HONDA’S CB series is popular in the Philippines. At one time gray market importers swiped every available used CB400 in Japan and sold it in the country. The CB400’s popularity spawned many years having both police and civilian duties. The CB series is known to be an easy-to-mount, delight-to-drive bike whether it be the large displacement CB1100EX, the sporty CBR500R, the or the road-cruising CB650.
This year Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI) releases the all-new CB500F for P354K. It is the all-, only-road cousin to the CB500X adventure bike and is an impressive addition to HPI’s already remarkable collection of medium and large displacement motorcycles. Enthusiasts who are into naked bike styling will surely be impressed as this new sports bike is tuned to the Filipino rider with its 789mm seat height. The price is also very affordable for being
Honda positions the all-new CB500F as a substantial upgrade from the standard street bike–meaning those that have small displacement engines of from 150cc up to 399cc. The displacement numbers allow for highway use and the cut and slant of the bike means improved blend of aesthetics, performance, and handling.
Power comes from a balanced 4-stroke DOHC parallel twin, 471cc engine is Euro 5 emission compliant and has an outstanding maximum power output of 35KW at 8,500rpm and maximum torque of 43.2Nm at 6,500rpm. Reviews online show that the engine boasts excellent performance which Honda says is “set to match your excitement for adrenaline and speed.”
One look at the fork rake and angle of the single rear Pro-Link mono-shock gives the impression of agility in handling, predicted by Honda to go “ above and beyond the expectations of sports bike riders when it comes to agile handling.
Showa 41mm SFF-BP up-side down front fork provides excellent control and sports riding feeling when turning and braking from high speed. 296mm dual disc front brake and four piston Nissin radial mount caliper deliver strong and progressive braking power, keeping the rider safe. Lightweight wheels and swing arm deliver excellent running performance. Slipper/Assist clutch lightens up the clutch lever effort by 45 percent but automatically locks up tight when released.
It also has advanced technology safety features that add confidence to the rider. The 2-channel Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) aids the rider in braking under less than ideal conditions and the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) notifies the vehicle behind by flashing the hazard lamp at high speed when the rider suddenly brakes. All of these are housed in a sturdy, steel diamond tube with superior rigidity and strength.
Designed and developed as an alternative for commuting, its controlled suspension, braking, and rider assist technologies make this a good choice for those looking for an unrivaled level of performance and comfort.
To match the top-notch engine power, Honda made this bike even more remarkable with its pleasing aesthetics The sharp, more compact look that displays an aggressive and seductive sports naked-bike image. It has all LED lighting, a negative display LCD meter that optimizes efficiency, preventing engine drain. Colors are Matte Axis Gray Metallic or Grand Prix Red. The big bike is now available at all Honda Flagship Stores.
