The facelifted 2016 Honda CBR500R arrives in Australia this month with adjustable pre-load for front suspension, larger fuel tank with hinged fuel cap, adjustable brake levers, “wave” style ignition key and a shorter exhaust muffler with deeper note, all for an extra $100.
The popular bike was last year just outside of the top 10 best sellers in Australia with 1215 sales and these updates should give it even more fans, especially since the price is now $8099, plus on-road costs.
The facelift gives it a sportier look that they call “Aggressive Speed Shape”. It features a sharper nose with with angular dual LED lights and a bobbed upswept tail.
The facelifted CB500R looks great in either Millennium Red, Pearl White or Matte Black Metallic.
But it will be the technical and mechanical updates that riders will enjoy more.
The bigger tank and secure filler cap will make it better for touring, although they don’t say how much more fuel it will take.
The inclusion of adjustable brake levers and adjustable suspension will help suit a wider variety of riders and is a surprise for a budget bike targeted at novice riders.
Introduced in 2013 it is still powered by a 471cc in-line twin producing 35kW and brakes and frame remain unchanged.