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2019 Honda CBR500R ABS:

The Honda CBR500R is one of our most popular streetbikes, and it’s easy to see why. It’s just about the perfect combination of performance, versatility and price. And for 2019 this feisty road warrior is even better, with a whole menu full of improvements.

For starters, we gave it more power, more aggressive styling, a nicer sound, and a whole bunch of other functional upgrades. What didn’t change? The near magical balance of size, performance, and handling. Oh, and an affordable price, too. So go ahead, live a little. Don’t be afraid—the CBR500R’s not too hot, but we guarantee it’ll get your interest the minute you twist the throttle.

Since its 2013 launch, Honda’s fully faired CBR500R has been proven itself a standout option for riders looking to move up from a smaller machine, instilling the excitement of sportbike ownership into every ride while also delivering sensible running costs, making it a great bike for both commuting and enjoying the weekend. It has also found favor with experienced riders looking to downsize while still preserving the essence of motorcycling. For 2019, the CBR500R has aggressive new styling that heralds a long list of performance improvements that strengthen the sportbike’s appeal.

Honda’s fully faired CBR500R – launched in 2013 alongside the naked CB500F and adventure styled CB500X – gives a genuine sporting energy to its fun focussed twin cylinder ‘light middleweight’ trio.

Suitable for riders looking to move up from a smaller machine, it instils the excitement of sports bike ownership into every ride yet also delivers sensible running costs, making it a great bike to both commute through the working week and enjoy at the weekend. It’s also found favour with experienced riders looking to downsize their machinery, while preserving the essence of enjoyable motorcycling.

In 2016 the CBR500R assumed sharper styling and LED lighting to go with upgrades to its front suspension; for 2019 it gets an even more aggressive makeover, with a new form and riding position that outlines a keener sporting intent. Its engine is stronger off the bottom and spins readily to the redline, delivering a thrilling howl in the process.

The CBR500R has always proved fast, frugal, affordable and fun. And for 2019 its spirit has not changed – more of the same, yes; and a little something extra.

Model Overview

Contrasting angles and shaping – between the very slim and more muscular – from the fairing nose to the seat unit outline the CBR500R’s new look. It’s an ergonomic design for the rider to use aggressively which also features improved aero management. Clipon handlebars now mount below the revised top yoke and the riding position is canted further forward.

While its engine maintains the 35kW required for A2 licence holders, it now makes 4% more power and torque between 37,000rpm thanks to revisions to the inlet, exhaust and valve timing. It also now features an assist/slipper clutch.

More power and torque between 37,000rpm thanks to revisions to the inlet, exhaust and valve timing. It also now features an assist/slipper clutch.

New LCD instruments feature a Shift Up and Gear Position function and the indicators are now LED, to match the rest of the lighting. While the chassis remains essentially unchanged a new rear shock absorber delivers consistent damping performance and improved control.

The CBR500R’s friendly, 8 valve liquid cooled parallel twin cylinder layout offers a well proportioned balance of physical size and willing, enjoyable power output, with an energetic, high revving character and zappy top end.

Already strong off the bottom, the target for 2019 development was faster acceleration through a boost in low to midrange power and torque in the 37,000rpm range; the 4% improvement comes via altered valve timing – with ‘close’ timing accelerated by 5° – and lift increased 0.3mm to 7.8mm.

Feeding the PGMFI fuel injection is now a moreorless straight shot of airflow through the airbox and throttle bodies. The battery has been repositioned further away (44.1mm versus 13.4mm) from the rear of the airbox intake duct to allow greater airflow; the exhaust muffler now features dual exit pipes, adding a sportier sounding edge to each pulse. Peak power of 35kW arrives at 8,500rpm, with 43Nm torque delivered at 7,000rpm.

Bore and stroke is set at 67mm x 66.8mm; the crankshaft pins are phased at 180° and a primary couple balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s centre of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couplebalance and its light weight allows the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four frame hangers on the cylinder head. Internally the cylinder head uses roller rocker arms; shimtype valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valvespring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear. Inlet valve diameter is 26.0mm with exhaust valve diameter of 21.5mm.

The piston shape is based upon those used in the CBR1000RR Fireblade to reduce piston ‘noise’ at high rpm. Friction is reduced by the addition of striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area, introducing gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication). As with the CBR1000RR, an AB 1 salt bath process, used after isonite nitriding, forms a protective oxidisation membrane.

The ‘triangle’ proportion of crankshaft, main shaft and countershaft is very similar to that of Honda’s fourcylinder RR engines and much of the internal structure and engineering is taken directly from the CBR1000RR.

The crankcase uses centrifugally cast thinwalled sleeves; their internal design reduces the ‘pumping’ losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. Using the same internal relief structure as that of the CBR1000RR, the oil pump features improved aeration performance, with reduced friction; a deep sump reduces oil movement under hard cornering and braking. Oil capacity is 3.2L.

A sixspeed gearbox mirrors that of its RR cousin and uses the same gear change arm structure and link mechanism. New for 2019 an assist/slipper clutch enables lighter upshifts and smooths out any hard downshifts.

The CBR500R will be available in the following colour options:

Matt Axis Grey Metallic

Grand Prix Red

Pearl Metalloid White

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

STYLING

Aggressive new lines with purposeful, dual LED headlights

Aerodynamically efficient and ergonomically comfortable

Resited clipon handlebars give a sportier riding position

New LCD instrument display, with Gear Position and Shift Up indicators

LED indicators

For 2019, the CBR500R’s fully faired form is made even more aggressive with straight, wedge-like feature lines and extended lower fairings that emphasize a real sense of speed. The rider’s seat pad and seat unit—plus the upper and side fairings—have been narrowed to improve ergonomics and movement. Sharply chiseled dual LED headlights stare menacingly ahead, and the addition of LED turn signals means all lighting is now LED.

The view forward from the CBR500R’s cockpit is pure sport. The handlebars now clip on beneath the redesigned top triple clamp, and as a result the riding position is canted 8° further forward; the fairing is also set lower to give the rider Total Control—the design philosophy behind the styling redesign, and a fundamental concept for Honda’s CBR range.

New LCD instruments feature a Gear Position and Shift Up indicator; this is set to a default 8,750 rpm but can be adjusted in 250 rpm increments between 5,000 and 8,750 rpm.

CHASSIS
Unchanged for 2019, the 35mm steel diamond-tube mainframe is light and strong, with a tuned degree of yield that gives plenty of feedback to the rider as road surfaces change. Vibration is minimized by the shape and position of the engine mounts, plus the frame’s rigidity balance.

Mass centralization, with the engine in close proximity to the swingarm pivot point, delivers turning agility, while optimum front/rear weight distribution ensures stability. Curb weight (measured with fluids) is 423 pounds for the ABS version. With a low seat height of 30.9 inches, the CBR500R is very easy to manage, and its riding position comfortably accommodates riders of any height.

The 41mm telescopic fork delivers a compliant yet controlled ride and gives great front-end feel. A new single-tube rear shock (as found on larger-capacity sport bikes) replaces the double-tube design of the previous model, its large-diameter piston ensuring excellent suspension response and temperature management. It has nine-stage spring-preload adjustment and works through a rigid box-section steel swingarm, which now features pressed-steel chain-adjustment end-pieces. Lightweight, 17-inch cast aluminum wheels employ hollow cross-section Y-shaped spokes.

ENGINE

Lively twin cylinder power plant’s internal architecture mirrors that of the CBR1000RR

Revised inlet, exhaust and valve timing delivers 4% more midrange power and torque

Sportier sound from new dual exit muffler

Assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts and manages downshifts

Revised inlet, exhaust and valve timing delivers 4% more midrange power and torque

Sportier sound from new dual exit muffler

Assist/slipper clutch eases upshifts and manages downshifts

The CBR500R’s eight-valve, liquid-cooled parallel-twin-cylinder engine offers a well-proportioned balance of physical size and enjoyable power output, with an energetic, high-revving character and capable top-end performance. Already strong off the bottom, the target for 2019 development was faster acceleration through a boost in low-to-mid-range power and torque in the 3,000 to 7,000 rpm range; the 4% improvement comes via altered intake valve timing—with “close” timing accelerated by 5°—and lift increased by 0.3mm to 7.8mm.

Feeding the PGM-FI fuel injection is now a more-or-less straight shot of airflow through the airbox and throttle bodies. The battery has been repositioned further away from the rear of the airbox intake duct (1.7 inches versus 0.5 inches) to allow greater airflow; the exhaust muffler now features dual exit pipes, adding a sportier-sounding edge to each pulse. Peak power arrives at 8,500 rpm, with maximum torque delivered at 7,000 rpm.

The primary couple-balancer sits behind the cylinders, close to the bike’s center of gravity. The primary and balancer gears use scissor gears, reducing noise. The crank counterweight is specifically shaped for couple-balance is light to allow the engine to spin freely, with reduced inertia.

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four frame hangers on the cylinder head. Internally, the cylinder head uses roller-rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction. A silent cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear.

A six-speed gearbox mirrors that of the RR and uses the same gear-change arm structure and link mechanism. New for 2019, an assist/slipper clutch enables lighter upshifts and smoother downshifts.

One-year, transferable, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with Honda Protection Plan.

• Meets current EPA and CARB standards
• California version differs slightly due to emissions equipment

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

More horsepower, more torque

The DOHC liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine uses a square bore & stroke of 67 mm x 66.8 mm for an optimum combination of strong low-end torque and excellent top-end power. A 4% boost in horsepower and torque for 2019 results in even sportier performance.

New slipper clutch

Not only does the new slipper clutch help to prevent rear-wheel lockup on downshifts, it also reduces effort at the lever by almost half, helping to reduce rider fatigue particularly in city traffic or on long rides.

Revised exhaust system

Improved airflow in the exhaust system—now featuring dual exit pipes—results in extra power and a sportier-sounding edge to the exhaust note.

Smooth and compact

Engine vibration is kept to a minimum by using crank pins phased at 180 degrees and a balancer shaft behind the cylinders, which also contributes to the engine’s compact size.

Crisp throttle response

PGM-FI electronic fuel injection keeps the engine running efficiently in all conditions and ensures crisp throttle response.

Small & light water pump

Careful flow analysis of the cooling system resulted in a water pump that’s small and lightweight, yet still more than capable of keeping the engine running its best at high output levels.

Maximized flow efficiency

In order to maximize air-intake and exhaust efficiency, the profile from the air cleaner through the intake ports to the exhaust pipe was made as straight as possible, helped in part by repositioning the battery away from the rear of the airbox intake duct.

Reduced weight & friction

The four valves in each of the DOHC cylinder heads have narrow stems, thereby reducing weight and friction and increasing efficiency.

High-tech design

A light and compact roller- rocker-arm assembly and shim-type valve adjustment allows a lower valve-spring load for reduced friction and a compact cylinder head.

Improved durability

The pins in the silent cam chain have been treated with vanadium, which both reduces friction and improves durability. Lightweight pistons use an advanced manufacturing process for enhanced durability and performance.

Reduced friction

The oil pump’s internal relief structure uses the same design as found in the CBR1000RR, which reduces friction, improves aeration performance and simplifies the shape of the oil pan.

Easy shifting

The new gear indicator and adjustable shift-up indicator make it even easier to use the smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox.

“Excellent response & feedback ”

The lightweight diamond-shaped steel frame was designed to allow a certain degree of yield, which enables it to better respond to changes in the road surface and to transmit just the right amount of feedback to the rider.

Comfortable & sporty ride

Upgraded for 2019, the Pro-Link® rear suspension boasts a new single-tube shock absorber (as found on larger capacity sportbikes) with five-stage spring preload adjustment, replacing the double-tube design of the previous model. Its large-diameter piston ensures excellent suspension response and improved heat dissipation. The shock connects to a rigid box-section steel swingarm with new pressed-steel chain-adjustment end pieces. Both the shock and the adjustable 41 mm fork are calibrated for a comfortable but sporty ride.

Easy to manage

The 785 mm seat height makes the CBR500R very easy to manage, and its riding position comfortably accommodates riders of any height.

Excellent manoeuvrability

Lightweight cast aluminum wheels with Y-shaped spokes not only look great, they also contribute to the bike’s excellent manoeuvrability.

Reduced unsprung weight

Wave brake rotors with superlative heat-dissipating qualities are lighter than conventional discs of the same diameter, which helps to further reduce the bike’s unsprung weight.

Standard ABS braking

A powerful dual-piston brake caliper up front and a single-piston caliper at the back provide strong but easily controlled stopping power. Plus, the latest two-channel ABS modulators provide more accurate control and improved stability.

Sporty riding position

New clip-on handlebars are positioned lower and farther forward, producing a more aggressive seating position that’s ideal for sporty riding. Ergonomics were carefully configured to ensure easy manoeuvring in town, an easy reach to the ground, as well as excellent comfort during long-distance highway trips.

Bigger fuel tank

It not only looks more aggressive, but the redesigned fuel tank also boasts increased capacity of 17.1 litres, providing a range of approximately 480 km for longer rides and fewer stops.

LED lighting

The CBR500R’s sporty fairing and rear section incorporate a pair of bright and distinctive LED headlights plus an LED taillight and turn signals.

Enhanced comfort

Strategically placed vents and ducts in the front cowl and side panels improve rider comfort and protection while also aiding high-speed handling.

Convenient storage

A utility space under the seat accommodates a U-lock, wet-weather gear or other items.

More upgrades

Adjustable brake lever and wave-style ignition key add to the CBR500R’s long list of premium features.

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: starting from $6999 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Australia MSRP Price: See Dealer for Pricing in AUS

ENGINE

DRIVE TRAIN

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES

DIMENSIONS

OTHER

FACTORY WARRANTY INFORMATION

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

Engine & Drivetrain

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled parallel twin

Displacement

471 cc

Bore & Stroke

67 mm x 66.8 mm

Compression Ratio

10.7:1

Valve Train

Chain-driven DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Fuel Delivery

PGM-FI electronic fuel injection

Transmission

Six-speed

Final Drive

#520 O-ring sealed chain

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension

41 mm telescopic fork with spring preload adjustment: 120 mm (4.7 in.) travel

Rear Suspension

Pro-Link^® single shock with 5-stage spring preload adjustment

Additional Information

Tires

Front: 120/70ZR-17
Rear: 160/60ZR-17

Brakes

Front: 320 mm single wave hydraulic disc with two-piston caliper with 2-channel ABS
Rear: 240 mm single wave hydraulic disc with single-piston caliper with 2-channel ABS

Seat Height

785 mm (30.9 in.)

Wheelbase

1,410 mm (55.5 in.)

Curb Weight

192 kg (423 lb) including required fluids and full tank of gas—ready to ride

Fuel Capacity

17.1 litres

Colour

Grand Prix Red, Mat Axis Gray Metallic

Warranty

12 months, unlimited mileage, freely transferable warranty; extended coverage available with Honda Plus

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

NA

2019 Honda CBR500R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Australian Specifications/Technical Details

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).