Honda NX500

OVERVIEW & PRICE

PERFORMANCE & ENGINE

At the heart of the Honda NX500 lies a powerful and efficient 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. This engine configuration is known for providing a balanced mix of power and efficiency, making it equally suitable for city riding and long-distance touring. The engine features a sophisticated DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) setup with 4 valves per cylinder, enhancing its performance capabilities and ensuring smooth power delivery across the rev range.The NX 500 delivers an impressive maximum power output of 47.5 PS at 8600 rpm and a peak torque of 43 Nm at 6500 rpm.

These performance figures indicate that the bike is engineered to offer robust midrange power delivery, which is ideal for adventure touring scenarios. The engine’s power characteristics ensure that riders have ample acceleration when needed, whether for overtaking on highways or navigating through challenging terrains.Complementing the engine’s performance is a 6-speed gearbox, which provides smooth gear transitions and optimal performance across varied riding conditions. This transmission setup allows riders to find the right gear, from low-speed manoeuvres in city traffic to high-speed cruising on open highways.

MILEAGE & FUEL EFFICIENCY

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) claims the Honda NX500’s mileage of 27.78 kmpl under standardized testing conditions. Expert-reported mileage stands at a respectable 24.8 kmpl. User experiences provide valuable insights into the NX 500’s real-world performance. One user noted a city mileage of 27 kmpl and a highway mileage of 33 kmpl, showcasing the NX 500’s versatility in different riding conditions.These real-world reports indicate that the Honda NX 500 offers excellent fuel efficiency, with mileage ranging from 24.8 kmpl to over 30 kmpl, depending on riding conditions and habits. This impressive fuel economy makes the NX 500 a compelling option for riders seeking a balance between performance and efficiency in the adventure touring segment.

FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY

The Honda NX500 has many modern features that enhance its appeal to adventure enthusiasts and tech-savvy riders alike.

1. 5-inch TFT Display:

– Excellent visibility
– Reduces glare for easy access to information in bright sunlight
– Modern touch to the bike’s design

2. smartphone Connectivity (Honda Roadsync):

– Enhances rider experience
– Seamless access to navigation and communication features
– Maintains safety while navigating

3. Safety Features:

– ABS (Anti-lock Braking System):
– Improved braking performance
– Enhanced stability in emergencies and on slippery surfaces

4. Hond Selectable Torque Control (HSTC):

– Simple on/off traction control
– Useful for wet or loose surfaces

5. LED lighting System:

– Includes headlamp, taillight, and indicators
– Enhances visibility on the road
– Contributes to modern and sophisticated appearance

6. Seat Position and Handlebar Design:

– Upright seating position
– Wide handlebars for excellent control and manoeuvrability
– Comfortable for both short and long journeys

BUILD QUALITY

Honda has long been synonymous with exceptional build quality, and the NX 500 continues this tradition of excellence. Honda’s commitment to durability is evident in the NX 500’s design and construction. The 471cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine is powerful and built to withstand the rigours of daily commuting and long-distance touring. Honda’s engineering prowess ensures that this powerplant delivers consistent performance over time.As an adventure tourer, the NX 500 is likely designed with enhanced weather resistance, protecting critical components from dust, water, and other environmental factors encountered during diverse riding conditions. Honda motorcycles are known for their user-friendly maintenance, and the NX 500 likely continues this trend with easily accessible components and straightforward service procedures.

HANDLING

Honda NX 500 is designed to offer a balanced and versatile riding experience suitable for various terrains and conditions. The bike’s handling characteristics are enhanced by its upright seating position and wide handlebars, which provide excellent control and manoeuvrability, especially in urban environments. The chassis dimensions from its predecessor, the CB500X, ensure a stable and familiar ride for seasoned Honda riders.The suspension system features Showa SFF-BP forks at the front and a Pro-link rear suspension, effectively absorbing road irregularities and bumps, ensuring a smooth ride on city streets and light off-road trails. The raking system, equipped with Nissin callipers and dual 296mm front discs, delivers intense and predictable stopping power, enhancing the bike’s handling capabilities. Additionally, the inclusion of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) provides an added layer of safety by offering a simple on/off traction control system that is particularly useful on wet or slippery surfaces.

COMFORT

Honda NX500’s key focus is comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring and daily commutes. The bike’s ergonomics are designed to minimize rider fatigue,with a comfortable saddle and a seat height that allows most riders to plant their feet firmly on the ground. The upright riding posture and well-positioned handlebars and footrests ensure a relaxed and natural riding position.The suspension system also significantly enhances comfort by reducing whole-body vibrations, which are common on uneven roads. The seat design is optimized to evenly distribute the rider’s weight, reducing pressure points and ensuring comfort during extended rides. However, some riders have reported a slight buzz in the seat and handlebars at high RPMs, which may affect comfort during long highway rides.

STYLING

The NX 500 boasts an aerodynamic design that enhances its visual appeal and improves its performance and fuel efficiency. The sleek lines and carefully sculpted body panels contribute to reduced wind resistance, making long-distance rides more comfortable and efficient. True to its adventure touring roots, the NX 500 features design elements that convey ruggedness and capability.The bike likely incorporates robust body panels, a prominent front beak, and protective elements that hint at its off-road potential while maintaining a sophisticated road presence. Advanced lighting features, including LED headlights and taillights, enhance visibility and contribute to the bike’s modern and premium appearance.

The NX 500 features a full-color 5-inch TFT display, providing riders with clear, easy-to-read information. This modern interface offers customizable screens and various riding data to enhance the user experience.Honda has likely paid close attention to rider comfort, with a well-designed seating position and optimally placed handlebars and footpegs that cater to long-distance riding. The ergonomics are crucial for an adventure tourer, balancing comfort for highway cruising with control for more challenging terrains. Including Honda RoadSync connectivity and Bluetooth integration showcases the NX 500’s modern approach to rider convenience, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity and access to navigation and communication features.

COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

In terms of colour options, the NX 500 is available in three striking shades:

1. Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic
2. Pearl Horizon White
3. Grand Prix Red

These colour options cater to a wide range of preferences, allowing riders to choose a style that reflects their personality. Only one variant option is available in India for the Honda NX500.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING

Priced at ₹ 5,90,000 (ex-showroom) in India, the Honda NX500 offers competitive value in the adventure tourer segment. When compared to its competitors:

1. It’s more affordable than the Kawasaki Versys 650
2. It’s priced lower than the Moto Morini X-Cape
3. It offers a similar price point to the Benelli TRK 502, another competitor in the same segment

The NX500’s value proposition is strengthened by its comprehensive feature set, including advanced electronics and safety features, coupled with Honda’s reputation for reliability. This makes it an attractive option for adventure touring enthusiasts in India looking for a well-equipped bike without venturing into higher price brackets.