Honda’s Lightweight, Sporty CB500F Streetfighter Returns For 2023

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A low-set headlight is one of several design elements that contributes to the Honda CB500F’s simple yet sporty good looks. (Shown with non-U.S. accessories; photo courtesy of Honda.)

Introduced in 2013, the compact, naked CB500F is back for 2023. Honda says the secret of its longstanding popularity is simple—wrap an entertaining twin-cylinder engine in a simple, lightweight, and sporty chassis that’s as much fun for experienced riders as for rookies. The power plant in question is Honda’s eight-valve 471-cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder engine. The chassis is a light, yet durable, 35-millimeter steel diamond-tube mainframe designed to provide ample feedback on varying road surfaces.

Impressive Acceleration

Don’t be fooled by the relatively small capacity of the CB500F’s engine, Honda says. It’s capable of impressive acceleration across the 3,000- to 7,000-rpm range due to a healthy dose of power and torque delivered through the low and midranges, thanks in part to the injectors. The CB500F’s programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) system continuously gauges several variables to deliver the right fuel mixture to match present riding and atmospheric conditions. The result is “crisp” throttle response provided for a wide variety of riding scenarios.

”Muscular Angularity”

The CB500F’s simple good looks start with its stealthy Matte Gray Metallic paint scheme, it’s true, but look further and you’ll notice its low-set headlight design, which Honda says contributes to an overall “ready-to-attack” stance. Other standout design and style elements include side shrouds that interlock with the 4.5-gallon (17-liter) fuel tank and draw attention to the engine. The side covers and the low, 31.3-inch (795-mm) step seat, which provides a neutral riding position, both assist in creating a sense of “muscular angularity,” Honda says. The CB500F’s tapered handlebar complements the aggressive style and is designed to enhance feel and handling.

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The 2023 Honda CB500F naked motorcycle is powered by a 471-cc engine that the company says musters up impressive acceleration throughout the 3,000- to 7,000-rpm range. (Shown with non-U.S. accessories; photo courtesy of Honda.)

Features To Know

The CB500F has anti-lock brakes, a 41-mm Showa SFF-BP inverted telescopic fork with 4.25 in. (108 mm) of travel, and a rear suspension with a Pro-Link single shock with nine-position spring-preload adjustability with 4.7 in. (119.4 mm) of travel. The digital instrumentation panel displays average fuel consumption, diagnostic info, Gear Position and Shift Up indicators, and more. The bike rolls on 120/70R-17 front and 160/60-17 rear tires. It measures 81.9 in. long by 30.1 in. wide by 45.1 in. high (2,080 by 764 by 1,145 cm) and provides 5.1 in. (129 mm) of ground clearance.

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Source: Honda