Sometimes, being the biggest, the most powerful or the most revolutionary is not being the best. Often in the world of two wheels, it means much more to have personality and make a difference with a few features for the best riding fun. And with this premise, Honda's experienced Japanese engineers have created the CL500, a bike that offers a combination of ease of use, useful engine performance, affordability and distinctive individuality to become a perfect everyday plan.
In this way, five years after the arrival of the CMX500 Rebel of the year 2018, a product inspired by the formula of the original CL models of the sixties and seventies has landed, sporting a CL emblem that is characterized by an adequate aesthetic, a necessary engine and durability to face any situation of urban life.
It is a new proposal from Honda that also brings together what is necessary so that the owner's imagination never reaches its peak, since there are no limits to customization with this new model.
For its development, Honda has been based on the idea that the customer can express their individuality, an objective that seems fully accomplished. And more considering that it is aimed at a young demographic group interested in current trends, with the capacity to facilitate daily transport or even face long weekend excursions. And, at the same time, with a certain capacity to enter unpaved terrain and be able to practice a light SUV.
To do this, the new CL500 has a 471 cc parallel twin engine, a Honda engine known for its robustness and reliability. Likewise, the CB500 is compatible with the A2 license, since it accredits 34.3 kW of power and a pleasant and useful torque of 43.4 Nm.
With 19-inch (front) and 17-inch (rear) wheels, the set gives off a very suggestive retro air. The rounded tank, the raised exhaust with a protective grill in an aluminum finish or the uncomplicated design evoke a time when motorcycles were simpler. In mechanics and electronics, it has specific adjustments for the functions that it must face as a CL model, such as a short final drive development that gives it brilliant acceleration for the city from standstill and between gears. Or the six-speed gearbox controlled by a slipper clutch.
The trellis-tubular steel frame is both a style statement and the basis for great handling. The suspension is long-travel so that it adapts better to the bumps in the roads, and the braking is carried out by an effective ABS. And all the lighting is led type. In addition, it has an endless list of accessories ready for customization to suit the owner.
