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Honda CB500 Bookings Open in India Ahead of Launch
The CB500 combines classic roadster aesthetics with modern features, including tubeless wire-spoke wheels. It aims to attract riders seeking a larger retro option. Competitive pricing will be vital for its success in the Indian market.
Syed Wahab Ali
Updated Aug 3, 2026, 12:12 PM IST
Honda CB500 Bookings Open in India Ahead of Launch
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has taken the wraps off the all-new Honda CB500 in India, marking the return of a big-capacity single-cylinder retro motorcycle to the brand's portfolio. The motorcycle is now available for booking at Honda BigWing dealerships across the country and is expected to go on sale in the coming weeks.
Key Highlights:
- Honda CB500 unveiled in India; bookings now open at Honda BigWing dealerships.
- Powered by a 501cc single-cylinder engine producing 27.76 bhp and 43.3 Nm.
- Positioned above the Honda CB350 range and below 650cc retro motorcycles.
- Expected to go on sale in India soon, alongside the newly unveiled Rebel 300 and XR 300L.
The CB500 was showcased alongside the Honda Rebel 300 and Honda XR300L during the company's recent product showcase. While all three motorcycles are expected to arrive in India, the CB500 will be among the first to hit showrooms.
The Honda CB500 will slot above the company's popular CB350 lineup, catering to riders looking for a larger-capacity retro roadster. It occupies a unique position in the market, bridging the gap between 350cc classic motorcycles and larger 650cc offerings.
This gives buyers another option in a segment that has remained relatively quiet since the discontinuation of the Royal Enfield Classic 500.
Honda CB500: Engine
Powering the Honda CB500 is a 501cc, air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine that develops 27.76bhp and 43.3 Nm of peak torque. The motor is paired with a five-speed gearbox and comes equipped with an assist and slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts and improved control during aggressive downshifts.
On paper, the engine promises strong low-end torque, making the motorcycle well-suited for relaxed highway cruising and everyday riding. Honda's reputation for refined engines is also expected to be one of the CB500's biggest strengths.
Honda CB500: Styling and Features
The Honda CB500 follows a classic roadster design while incorporating modern hardware. It comes equipped with tubeless wire-spoke wheels, a feature that combines vintage styling with the convenience of tubeless tyres. Honda is also expected to offer its trademark fit-and-finish and solid build quality, which have been key strengths of its premium motorcycles.
Honda CB500: Who will it Rival?
The Honda CB500 is expected to carve out a niche for itself in the Indian market. It will sit between motorcycles such as the Honda CB350 and Royal Enfield Classic 350 on one side, and bigger retro bikes like the BSA Gold Star 650 and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 on the other.
With bookings now underway, pricing will play a crucial role in determining how competitive the CB500 is in this relatively unexplored segment. If priced aggressively, the motorcycle could appeal to riders looking for a refined, torquey, and characterful retro machine without stepping into the 650cc category.
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