The 2016 CB500F joins the CB500X and CBR500R in Australian Honda showrooms from Monday May 16, 2016, as the cheapest member of the learner-approved family.
The street fighter arrives in Lemon Ice Yellow and Matte Gunpowder Black at $7899 plus on-road costs. A stunning white model will not be available in Australia.
It is powered by the same 471cc DOHC engine and steel diamond-tube frame as the CB500X ($7999) and CBR500R ($8099).
The CB500F features a larger 16.7-litre fuel tank, LED lighting, spring preload adjustable front forks, a new lightweight exhaust and adjustable brake lever.
The CB500 model line has recently been hit by two safety recalls.
In July last year, they were recalled over fuel leaks. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said the float arm on the fuel pump level gauge may break off, due to reduced strength during usage.
In February this year, Honda Australia recalled its CB500 models to check for oil leaks.
The recall notice said that due to “an incorrect procedure during manufacture” of the rocker arm shaft sealing bolt, it may come loose causing oil to leak from the CB500’s engine. “If the oil leak is undetected or unrepaired, loss of engine oil could cause engine failure or seizure,” the recall notice says.
Despite the recalls, the CB500 line-up continues to be a strong seller in the Australian market place that seems to be obsessed with learner-approved motorcycles.
