Honda CBR500R [2013-2015]: A Timeless Balance of Sport and Practicality
Introduction
The Honda CBR500R occupies a unique space in motorcycling history—a gateway sportbike that doesn’t sacrifice usability at the altar of aggression. Introduced in 2013 and refined through 2015, this model generation strikes a chord with riders who crave sporty aesthetics without the backbreaking ergonomics or intimidating power delivery of larger supersports. After spending time with a well-maintained 2014 example, it’s clear why this parallel twin remains a favorite in the used market: it’s a motorcycle that underpromises and overdelivers.
Design & Styling
Honda nailed the "mini Fireblade" aesthetic here. The full fairing, sharp LED taillight (a rarity in this class at the time), and dual headlights give it a purposeful stance. Color options like Pearl White/Blue/Red add flair without veering into garishness. The 785mm (30.9") seat height is accessible for shorter riders, though the narrow seat profile helps taller riders too.
Build quality feels typically Honda—switchgear clicks decisively, panels align neatly, and the matte black fork tubes resist corrosion better than cheaper coatings. The dashboard is a simple analog tachometer with a digital speedometer, lacking modern TFTs but prioritizing clarity.
Engine & Performance
At its heart lies a liquid-cooled 471cc parallel twin (marketed as 500cc), producing 48 PS (35 kW) at 8,500 RPM. Those numbers won’t set records, but the 43 Nm (31.7 lb-ft) torque peak at 7,000 RPM is where this engine shines.
On the road:
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): ~5 seconds—leisurely by sportbike standards, but brisk enough for highway merges.
- Fuel efficiency: Observed 27 km/L (63 mpg) during mixed riding, thanks to PGM-FI fueling. The 15.5L (4.1 gal) tank grants 330-400 km (205-250 mi) range.
The 180-degree crank gives it a subdued growl, avoiding the vibey harshness of 270-degree twins. At 120 km/h (75 mph), the engine hums at 6,500 RPM—relaxed enough for touring. The six-speed gearbox shifts with Honda’s trademark precision, though aftermarket rearsets can improve feel for aggressive riders.
Handling & Dynamics
Weighing 193-195 kg (425-429 lbs) wet, the CBR500R isn’t class-leading in lightness. Yet this heft contributes to stability—a boon for newer riders. The steel diamond frame and 25.5° rake strike a balance between quick steering and highway composure.
Suspension:
- Front: Non-adjustable 41mm forks handle city bumps competently but dive noticeably under hard braking.
- Rear: The Pro-Link shock offers nine-step preload adjustment. Dialing it up two clicks from stock firmed up the ride for my 75 kg (165 lbs) frame.
Brakes:
- ABS-equipped models (denoted by "A" in the VIN) use 296mm front wave discs with dual-piston calipers. Bite is progressive rather than razor-sharp—ideal for learners.
- Non-ABS versions demand more caution in wet conditions. Swapping to sintered pads improves feel.
Tires:
The stock Dunlop Sportmax D222s (120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear) offer decent dry grip but feel vague in rain. Many owners upgrade to Michelin Road 5s or Pirelli Diablo Rosso IIIs.
Competition
The CBR500R’s rivals highlight its pragmatic approach:
- Kawasaki Ninja 400 (2018+):
- Lighter (168 kg / 370 lbs) and peppier (49 PS).
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Less comfortable seat and shorter service intervals.
-
Yamaha YZF-R3 (2015+):
- 321cc twin feels revvier but lacks midrange grunt.
-
Superior cornering agility but buzzy at highway speeds.
-
KTM RC 390 (2014+):
- Single-cylinder punch (44 PS) and track-ready chassis.
- Harsh ride quality and reliability concerns.
Verdict: The Honda trades outright excitement for day-long rideability and bulletproof mechanics. It’s the choice for commuters who occasionally hit twisties, not canyon carvers.
Ownership & Maintenance
Here’s where the CBR500R truly shines. Honda’s engineering prioritizes longevity:
Key Service Points:
- Oil Changes: Every 12,000 km (7,500 mi) with 10W-30 JASO MA2 oil. Use 2.7L (2.85 qt) when replacing the filter.
- Valve Adjustments: Every 25,600 km (16,000 mi). Intake: 0.16mm ±0.03mm (0.006" ±0.001"), Exhaust: 0.27mm ±0.027mm (0.011" ±0.001").
- Chain: O-ring 520 chain with 112 links. Maintain slack at 30-40mm (1.2-1.6"). A DID 520VX2 chain upgrade reduces stretch.
- Coolant: Replace every 2 years with ethylene glycol-based mix. Capacity: 1.4L (1.48 qt).
Common Upgrades:
1. Ergonomics:
- Adjustable levers (e.g., ASV C5) for smaller hands.
- Seat cowl for solo rides.
- Performance:
- DNA air filter + slip-on exhaust (e.g., Akrapovič) for +3-4 PS.
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Sprocket swaps (stock 15/41) to 16/40 for relaxed cruising.
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Aesthetics:
- Double-bubble windscreen (Puig) reduces helmet buffeting.
- Frame sliders (Shogun) for parking lot tip-over protection.
Conclusion
The 2013-2015 CBR500R isn’t about chasing lap times—it’s about mastering the art of compromise. It commutes, tours, and even dabbles in sport riding without excelling at any. Yet that very versatility makes it a perennial recommendation. For riders seeking a low-stress introduction to sportbikes or a dependable daily companion, this Honda remains a benchmark.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we’ve curated a selection of upgrades to help your CBR500R evolve with your skills—from premium tires to suspension kits. Because even the most balanced motorcycle deserves a personal touch.
Specifications sheet
Engine | |
---|---|
Stroke: | Four-stroke |
Max power: | 35 kW | 47.0 hp |
Max torque: | 43 Nm |
Fuel system: | PGM-FI fuel injection with 34mm throttle bodies |
Max power @: | 8500 rpm |
Displacement: | 471 ccm |
Max torque @: | 7000 rpm |
Bore x stroke: | 67.0 x 66.8 mm (2.6 x 2.6 in) |
Configuration: | Inline |
Cooling system: | Liquid |
Compression ratio: | 10.7:1 |
Number of cylinders: | 2 |
Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Wheelbase: | 1410 mm (55.5 in) |
Dry weight: | 194 |
Wet weight: | 194.6 |
Seat height: | 785 mm (30.9 in) - adjustable |
Fuel tank capacity: | 15.52 L (4.10 US gal) |
Drivetrain | |
---|---|
Final drive: | chain |
Chain length: | 112 |
Transmission: | 6-speed |
Rear sprocket: | 41 |
Front sprocket: | 15 |
Maintenance | |
---|---|
Rear tire: | 160/60-17 |
Engine oil: | 10W40 |
Front tire: | 120/70-17 |
Idle speed: | 1200 ± 100 rpm |
Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
Spark plugs: | NGK CPR8EA-9 or NGK CPR8EAIX-9 |
Spark plug gap: | 0.85 |
Coolant capacity: | 1.4 |
Forks oil capacity: | 1.006 |
Engine oil capacity: | 2.7 |
Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.13–0.19 mm |
Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.24–0.30 mm |
Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.9 bar (42 psi) |
Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
Additional Info | |
---|---|
Warranty: | 1 year unlimited mileage |
Color options: | Black, Pearl White/Blue/Red, Red, Silver Metallic |
ABS availability: | Optional depending on model variant |
Chassis and Suspension | |
---|---|
Trail: | 103 mm (4.1 in) |
Rear brakes: | Single 240mm wave disc with 1-piston caliper (ABS on some models) |
Front brakes: | Double 320mm wave discs with 2-piston calipers (ABS on some models) |
Rear suspension: | Pro-Link monoshock with 9-position spring preload adjustability |
Front suspension: | 41mm telescopic fork |
Rake (fork angle): | 25.5° |
Rear wheel travel: | 104 mm (4.1 in) |
Front wheel travel: | 122 mm (4.8 in) |