honda cb500 2027

The Honda CB500 Retro 2027 is a newly introduced retro-style roadster that takes a very different approach from Honda’s existing international 500cc motorcycles, such as the CB500 Hornet. Unveiled in 2026, the CB500 uses a 501cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine rather than the 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin found in the international CB500 Hornet and CBR500R. The engine produces around 27.6 bhp and 43.3 Nm of torque and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox, giving the motorcycle a relaxed, torque-focused character suited to everyday riding and longer road trips. Honda has also equipped it with a slipper clutch and selectable torque control, while braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS.

Visually, the Honda CB500 Retro follows a classic roadster formula, combining a relatively simple silhouette with modern equipment. Its styling is aimed at riders who want the presence of a large-capacity motorcycle without the aggressive appearance of a modern streetfighter. The bike is offered in three variants: the CB500 Alloy, CB500 Spoke Tubeless, and CB500 Spoke Tubeless with Stripe, with the main differences being the wheel design and additional graphics. The spoke-wheel versions use cross-spoke tubeless wheels, adding to the motorcycle’s traditional appearance while retaining the convenience of tubeless tyres. Honda offers the CB500 in four colours: Pearl Deep Ground Grey, Pearl Igneous Black, Matte Steel Silver Metallic, and Rebel Red Metallic. The Stripe version, meanwhile, gets its own Igneous Black finish with golden graphics.

The equipment list also gives the Honda CB500 Retro a modern touch. It features full-LED lighting, an analogue-digital instrument cluster, and Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to access connected functions through the motorcycle and a compatible smartphone. The selectable torque-control system adds another layer of electronic assistance, while dual-channel ABS provides additional braking control. Rather than chasing outright horsepower, the CB500’s character is centred on its larger single-cylinder engine, substantial torque, and classic styling. Honda’s decision to use a 501cc air-cooled single makes this model particularly distinct from the company’s internationally sold 471cc twin-cylinder CB500 models. For reference, the 2026 CB500 Hornet sold in other markets produces 47 hp and 43 Nm from its 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, so the CB500 Retro should not be confused with that motorcycle despite the similar CB500 name.