• Sleek styling offers both excellent aerodynamic performance and long distance comfort

• Engaging, characterful 1,084cc SOHC parallel twin-cylinder engine provides 75kW power and 104Nm torque

• High specification Showa 43mm USD forks and single-tube rear shock with hydraulic preload adjustment
• Wide-ranging practicality from standard fit items including panniers, heated grips, cruise control and centre stand
• Comfort and weather protection heightened by 5-stage screen plus upper/lower wind deflectors

• Electronics package includes 3 default and 2 customisable ‘user’ modes, plus 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control and Wheelie Control

• 5-inch TFT touch screen includes Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Bluetooth® connectivity

• Six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission available as an option

Many riders today desire performance, handling, long-range comfort and a full range of technology but not necessarily the image or physical dimensions of ‘adventure’. What they want is a straightforward touring machine, but one with a rich specification list and a sporty edge to its performance – the sort of bike that deals with the weekday commute efficiently and is equally ready for an extended tour, two-up and fully loaded.

The new NT1100 is precisely that bike. A comfortable, agile, enjoyable New Touring breed, it’s designed to draw those with a long memory of similar Honda machines of the past, and also attract younger riders looking to move up from a middleweight machine. Using the frame and characterful twin-cylinder engine of the CRF1100L Africa Twin as a base, engaging performance is assured. But it’s also packed with features that build and broaden any motorcycle’s appeal.

Available in 3 contemporary paint options – Matte Iridium Grey Metallic, Pearl Glare White and Graphite Black – sleek, subtle styling delivers efficient aerodynamic performance with a riding position tailored for touring comfort. Screen height is 5-way adjustable and upper and lower wind deflectors also work to protect the rider. Practicality is guaranteed with sizable integrated panniers, heated grips, centre stand, cruise control and USB and ACC charging sockets all standard equipment. Lighting is full LED with Daytime Running Lights for increased visibility, plus self-cancelling indicators and Emergency Stop Signals. Seat height is a very manageable 820mm.

The steel semi-double cradle frame employs a relatively short wheelbase and sharp steering geometry while suspension is via high specification 43mm Showa cartridge-type inverted front forks and single-tube rear shock, with 150mm travel front and rear. Rear spring preload adjusts hydraulically. Dual 310mm front discs are paired with 4-piston radial-mount calipers; tyres are sized 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear.

The NT1100 also features ‘full-fat’ performance from its engaging and characterful engine, with 75kW power and 104Nm torque and intake and exhaust tuned for super-smooth acceleration and a pleasing low-rpm sound. The performance does not come to the detriment of fuel efficiency, with a 400km range possible from the 20 litre fuel tank.

Honda’s unique 200,000-selling Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is an option for the six-speed gearbox, and finds a natural home in the NT1100 with its choice of trigger-based manual gear changes or smooth, efficient automatic shifting.

The NT1100’s substantial electronics package includes 3 default riding modes (URBAN, RAIN and TOUR) plus 2 customisable USER modes, 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and 3-level Wheelie Control. A 6.5-inch TFT touch screen provides full colour, customisable displays and offers Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Bluetooth® connectivity.

With its rich specification sheet and thorough-going versatility, practicality and comfort, the NT1100 offers adds yet another new dimension to Honda’s uniquely broad and diverse motorcycle line-up.

Model updates: A new breed of Honda tourer makes its debut. Taking the heart of the CRF1100L Africa Twin as a starting point, the NT1100 builds on the platform to offer  comfortable, agile, enjoyable performance. A low seat height and sharp steering geometry combine with high specification suspension to create a sporting package. 5-way height and angle adjustable screen and upper/lower wind deflectors ensure high-speed aero efficiency and outstanding weather protection; cruise control is standard, as are slim panniers and heated grips.  Rider aids include 3 default riding modes, 2 USER custom options, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Wheelie Control. Radial-mount four-piston front calipers provide the braking power, 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 front and rear tyres the grip. A 6.5-inch TFT touch screen rounds out a premium specification and features Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® connectivity.

Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Model overview

3 Key features

4 Accessories

5 Technical specifications

1. Introduction

In a motorcycling landscape full of adventure-styled bikes, there is a gap. And that gap exists for riders that desire performance, handling, long range comfort, and technology but not necessarily the image or physical dimensions of ‘adventure’. In other words, what they want is a straightforward touring machine, but one with a rich specification list and a sporty edge to its performance – the sort of bike that deals with the weekday commute efficiently and usefully and is also ready for an extended tour, fully loaded.

The NT1100 is precisely that bike. A new breed of Honda tourer, it’s designed to draw those with a long memory of similar Honda machines of the past, but also attract a much younger rider. Employing the frame and characterful twin-cylinder engine of the CRF1100L Africa Twin as a base, engaging performance is assured. But it’s also packed with features that build and broaden any motorcycle’s appeal.

Koji Kiyono, Large Project Leader, NT1100:

“At Honda we have a long tradition of catering for owners who desire a ‘traditional’ touring bike. Our previous Pan European and Deauville models have enjoyed a very loyal following for many years. So, when it came time to design a new touring model, we wanted to produce something that would resonate – and appeal broadly – to these traditional touring bike customers. But we also wanted to stoke desire in riders of all ages and tastes who are looking for a genuinely new and versatile fun bike. That’s why we’ve created our new NT1100, offering thoroughly modern engine performance, a fun-to-handle chassis, a suite of modern technology and completely fresh, distinctive styling.

We sincerely hope that many new owners will try exploring to the maximum all of its many capabilities.”

 2. Model Overview

Comfortable, agile, enjoyable. The NT1100 in a nutshell. Sleek, subtle styling delivers efficient aerodynamic performance with a riding position tailored for touring. Screen height and angle are 5-way adjustable and upper and lower wind deflectors also work to protect the rider. A 6.5-inch TFT touch screen provides full colour, customisable displays and offers Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® connectivity. Cruise control, heated grips and sizable integrated panniers are standard equipment.

The NT1100’s steel semi-double cradle frame employs a relatively short wheelbase and sharp steering geometry while suspension is via 43mm Showa cartridge-type inverted front forks and single-tube rear shock. Rear spring preload adjusts hydraulically. Dual 310mm front discs are paired with 4-piston radial-mount calipers; tyres are sized 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear.

It also features full-fat performance from the twin-cylinder engine, inherited from the Africa Twin, but with intake and exhaust tuned for super-smooth acceleration and a pleasing low-rpm sound. The performance does not come to the detriment of fuel economy: the engine’s efficiency allows a 400km range from the 20 litre fuel tank.

The electronic package includes 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Wheelie Control, full LED lights, self-cancelling indicators and Emergency Stop Signals. And finding a natural home in the NT11000, Honda’s six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is an option.

 3. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Sleek styling offers excellent aerodynamic performance
• 5-stage screen height and angle adjustment plus upper/lower wind deflectors
• Panniers standard equipment, as are heated grips and cruise control
• 5-inch TFT touch screen includes Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Bluetooth connectivity
• USB socket, centre stand and ACC socket as standard

The NT1100 has been designed, from the outset, as a sporting, agile bike but one that’s also enjoyable to ride all day with efficient, protective aerodynamics and easy-going ergonomics centred around rider comfort.

Styling is subtly sophisticated with straightforward surfaces that emphasise key character lines. Dynamic elegance front to back are the defining features of the design language of the NT1100. And of course this motorcycle’s sleek form is also about function – aimed to elevate the quality of the riding experience.

Fitted as standard, upper and lower deflectors provide wind and weather protection around arms and lower body. The screen offers 5-stage adjustment for height and angle through a total 164mm between the high/low position. Set low, it sends air around the shoulders; set high it moves air over the rider’s helmet. Heated grips are standard equipment, as is cruise control.

The rider integrates into the machine neatly, enveloped by the protection offered by the fairing. A wide, thick seat material offers a luxurious expanse for two; seat height is set at 820mm. A large grabrail for the passenger extends from the rear rack.

The exhaust muffler, too is set low to maximise pannier volume. And it’s the standard-fit, detachable panniers that are one of the NT1100’s key features. Deliberately designed to be as slim as possible for around-town riding they are just 901mm across at their widest point. Pannier volume is at 33L left and 32L right.

Bright and easy to read, the 6.5-inch TFT touch screen offers 3 choices of screen display; GOLD shows all numeric and mode information. SILVER centres on the speedometer and rev-counter, BRONZE on the rev-counter. The background colour has a default setting plus the choice of black or white. Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and Bluetooth connectivity allows access to smartphone functions via the TFT display.

The premium specification is rounded out by full LED lights (with DRL), self-cancelling indicators and Emergency Stop Signals; practicality is further elevated by USB socket, centre stand and ACC socket as standard. 

The NT1100 will be available in the following colour options:

Matte Iridium Gray Metallic

Pearl Glare White

Graphite Black

3.2 Chassis

• CRF1100L steel semi-double cradle frame and bolt-on aluminium subframe
• Sharp steering geometry and high spec suspension front and rear
• Showa 43mm inverted front forks and rear shock with hydraulic preload adjustment
• Dual 310mm front discs and 4-piston radial-mount calipers

The NT1100’s underpinnings are well-proven and tough – the Africa Twin CRF1100L’s steel semi-double cradle frame and bolt-on aluminium subframe. To suit the all-round, sporting purpose of the NT1100, the off-road ready suspension of its sibling has been replaced by road-focused equipment matched to sharper steering geometry.

The 43mm Showa cartridge-type inverted front forks feature 150mm travel and are preload adjustable. Like the forks, the single-tube pressurised Showa rear shock offers 150mm axle travel; it uses a 14mm diameter rod. To make carrying a pillion and/or luggage easier spring preload adjusts hydraulically, and remotely.

The wheels are aluminium, fine die-cast with a sand core allowing a hollow hub centre for the front. An intersecting spoke design (with the spokes attaching to the rim diagonally) offers several benefits: it smooths road vibration in a straight line and offers high rigidity for cornering. Tyres are sized 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear.

Wheelbase is set at 1535mm, with rake and trail of 26.5°/108mm and 175mm ground clearance Kerb weight for the NT1100 with manual transmission is 238kg, 248kg with DCT.

Dual 310mm front discs are squeezed by lightweight, 4-piston radial-mount calipers. The rear 256mm disc uses a 1-piston caliper. All braking is ABS-controlled.

3.3 Engine

• 1,084cc SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine
• Power and torque output of 75kW/104Nm
• Intake and exhaust tuned to deliver smooth, powerful acceleration and pleasing low-rpm ‘throb’

The NT1100’s 1,084cc SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine is the well-proven units from the CRF1100L Africa Twin, with peak power of 75kW @ 7,250rpm and 104Nm @ 6,250rpm peak torque. Compression ratio is identical at 10.1:1. Another shared feature is the 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval.

Throttle By Wire (TBW) provides engine management and PGM-FI feeds the throttle bodies. Where the engine tune differs to the Africa Twin – and immediately noticeable to the rider – are the optimisation of both air intake duct length and muffler internals to produce a pleasing, low-rpm ‘throb’ and smooth, powerful acceleration married to relaxed highway cruising – perfect for the wide-ranging duties the NT1100 is built for.

The crankcases are split horizontally and the water pump is housed within the clutch casing with a thermostat integrated into the cylinder head. Manual and DCT versions of the engine share common crankcases with only minor external differences. Secondary vibrations are neutralised by the mutually reciprocating motion of the pistons, while primary inertial and coupling vibrations are cancelled by the use of biaxial balance shafts. The water and oil pumps are driven by the balancer shafts. 

A crank pulsar – with relator teeth spaced at 10° intervals – manages misfire detection, important for OBD2/EURO5 compliance. In addition for EURO5 Linear Air Flow (LAF) sensors in the downpipes give accurate measurement of the air/fuel mixture ratio.

3.4 Engine Electronics

• 3 default riding modes to choose from, plus two customisable USER modes
• 3-level Honda Selectable Torque Control
• 3-level Wheelie Control

TBW manages engine performance and character, plus Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Wheelie Control. There are 3 pre-set modes for the rider to choose covering a wide variety of riding conditions and 3 levels of management for Power and Engine Braking, with level 1 delivering the maximum of either parameter. For HSTC and Wheelie Control level 3 provides the highest intervention.

Mode selection is managed from the left-hand switchgear; an indicator in the instrument display activates when HSTC is working.

URBAN is standard and offers an all-round middle setting of engine power and engine braking.

RAIN reduces engine power and engine braking for extra reassurance on wet or slippery surfaces.

TOUR gives full engine power and standard engine braking, for strong acceleration while carrying a pillion and luggage.

USER 1 and 2 modes offer the ability to customise between the settings for the preferred combination. Once set, the USER setting is automatically stored so there’s no need to re-set each time the ignition is turned on.

3.5 Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

• DCT offers choice of Automatic (AT) or Manual Transmission (MT)
• 3-levels of S mode for wide-ranging sporty AT shifting performance

Honda has sold over 200,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F in 2009. Testament to its acceptance in the market place, across Honda’s model range, 53% of customers chose the DCT option over the manual in 2020. The system delivers consistent, seamless gear changes and very quickly becomes second nature in use. It uses two clutches: one for start-up and 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th gears, the other for 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th, with the mainshaft for each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging.

Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear using the clutch not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged as, simultaneously, the second clutch engages.

The result is a consistent, fast and seamless gear change. Furthermore, as the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption of the drive to the rear wheel, any gear change shock and pitching of the machine is minimised, making the change feel direct as well as smooth. Extra benefits include durability (as the gears cannot be damaged by missing a gear) impossibility of stalling, low stress urban riding, reduced rider fatigue and – crucially – the ability to concentrate more on riding lines, braking and acceleration points. 

The DCT system offers two distinct riding approaches – Automatic Transmission (AT), with pre-programmed shift patterns which constantly read vehicle speed, gear selected and engine rpm to decide when a shift should occur, and Manual Transmission (MT), for gear changes using the paddle-shift style triggers on the left handlebar.

There are two settings within AT to choose from; D mode offers effortless riding and maximum fuel efficiency. S mode serves up 3 levels of sports-based shifting. Level 1 is the most modest, changing gears in the medium rpm range. Level 3 is the most aggressive and operates at high rpm with Level 2 is the intermediate point between the two. The preferred selection can also be saved.

 4. Accessories

There are a range of accessories tailor made ready for the NT1100, including quickshifter with autoblipper function, and aluminium cosmetic panels for the luggage. To make it easy for an owner to get their NT1100 the way they want it, 3 packs are also available (all items can also be purchased separately):

URBAN PACK

50L top box with inner bag, comfort back rest, 4.5L tank bag.

TOURING PACK

Rider/pillion comfort seats, comfort pillion footpegs and fog lights.

VOYAGE PACK

50L top box with inner bag, comfort back rest, 4.5L tank bag, rider/pillion comfort seats, comfort pillion footpegs and fog lights.

5 Technical Specifications

** Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

Model updates: After its comprehensive 2021 update – with more power from a larger-capacity engine plus complete style refresh – Honda’s range-topping SH is unchanged for 2022 but two vibrant new ‘Sporty Edition’ versions with new colours and other design touches expand the choice on offer. Specification includes Smart Key operation, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), LED light, LCD dash and underseat USB Type-C socket.

Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Model overview

3 Key features

4 Accessories

5 Technical specifications

1. Introduction

Look around Europe’s capital cities and two letters will be constantly, obviously, on the move around you: SH. Over a million SH scooters have been sold in Europe over the last 37 years, earning the SH tag the status of a brand-within-a-brand, underpinned by Honda’s famed build quality and reliability.

The SH300i, with its compact, flat-floored step-through design and 16-inch front and rear wheels carried all of the SH signature touches and packed something extra – a powerful engine delivering maximum response for both city and highway use. 

It became the first Honda to gain EURO4 compliance back in 15YM; at the same time its engine got a boost in torque output and fuel efficiency. Its look, too, was made more muscular while the chassis received revisions to expand storage space and maintain its razor-sharp handling. In 19YM it gained Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Smart Key operation and, in 21YM, the story continued: the SH350i gained cubic capacity, thus power and torque and an elegant re-style, further cementing its position as the perfect all-round scooter.

For 22YM the SH350i two ‘Sporty Edition’ versions expand the appeal.

 2. Model Overview

The SH350i’s eSP+ engine makes peak power of 21.5Kw and is strong all the way through the rev-range, delivering fast acceleration. It’s also EURO5 compliant.

Completely refreshed styling is a sleek evolution of the SH formula of compact, usable practicality – easy to both ride and park. It also wraps a lightweight mainframe. A USB socket can be found under the seat, and the dash is LCD.

The 22YM SH350i will be available in the following colour options:

Pearl Cool White

Mat Carnelian Red Metallic

Mat Ruthenium Silver Metallic

Pearl Splendor Red

Black

Two Sporty Editions:  

Pearl Falcon Gray **NEW**

Mat Blacky Gray Metallic **NEW**

Both Sporty Edition colours also feature several more premium touches including matt grey wheels, fork lowers, rear carrier and engine covers, red stitching on the seat, red and grey wheel stripes, plus red Honda logo up front and red ‘SH’ logo on the side. 

 3. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Sophisticated SH style includes signature flat floor
• USB Type-C socket under the seat
• Smart Key operation, LCD instrumentation
• Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function warns other road users of sudden braking

The SH350i is a scooter that instantly defines its presence on the road, marking out its premium SH lineage with brand-new design following the look of the best-selling younger sibling the SH125i, with the styling key words of ‘muscular’ and ‘surface tension’. Its ‘face’ sets it apart: the LED headlight features a central main beam splitting dual dip beams, while position lights reside above on the handlebar nacelle to create a sleek, contemporary frontal signature. The LED taillight and indicators sit neatly at the rear, between an aluminium passenger grab rail.

Of course, as an SH, function is as important as form. The riding position maintains the ability to support a wide range of rider sizes and delivers a relaxed, upright stance and great all-round vision. Total machine length is 2160mm, with width of 742mm and height of 1161mm. Minimum ground clearance is 131mm.

There’s room for a full-face helmet under the seat, and the seat height itself an easy-to-manage 805mm (just 5mm more than the SH125/150). There’s also a USB Type-C socket for easy charging of a mobile device. The standard SH flat floor (435mm wide) makes loads easy to carry as well as aiding the rider step on and off. A foldable utility hook on the front panel adds convenience.

An attractive LCD dash presents all warning lights – including HSTC and ABS operation – neatly around a central digital speedo/odometer display. All operations on the dash are carried out via A/B buttons on the left handlebar.

The front and rear indicators have an auto-cancelling Emergency Stop Signal feature. Once the ABS recognises hard braking is in process, the hazard lights flash to warn other road users.

Adding to the convenience of a busy life on the move is the Smart Key which – as well as controlling the main ignition switch knob and compartment locking – can also manage the optional 35L top box. With the Smart Key in the rider’s pocket the box is unlocked, and automatically locks when the rider walks away. It can also be locked from the key. 

3.2 Engine

• 330cc engine puts out 21.5Kw peak power with 32Nm torque
• eSP+ technology ensures fuel economy of 30km/l (WMTC mode)
• EURO5 compliance

The SH350i’s enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) engine achieves both high environmental performance and strong output characteristics through comprehensive adoption of technologies for friction reduction.

Liquid-cooled, the fuel-injected SOHC four-valve unit produces peak power of 21.5kW @ 7,500rpm, with maximum torque of 32Nm @ 5,250rpm. From a standing start, the SH350i will hit 200m in 10.2s.

Bore is 77mm with 70.7mm stroke; compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. Roller-type rocker arm, plain journal crank bearings and sealed crankcases deliver long-term reliability together with strong performance. To enhance piston cooling, an oil jet, as used on the CRF450R, sprays oil right to the back of the piston, advancing ignition timing and improving combustion performance. Oil capacity is 1.85 litres.

Air is supplied via a 5.5 litre airbox. A 36mm throttle body feeds 28mm inlet valves with maximum efficiency. The intake port also draws air efficiently, utilising a ‘tumble’ flow within the cylinder for consistent fuel combustion. Exhaust gases are expelled via a straight exhaust port.

To reduce exhaust gas resistance, the muffler uses of two distinct chambers. The pipe connecting the expansion chamber – as well as the size and location of the catalyser – are optimised to improve gas flow and purification.

Internal friction is reduced through a 5mm offset cylinder, a hydraulic cam chain adjuster and a scavenger pump. Used on high performance machines, the pump lowers the internal pressure within the engine, reduces oil agitation and decreases pumping losses and internal rotational friction. A balancer shaft further reduces vibration and contributes to a smooth enjoyable ride.

An automatic centrifugal clutch works a V-Matic transmission (with ratios set for fast low speed reaction and smart acceleration) and belt final drive.

The engine is equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The system detects any difference between the front and rear wheel speeds, calculates the slip ratio and then controls engine torque via the fuel injection to regain rear wheel traction. HSTC can be switched ON-OFF via a switch on the left handlebar. A ‘T’ indicator in the digital display flickers when the system is working to manage grip.

Fuel economy is a frugal 30km/l (WMTC mode); the 9.1L tank capacity gives a potential 270km+ range.

3.3 Chassis

• Lightweight steel underbone frame
• 35mm telescopic forks and twin rear shock absorbers
• Stability from 16-inch front and rear wheels

The SH350i’s well-proven chassis is designed to deliver agility and composure in all riding situations. For the 2021 redesign, revised pipe diameters, wall thicknesses, and materials of underbone frame’s component parts improved high speed stability and comfort, while actually saving 1kg in weight of the frame.

Supple bump absorption is provided by 35mm telescopic forks, twin rear shock absorbers, cast aluminium swingarm and an Oleo link system mounted underneath the engine to assist handling feel and bump absorption.

Rake and trail are set at 27°5’/99mm with wheelbase of 1452mm and the handlebars feature a 45° turn radius from centre. Kerb weight is 174kg.

Tyres are 110/70-16 at the front and 130/70-16 at the rear; two-channel ABS operates 256mm single disc brakes at the front and a 256mm single disc at the rear.

 4. Accessories

A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the SH350i. They include:

35-litre Smart top box & rear carrier kit

Windshield & knuckle visor set

Heated grips

Scooter blanket

 5. Technical Specifications

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

*Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

The Honda CB500X was named Motorcycle News’ Best Sub-500cc for the third year in a row, with the mini-adventurer continuing to earn plaudits for its all-round ability.

MCN provided plenty of evidence as to why the CB500X finished top of the pile in the category: “The Honda CB500X is a winner for the third year running and it’s easy to see why. Comfortable, affordable, and now tweaked for Euro5 compliance, the easy-going mid-sized adventurer has been a hit with both novice and experienced riders since its inception in 2013.”

“Producing around 47bhp out of the crate, the beaky CB is A2-licence friendly without restriction, yet provides more than enough performance for everyday errands, weekend work and even the occasional dusty off-road trail – surging forwards like a bike with 20 ponies more.”

“Although only receiving subtle tweaks for 2021, the practical Honda got a decent overhaul for 2019 – boasting an easy-to-read colour LCD display, more midrange pull from the burbling parallel-twin engine, a better turning circle, plus longer travel suspension and a 19in front wheel to allow it to venture off of the beaten track. The bike has ruled the roost since.”

“That’s not to say it doesn’t perform on tarmac as well though and ridden alongside its upright CB500F and sporty CBR500R stablemates, the X is actually more engaging – with impressive amounts of grip from its semi-knobbly Dunlop tyres and room for taller pilots. A light clutch, anti-stall features and an ample slice of usable torque also make things easier for newer riders – with a thinner tank making it less hassle to move around and feel in control.”

“Decent wind protection and a comfortable seat also mean less fatigue over distance, with some owners known to head on multi-day tours in the UK and beyond (who needs a GS anyway?!).”

“Not only great to ride, the CB500X is put together with typical Honda quality. What’s more, as well as being kinder to the planet, the 2021 machine comes available in a fresh choice of colours all with a red subframe – a nod to the larger-capacity Africa Twin range at a fraction of the price.”

This latest accolade coincides with the arrival of the new 2022 500cc trio with the CB500X receiving major performance-focussed improvements led by Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) USD forks, dual disc front brakes and axial-mount calipers. Handling is further improved by a new swingarm, which is lighter with more lateral flex. The rear shock has new settings to complement the new forks. A redesigned front wheel and lighter radiator save weight and new fuel injection settings improve engine character. More powerful headlight LEDs and front indicator position lights offer greater visibility plus a new Pearl Organic Green colour scheme alongside the Grand Prix Red, Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic completes the updates.   

Neil Fletcher, Head of Motorcycles at Honda UK said, “Motorcycle News is a leading authority on motorcycles, so accolades don’t come much better than an MCN Award. We are delighted the highly successful CB500X has once again retained its title as the bike represents a perfect all-arounder for both new and existing riders. Plus, with the latest updates just announced for the 2022 model, we really hoping that the CB500X will be able to win this award for a fourth consecutive year!”