2024 marks the CB500 Hornet rebadge in Europe with HSTC traction control, a 5-inch Honda RoadSync TFT display and a sharper new look — all firsts on the 500 range. In 2026, Honda E-Clutch becomes an available option: ultra-compact electronic clutch enabling clutchless gear changes.
E-Clutch on a 500cc A2 bike — accessible premium tech at a contained price (~$5,900 US).
TOP BUYFirst-ever HSTC on a 500cc + Hornet look — best CB500F ever made before E-Clutch arrived.
TOP BUY2022 overhaul focused on chassis: 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD fork first on this range, dual 296mm Nissin caliper disc brakes, new swingarm and lighter wheels — a major dynamic leap on the Euro 5 base from 2021.
USD fork + dual disc on a 500cc A2 bike — remarkable quality leap at the usual price.
TOP BUYSecond major overhaul in 2019: completely redesigned bodywork, assist/slipper clutch, full LCD dashboard with gear position and shift-up indicator, full-LED lighting — the CB500F grows up.
Euro 5 + slipper clutch + full LED — best equipment-to-price ratio in gen3. Recommended used buy.
GOOD PICKSlipper clutch + full LED + full LCD. Very reliable — last model year before Euro 5.
GOOD PICKDeep restyle in 2016: streetfighter silhouette, semi-circular LED headlight, preload-adjustable fork and adjustable brake lever — the CB500F asserts its character while transitioning to Euro 4.
Successful aesthetic overhaul, proven mechanicals — better resale value than gen1.
GOOD PICKUnveiled at EICMA 2012, the CB500F launches the 471cc platform shared with the CB500X and CBR500R. Compact roadster natively meeting European A2 licence requirements — an unprecedented positioning for Honda.
Run-in mechanicals, ABS available, Honda reliability. Solid first bike at a fair price.
GOOD PICK