NewCars-Data.com- Debuting in 2013, Honda’s CB500X quickly became a favorite among riders looking for a reliable middleweight motorcycle. Powered by a twin-cylinder engine, it gained recognition for its solid torque, lively top-end, and comfortable chassis, which made it equally enjoyable for city rides and long highway trips.
Fast forward to today, and Honda has introduced the 2024 NX500, a fresh evolution of this popular bike. It’s seven pounds lighter, which makes a noticeable difference in handling and overall feel. With a new engine control unit (ECU), the NX500 now delivers even better acceleration, adding to its punchy performance.
Honda has also updated the wheels and suspension, making the ride more responsive and agile. Riders will appreciate modern touches like the new LED headlight and the sleek TFT instrument display, which give the bike a fresh, high-tech feel. This new 2024 Honda NX500 is priced at a base MSRP of $7,399, with an additional $600 destination charge. This brings the starting cost to $7,999.
Here’s an in-depth look at why the 2024 Honda NX500 is an exciting choice for riders who want a blend of performance, comfort, and modern features.
Engine and Performance
At the core of the NX500 is a 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin four-stroke engine. This type of engine is well-known for delivering power smoothly and efficiently, making it a great choice whether you’re cruising around the city or heading out on a longer adventure. It provides a solid balance of power and control, suitable for riders of different skill levels.
The bike is equipped with Honda’s Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), which makes sure the engine gets just the right amount of fuel. This improves both power output and fuel efficiency, helping you go farther on less fuel.
To make the ride even smoother, Honda has added a slipper assist clutch. This clutch makes shifting gears easier by reducing the effort needed to pull the clutch lever and prevents the rear wheel from locking up during fast downshifting. That means smoother transitions, especially when riding aggressively.
Suspension and Handling
The NX500 is designed to handle a variety of road conditions with ease, thanks to its high-quality suspension:
- Front Suspension: It features a 41mm upside-down fork that provides 5.9 inches of travel. This front suspension offers excellent shock absorption, giving you a stable and comfortable ride even on rough or uneven roads.
- Rear Suspension: The rear suspension includes a Pro-Link single shock with nine different preload settings and 5.3 inches of travel. This means you can adjust the suspension to suit your riding style and the type of terrain you’re on, making the ride more comfortable and controlled whether you’re on the highway or tackling a dirt trail.
Braking System
When it comes to safety, The 2024 Honda NX500 takes safety seriously with a braking system you can count on. Up front, it’s equipped with dual 296mm disc brakes paired with four-piston calipers. These work together with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to prevent the wheels from locking up, giving you the confidence to brake hard without losing control. Whether you’re cruising in the city or taking on more unpredictable roads, this setup ensures smooth, reliable stops in all kinds of conditions.
At the rear, the bike features a single 240mm disc brake, also supported by ABS. This rear brake works in harmony with the front, providing balanced and controlled stopping power. Together, the front and rear brakes give you a sense of security, knowing that no matter the road or weather conditions, the NX500 has the stopping power you need for a safer ride.
Tires and Wheels
The NX500 is built with sturdy tires and lightweight wheels that boost both performance and handling:
- Rear Tire: The rear tire is a 160/60-17, which is wide enough to provide excellent grip on the road, giving you more stability, whether you’re riding on pavement or dirt paths.
- Wheels: The lightweight wheels not only reduce the overall weight of the bike but also make it more agile and responsive, enhancing the ride quality.
Advanced Features
Honda has equipped the NX500 with the latest technology to make every ride more enjoyable and convenient. The new TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) instrument display is a standout feature, offering a bright, easy-to-read screen that gives you all the information you need at a glance. Whether it’s your speed, RPMs, fuel levels, or trip data, it’s all right there. The display even shows diagnostics, so you can stay on top of your bike’s health without any guesswork. It’s a great way to keep riders focused and informed without distraction.
Another key tech feature is Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). This system is a game-changer, especially when riding in challenging conditions like wet roads or gravel. It helps the bike maintain better traction, adding an extra layer of safety by preventing wheel slip. Whether you’re dealing with bad weather or tough terrain, HSTC makes sure the bike stays steady and responsive, so you can ride with more confidence and control.
For night riders, the upgraded LED headlight improves visibility, making nighttime riding much safer and giving the bike a sleek, modern look. The NX500 also boasts a twin-outlet muffler, which not only enhances the bike’s overall performance but also delivers a deep, sporty exhaust sound that adds to the thrill of the ride.
Honda hasn’t forgotten about comfort, either—the adjustable windscreen provides solid wind protection, making those longer rides more enjoyable and less tiring. This, along with the stylish muffler design, ensures that the NX500 feels as good to ride as it looks.
Fuel Efficiency
For those conscious of fuel usage, the 2024 NX500 is highly efficient, with a fuel rating of up to 79.2 miles per gallon (MPG), depending on riding style. On average, you can expect around 75 MPG, which means fewer stops at the gas station and more time enjoying the ride.
In our opinion, the 2024 Honda NX500 is a well-rounded, feature-packed bike that’s built for performance and comfort. Whether you’re navigating through city streets or taking on rugged trails, it’s designed to deliver a smooth, controlled, and enjoyable ride every time.
In conclusion, the 2024 Honda NX500 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a blend of modern technology, comfort, and solid performance. Its strengths include a responsive 471cc engine, advanced safety features like ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control, and a user-friendly TFT display. The adjustable windscreen enhances rider comfort on longer trips, and the stylish twin-outlet exhaust adds to its appeal.
However, potential buyers should consider the price, with a starting cost of $7,999, which may be a bit steep for some. Additionally, while the bike performs well on various terrains, it may not satisfy those seeking extreme off-road capabilities.
