Honda CB500 Launched in India at Rs 2.75 Lakh: Prices, Specs and Rivals

Honda has launched the locally made CB500 roadster in India with prices starting at Rs 2.75 lakh ex-showroom. The new motorcycle uses a 501cc single-cylinder engine and sits below Honda's larger premium imports, giving the brand a more accessible middleweight option for riders moving up from 250-400cc machines.

Honda CB500 prices in India

The Rs 27,000 spread between the entry alloy-wheel version and the top spoke-wheel version makes wheel preference and styling the main buying decisions. The alloy version is the value play, while the spoke-wheel variants lean into the classic roadster look.

Engine and performance

The CB500 is powered by a 501cc, air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine producing a reported 28 hp and 43.3 Nm. Honda pairs it with a slipper clutch. The specification suggests a torque-led roadster designed for relaxed everyday use rather than the high-rev character associated with twin-cylinder middleweights.

Honda Selectable Torque Control is included, adding a useful electronic safety net on poor surfaces. The bike also combines an analogue-style display with digital information and Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity. Exact performance, fuel economy and service costs should be judged after independent road testing.

Where the CB500 fits

The most interesting part of the launch is its positioning. At Rs 2.75 lakh, the CB500 undercuts the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 twins on entry price while offering a larger-capacity single-cylinder alternative to common 400-450cc roadsters. It will appeal to riders who value usable low- and mid-range torque, manageable ownership and Honda's roadster design more than outright top-end performance.

• Choose the Alloy for the lowest price and easier tubeless-tyre ownership.

• Choose the Spoke if the classic visual treatment matters more than the price premium.

• Consider a 650 twin if smooth multi-cylinder performance and highway pace are higher priorities.

Equipment buyers should check

Before booking, buyers should confirm final on-road pricing, wheel and tyre type, service intervals, accessory availability and delivery timelines at their local Honda outlet. The launch price is ex-showroom and registration, insurance and city-specific charges will raise the on-road figure.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Honda CB500 price?

Prices start at Rs 2.75 lakh for the Alloy variant and rise to Rs 3.02 lakh for the Spoke with Stripes variant, ex-showroom.

How powerful is the new CB500?

The 501cc single-cylinder engine is reported to produce 28 hp and 43.3 Nm.

Is the Honda CB500 made in India?

Publisher reports describe the new CB500 as locally manufactured, a key reason its price can sit below several imported middleweight motorcycles.

Does it get traction control?

Yes. Honda Selectable Torque Control is part of the reported equipment list, along with a slipper clutch and RoadSync connectivity.