The 2016 Honda CBR500R gets sharper and edgier styling while the mechanicals have been upgraded to a revised front suspension, adjustable brake levers, hinged fuel cap among other bits.
The ongoing American International Motorcycle Expo in Florida, US holds a special place for Honda fans as the Japanese auto giant has officially revealed the 2016 CBR500R at the event. The new bike looks sharper, edgier and definitely a lot more evocative than the previous iteration and easily gives a big bike feel despite the half litre displacement. By far, the 2016 CBR500R is the most likeable Honda from the brand’s current lot of offerings in the middleweight segment.
Sporty by all means, the second generation Honda CBR500R gets a brand new character while retaining the same personality. The split headlamp setup has been retained, but the overall design is more angular with the dual LED lights while styling cues from the CBR600R and the MotoGP winning RC213V-S is apparent on the front cowl. The side profile looks striking with the revised fairing and a shortened, but receding tail section completes the aesthetic changes.
In addition to new edgier and more prominent styling, the 2016 Honda CBR500R features several new upgrades including adjustable pre-load for the front suspension, a muscular fuel tank equipped with a hinged fuel cap, new adjustable brake levers and a ‘wave’ style ignition key. You also get a shorter exhaust muffler that makes for a satisfyingly low, crisp exhaust note, Honda says. Compliant with A2 license holders, the 2016 Honda CBR500R uses the same 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin motor that produces 47 HP, paired to a 6-speed gearbox.
The neutral ergonomics continue to remain the same making it effortless to ride over long distances while the 15.5-litre tank gives it a decent travel range. Other good bits include the 320 mm wave disc brake at the front along with ABS, whereas the all-digital instrument cluster is well laid out. While Honda India has no plans of bringing the 2016 CBR500R in the short term, the automaker should consider the same especially with the rising demand for middleweight offerings.
