2023 HONDA CL500 LAUNCHED

The 790mm seat height and slim mid-section makes for easy ground reach and the high handlebars are angled to provide leverage when standing up or sitting down, with off-road style grips.

A neat, 100mm diameter circular display houses the simple and uncluttered LCD dash, which includes speedometer, dual trip meters, fuel level and consumption gauge, clock and gear position.

The engine

The CL500’s 471cc 8-valve, liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine is smooth, easy to use. The popular unit has made its reputation in Honda’s LAMS approved CB500 series (CB500F, CB500X, CBR500R) and CMX500. For the CL500, it features revised PGM-FI fuel injection mapping, and a new intake and exhaust setup. For crisper acceleration through each gear with an extra tooth on the rear sprocket.

The six-speed gearbox is designed to offer effortless changes, especially around town. An assist/slipper clutch helps with rear wheel control, lightens the lever operation load.

The iconic CL style exhaust twin-pipe muffler is upswept and fed by 2-1 downpipes. The note is tuned for heavier low-frequency sound and feel.

A brand-new tubular diamond-structure steel frame adds to the handling, ride and comfort. The goal for the chassis was to create light, responsive handling with suspension that can absorb the hits.

Up front, 41mm telescopic forks feature 150mm travel and wear classic black fork gaiters. While adding period style they also protect the legs and seals from dust and damage. The top and bottom yokes are CL-specific and enhance steering accuracy and feel. At the rear, an elegantly simple swingarm uses 45mm round tubing to muscular effect. Long-stroke twin rear shocks offer 145mm travel and 5-step spring preload adjustment. Damping at both ends is set to deliver a comfortable ride on all road surfaces.

A two-piston front caliper works a 310mm floating disc through sintered pads. The hydraulic pressure between the front and rear single-piston caliper/240mm disc is balanced to provide hlgh levels of braking control on a wide range of surfaces. The ABS too is optimised for use on dirt tracks as well as asphalt.

The wheels are a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast aluminium combination for confident grip and light handling across varying terrain. Tyres are 110/80 R19 front and 150/70 R17 rear with deep groove pattern.

The Honda CL500 is available in Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, Candy Energy Orange, Matte Laurel Green and Matte Gunpowder Black. It is expected to arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2023.

Price will be announced closer to the release date.

Contact your local Honda dealer for more information.

WORDS // BEN PURVIS