In the ever-evolving world of motorcycles, where cutting-edge technology often takes center stage, Honda has taken a refreshing step back in time with the CL500 Scrambler. This neo-retro marvel pays homage to the iconic CL series of the 1960s while catering to the demands of today’s riders. Let’s dive into what makes this bike a standout in the current motorcycle landscape.
A Nod to the Past, A Leap to the Future
The moment you lay eyes on the CL500, you’re transported back to the golden age of motorcycling. Its classic silhouette, adorned with modern touches, strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and contemporary design. The round headlight, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and upswept exhaust pipe are all unmistakable nods to its predecessors. Yet, look closer, and you’ll find LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and other modern amenities that bring this classic into the 21st century.
Heart of the Beast
Nestled within the CL500’s trellis frame beats a 471cc parallel-twin engine, a powerplant that has proven its mettle across Honda’s lineup. This liquid-cooled, DOHC engine delivers a respectable 46 horsepower and 43 Nm of torque. While these numbers might not set the world on fire, they’re more than adequate for the CL500’s intended purpose – to be a versatile, fun, and approachable machine for both novice and experienced riders alike.
The engine’s character is one of smooth, linear power delivery. It’s not intimidating off the line, but it builds speed with a satisfying urgency that keeps things interesting. The exhaust note, while subdued to meet modern emissions standards, still manages to emit a pleasing thrum that adds to the overall riding experience.
Riding Impressions: Urban Jungle to Country Roads
Swing a leg over the CL500, and you’re immediately struck by its accessibility. The 31.1-inch seat height is manageable for riders of various statures, and the upright riding position offers excellent visibility and comfort for city navigation. The wide handlebars provide plenty of leverage for maneuvering through tight spaces, making it a joy to pilot through congested urban environments.
But don’t let its city-friendly demeanor fool you – the CL500 is equally at home when the pavement ends. The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, shod with Dunlop Mixtour tires, offer a good compromise between on-road stability and light off-road capability. While it’s no hardcore dirt bike, it’s more than capable of handling gravel roads and light trails, living up to its scrambler heritage.
The suspension, consisting of 41mm telescopic forks up front and twin shocks at the rear, offers 5.9 and 5.7 inches of travel, respectively. It’s tuned on the softer side, which works well for soaking up urban imperfections and providing a plush ride on rougher surfaces. However, more aggressive riders might find it a bit wallowy when pushing hard through twisty back roads.
Braking duties are handled by a single 310mm disc with a two-piston caliper up front and a 240mm disc at the rear. ABS comes standard, providing an extra layer of safety. While not the most powerful setup in Honda’s arsenal, it’s more than adequate for the CL500’s weight and performance envelope.
Tech and Features: Just Enough, Not Too Much
In keeping with its back-to-basics ethos, the CL500 doesn’t overwhelm with technology. The LCD instrument panel provides all the essential information at a glance, including speed, rpm, fuel level, and gear position. There’s no ride-by-wire throttle or selectable riding modes here – just a direct connection between the rider’s right hand and the engine.
That’s not to say the CL500 is completely devoid of modern amenities. The all-LED lighting not only looks great but also provides excellent visibility. The assist and slipper clutch makes for light lever action and helps prevent rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. These features enhance the riding experience without detracting from the bike’s simple, honest character.
Customization: Make It Your Own
One of the CL500’s strongest suits is its potential for personalization. Honda offers a range of genuine accessories, from practical add-ons like luggage racks and hand guards to style-enhancing bits like different seat options and tank pads. The aftermarket is sure to embrace this platform as well, offering even more possibilities for riders to tailor their CL500 to their specific tastes and needs.
Who Is It For?
The CL500 casts a wide net in terms of its target audience. It’s an excellent choice for newer riders looking for a stylish, manageable machine that won’t be quickly outgrown. Experienced riders will appreciate its nimble handling and retro charm, perhaps as a second bike for around-town duties or weekend escapes.
Urban dwellers will find it a perfect companion for navigating city streets and the occasional jaunt to the countryside. Its approachable nature and classic good looks also make it an attractive option for those returning to motorcycling after a hiatus.
The Competition
In the burgeoning neo-retro segment, the CL500 faces stiff competition. Bikes like the Yamaha XSR700, Kawasaki Z650RS, and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 all vie for attention in this space. Each has its own strengths, but the CL500 stands out with its scrambler styling and Honda’s reputation for reliability and build quality.
Conclusion: A Winning Formula
The Honda CL500 Scrambler is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past – it’s a thoroughly modern motorcycle that captures the essence of what makes riding fun. It’s not the fastest, the most technologically advanced, or the most off-road capable machine in Honda’s lineup. But it strikes a beautiful balance between performance, style, and accessibility that’s hard to ignore.
In a world where motorcycles often try to do it all, the CL500 is refreshingly focused. It knows exactly what it wants to be – a stylish, fun, and versatile machine that brings the joy of motorcycling to a wide audience. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring back roads on the weekend, or simply cruising for the sheer pleasure of it, the CL500 is ready to deliver smiles per mile in spades.
Honda has managed to capture lightning in a bottle with the CL500, creating a motorcycle that’s both a loving tribute to its heritage and a thoroughly enjoyable machine in its own right. It’s a bike that doesn’t just look the part – it delivers an authentic riding experience that’s sure to win over both nostalgic old-timers and younger riders discovering the joys of classic styling for the first time.
As we look to the future of motorcycling, with its electric powertrains and advanced rider aids, bikes like the CL500 remind us of the simple pleasures that drew us to two wheels in the first place. It’s a motorcycle that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the journey, and remember why you fell in love with riding in the first place.
In the end, the Honda CL500 Scrambler isn’t just a motorcycle – it’s a time machine, a style statement, and a faithful companion for whatever adventures lie ahead. It’s proof that sometimes, the best way forward is to take a thoughtful look back.