2024 Honda CB500 Hornet Specs & Review

Honda’s middleweight naked returns with a crisp parallel-twin, well-judged chassis, and everyday usability that makes sense for commuters and weekend riders alike. This Honda CB500 Hornet review focuses on real-world value, efficiency, and approachable performance for riders comparing do-it-all streetfighters.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Liquid-cooled 4 stroke, DOHC parallel twin
• Displacement: 471 cc
• Max power: 35 kW / 46.93 hp at 8600 rpm
• Max torque: 43 Nm / 31.72 lb-ft at 6500 rpm
• Kerb weight: 188 kg / 414.47 lbs
• Seat height: 785 mm / 30.91 in

Engine & Performance

Under the tank sits a 471 cc DOHC parallel twin that delivers 35 kW (46.93 hp) at 8600 rpm and 43 Nm (31.72 lb-ft) at 6500 rpm. In the city, that torque peak makes low-to-mid rpm roll-ons easy, so you’re not constantly chasing the revs. On the highway, the smooth top-end lets you maintain pace confidently, with enough power in reserve for safe overtakes.

Honda’s PGM-FI electronic fuel injection is matched to a 6-speed gearbox and a wet multiplate assisted slipper clutch. The light lever action and slip/assist design help stabilize downshifts while making stop-and-go traffic less tiring. Efficiency is a strong suit: 3.5 L/100km (28.6 km/litre / 67.28 mpg, WMTC) paired with a 17.1 L (4.52 gal) tank means fewer fuel stops. Emissions are rated at 80 g/km CO2, and the Hornet keeps things civil acoustically with Lurban 73.5 dB and Lwot 76.8 dB noise levels.

The bore and stroke (67 mm x 66.8 mm) and 10.7:1 compression ratio speak to a responsive, rev-happy twin that remains easy-going in daily use. It’s a balanced tune—fun without being fatiguing.

Handling, Comfort & Honda CB500 Hornet Seat Height

The chassis is a steel diamond frame with a 1,410 mm wheelbase, 25.5° caster angle, and 102 mm trail—numbers that favor stability without dulling agility. A 2.7 m turning radius helps in tight U-turns and urban squeezes, while 145 mm of ground clearance is plenty for speed bumps and imperfect pavement.

Front suspension is handled by Showa 41 mm SFF-BP USD forks, with a Prolink mono-shock at the rear featuring a 5-stage preload adjuster and a steel hollow cross swingarm. This setup gives the CB500 Hornet a composed ride on mixed roads, with the right balance of compliance and control for a naked of this class.

The Honda CB500 Hornet seat height is 785 mm (30.91 in). Combined with the 188 kg kerb mass, low-speed maneuvers feel predictable and friendly to newer riders. Shorter riders will appreciate the manageable reach, while taller riders still get a neutral, upright triangle typical of a versatile naked. The Honda CB500 Hornet weight keeps the bike planted without feeling cumbersome.

Equipment & Features

Braking is a highlight for the class: up front, dual 296 mm x 4 mm discs with Nissin radial-mount four-piston calipers, backed by a 2-channel ABS system. The rear uses a single 240 mm x 5 mm disc with a single-piston caliper. Tyres are 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) front and 160/60ZR17M/C (69W) rear mounted on 5Y-spoke cast aluminium rims (17 x MT3.5 front, 17 x MT4.5 rear).

Tech is modern and useful: a 5 in TFT meter with customizable layouts shows speed, revs, gear position, a shift-up indicator, and more. Connectivity is on board via Honda RoadSync. Lighting is full LED (headlight and taillight), and security is handled by HISS (Honda Intelligent Security System). Additional convenience notes: USB is not included, a 12V socket is optional, cruise control and quickshifter are not fitted, and there’s ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) plus no auto winker cancel.

Who Is the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet For?

Riders stepping up from smaller bikes will find the power delivery and 785 mm seat height confidence-inspiring, while experienced commuters will appreciate the efficient engine, quality Showa fork, and strong brakes. It’s a daily-ready naked that also doubles as a weekend fun machine, thanks to its tractable twin, neutral handling, and practical fuel economy.

Torquepedia Verdict

If your shopping list prioritizes approachable performance, low running costs, and quality essentials, the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet specs tick the right boxes. The engine’s 35 kW / 43 Nm tuning, Showa SFF-BP fork, and radial-mount Nissin front brakes give it a mature, confidence-rich feel that’s rare at this level. Add the 5 in TFT with Honda RoadSync and LED lighting, and you’ve got a well-rounded package.

On the flip side, some riders may miss extras like a quickshifter, cruise control, or a standard USB socket. Still, judged on core performance, efficiency (3.5 L/100km), and build logic, the CB500 Hornet stands out as a dependable, entertaining middleweight naked.

FAQ

• Is the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet good for beginners? Yes. Its 35 kW (46.93 hp) output, 2-channel ABS, assisted slipper clutch, and 188 kg kerb weight make it friendly and confidence-building.

• What is the seat height of the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet? The Honda CB500 Hornet seat height is 785 mm (30.91 in).

• How heavy is the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet? The Honda CB500 Hornet weight is 188 kg (414.47 lbs) kerb.

• What fuel economy does the 2024 Honda CB500 Hornet get? It’s rated at 3.5 L/100km (28.6 km/litre / 67.28 mpg, WMTC) with a 17.1 L (4.52 gal) fuel tank.