2022 Honda CBR500R Sports Motorcycle Review Specs Price

One of Honda’s three 2013 debut models, the CBR500R, sits alongside the adventure-tour CB500X and the naked CB500F. Each is built on the same versatile midsize twin-cylinder chassis that underpins all three models. These three models start with a 471cc parallel-twin engine housed in a steel diamond-type frame and square-tube swing arm. They provide far superior performance over the conventional small-displacement starter bike without losing any of the essential user-friendliness. With its racy fairing and clip-on handlebars, the 2022 Honda CBR500R Sports Motorcycle stands out as the sportiest of the three bikes, although it is not a copy of a super sport racing bike. The tubular handlebar is a touch lower and thinner than it was on the CB500F. However, the seat height and footpeg placement are still comfortable, 31.1 inches, and allow the rider to avoid adopting a racing jockey posture.

The parallel-twin engine’s linear power and immense torque dispersion make this bike suitable for beginners due to its acceleration for handling city traffic. With a wet weight of around 425 pounds and a wheelbase of 55.5 inches, this vehicle is swift and agile enough to weave in and out of traffic with ease.

Many minor revisions have been made throughout the years, the most notable being the 2019 overhaul, which made the bodywork and designs edgier and lowered the bars. The weight was reduced by 7, and there was a marginal improvement in middle power. The CBR, though, still offers the same essential mix of accessible performance and an unpretentious feel. Finally, in 2021, just the ABS model was on offer, albeit the new 2022 model benefits most from the most recent performance enhancements.

2022 Honda CBR500R Sports Motorcycle – Features and Price

Updates

The CBR500R’s suspension and braking system will get the most significant upgrades in 2022. The old components weren’t horrible, but the new ones are light-years ahead in functionality. At the front, the conventional damping rod unit has been replaced with a Showa SFF-BP (Single Function Fork – Big Piston) inverted fork, with two 296mm discs and four-piston calipers mounted radially. The swing arm has been reduced in weight by almost 2 pounds, and the new 10-spoke cast aluminum wheels are both lighter and more durable.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 471cc parallel-twin cylinder engine of this “global” model Honda produces slightly under 47 horsepower, allowing its drivers to get intermediate A2 learner licenses throughout Southeast Asia and Europe. The almost square bore/stroke specifications of 67 x 66.8mm enable the engine to generate reasonable torque (29.77 lb.-ft. at 6,450 rpm and 43.2 horsepower at 8,280 rpm), as well as a relatively linear power curve, according to the CBR500R/CB500F test assessment.

The six-speed transmission offers a short first gear that aids novice riders in avoiding stalling but requires considerable throttle and shifter dexterity for seamless upshifts to second gear. A power-assist/slipper clutch was added in 2019, making for a very light lever effort with a pleasant feel.

Handling

The original CBR’s handling wasn’t terrible, but it became apparent as speed increased or the front brake was used forcefully. Mid-corner bumps and powerful braking would upset the chassis and cause the front end to hang. The superb Michelin Road 5 tires and updated Showa SFF-BP fork have transformed the CBR from a clumsy entry-level bike into an agile machine capable of carving small and twisty roads at speeds that would make many sport bikes sweat.

Brakes

The old single 320mm disc and two-piston caliper layout were already not terrible, but the new dual front disc braking arrangement (dual 296mm discs with radial-mount four-piston calipers) is an improvement. It is analogous to the status report on suspensions. You can now stop with more power and precision with fewer efforts thanks to the improved braking system, which is helpful on both urban streets and twisting canyon roads.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

In this regard, the CBR’s motor excels. During our evaluation and test drive, we cranked the throttle and had a blast in the canyons, all while maintaining an average fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon. The CBR has a 4.5-gallon tank, so expecting 280 kilometers on a single fill-up is ambitious. The reserve fuel light never came on until after we had traveled 225 miles.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

Despite its edgy appearance and model name, the CBR500R is not a supersport bike and lacks the racer-boy egos of its larger CBR600RR and CBR1000RR-R linemates. The 31.1-inch seat height is beginner-friendly, the bike has sufficient ground clearance for comfortable handling, and the clip-on bars, although significantly decreased and shortened in the 2019 model, are still higher than those on a genuine super sport.

The driver’s seat is roomy enough for long rides, but the passenger’s view isn’t quite as lovely. The high footpegs and small, uncomfortable seats are two of the most common complaints.

Electronics

Other than the standard ABS, the CBR does not have any electronic rider aids. But, it’s all-LED lighting and improved headlamp layout for 2022 make up for its dated LCD dashboard in an age of full-color TFT displays.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Honda CBR500R is protected by an unlimited-mileage, one-year guarantee that may be transferred to a new owner. The Honda Care Protection Package provides a higher level of safety.

Quality

There’s no denying that Honda’s 2022 updates to the CBR have raised the bar for construction quality, but remember that this is still a Honda.

Pricing and Variants

Honda discontinued the regular CBR500R in 2021, and the ABS-equipped CBR500R will set you back $7,199 in 2022, making it an affordable bike for 2022. You may choose between two hues: Red Grand Prix Metallic and Silver Sword Metallic.

2022 Honda CBR500R Sports Motorcycle – Technical Specifications

Engine

Chassis

Dimension