With the unveiling of the Honda CB500’s specifications, it’s an opportune moment to evaluate how it fares against its key competitors, including the Harley-Davidson X440 T and the Triumph Bonneville T40. Additionally, the comparison extends to more budget-friendly choices like the Royal Enfield Scram 440 and the popular Classic 350. Here’s a detailed look at how these motorcycles compare on paper.
Engine Performance and Output
The Honda CB500 stands out with its robust low-to-mid range torque, courtesy of its substantial 501.7cc engine. This torque is delivered earlier than its competitors, peaking at 3,750rpm. The torque outputs across these bikes are largely influenced by engine displacement, with most models featuring air-cooled engines and ancillary oil coolers, except for the Classic 350.
In the modern retro motorcycle segment, riders often prioritize an effortless riding experience, making a strong torque output essential. The Bonneville T40 is an exception with its short-stroke, liquid-cooled engine that delivers the highest peak horsepower, although it falls short in torque compared to the larger bikes.
Dimensions and Weight
The Honda CB500 is notable for being the lightest motorcycle in its class, despite having the largest engine. Among the bikes compared, the Bonneville T40 has the most accessible saddle height, which can be further reduced to 770mm with an accessory low seat.
These motorcycles are not designed for aggressive cornering, instead focusing on a relaxed and stable ride. While a detailed comparison of ride and handling awaits further test rides, it’s clear that all models can handle rough roads, with the Scram being particularly suited due to its Himalayan-derived suspension and chassis.
Tyres, Brakes, and Suspension
The Harley-Davidson X440 T is unique in this group for its USD front fork, while the other models use conventional telescopic forks and twin rear shocks, except for the Scram’s link-type monoshock. These setups are adequate for the relaxed nature these bikes aim to provide.
The H-D X440 T is likely the most agile, thanks to its advanced front suspension and smaller wheels, reminiscent of a traditional roadster. Notably, the Classic 350 and Bonneville T40 primarily use tubed tyres, whereas the Honda features tubeless tyres across all variants, with the exception of the base model.
Features and Technology
The Triumph Bonneville T40 leads in features, offering an electronic throttle body with five ride modes, cruise control, and a full-color TFT dashboard with turn-by-turn navigation, cornering ABS, and traction control. The X440 T also includes a TFT display with dual riding modes and safety features like switchable dual-channel ABS and traction control.
While the Honda shares similar aids with the Harley, it uses a simpler digi-analogue display with basic Bluetooth connectivity. Royal Enfield’s Scram and Classic models maintain a straightforward design, with the Classic offering a slip-and-assist clutch and dual-channel ABS, while the Scram allows rear ABS deactivation.
Pricing Considerations
The Honda CB500 is competitively priced given its engine capacity and features, despite the higher GST impacting its cost. It starts at a lower price point than both the Harley and Triumph, but is priced higher than the smaller, slower Royal Enfield models, reflecting its position in a higher segment.
Deliveries for the alloy wheel variants are anticipated later this year, with spoke and tubeless spoked variants expected in early 2027. As the neo-retro segment becomes more diverse, riders have a wide range of options to choose from, necessitating a deeper understanding of each model’s offerings beyond just their specifications.
Source: Autocar India
