Honda CL500 Trail Bike blazes the way on dirt tracks and urban streets.

Honda CL500 Blazes The Trails And The Urban Streets. 

Introducing the latest addition to the 500cc Honda family - the 2023 Honda CL500. This model returns the famous CL nameplate based on the CMX 500 Rebel, with its instantly recognizable main frame. The A2-friendly CL500 completes the intermediate class lineup alongside the CB500F, CBR500R, CB500X and CMX 500 Rebel. Get ready to hit the streets and the dirt with this well-rounded ride.

Honda markets this bike as the perfect motorcycle for riders who want a machine that is accessible, user-friendly, and stylish. It takes inspiration from the classic '60s and '70s CL models while embodying Honda's reputation for affordability and reliability. Honda calls it a 'true modern retro' and lives up to that billing. After riding it for a day, it was apparent why the 500cc range has sold so well worldwide. This new scrambler variant may even entice more riders to join the Honda family. 

The Honda CL500 is available in four colours: Blue, Orange, Black, and Green, and is priced at £5,999. For those interested in PCP deals, the monthly payment is around £69 with a £1,441 deposit for a 36-month plan, with an optional final payment of £3,077.

The Royal Enfield Scram 411 is a natural competitor, but the CL500 has more power and is slightly more expensive, depending on the variant. However, the Scram 411 is also a good bike, and many may choose the Honda due to its brand. Both bikes are good choices for a new A2 rider or those looking for an urban scrambler.

Here are a few thoughts on the style and accessories of the CL500. I wasn't initially a fan of the Rebel-inspired appearance. But after trying out the Adventure Pack (which includes a headlight cowl, high front mudguard, knuckle guards, and rally footpegs), I came to like the design over the two weeks I had the CL500.

Although the metallic blue and orange options are eye-catching, the only thing that sets the four choices apart is the paint on the tank. It would be nice if the Adventure Pack bolt-on bits matched the tank colour or were given a brush of colour to complement it. However, if you're concerned about it, you could customize it yourself. The Travel Pack and Style Pack options are also available to give the CL500 some extra personality. Aftermarket accessory options are likely already in development, as with the CMX 500 Rebel, which has a wide range of accessories available.

The engine used in this model is a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine, which has been taken from the CMX 500 Rebel. It has been tuned to provide extra torque at low speeds and improved throttle response compared to the mid-capacity cruiser. The parallel-twin engine has a 180º crank, DOHC and four valves per cylinder. It produces an A2-compliant 34.3kW (45.9hp) and 43.4Nm (32lb-ft) of torque. The fuel injection settings have been updated, and a bespoke intake and exhaust system has been fitted, giving the scrambler a lovely burble. The final drive has been shortened, and an extra tooth has been added on the rear sprocket (41, from 40 on the Rebel).

The engine could be more powerful and dynamic, but getting on with it is effortless. The clutch is light and easy to use, and the 6-speed gearbox is equipped with assist and slipper, making gear changes effortless. The torque is delivered gradually and smoothly through the revs.

While riding in town, the power delivery to the rear wheel was smooth, which made it an excellent choice for city commuting. When riding on winding roads, I enjoyed pushing the bike to its limits in each gear, which was incredibly addictive fun. When going through twisties, I was content staying in 3rd or 4th gear, as the CL 500 had enough low-end torque to push me up to speed when exiting the corners and lining up for the next ones. 

 I noticed that the first and second gears needed to be longer. Overall, the twin motor is an excellent option for riders progressing up the CC's and is just as fun for riders who are used to larger capacity machines. I had a blast riding it on the trails and the streets.

The Honda CL500 boasts a Showa 41mm telescopic fork with classic black gaiters providing 150mm travel. The front suspension is paired with twin shocks at the rear, featuring a bespoke 45mm tubular steel swingarm with 145mm axle travel. However, the standard suspension setup has been observed to be highly soft, bouncing around on varying terrain and wallowing around bends when pushed. Adjusting the suspension for weight and adding a bonus preload can lead to a firm ride that feels worlds apart. Therefore, getting the suspension appropriately set is recommended for a better riding experience.

The bike's braking system is equipped with floating Nissin callipers, a single 310mm disc with two pistons on a 19-inch front wheel, and a 17-inch rear wheel with a 240 mm disc and one piston. The initial application of braking power is steady, with further application halting and progressing nicely. The bike also features a 2-channel ABS; however, it cannot be switched off at the rear, which would have been desirable for a scrambler. Nevertheless, Honda claims the ABS is tuned to allow a bit of rear skidding on braking. The bike has no rider modes, just on and off, which is sufficient, given its performance.

It is important to note that the bike's super soft suspension does not affect its riding in town, which felt sharp and stable while squeezing through traffic or cruising at speed.

The Honda CL500 has gained popularity as an impressive urban scrambler. The motorcycle boasts a 45mm tubular diamond steel frame pulled directly from the Rebel. The signature frame design is complemented by a distinct rear subframe, raising the seat height to 790mm, which can be increased to 820mm with the brown accessory comfort seat. The engine block is stylishly exposed under the main frame, while the high-slung exhaust has a unique style that distinguishes it from other motorcycles.

The motorcycle's lightweight build is 192kg, and the 12-litre tank is full of fuel, making it exceptionally nimble at low speeds. The wide bar and upright neutral riding position provide a commanding riding feel, although standing on the pegs may require a slight hunch forward and down to reach the grips. The seat, however, may become uncomfortable after an extended period of riding, causing mild leg aches and discomfort.

The Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres, which come standard, may limit the motorcycle's scrambling capabilities to light trails and gravel. Nevertheless, the tyres provide exceptional grip on the road, making them suitable for everyday use. The Honda CL500 is an excellent choice for navigating urban areas, and its popularity is expected to grow across Europe and beyond.

The vehicle's 12-litre tank is rated at 27.7 kilometres per litre, suggesting a potential range of over 300 kilometres (186 miles). 

For commuting purposes, interested parties may consider purchasing soft luggage, heated grips, and an accessory socket in a mix-and-match format or as part of an accessory pack. 

The vehicle's LCD is simplistic in nature and may be difficult to read when exposed to direct sunlight or covered in dust. The display consists of a fuel gauge, gear indicator, speedometer, trip meter, and odometer, but it lacks a tachometer, requiring drivers to rely on engine noise and vibration to gauge engine speed. At high revs, the vehicle's vibrations can become quite pronounced. However, cruising speeds are smooth and enjoyable. 

The Honda CL500 is an excellent choice for riders who seek a blend of scramble style and efficient urban navigation. The 471cc engine provides a pleasurable means of transportation, both enjoyable and practical.

Although the style is subjective, the Honda CL500 can appear more enduro and less 'Rebel-scrambler' with appropriate trimmings. The motorcycle is highly manoeuvrable and easily handles corners, requiring minimal effort from the rider.

While the Honda CL500 may not be ideal for those who prefer thoroughbred scramblers, it is an excellent option for those who desire a mid-capacity street scrambler with a charming design and a comfortable ride.