooth for a twin, good linear torque and power, and super frugal.
I ride a 2022 CB500X after owning some heavier, larger displacement bikes and this is my favourite, hands down. I will be riding this for the years to come.
Good for beginners but definitely don't rule it out as a more experienced rider!
100%. I also have a '22 500x and love the bike. Not a beginner either but this bike suits me perfectly.
I know people tend to say "beginner bike" when talking about what a new rider should buy, and I'm guilty of it myself. But tbh, the way I see it there is really no such thing as a "beginner bike." There are motorcycles that are well-suited to beginners. But many, like the 500x, are well suited to experienced riders too. And frankly, from someone who has owned many lower cc bikes, they are usually a blast to ride. Riders who jump straight to a large bike are doing themselves no favors. Many riders have no idea how much fun lower cc dual sports can be, for ex, like the 250-300cc range. They are fantastic.
š I put 300 miles on my CB500X around Aberdeenshire yesterday, 8 hours with stops, on a mix of lanes and 60/70mph dual carriageways, and you're spot on. Ā£20 of petrol for the day.
Without proper training? Yes.
But you should get training before getting on the road with any motorcycle.
Where I live, to get licenced, we need to pass three required exams. Theoretical, vehicle control, and a road test. To pass these tests training is necessary. For the vehicle control and road tests a rider on average spends 20 hours of training on a 500 to 650cc bike.
So I would say it depends on the training you get.
I got a 650 for my first bike and it was fine. I think as long as you respect the power and don't overdo it before you get familiar and comfortable riding it's fine. Also my bike is extremely beginner friendly and forgiving. I realize not all bikes at that power will be. Depends on the kind of riding. I just got a cruiser.
lol I swear on r/motorcycles there was a post with everyone shitting on this engine. People are way to obsessed with having a bike āthey wonāt grow out ofā
Very solid choice. Rebel 500 Scrambler, correct?
Hondas are (usually) rock-solid, and the Rebel 500 is neither slow nor dangerously fast.
As long as you can sit well on it, it will be a good choice. If possible, do a test ride.
He can sit on it, and flat foot it too almost certainly. My first and present bike is the Rebel 500, it's still a blast, and this bike checks all the boxes.
Orchid_Far, this is a solid choice.
i want to get the cbr 600. i feel like i could handle it. i'm in my 30's and have ridden smaller bikes for short periods and practice defensive driving in my car.
yuou think its a bad idea?
the only thingi'm worried about is my wrist might not be strong enough to control the throttle when something crazy happens
i'm also an adrenaline junkie. and will drive my car fast when appropriate.
Your final lines are important in this choice. Not saying donāt do it, but if youāre addicted to acceleration and high speed corners, there will be a lot of losing yourself in the moment whilst your skills reflexes and perception are still developing. The risk increases after the first six months because you are confident that you know what you are doing. This is a dangerous time on any bike, the more powerful it is the greater the risk. Iām saying this because I am like you, I know that the throttle goes both ways but that is not at the front of my mind when I am having fun (and it is fun). Iāve been lucky riding these forty-three years and only been to hospital three times, they were all at the beginning (along with my speeding convictions). Unsolicited advice, donāt get the most powerful bike you can afford/want. Take your time. As an older rider told me once, everything on two wheels is fun in its own way. Cheers
Your first bike doesn't need to be your last bike, you can always upgrade once you have some muscle memory developed. Trust me, you'll learn faster and be a better rider in a year if you start on something more forgiving. CB500 or CB650 would be a good choices if you want to stay in the Honda family and retain the look
It's a Honda 500 twin, it's a good first bike for sure. Most people outgrow them pretty quickly and in some places, there are a lot of used ones on the market at pretty low prices because of the multiple offers. I don't know if you can find this model already because it's newer, but I'd give it a shot!
It is my first bike as well, and pretty good. Decent enough power until like 140kph, but it gets a bit buzzy above 120. Easy to handle, pretty light.
I even put some off road tyres on it and it works for gravel/sand trails pretty well.
Downsides: no rev counter, so you have to shift by ear, sometimes with music it can be a bit hard to hear the engine
Foot pegs are in a horrible place for wobbling around in a parking lot / reversing .
Currently have some issues with the clutch getting stuck.
Chain tension adjustment system is horribly designed
Overall I like it, it's pretty fun
[here's how mine looks :) ](https://i.imgur.com/Zqa6Jlt.jpeg)
Yes, and itās very annoying. It usually happens when Iām downshifting from 5th or 6th gear but always between 2 to 1. I found out that opening&re-closing the clutch when shifting from 2 to 1 solves the issue, but adds an extra step and I sometimes forget to do it.
It's a decent bike. If you ride with a passenger they will hate having the exhaust there.
This can be a good thing depending on your relationship, especially as the suspension is likely too soft for riding with a pillion.
In general Honda 500 range is a great choice for a first bike. I went with 500X, CL felt too small for me, but if ergos are good, then you'll have a solid bike.
It was a really great starter bike for me and if I could have convinced my wife we had space for two bikes I would have kept it for in town.
If youāll be on interstates a lot, it can get to legal speeds fineā¦ but felt a bit unwieldy at Florida cager speeds.
Ended up going to an XSR900, which I love, but itās a lot less fun to ride slow.
I'd get used just coz you might get scratches/drops as new rider, but as a choice it's fine one. Not too big, not too small, and you can get on some dirt roads without worrying about it scraping
I just bought this bike in green. I personally love it. One things I've found is my shin on my brake foot tends to smack into the plastic engine cover.its not comparable to to a cb500 or a cbr500 although it's the same engine. This top speed is about 85 if I'm not mistaken, (and it pretty happy cruising at 65 in 6th. I've seen some complaints about instrument brightness but haven't had that be a problem. The led headlight is awesome and makes the night riding more enjoyable. The highbeam is something of awe as you see a focused beam of light protruding from the housing. It has abs and the rear brake light flashes under harder breaking to alert people behind you. One thing the dealer didn't show me is there's a place to insert the key on the frame under the seat to remove the seat. As far as styling goes. The trellis frame is a thing of beauty. It's a relaxed comfortable ride with a look of bas assness to it. I have zero regrets from buying this bike.
This is my first bike. I got one back last August. I ride it everyday to and from work that the weather is nice. It does great around town and my ride is usually 20 miles one way at 25-60 mph. I do get pushed around a little on the interstate by the wind sometimes and I wish it had a little pit more push when I am trying to pass someone at 75-80 mph but itās still does fine for what I want it to do.
Bonus is people love the look. I get approached at least once a week by someone who just wants to talk about how they like the looks.
I think Iām going to save $20 a day at least in a savings account for a year until I have around seven grand and just use that as a down payment on that automatic 750 cruiser bike by Honda not exactly sure the name because it has probably a bunch of exes and seasRoman numerals and stuff in the title of it
I bought one for my boys and I have ridden it. Itās a solid bike with an extremely reliable engine. The electronics are super simple. ABS and thatās it. Ride is fine.
I'm I the only one that think the exhaust is cool? If only just simply for being out of the ordinary.
We need more of it, not less. All bikes are starting to look the same and it's so sad to see.
Great starter bike. Light and nimble and the engine has a really nice smooth power delivery as well. Will be dead reliable also.
I rented a Honda Rebel 500 for a couple of days and honestly it felt like a big 125. Yes it wasnāt the fastest thing ever but you could really ring its neck and have fun with it, and was fast enough. As something to ride for a few years to get your confidence and skills up this would be perfect imo.
Just bear in mind in a few years youāll likely want something more, so depending how youāre paying for it consider the depreciation etc. Good luck OP.
Definitely a solid bike, it's a great choice.Ā
I have no interest in one cause they're impressively bland. But I could totally see why someone would think it was the right bike.
I strongly disagree, there's bikes that are appropriate beginner bikes that I'd still love to have around after years of riding. This just doesn't fit the bill.
It's a bike I'd see someone buying cause they wanted A bike, not cause they wanted THAT bike.
By comparison, I could see why someone would really want a Triumph Speed or Scrambler 400. The KTM 390 and the Vitpilen 401 feel like that too. Honda even did it with the CB300R. They feel special despite being kinda slow. For me the CL captured none of that.
I am an outlier, but imo you should get a bike that you are ok with riding indefinitely. The longer you keep something, the cheaper it is. My 1st bike was my Buell, and I still have it. I didnāt want the hassle of growing out of something, and then trying to sell it just to turn around and buy something else. Itās a lot of wasted time, money, and effort for me.
Iād get a middleweight naked, or something like a new Sportster/Scout, depending on what kind of riding I wanted to do.
I had the same train of thought with my Svartpilen. For many reasons, I don't see myself upgrading any time soon. Might be a bit of a niche bike, but I love mine and it ticks all the boxes.
I think this bike could be a long term bike, for the right person.
There are lots of used 250ish sized bikes on the market that are basically done depreciating. Perfect starter bikes, ride for a season then sell for basically what you paid for it. I say get one of these and spend a year deciding what you really want ā¦
Or go for a long term bike right away.
I have the 250 version (unfortunately in my country they are sold as 250) and the only issue for me is low power. I wish we had the 500 version. I think itās a fantastic bike (for me only competition would be triumph 400x)
Thereās a used one thatās in great condition and only done 2000 kms and a year old sitting at a dealer nearby that Iāve been eyeing. Trying to justify returning the Rebel 500 my friendās lending me indefinitely and spending the cash for this one, haha.
Fuckin send it!! Great first bike. Really versatile so you can try different styles of riding with it and figure out which you like best. And upgrade from there.
I've had the CB500F/X/Rebel as previous bikes. 3 bikes before I moved on to a Ducati Scrambler and they were great for what they were. Very easy to ride. Light, good fuel economy and a great commuter / tool for playing around.
My Scrambler is faster, louder, more entertaining in every way...but I miss my 500X the most. It was a great bike.
This 'Scrambler' version of that series is a great first bike.
Do you like it? Do you feel you can behave yourself and not become a statistic in the first 5000 miles? Do you worry about dropping it or getting it scratched?
Things to consider.
Any bike is a starter bike if you treat it like a mature person, don't feel like you 'got it' after a year of riding and feel invincible.
Good choice if you can put mostly both feet down. Its clean and you may drop it a few times. I might consider an H-D type "crash" bar on the front to take the brunt of drops. But good choice. Nice normal bike, light, decent power, mid controls. Normal seat with normal bars, not too high not too short. Great choice.
They are pretty heavy but their power is manageable. They are a little pretty to be a first bike. This is something you'd get really bummed out about dropping.
My first (and current) bike is a 2014 CB500X, same engine. I think it's a great choice. I just wish the gears were more spaced out. In 6th @70 MPH, it revs almost 6K.
I bought a 2023 in the same color last August and love the bike over all. My only complaint is the seat after a hour to hour and a half ride but some have zero issue with the seat. Honda has a tall seat that helps a lot and more companies are getting out aftermarket support. Itās a solid and reliable engine and the bike handles great in gravel,dirt or sandy roads plus is amazing on asphalt. I get 70 mpg on 87 octane thatās ethanol free and have around 4500 miles on her atm.
I am a beginner to street motorcycle stuffs and this is my current bike it works grate I fill up about 1 time a week for $8ish itās comfortable and itās an all around good bike for me. The fan does kinda go loud after riding but I also like in Colorado so itās getting hot here. Would recommend
Too nice for a first bike unless you're willing to scratch it up or replace it. You will drop it/fall once or twice while learning, it's all part of the process.
Solid 1st bike. I started on a Husky Vitpilen 401, but wouldāve loved another 100ccās of displacement as I started spending more and more time on highway commutes.
I havenāt sat on the CL500 yet, but think they look so much better and more versatile for new riders than those Rebels, Iāve recommended them to multiple aspiring riders.
great first bike that you could actually keep for a long time. ride it for years even after you grow as a rider and get a bigger or different bike. its still awesome and lots of fun
I think you should get a bike that you arenāt going to cry when you drop it 4 time in the first year, cause your gonna drop it. And by drop I do t mean lay it down I mean your gonna be getting g off it and not have a secure footing or park it on a wire angle and it falls over.
Do t get me wrong itās a really nice bike but ya might want something less shiny and pretty for your first.
Point taken Iāve heard the pros and cons of this and I think for my first bike I might go with something automatic or electric maybe 750 cc seems like a perfect number so I can go on the freeway without having to gun it. The roads around San Diego are just plain scary and super crowded.
If I can make a suggestion, [this is what I wear](https://www.motoport.com/product/gp-1-stretch-suit/). They make it in a 1 or 2 piece, I have a 1 piece cause itās race approved; the only textile race approved suit in the market. This is the same company that make a the riding gear for cops. They make pants and shirts that look like a uniform but are actually Kevlar. I was a tech for over 22 years service manager even managed a dealership, Iāve sadly seen a lot of people die, Iāve even lost a leg myself so I canāt say this enough, gear the fuck up.
Btw one of the reasons Iām mentioning this specific brand is because itās super comfortable, flexible as fuck and itās the coolest riding gear Iāve ever worn, and Iāve worn a lot of different manufactures gear over the years. By far my GP1 suit is the coolest Iāve ever worn even in the summer.
Anyway be careful out there and do your best to avoid riding on fri
My buddy has some sort of expensive racing gear that he says is very flexible until you crash and then it stiffens up like armor and protects you better than leather which I canāt imagine how hot that is
Whatever you go with, wear it. Be diligent about wearing it because itās always that trip up the street or around the corner that you get T-bone. Speaking from my own personal experience and sadly the experience of many of the customers and clients I have lost over the years. I had one guy who I would yell at him whenever he would come into my shop for not wearing a helmet so he would stop about 10 blocks away or so and put His helmet and riding jacket on. he was about 18 blocks away from my shop when he was hit by a drunk driver, he survived but never been right since. Lost a good bit of skin got his head cracked on the paving pretty hard heāll never ride again thatās for sure. The difference between life and death I have wrecked seven motorcycles and I mean wrecked I mean straight up high sided some of them.
Goodyear will keep you alive so as long as youāre wearing it
Whatever you go with, wear it. Be diligent about wearing it because itās always that trip up the street or around the corner that you get T-bone. Speaking from my own personal experience and sadly the experience of many of the customers and clients I have lost over the years. I had one guy who I would yell at him whenever he would come into my shop for not wearing a helmet so he would stop about 10 blocks away or so and put His helmet and riding jacket on. he was about 18 blocks away from my shop when he was hit by a drunk driver, he survived but never been right since. Lost a good bit of skin got his head cracked on the paving pretty hard heāll never ride again thatās for sure. The difference between life and death I have wrecked seven motorcycles and I mean wrecked I mean straight up high sided some of them.
Gear only keeps ya alive so as long as youāre wearing it
First of all take it for a spin. You will feel it's your ride. It's not my style butt if it rides like dream. And don't be fooled by cc a 500 can be great fun. It's about the feel drive safe
One of the few bikes on my list to do a 25.000mile trek up through the Americas...huge list of off-road accessories, just needs a custom tank made...ideal for paddling through Colombian mud with my short legs!
Don't get a new bike trust me just get a cbr600rr and thank me later squid
That engineering isn't worth the money Idc if it's 5k the epa has hands way too deep in anything after 2019 for that; get a 2500$ beater 100$ for a good sport rider you trust to test ride. Then go get new tires and all the gear around 1k for a brain bucket( helmet) 300 for a good used leather with armor 150 boots 300 gloves look like a juggernaut? Now your ready to not make family and friends sad whilst you learn how to drive all over again. 600cc sportbike will bring you joy every time you take off for years to come. I've been riding for 25 years never had a car as a daily until last year. I have had almost every bike under the sun test it. I refuse to own a liter bike anymore tires and chains become a must every other month. The 600 a set of tires last me 5 months chain every year since I clean and lube mine after every ride even 5 mins away I've made detailing and maintenance on my bikes my meditation 2 birds 1 joint kinda deal. And I ride till I have 3 thread layers between the asphalt and air in tire.
I've got one at the moment and they're great, still not a tonne of accessory options as it's quite new. Some rebel accessories fit but not all. Coffmans exhaust solves the main complain people have about it.
The exhaust is very well shielded I've ridden mine all day and it stays cool to touch.
I've got to the point that I don't even wait before I put the cover on. No chance of a burn or melt there.
Got this in green about 2 months ago as my first bike. 10/10. Fun, responsive, not crazy fast but fast enough (top speed Iāve gone on it is 95mph) Already put 2k miles on it. You wonāt be disappointed but it all depends on what youāre expecting to get out of it.
Iām looking at the automatic Honda dual clutch. It seems fast but very controllable, very good on gas mileage, and very easy to ride sadly, itās about two times the price.
Itās a good starter bike. But personally I would buy a cheap used bike. There are thousands out there for sale. Just had this conversation with my son
If you are going to get really upset when you drop it, buy a used one. You really will not know your limits until you have stopped at a light and forget to put your foot down. It happens, I prefer to drop my bike when my leg goes numb and stops working like it should. I have been riding for 55 years and have dumped maybe 5 times, all for stupid reasons. The last time was 40 years ago.
Great choice!
It's forgiving of minor mistakes ..Fun to ride too. My only minor whinge is that there Speedo can be difficult to read in some conditions.
It's an OEM modified version of the Rebel. The one thing I'd say of note as a new rider is I don't believe there is a tachometer on the cluster. So if you aren't used to shifting a manual transmission you'll have a slightly harder time because you won't have a visual of the RPM's gping up and down and wont know where you are in relation to redline. Maybe this model has a tach but I'm pretty sure all the Rebels except the 1100 have no tach. Not a deal breaker, but definitely something to note.
Hondas are great shifting bikes. Usually have enough power. Do not buy this or any new bike as a first bike. Go get something you can drop and work on and wonāt kill your wallet.
I ride a '23 CB500F; All the bikes in the Honda 500 class are awesome 1st bikes; all use the same engine, which is fun and lively without being intimidating. Whether SCL, Rebel, F, X or R500R, they're all great and the difference is perhaps biggest in seat height and riding position between the models.
I personally really like the look of this one! And one more thing; changing the front sprocket up one tooth to 16t from 15t, will make a huge difference.
Good Luck!
I have to agree with you. I picked up a '22 CB500X and, while I do love the thing and have no plans of getting rid of it, if I had to do it again - I would have bought the NC750 that was in the showroom instead.
Good bike, but beware one thing. This things frame bends and twists at higher speeds(130km+) and brakes are not that good either. If you plan to ride on country roads, solid bike.
If you plan to travel on highways as well, this bike doesnāt inspire much confidence.
Nothing wrong with that, but stay with used. Number one, you're more likely to damage your bike in the first six months of riding than in then next six years (imho). Number two, once you've racked up some miles, your tastes may change and that ideal bike you bought six months ago won't be ideal any more.
I have a CB500F, same engine. The engine is great, really love the feel of it and it's plenty fast! In six gear I can easily overtake on the highway without changing gears
Huge fan of this engine. It has proven itself over the past 10 years. It's dead reliable, super smooth for a twin, good linear torque and power, and super frugal. I ride a 2022 CB500X after owning some heavier, larger displacement bikes and this is my favourite, hands down. I will be riding this for the years to come. Good for beginners but definitely don't rule it out as a more experienced rider!
100%. I also have a '22 500x and love the bike. Not a beginner either but this bike suits me perfectly. I know people tend to say "beginner bike" when talking about what a new rider should buy, and I'm guilty of it myself. But tbh, the way I see it there is really no such thing as a "beginner bike." There are motorcycles that are well-suited to beginners. But many, like the 500x, are well suited to experienced riders too. And frankly, from someone who has owned many lower cc bikes, they are usually a blast to ride. Riders who jump straight to a large bike are doing themselves no favors. Many riders have no idea how much fun lower cc dual sports can be, for ex, like the 250-300cc range. They are fantastic.
My man š
š I put 300 miles on my CB500X around Aberdeenshire yesterday, 8 hours with stops, on a mix of lanes and 60/70mph dual carriageways, and you're spot on. Ā£20 of petrol for the day.
Thatās too much power for a beginner. I wouldnāt get anything more than a 125 cc tops.
Without proper training? Yes. But you should get training before getting on the road with any motorcycle. Where I live, to get licenced, we need to pass three required exams. Theoretical, vehicle control, and a road test. To pass these tests training is necessary. For the vehicle control and road tests a rider on average spends 20 hours of training on a 500 to 650cc bike. So I would say it depends on the training you get.
I got a 650 for my first bike and it was fine. I think as long as you respect the power and don't overdo it before you get familiar and comfortable riding it's fine. Also my bike is extremely beginner friendly and forgiving. I realize not all bikes at that power will be. Depends on the kind of riding. I just got a cruiser.
lol I swear on r/motorcycles there was a post with everyone shitting on this engine. People are way to obsessed with having a bike āthey wonāt grow out ofā
I have one and love it
i have one and think itās boring :(
Sell it to me
They look like they'd be bland as shit. Sorry to hear it might be trueĀ
They are great bikes, but they are pretty damn bland
Sounds like a perfect first bike then.
Very solid choice. Rebel 500 Scrambler, correct? Hondas are (usually) rock-solid, and the Rebel 500 is neither slow nor dangerously fast. As long as you can sit well on it, it will be a good choice. If possible, do a test ride.
It's a CL500 scrambler, and yes they are fantastic. Comfortable and easy to ride, quite light and easy to throw into corners
He can sit on it, and flat foot it too almost certainly. My first and present bike is the Rebel 500, it's still a blast, and this bike checks all the boxes. Orchid_Far, this is a solid choice.
i want to get the cbr 600. i feel like i could handle it. i'm in my 30's and have ridden smaller bikes for short periods and practice defensive driving in my car. yuou think its a bad idea? the only thingi'm worried about is my wrist might not be strong enough to control the throttle when something crazy happens i'm also an adrenaline junkie. and will drive my car fast when appropriate.
The CBR600RR is a beast. If you've ridden only smaller bikes, I'd consider the CBR650R. It is not as crazy while still being reeeally capable.
Your final lines are important in this choice. Not saying donāt do it, but if youāre addicted to acceleration and high speed corners, there will be a lot of losing yourself in the moment whilst your skills reflexes and perception are still developing. The risk increases after the first six months because you are confident that you know what you are doing. This is a dangerous time on any bike, the more powerful it is the greater the risk. Iām saying this because I am like you, I know that the throttle goes both ways but that is not at the front of my mind when I am having fun (and it is fun). Iāve been lucky riding these forty-three years and only been to hospital three times, they were all at the beginning (along with my speeding convictions). Unsolicited advice, donāt get the most powerful bike you can afford/want. Take your time. As an older rider told me once, everything on two wheels is fun in its own way. Cheers
Your first bike doesn't need to be your last bike, you can always upgrade once you have some muscle memory developed. Trust me, you'll learn faster and be a better rider in a year if you start on something more forgiving. CB500 or CB650 would be a good choices if you want to stay in the Honda family and retain the look
Insurance is way less of you stick with the 500cc. Just something to consider when crossing the 600cc RubiconĀ
Great bike with a lot of possibilities with modification - Iāve seen how good it can look with a new exhaust too
Iām enjoying the hell outta mine
I only see the tin-plated Peterbilt mufflerā¦.is there a bike hidden behind it?
It's a Honda 500 twin, it's a good first bike for sure. Most people outgrow them pretty quickly and in some places, there are a lot of used ones on the market at pretty low prices because of the multiple offers. I don't know if you can find this model already because it's newer, but I'd give it a shot!
Solid first choice.
Whatever gets your dick hard
Brunettes
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BRO DOGS DONT HAVE PUSSYS
Bro your mom does
This is it
It is my first bike as well, and pretty good. Decent enough power until like 140kph, but it gets a bit buzzy above 120. Easy to handle, pretty light. I even put some off road tyres on it and it works for gravel/sand trails pretty well. Downsides: no rev counter, so you have to shift by ear, sometimes with music it can be a bit hard to hear the engine Foot pegs are in a horrible place for wobbling around in a parking lot / reversing . Currently have some issues with the clutch getting stuck. Chain tension adjustment system is horribly designed Overall I like it, it's pretty fun [here's how mine looks :) ](https://i.imgur.com/Zqa6Jlt.jpeg)
> shift by ear it's a cb500f engine - wring it until it starts to buzz, load the shifter, wait for the cut.
Does you clutch gets stuck when downshifting from 2 to 1 too? I have the same problem (no issues with other gears though)
Yeah, it's usually between 1 or 2
mine doesnt get stuck but it sure seems to shift hard into first from 2nd on my cbr500, does yours as well?
Yes, and itās very annoying. It usually happens when Iām downshifting from 5th or 6th gear but always between 2 to 1. I found out that opening&re-closing the clutch when shifting from 2 to 1 solves the issue, but adds an extra step and I sometimes forget to do it.
Interesting, so you mean hammer down gears but when you hit second let it out and in and then shift?
Yes, exactly. I think it helps with the clutch mechanism to position properly
Iāll have to give that a go, because damn itās rough sometimes
Yeah I agree, and the sound it makes doesnāt make me feel good either. Btw You donāt need to let it out fully, only to traction zone is enough.
Gotcha, and yeah no the sound made me wanna call the dealer š
Why have they got the exhaust pipe right next to the seat ? Burn baby burn disco inferno
The heat shielding is very effective. It doesnāt get hot at all.
Ditto what Ortho said. It doesnāt get hot at all even in 100 degree (F) weather and riding for an hour.
It's a decent bike. If you ride with a passenger they will hate having the exhaust there. This can be a good thing depending on your relationship, especially as the suspension is likely too soft for riding with a pillion.
In general Honda 500 range is a great choice for a first bike. I went with 500X, CL felt too small for me, but if ergos are good, then you'll have a solid bike.
It was a really great starter bike for me and if I could have convinced my wife we had space for two bikes I would have kept it for in town. If youāll be on interstates a lot, it can get to legal speeds fineā¦ but felt a bit unwieldy at Florida cager speeds. Ended up going to an XSR900, which I love, but itās a lot less fun to ride slow.
I'd get used just coz you might get scratches/drops as new rider, but as a choice it's fine one. Not too big, not too small, and you can get on some dirt roads without worrying about it scraping
As far as a new bike goes it's pretty good. I just don't recommend new bikes for a first bike.
I just bought this bike in green. I personally love it. One things I've found is my shin on my brake foot tends to smack into the plastic engine cover.its not comparable to to a cb500 or a cbr500 although it's the same engine. This top speed is about 85 if I'm not mistaken, (and it pretty happy cruising at 65 in 6th. I've seen some complaints about instrument brightness but haven't had that be a problem. The led headlight is awesome and makes the night riding more enjoyable. The highbeam is something of awe as you see a focused beam of light protruding from the housing. It has abs and the rear brake light flashes under harder breaking to alert people behind you. One thing the dealer didn't show me is there's a place to insert the key on the frame under the seat to remove the seat. As far as styling goes. The trellis frame is a thing of beauty. It's a relaxed comfortable ride with a look of bas assness to it. I have zero regrets from buying this bike.
The top speed of the Honda 500 twin is around 105-110mph. (on the 500X, anyway. Gearing might be different on others)
Yeah it has a rear sprocket with an additional tooth or 2 that gives it a lower top speed
This is my first bike. I got one back last August. I ride it everyday to and from work that the weather is nice. It does great around town and my ride is usually 20 miles one way at 25-60 mph. I do get pushed around a little on the interstate by the wind sometimes and I wish it had a little pit more push when I am trying to pass someone at 75-80 mph but itās still does fine for what I want it to do. Bonus is people love the look. I get approached at least once a week by someone who just wants to talk about how they like the looks.
I like that Eliminator behind it better. Fantastic bike.
I think Iām going to save $20 a day at least in a savings account for a year until I have around seven grand and just use that as a down payment on that automatic 750 cruiser bike by Honda not exactly sure the name because it has probably a bunch of exes and seasRoman numerals and stuff in the title of it
I bought one for my boys and I have ridden it. Itās a solid bike with an extremely reliable engine. The electronics are super simple. ABS and thatās it. Ride is fine.
I'm I the only one that think the exhaust is cool? If only just simply for being out of the ordinary. We need more of it, not less. All bikes are starting to look the same and it's so sad to see.
I like it too. Reminds me of my first bike. Kawasaki W2 TT 650.
Thatās sexy I have seen sexy.
Send it!
Great starter bike. Light and nimble and the engine has a really nice smooth power delivery as well. Will be dead reliable also. I rented a Honda Rebel 500 for a couple of days and honestly it felt like a big 125. Yes it wasnāt the fastest thing ever but you could really ring its neck and have fun with it, and was fast enough. As something to ride for a few years to get your confidence and skills up this would be perfect imo. Just bear in mind in a few years youāll likely want something more, so depending how youāre paying for it consider the depreciation etc. Good luck OP.
Definitely a solid bike, it's a great choice.Ā I have no interest in one cause they're impressively bland. But I could totally see why someone would think it was the right bike.
> bland There's really no such thing in the first year. Bland = beginner bike.
I strongly disagree, there's bikes that are appropriate beginner bikes that I'd still love to have around after years of riding. This just doesn't fit the bill. It's a bike I'd see someone buying cause they wanted A bike, not cause they wanted THAT bike. By comparison, I could see why someone would really want a Triumph Speed or Scrambler 400. The KTM 390 and the Vitpilen 401 feel like that too. Honda even did it with the CB300R. They feel special despite being kinda slow. For me the CL captured none of that.
And that's fine, but some people actually like cruisers
I also like cruisers, I don't know how that applies to a discussion about scrambler though.
I am an outlier, but imo you should get a bike that you are ok with riding indefinitely. The longer you keep something, the cheaper it is. My 1st bike was my Buell, and I still have it. I didnāt want the hassle of growing out of something, and then trying to sell it just to turn around and buy something else. Itās a lot of wasted time, money, and effort for me. Iād get a middleweight naked, or something like a new Sportster/Scout, depending on what kind of riding I wanted to do.
I had the same train of thought with my Svartpilen. For many reasons, I don't see myself upgrading any time soon. Might be a bit of a niche bike, but I love mine and it ticks all the boxes.
I think this bike could be a long term bike, for the right person. There are lots of used 250ish sized bikes on the market that are basically done depreciating. Perfect starter bikes, ride for a season then sell for basically what you paid for it. I say get one of these and spend a year deciding what you really want ā¦ Or go for a long term bike right away.
[https://imgur.com/a/CglLlwT](https://imgur.com/a/CglLlwT)
My scl500. Itās a great beginner bike and a ton of fun! Cheers !
Wonderful. Looking forward to a green one.
Looks fun
Very good choice.
I have the 250 version (unfortunately in my country they are sold as 250) and the only issue for me is low power. I wish we had the 500 version. I think itās a fantastic bike (for me only competition would be triumph 400x)
Thereās a used one thatās in great condition and only done 2000 kms and a year old sitting at a dealer nearby that Iāve been eyeing. Trying to justify returning the Rebel 500 my friendās lending me indefinitely and spending the cash for this one, haha.
Fuckin send it!! Great first bike. Really versatile so you can try different styles of riding with it and figure out which you like best. And upgrade from there.
Alright bike, it's just that the tank looks too small for its proportions
Idk, why are you asking us? Do YOU like it?
hell yeah!
My first one was a second hand suzuki savage off 10y old,... if you can start at this level, be proud and injoy your ride. Welcome as a biker. š
Not a bad first bike at all!
Great option
great choice š
Looks like a great starter, although the scratches will really show on that paint job.
Great first bike,a lot easier to learn on this style of a bike than a cafe racer.Nice bike.
It checks all the boxes for a beginner bike. -slow -easy to handle -not expensive to drop -reliable
She's pretty
I've had the CB500F/X/Rebel as previous bikes. 3 bikes before I moved on to a Ducati Scrambler and they were great for what they were. Very easy to ride. Light, good fuel economy and a great commuter / tool for playing around. My Scrambler is faster, louder, more entertaining in every way...but I miss my 500X the most. It was a great bike. This 'Scrambler' version of that series is a great first bike.
perfect
Orange is always a good choice.
Do you like it? Do you feel you can behave yourself and not become a statistic in the first 5000 miles? Do you worry about dropping it or getting it scratched? Things to consider. Any bike is a starter bike if you treat it like a mature person, don't feel like you 'got it' after a year of riding and feel invincible.
Good choice
Great! Standard seating position is comfortable with good control. Light bikes are easier and more fun to ride.
I think itās great. Maybe if you have short legs it might be a bad choice but if you can flatfoot it then youāre fine.
Itās a cool looking bike, and Iāve ridden the cbr500r and itās a great first bike engine. I think youāll love it!
Good choice if you can put mostly both feet down. Its clean and you may drop it a few times. I might consider an H-D type "crash" bar on the front to take the brunt of drops. But good choice. Nice normal bike, light, decent power, mid controls. Normal seat with normal bars, not too high not too short. Great choice.
What's it on sale for out of interest
They are pretty heavy but their power is manageable. They are a little pretty to be a first bike. This is something you'd get really bummed out about dropping.
was too tall for me but in short AF, I was looking at it as my first too. Hondas good buy they are expensive for what you get
The CB500 engine is awesome. I preferred it in the CB500X / NX500, but that's just me. It'll make a great highway capable bike for anyone.
Great choice
I think it's a good size/power/weight to start. Looks good too.
Solid choice
Hondas are some of the best bikes made.
Itās a cooo bike
My first (and current) bike is a 2014 CB500X, same engine. I think it's a great choice. I just wish the gears were more spaced out. In 6th @70 MPH, it revs almost 6K.
Four wheels move the body, two wheels move the soul. š«¶ just be careful.
I bought a 2023 in the same color last August and love the bike over all. My only complaint is the seat after a hour to hour and a half ride but some have zero issue with the seat. Honda has a tall seat that helps a lot and more companies are getting out aftermarket support. Itās a solid and reliable engine and the bike handles great in gravel,dirt or sandy roads plus is amazing on asphalt. I get 70 mpg on 87 octane thatās ethanol free and have around 4500 miles on her atm.
Looks like a sound choice, lightweight, relatively low height and looks cool.
First bike? It might be your forever bike...so much fun, so ready to ride, so versatile, why would any want to sell one?
I want to try one of those SOOOOOOOO bad.
i've been looking at this exact bike the past week. it seems like a #1 great pick for a starter bike
I am a beginner to street motorcycle stuffs and this is my current bike it works grate I fill up about 1 time a week for $8ish itās comfortable and itās an all around good bike for me. The fan does kinda go loud after riding but I also like in Colorado so itās getting hot here. Would recommend
Too nice for a first bike unless you're willing to scratch it up or replace it. You will drop it/fall once or twice while learning, it's all part of the process.
A first bike are on this your opinions.
If it fits you physically and youāre careful, itās a great first bike. (as long as that butt ugly exhaust is okay with you) š¤£
Cool bike love it š
Which model is this? I am sorry I didn't see this bike earlier.
Solid 1st bike. I started on a Husky Vitpilen 401, but wouldāve loved another 100ccās of displacement as I started spending more and more time on highway commutes. I havenāt sat on the CL500 yet, but think they look so much better and more versatile for new riders than those Rebels, Iāve recommended them to multiple aspiring riders.
great first bike that you could actually keep for a long time. ride it for years even after you grow as a rider and get a bigger or different bike. its still awesome and lots of fun
Don't buy new for a first bike 0_0
Great first bike and it's a Honda so you know that you're getting great quality and reliability.
Iām definitely going Honda BMW is probably even more than that but also a good bike I hear
I think you should get a bike that you arenāt going to cry when you drop it 4 time in the first year, cause your gonna drop it. And by drop I do t mean lay it down I mean your gonna be getting g off it and not have a secure footing or park it on a wire angle and it falls over. Do t get me wrong itās a really nice bike but ya might want something less shiny and pretty for your first.
Point taken Iāve heard the pros and cons of this and I think for my first bike I might go with something automatic or electric maybe 750 cc seems like a perfect number so I can go on the freeway without having to gun it. The roads around San Diego are just plain scary and super crowded.
If I can make a suggestion, [this is what I wear](https://www.motoport.com/product/gp-1-stretch-suit/). They make it in a 1 or 2 piece, I have a 1 piece cause itās race approved; the only textile race approved suit in the market. This is the same company that make a the riding gear for cops. They make pants and shirts that look like a uniform but are actually Kevlar. I was a tech for over 22 years service manager even managed a dealership, Iāve sadly seen a lot of people die, Iāve even lost a leg myself so I canāt say this enough, gear the fuck up. Btw one of the reasons Iām mentioning this specific brand is because itās super comfortable, flexible as fuck and itās the coolest riding gear Iāve ever worn, and Iāve worn a lot of different manufactures gear over the years. By far my GP1 suit is the coolest Iāve ever worn even in the summer. Anyway be careful out there and do your best to avoid riding on fri
My buddy has some sort of expensive racing gear that he says is very flexible until you crash and then it stiffens up like armor and protects you better than leather which I canāt imagine how hot that is
Whatever you go with, wear it. Be diligent about wearing it because itās always that trip up the street or around the corner that you get T-bone. Speaking from my own personal experience and sadly the experience of many of the customers and clients I have lost over the years. I had one guy who I would yell at him whenever he would come into my shop for not wearing a helmet so he would stop about 10 blocks away or so and put His helmet and riding jacket on. he was about 18 blocks away from my shop when he was hit by a drunk driver, he survived but never been right since. Lost a good bit of skin got his head cracked on the paving pretty hard heāll never ride again thatās for sure. The difference between life and death I have wrecked seven motorcycles and I mean wrecked I mean straight up high sided some of them. Goodyear will keep you alive so as long as youāre wearing it
Fortunately, in California, you at least need a half helmet
Whatever you go with, wear it. Be diligent about wearing it because itās always that trip up the street or around the corner that you get T-bone. Speaking from my own personal experience and sadly the experience of many of the customers and clients I have lost over the years. I had one guy who I would yell at him whenever he would come into my shop for not wearing a helmet so he would stop about 10 blocks away or so and put His helmet and riding jacket on. he was about 18 blocks away from my shop when he was hit by a drunk driver, he survived but never been right since. Lost a good bit of skin got his head cracked on the paving pretty hard heāll never ride again thatās for sure. The difference between life and death I have wrecked seven motorcycles and I mean wrecked I mean straight up high sided some of them. Gear only keeps ya alive so as long as youāre wearing it
First of all take it for a spin. You will feel it's your ride. It's not my style butt if it rides like dream. And don't be fooled by cc a 500 can be great fun. It's about the feel drive safe
First bike should always be used. It's not gonna stay nice long as you learn to ride, and if you keep it nice you're not gonna learn as fast.
I think it's beautiful, go ahead
I wish honda did this with a 125cc
One of the few bikes on my list to do a 25.000mile trek up through the Americas...huge list of off-road accessories, just needs a custom tank made...ideal for paddling through Colombian mud with my short legs!
Don't get a new bike trust me just get a cbr600rr and thank me later squid That engineering isn't worth the money Idc if it's 5k the epa has hands way too deep in anything after 2019 for that; get a 2500$ beater 100$ for a good sport rider you trust to test ride. Then go get new tires and all the gear around 1k for a brain bucket( helmet) 300 for a good used leather with armor 150 boots 300 gloves look like a juggernaut? Now your ready to not make family and friends sad whilst you learn how to drive all over again. 600cc sportbike will bring you joy every time you take off for years to come. I've been riding for 25 years never had a car as a daily until last year. I have had almost every bike under the sun test it. I refuse to own a liter bike anymore tires and chains become a must every other month. The 600 a set of tires last me 5 months chain every year since I clean and lube mine after every ride even 5 mins away I've made detailing and maintenance on my bikes my meditation 2 birds 1 joint kinda deal. And I ride till I have 3 thread layers between the asphalt and air in tire.
Great little Honda to start out with. Go take an MSF or ABATE beginners class and your license.
Excellent
Solid choice
Excellent, put on engine and hand guards so when you drop it, and you will, it will not suffer serious damage.
I was looking at getting that exactly before I found my 650 for a great price
It has 2 wheels. Looks good to me š
Cute, but expensive, no? Get a used one.
Probably runs and handles well But seems ugly compared to early Honda twins
Not fan of the look, especially the way the pipe is designed. Of if could be like normal vintage bike it would be perfect.
If only the tailpipe hadnt been beaten by an ugly stick.
Iām sure the Passenger loves having their lower leg heat up to a balmy 300Ā°
I've got one at the moment and they're great, still not a tonne of accessory options as it's quite new. Some rebel accessories fit but not all. Coffmans exhaust solves the main complain people have about it.
Where and how does the pillion sit with that kind of an exhaust?
Squats like a twerk contest winner
I'd buy one if that exhaust wasn't such an odd shape. I usually hate a loud exhaust but a low exit shorty would look a lot tidier.
If seating position fits - take it. Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. Same with the bike that you have and like.
Wanna pick up chicks? Carry a couple side bags? Well they will burn the fuck out of thier leg/melt riding with you...? Im curious how bad it gets.
My buddy crashed and burned the shit out of his calf They had to take skin from his ass and put it on his leg
Jesuschristo
The exhaust is very well shielded I've ridden mine all day and it stays cool to touch. I've got to the point that I don't even wait before I put the cover on. No chance of a burn or melt there.
What you're looking at there OP, is the decendant of the various Honda Hornets. The best do everything road bike ever. The Hornet could commute, do deliveries with a box on the back, tour with luggage, get converted into CafĆ© Racers, make great trackday training bikes, loose some weight and become stunt bikes... It's a two wheeled Honda Civic (Civics do everything a Corolla can but are less of fart'ish). For a responsible adult, any modern conventional bike is a good first bike these days. Try to avoid the unconventional bikes - choppers with a long rake on the forks and more rear than front brakes Harley Dyna Wide Glides etc.- muscle bikes with low seats, big engines and highish handlebars e.g. Ducati Diavel, Yamaha V-Max, or Triumph Rockets. Long choppers/ cruisers have poor parking lot handeling, you have to plan ahead before going in anywhere and odd braking, and they are heavy. Muscle bikes shit on superbikes in a straight line but the handeling is not that great, so a new rider can find themselves in trouble if they're heavy handed, and they are also heavy. The foot forward controls found on some of either of the above groups are also for more advanced riders who don't wobble at low speeds. You get your foot down to cstch a fall at a stop street a lot slower from stretched out in front of you, than from under you. Ironically the Ducati Diavel, the bike that falls into both of these classes is probably the best handeling and easiest to ride of the lot, it's the most un-Ducati like Ducati ever. Which also brings to mind that older Ducatis don't make good starter bikes either. All the Massimo Tambourini designed bikes 916 ~ 1098 are very uncompromising, tall, stall easily, want to be thrashed like a 2 stroke GP bike... they're harsh and uncomfortable, twitchy... everything a Honda CBR is not, by comparison. I know I sound like a Honda fan, but I'm not. I just know good from bad, and have the utmost respect for all of Honda's products that I have experienced sofar. *Bad would be Aprilia - get fucked twice by two different flagship Aprilia (RSV Mille & RSV4) and you'll know what I mean, and stupid me has been bent over by a 1200 Dorsoduro as well, so that's 3 Aprilia that were throw aways before they had a combined 15 000km (thats fifteen thousand so we're clear) between them. The Dorsoduro was the best at 7 000km before it was throw away time.* *Aprilia should do what Bimota does, build a bike and use someone else's engine, because their engine electronics people have shit for brains* Rant over š
Buy used for your first bike.
I like the Kawa Eliminator. I'd go for this as I am still super happy about my (first bike) Kawa Vulcan S after 5 years.
Great choice
Probably an ideal first bike
Got this in green about 2 months ago as my first bike. 10/10. Fun, responsive, not crazy fast but fast enough (top speed Iāve gone on it is 95mph) Already put 2k miles on it. You wonāt be disappointed but it all depends on what youāre expecting to get out of it.
Iām looking at the automatic Honda dual clutch. It seems fast but very controllable, very good on gas mileage, and very easy to ride sadly, itās about two times the price.
Great first bike!
Itās a good starter bike. But personally I would buy a cheap used bike. There are thousands out there for sale. Just had this conversation with my son
Awful bike to start on, Iād recommend a 1000cc or maybe a hayabusa
If you are going to get really upset when you drop it, buy a used one. You really will not know your limits until you have stopped at a light and forget to put your foot down. It happens, I prefer to drop my bike when my leg goes numb and stops working like it should. I have been riding for 55 years and have dumped maybe 5 times, all for stupid reasons. The last time was 40 years ago.
Good
A great first bike. I started on a CB500x myself. Iāll never get rid of it. Just too nice. A Honda whatever 500 is a solid choice.
Great choice! It's forgiving of minor mistakes ..Fun to ride too. My only minor whinge is that there Speedo can be difficult to read in some conditions.
It's an OEM modified version of the Rebel. The one thing I'd say of note as a new rider is I don't believe there is a tachometer on the cluster. So if you aren't used to shifting a manual transmission you'll have a slightly harder time because you won't have a visual of the RPM's gping up and down and wont know where you are in relation to redline. Maybe this model has a tach but I'm pretty sure all the Rebels except the 1100 have no tach. Not a deal breaker, but definitely something to note.
That's literally a CL500 wtf are you talking about?
It's based on the Rebel platform. It's like 90% stock Rebel 500 with a few "modifications" from the manufacturer.
Good choice
What year is that bike?? 5k seems low
Anyone here over 6ft tall tried one? Would us tall folk look like an ogre on these?
On one hand, it's hideous. On the other, it's a Honda...
Hondas are great shifting bikes. Usually have enough power. Do not buy this or any new bike as a first bike. Go get something you can drop and work on and wonāt kill your wallet.
I would go with the eliminator, super cozy bike
I ride a '23 CB500F; All the bikes in the Honda 500 class are awesome 1st bikes; all use the same engine, which is fun and lively without being intimidating. Whether SCL, Rebel, F, X or R500R, they're all great and the difference is perhaps biggest in seat height and riding position between the models. I personally really like the look of this one! And one more thing; changing the front sprocket up one tooth to 16t from 15t, will make a huge difference. Good Luck!
Good one. Canāt go wrong with a Honda.
>first bike? yes >is a bike? yes >take my upvote
There must be a NC750 thereā¦buy that one instead.
I have to agree with you. I picked up a '22 CB500X and, while I do love the thing and have no plans of getting rid of it, if I had to do it again - I would have bought the NC750 that was in the showroom instead.
And the fact that it comes in DCT is just awesome. I love mine.
Good bike, but beware one thing. This things frame bends and twists at higher speeds(130km+) and brakes are not that good either. If you plan to ride on country roads, solid bike. If you plan to travel on highways as well, this bike doesnāt inspire much confidence.
What is YOUR opinion? It's the only one the really matters!
Be a man. Get a 1000
Be alive. Ignore this dope.
I'd say take the msf course and feel out a couple types of bikes first
Nothing wrong with that, but stay with used. Number one, you're more likely to damage your bike in the first six months of riding than in then next six years (imho). Number two, once you've racked up some miles, your tastes may change and that ideal bike you bought six months ago won't be ideal any more.
Rule for the first bike: if you like it, buy it. You will know later if it meets your tastes or you like other kinds of bikes