The Honda CB500X has been launched in India at Rs 6.87 lakh.

• Imported via the CKD route

• Parallel-twin engine makes 47.5hp and 43.2Nm

• Features 181mm of ground clearance

The Honda CB500X is a lightweight adventure tourer that's widely regarded as an excellent all-rounder. It also marks Honda’s entry into the middleweight adventure touring space in India.

2021 Honda CB500X: engine and gearbox

Powering it is a 471cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor that produces 47.5hp and 43.2Nm of torque. These numbers are quite similar to that of the made-in-India KTM 390 Adventure, which costs a lot less. That said, there’s always an advantage with its extra cubic capacity and two cylinders. It translates to a much calmer motor – especially at cruising speeds – and additionally, better engine refinement. We hope to put this to the test as soon as we get the chance. This engine also comes paired to a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch.

2021 Honda CB500X: suspension, wheels and brakes

The CB500X rides on a conventional 41mm fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock, offering a ground clearance of 181mm. It gets 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels. The seat height, meanwhile, is 830mm.

Braking is handled by a 310mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear. These discs are drilled petal-type units. Along with dual-channel ABS, the CB500X also gets the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) feature that detects sudden braking and automatically activates the front and rear hazard lights, which flash to warn nearby vehicles.

While Honda hasn't revealed the kerb weight, we expect it to be around 197kg.

2021 Honda CB500X: features

Lighting on the CB500X is handled by LEDs all around. It also features Honda Ignition Security System (HISS) theft deterrent. The negative LCD also shows information like the gear position, engine temperature and other basic information. Lastly, the X also gets a tall windscreen that’s expected to provide ample wind protection.

2021 Honda CB500X: price and colours

 At Rs 6.87 lakh, it sits between the Benelli TRK 502 (Rs 4.8 lakh) and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT (Rs 8.84 lakh). The CB500X is available in two colours – Grand Prix Red and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. Bookings are open from today at Honda’s BigWing dealers across India.

All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi.