The CB500S is the logical development of the original CB500, which has earned a reputation as a brilliant, dependable all-rounder in every test undertaken - including racing, thanks to the CB500 cup. The CB even proved itself at the 1999 24 Hour Le Mans, where every team running a CB500 finished without any mechanical woes.
Motorway journeys are always a bit of a drag on naked bikes, so the Sport model CB500S gets a wind-cheating fairing mounted to the frame, making it a better high-speed cruiser. The small fairing improves the aerodynamics (top speed increases by 6mph over the naked version) and gives added protection without affecting the lively responsiveness of the steering.
There's even a small stowaway compartment in the fairing. Honda claims the fairing increases stability at high speed - and it adds just £275 to the price of a new CB500. Than makes it a no-brainer.
Introduced in 1998 and manufactured in Italy, the CB is aimed at the European market. The CB500S has the same responsive four-stroke twin-cylinder eight-valve, water-cooled engine as the naked 500. Wiith 58bhp and a claimed weight of 177kg, it has one of the best power to weight ratios in its class.
You even get a centre stand as well as the usual sidestand with this practical Honda, making maintenance jobs like lubing the chain a doddle.
These bikes are favourites with riding schools, where the tight turning circle is a big help when manoeuvring through the traffic cones. In real-life riding, easy handling is what you need for a city commuter bike. And to cut down on wear and tear, the engine and wheels have been treated to withstand the ravages of a British winter. Honda is confident enough in the build quality of the CB500S to give a two-year guarantee.
