Honda CL500
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 2023 Honda CL500, a modern classic that captures the spirit of the road while delivering contemporary performance and reliability. Positioned in the classic motorcycle category, the CL500 is designed for riders who appreciate the allure of retro aesthetics combined with cutting-edge technology. This bike not only pays homage to Honda's rich heritage but also embraces the needs of today’s motorcyclists, making it a versatile choice for both city commuting and weekend adventures. With its striking color options—including Candy Caribbean Blue Sea and Matte Laurel Green Metallic—the CL500 is sure to turn heads wherever you go. At the heart of the Honda CL500 is a remarkably engineered 471cc parallel-twin engine that produces a spirited 45.6 horsepower at 8,500 RPM and a torque of 43.3 Nm at 6,000 RPM. This powertrain is complemented by a smooth 6-speed gearbox and an assisted slipper clutch, ensuring seamless shifts and greater control during aggressive riding. The liquid-cooled engine, with a compression ratio of 10.7:1 and a precise PGM-FI fuel injection system, not only delivers impressive performance but also boasts a fuel economy of 3.71 liters per 100 km (approximately 63.40 mpg). This balance of power and efficiency makes the CL500 an ideal companion for both spirited rides and everyday commutes. The CL500’s chassis and suspension setup enhances its classic charm while ensuring a comfortable and confident ride. Its steel diamond frame combines with a front suspension featuring 41mm telescopic forks that offer 150mm of travel, providing a smooth experience over various terrains. The rear is supported by twin shocks with 5-step pre-load adjustment, allowing for personalized comfort and handling. With a low seat height of just 790mm, it caters to a wide range of riders, while the 191 kg weight ensures agility and ease of maneuverability. Safety is paramount, with robust braking systems featuring a single disc setup at both front (310mm) and rear (240mm) that delivers reliable stopping power. **
Pros
- Classic Aesthetic with Modern Performance: The CL500 combines vintage styling with contemporary engineering, appealing to both classic bike aficionados and modern riders.
- Excellent Fuel Efficiency: With a remarkable fuel consumption of 63.40 mpg, the CL500 is economical for long-distance rides and daily commuting alike.
- Comfortable Ride: The adjustable rear suspension and approachable seat height provide a comfortable riding experience for various rider sizes and preferences.
Cons
- Limited Power for Highway Cruising: While suitable for city and rural rides, the engine may feel underwhelming for high-speed highway cruising compared to larger displacement bikes.
- Weight: At 191 kg, the CL500 is on the heavier side for a classic motorcycle, which might deter newer riders or those looking for ultra-lightweight options.
- Basic Instrumentation: The instrumentation may lack advanced features found on some competitors, which could be a downside for tech-savvy riders seeking more information at a glance.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Honda
- Model
- CL500
- Category
- Classic
- Light
- LED headlight
- Starter
- Electric
- Instruments
- D Meter
- with
- Speedometer
- ,
- Dual Trip Meters
- ,
- Fuel Level
- and
- Consumption Gauge
- ,
- Clock
- ,
- Gear
- position,
- Color Options
- Candy Caribbean Blue Sea
- ,
- Matte Laurel Green Metallic
- ,
- Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic
- ,
- Power
- 45.6 HP (33.3 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
- Clutch
- Wet multiplate, assisted slipper clutch
- Torque
- 43.3 Nm (4.4 kgf-m or 31.9 ft.lbs) @ 600 RPM
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Engine Type
- Twin, four-stroke
- Fuel System
- Injection. PGM-FI
- Bore X Stroke
- 67.0 x 66.8 mm (2.6 x 2.6 inches)
- Compression
- 10.7:1
- Displacement
- 471.0 ccm (28.74 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Liquid
- Fuel Consumption
- 3.71 litres/100 km (27.0 km/l or 63.40 mpg)
- Greenhouse Gases
- O2
- g/km. (
- O2
- -
- Carbon
- dioxide emission)
- Valves Per Cylinder
- 4
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Chain (final drive)
- Seat Height
- 790 mm (31.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Oil Capacity
- 3.20 litres (3.38 US quarts)
- Fuel Capacity
- 12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
- Overall Width
- 839 mm (33.0 inches)
- Overall Height
- 1137 mm (44.8 inches)
- Overall Length
- 2153 mm (84.8 inches)
- Ground Clearance
- 155 mm (6.1 inches)
- Weight Incl Oil Gas Etc
- 191.0 kg (421.1 pounds)
- Rake
- 27.0°
- Trail
- 108 mm (4.3 inches)
- Wheels
- Cast aluminium
- Rear Tyre
- 150/70-17
- Frame Type
- Steel diamond
- Front Tyre
- 110/80-19
- Rear Brakes
- Single disc
- Front Brakes
- Single disc. 2-piston calipers
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock with 45mm round pipe swingarm, 5-step pre-load adjustment
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic 41mm Upright forks
- Front Wheel Travel
- 150 mm (5.9 inches)
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 240 mm (9.4 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 310 mm (12.2 inches)