The highly anticipated Honda CL500 has arrived in a retro-style motorcycle that features the same powertrain as the CMX 500 Rebel.
- From rumour to realitiy, Honda brings the CL nameplate back to modern times.
- Features the highly-capable 500cc parallel-twin engine found in the CMX 500 Rebel.
If the CL nameplate sounds familiar to some of you that’s because the motorcycle was quite popular back in the day with its 125 to 450cc range.
Nevertheless, the CL nomenclature has made a comeback in the form of the new CL500.
Firstly, the CL500 features some similar specifications to the CMX Rebel, although the low-sub sub-frame has been replace with a rear-end that pays homage to the original CL-series including a high slung exhaust.
As you can expect, powering the CL500 is the same 471cc parallel-twin cylinder engine found in the CMX Rebel that produces 45.9hp and 43.3Nm peak torque.
However, new on the CL500 is a shorter final drive for more power from the get go and an updated fuel injection settings.
Meanwhile, the power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission mated to an assist/slipper clutch for seamless clutch feel.
Honda claimed the retro motorcycle tips the scale at 192kg which is an extra kilogram heavy than the Rebel.
Other notable features include:
- 41mm telescopic forks
- rear twin shocks with 5-step preload adjustment
- 2-piston calliper (front) with 310mm disc
- single piston calliper (rear) with 240mm disc
- 19” front wheel, 17” rear wheel with Dunlop Mixtours tires
- 12L fuel tank
In addition, the CL500 gets a new riding ergonomics thanks to its scrambler-style bodywork. That said, the seat height remains at 790mm.
To complete the retro look, the CL500 is equipped with a reverse LCD display.
GALLERY: 2023 HONDA CL500
