[Breaking News] Finally Arrived! Honda CB500 with 501cc Air-Cooled Single-Cylinder Engine Officially Announced in India

Honda India announced the new "CB500" model, equipped with a 501cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, at a media event held on July 24. This is an enlarged displacement version of the previously rumored GB350 (known as CB350 Highness in India).

Features a more modern finish than the GB350

The CB500, announced on July 24, is a retro roadster powered by a 501cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine. Although no technical details have been released, it is undoubtedly the enlarged displacement version of the GB350 that Webike Plus has been reporting on.

Its displacement is announced as 501cc, and judging by its appearance, it is based on the 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine of the GB350, with the addition of a new oil cooler. The maximum output and torque are announced as 20.7kW (approx. 28ps) / 43.3Nm (approx. 4.4kg-m), both significantly exceeding the GB350's 15kW (20ps) / 29Nm (3.0kg-m). It appears to retain the semi-double cradle frame, which contributes to the GB's relaxed handling characteristics.

The CB500 is on the left. Compared to the GB350C (CB350C in India) on the right, the engine is silver and it adopts tubeless spoke wheels.

The 501cc single-cylinder engine offers an 8ps / 1.4kg-m performance increase over the 348cc GB350. It should provide a more relaxed ride.

The body design is exclusive and different from the GB350. The fuel tank is longer than the GB350's, and it is equipped with a tuck-and-roll seat. Honda India states, "The Honda CB500 combines retro sporty design, the latest technology, and everyday reliability, making it a heritage roadster from Honda." Overall, it features a more modern finish than the GB, with features such as rear shocks with reservoir tanks and cast/tubeless spoke wheels that can be chosen from three patterns, including those with graphics.

Equipment includes Honda RoadSync for smartphone connectivity, an assist-and-slipper clutch, and traction control. While the meter layout follows the GB350's configuration, it has a modern design. As far as can be confirmed, there are three body colors: solid silver, red, and black with gold lines. New colors have also been introduced for the 350 series simultaneously.

While technical details and pricing in India are expected to be announced soon, the GB350's enjoyable engine with its rich vibrations should offer even stronger pulses with the increased displacement, providing relaxed performance in various riding situations. Although there is no information about its introduction to Japan, this is a new model that we eagerly await. We will provide further details as they become available.

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