New TEST

Introduction

Fast, frugal, affordable and fun, Honda’s CBR500R – on sale since 2013 – has helped redefine and re-energise the middleweight class and brings sporting energy, plus engineering DNA of larger CBRs, to Honda’s twin-cylinder line-up. Dozens of young riders from around the world developed their racecraft on CBR500Rs in the first two seasons of Honda’s one-make European Junior Cup race series. 

Suitable for riders looking to move up from a 125 (or holding an A2 licence) it injects the excitement of sports bike ownership into every ride, yet also delivers real-world comfort with sensible running costs, making it a great bike to commute through the working week – and cut loose at the weekend on.

And with its giant-killing capacity, the CBR500R has also found favour with experienced riders looking to downsize their machinery, while preserving the essence of enjoyable motorcycling.

The 16YM CBR500R was a considered and thorough evolution that elevated the machine further to offer the maximum sporty performance, style and presence from a genuine A2 licence-compliant motorcycle.

Model updates

The CBR500R received comprehensive upgrades for 2016, sporting a distinct, aggressive new look, and armed with revisions that included LED lighting, larger fuel tank, adjustable front forks – plus a satisfying howl from its redesigned mass-centralised exhaust. For 2017, the CBR500R meets the stringent new EURO4 emissions regulations