Honda Unveils All-New SCL500, A Motorcycle Steeped In Scrambler Sensibility

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Honda says the all-new SCL500 recalls scramblers like its CL350 and CL72 from decades ago but is built for today’s rider, with a 471-cc engine inspired by Rebel 500’s power plant. (Photo courtesy of Honda.)

Honda is bringing its all-new SCL500 to the U.S. market. The scrambler-style standard motorcycle has a retro styling reminiscent of the Honda CL350 and CL72 models of the 1960s and 1970s thanks to features like a flat double seat, wide wheels, and upright riding position. Available in Candy Orange and Mattel Laurel Green Metallic color schemes, the SCL500 also has an engine based on the one in Honda’s popular Rebel 500 cruiser.

"More than any manufacturer, Honda has consistently demonstrated an ability to deliver fun, retro motorcycles that scratch a nostalgic itch while offering the performance and reliability for which Honda is so well known," says Brandon Wilson, American Honda manager of sports and experiential. "That's the case with the all-new SCL500, and we're confident it will be a hit with American customers.”

A Scrambler At Heart

Evidence of the SCL500’s scrambler essence includes its fatter 19- and 17inch front and rear multi-spoke cast-aluminum wheels, which are shod in Dunlop tires. Another example is the natural seating position, which makes the bike well-suited for touring and commuting. The retro-styled seat can accommodate a passenger but is narrow enough to firmly plant both feet during stops.

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The SLC500’s blacked-out power plant, swingarm, lower fork stanchions, and other mechanical components contribute to its tough, minimalist appearance. (Photo courtesy of Honda.)

Continuing the theme are the bike’s round LED headlight, turn signals, and taillight, and the high-mounted muffler and rubber knee pads on the 3.2-gallon (12-liter) fuel tank. Furthermore, just as a scrambler should, Honda says, the SCL500 provides longer suspension travel than typically found on most street-bike types. The 41-millimeter front fork provides 5.3 in. (135 mm) of travel, and the Honda Pro-Link rear suspension with twin shocks provides 5.7 in. (145 mm). The result is an ample 6.1 in. (155 mm) of ground clearance and a smooth ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces.

Performance & Control

The SCL500 is powered by an 8-valve, twin-cylinder 471-cc liquid-cooled engine mounted to a diamond-shaped steel tube frame. The power plant, as well as the swingarm, lower legs of the fork stanchions, and other mechanical components, is blacked out, contributing to the bike’s tough, minimalist appearance. The “sporty” slipper/assist clutch, meanwhile, requires 30% less effort compared to previous systems but locks up automatically when released, Honda says.

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Honda says riders can expect balanced, neutral steering from the SCL500 thanks to a 27-degree fork angle, 58.4-inch wheelbase, and 31.1-in. seat height. (Photo courtesy of Honda.)

Customers can expect controlled stops in challenging riding conditions thanks to the included anti-lock braking system (ABS), as well as snappy throttle response due to the programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) system, which delivers the correct fuel mixture for present riding and atmospheric conditions. Honda says riders will also enjoy the ear-pleasing tones from the upswept scrambler exhaust, which features a twin-outlet muffler.

Accessorize It

Buyers can personalize the SCL500 to taste with Honda’s offering of 25 accessories. A few choices include a saddlebag, a headlight visor, handguard deflectors, and a 12-volt accessory socket.

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Source: Honda