Honda CL500
The Honda CL500 revives the classic scrambler ethos with contemporary engineering and clean, minimalist styling. Designed to bridge the gap between urban commuting and light off-road exploration, the CL500 offers approachable ergonomics, rugged suspension, and a torquey parallel-twin engine. Whether carving city streets or venturing onto gravel tracks, this machine blends authenticity with modern reliability.
Design and Styling
Scrambler Aesthetics
The CL500’s silhouette nods to the golden age of desert racers. A high-mounted exhaust with brushed stainless-steel heat shield, upswept fenders, and a slim fuel tank evoke vintage flair. Matte paint finishes and blacked-out accents reinforce a no-nonsense, street-ready attitude.
Functional Details
- Engine bash plate guards the crankcase on rough terrain
- Dual single-walled rims minimize weight and add retro character
- Aluminum rear carrier integrates luggage loops for quick mounting
- Wire-spoke wheels wrapped in dual-purpose tires enhance traction on varied surfaces
Frame and Chassis
Steel Diamond Frame
A high-tensile steel diamond frame underpins the CL500, using the engine as a stressed member to boost rigidity while keeping weight in check. Reinforced gussets at load points ensure confident handling when the road surface turns rough.
Geometry and Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 1,490 mm
- Rake: 24.8°
- Trail: 103 mm
- Seat height: 820 mm
This geometry balances nimble turn-in with planted high-speed stability. The taller seat height accommodates suspension travel without sacrificing rider confidence.
Powertrain and Performance
471 cc Parallel-Twin Engine
At its core lies a liquid-cooled, 471 cc parallel-twin with dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. Bore and stroke measure 67.0 × 66.8 mm, yielding a nearly square configuration that delivers strong midrange torque. A compression ratio of 10.7 : 1 ensures responsive throttle feel and efficient combustion.
Fuel Delivery and Emissions
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with 36 mm throttle bodies governs precise fuel metering across all conditions. An EU-compliant exhaust system minimizes emissions while preserving the engine’s distinctive growl.
Transmission and Final Drive
Six-Speed Gearbox
The CL500 features a close-ratio six-speed transmission calibrated for both low-speed tractability and highway cruising. Ratios are spaced to exploit the engine’s torque curve, reducing frequent shifts in mixed riding scenarios.
Assist and Slipper Clutch
A slipper-assist clutch cuts lever effort by roughly 30 percent, easing rider fatigue in stop-and-go traffic. On downshifts, the slipper function curbs rear-wheel chatter, bolstering stability when decelerating aggressively.
Final Drive
A sealed O-ring chain transmits power to the rear wheel with minimal maintenance. A robust chain guard keeps debris away during off-road excursions.
Suspension and Wheels
Front Suspension
Inverted 41 mm Showa forks provide 150 mm of travel and preload adjustability. Their larger diameter and extended stroke deliver confidence on uneven surfaces and help absorb bumps when transitioning from pavement to gravel.
Rear Suspension
Dual remote-reservoir Showa shocks offer 150 mm of wheel travel and five levels of preload adjustment. The remote reservoirs promote consistent damping performance under prolonged use, whether tackling potholes or logging miles on fire roads.
Wheel and Tire Setup
- Front wheel: 19 × 2.15 in cast alloy
- Rear wheel: 17 × 3.50 in cast alloy
- Front tire: 110/80-19 dual-purpose tread
- Rear tire: 130/80-17 dual-purpose tread
This combination delivers nimble steering response without compromising grip on loose surfaces.
Braking System
Front Brake
A 330 mm radial-mount disc paired with a four-piston caliper ensures robust stopping power and precise lever feedback. Stainless-steel lines maintain consistent performance under repeated use.
Rear Brake
A 240 mm disc with a single-piston caliper provides balanced rear-end braking. Dual-channel ABS comes standard, offering traction-sensitive intervention for enhanced safety across varied terrains.
Electronics and Instrumentation
Lighting
Full LED lighting includes a round headlamp with an integrated DRL ring, LED turn indicators, and a slim LED tail lamp. Low power draw and long service life make the system ideal for extended adventures.
Instrument Cluster
A compact LCD display consolidates:
- Speedometer
- Tachometer bar graph
- Odometer and dual trip meters
- Fuel gauge
- Gear position indicator
Selectable brightness levels and a bar-graph fuel-efficiency readout encourage economical riding.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Rider Position
The CL500’s wide, tubular handlebar and rear-set footpegs create an upright stance suited for both technical trails and city grids. A narrow midsection on the seat and tank allows confident leg reach, while a flat bench saddle accommodates shifting rider weight.
Passenger Accommodations
Removable passenger pegs and an optional pillion pad convert the CL500 into a two-up hauler for weekend getaways. Integrated luggage loops and the factory rear rack simplify mounting soft bags or cargo nets.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 471 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, DOHC, 8 valves |
| Bore × Stroke | 67.0 mm × 66.8 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.7 : 1 |
| Maximum Power | 46 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 43 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Fuel Delivery | PGM-FI electronic fuel injection, 36 mm TBs |
| Transmission | 6-speed constant mesh |
| Clutch | Assist and slipper wet multi-plate |
| Final Drive | Sealed O-ring chain |
| Frame | High-tensile steel diamond, engine as stressed member |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm inverted forks, 150 mm travel, preload-adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | Dual remote-reservoir shocks, 150 mm travel, 5-step preload |
| Front Brake | 330 mm disc, 4-piston caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm disc, 1-piston caliper, ABS |
| Front Wheel | 19 × 2.15 in cast alloy |
| Rear Wheel | 17 × 3.50 in cast alloy |
| Front Tire | 110/80-19 dual-purpose tread |
| Rear Tire | 130/80-17 dual-purpose tread |
| Wheelbase | 1,490 mm |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| Curb Weight | 191 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 11.2 L |
| Electrical System | 12 V, 310 W stator; full LED lighting |
| Instrumentation | LCD display; gear position & fuel economy bar |
Maintenance and Ownership
Recommended service intervals include oil and filter changes every 6,000 km, valve clearance checks at 12,000 km, and brake fluid replacement every two years. The PGM-FI system requires minimal adjustment, and easily accessible components streamline routine care. Chain tension should be inspected every 1,000 km to ensure optimal drivetrain efficiency.
Riding Impressions
On pavement, the CL500 feels agile and communicative. The midrange-focused engine delivers immediate torque for quick roll-on power, while the tall bars and supple suspension absorb urban imperfections. When gravel roads beckon, the generous suspension travel and dual-purpose tires inspire confidence, allowing spirited cornering and controlled slides.
Conclusion
The Honda CL500 merges heritage scrambler style with modern performance and versatility. Its blend of rugged underpinnings, accessible ergonomics, and a torquey parallel-twin makes it ideal for riders seeking a do-it-all motorcycle. From daily commutes to weekend off-road forays, the CL500 stands ready to carve its own trails.
