How is the CB500X in two-up riding and long-distance touring?
Opinions of the Honda CB500X tend to be split; while many like the versatility, some question the performance as a two-up touring bike. While the bike is perfectly capable of carrying a passenger and luggage for longer trips, some riders find the bike's comfortable ergonomics and stable handling make it easy to ride with a passenger and luggage. Some say the 471cc engine can’t handle the added weight, especially on highways and in mountainous areas. In this context, the bike’s fuel efficiency, wind protection, and seat comfort are also hot topics. Riders debate the CB500X’s ability to be a true all-rounder and do comfortable two-up touring or if it’s a solo adventure bike that you can occasionally carry a passenger with. As such, this is a question that often leads to others based on comparisons to larger, more touring-oriented motorcycles and whether it’s worth the trade-off between the CB500X’s manageable size and the capabilities of bigger bikes.
It’s ok for two up for weekend trips, but I wouldn’t want to do a cross-country tour two up on it. With a passenger and full luggage, it feels a bit strained.
With my partner, I've done several weeklong trips on the back. Not a Gold Wing, but surprisingly capable and comfortable.
Long-distance riding is the weak point for the stock seat. For rider and passenger, an aftermarket seat makes a world of difference.
It's perfect for touring, I think. But it's light enough to be fun in the twisties and stable enough for highway miles. Expect, however, not to break any speed records fully loaded.
Two-up riding is fine, but I would suggest a top box for the passenger for longer trips. It makes a big difference.
I've done 500-mile days on my CB500X solo with no problems. I would probably limit it to 300 miles a day for comfort with a passenger.
It's all about expectations. If you grew up on a 1200cc adventure bike, then the CB500X will leave you wanting. Coming from smaller bikes, it’s more than up to the task of two-up touring.
It's a bike that handles well with a passenger, but if you're two-up riding a lot, particularly off-road, the suspension definitely needs an upgrade.
I believe that it is the perfect compromise. It's big enough for comfortable two-up touring, yet not so big it's a handful in the city or on the trails.
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Discussions and Questions How Is The Cb500x In Two Up Riding And Long Distance Touring
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