In 2023, we tested the then-new CB500X and found it to be a consummate commuter bike that was equally at home on gravel as it was on tar. We appreciated the low weight and agile performance, and were similarly impressed with its capabilities on gravel roads.
Related: Honda CB500X (2023) Review
The 2025 Honda NX500, which replaces the CB500X in the local lineup, builds upon the proven platform of the CB500X, wrapping it in a sharper, more distinct, and technically upgraded adventure-touring package. We spent a week with the new machine to see how much has changed.
What is the difference between a Honda NX500 and a CF Moto 675NK?
Styling
The bike is designed to have a sturdy, purposeful adventure-ready look, combining compact usability with an imposing silhouette. The most notable change from the CB500X is the aggressively redesigned fairing and headlight area, giving it a more rally-raid, streamlined appearance. It features a less prominent "beak" than its predecessor. The ergonomics maintain the comfortable, upright adventure-bike stance, providing a commanding view and freedom of movement. A tall windscreen is included to provide excellent protection from the elements, enhancing the rugged adventure aesthetic.
It features a new, modern LED headlight design which offers better beam penetration and wider light distribution for improved visibility. All other lighting is also LED. The NX500 is fitted with new, lighter aluminium alloy wheels featuring a 5-spoke design, replacing the previous 7-spoke design, which contributes to weight reduction and improved handling.
Tech and features
It now features a 5-inch full-colour TFT screen, inherited from the XL750 Transalp, with optical bonding to minimise glare in bright sunlight, giving the cockpit a premium, modern feel. The switchgear on the left-hand control stack is backlit for more straightforward navigation of buttons in the dark. The NX500 features Honda's Road Sync Connectivity, a key upgrade that offers smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth. This allows the rider to manage features like turn-by-turn navigation, calls, and music through the display.
You also get Honda's Selectable Torque Control, which monitors the speed difference between the front and rear wheels to detect rear-wheel slip and smoothly reduces engine torque to regain traction.
Engine and Drivetrain
Cradled in the steel frame, you will find the proven 471cc parallel-twin engine but with revised ECU settings. It offers improved throttle feel and smoother low-speed response. To keep weight down, a new set of lighter cast-aluminium wheels features a 5-spoke design (19-inch front / 17-inch rear), contributing to a 3kg overall weight reduction, improving handling, agility, and suspension response.
Suspension-wise, you have Showa SFF-BP 41mm inverted front forks and, at the rear, a Showa separate big piston (SFF-BP) single. This is a high-quality suspension offering enhanced damping and rigidity, with revised settings that wholly improve ride quality. Bringing the NX to a stop is a set of 296mm dual front brakes with Nissin axial-mounted callipers, providing confident and powerful braking performance.
Let's Ride
Swing a leg over the NX500 and you are immediately comfortable. The seat height is suitable for flat footing at traffic lights, and you don't feel intimidated by its low height and weight. It accelerates quickly through the gears and boasts exceptional weight distribution, making it a pleasure to flick around in traffic. It gets up to speed nicely but runs out of steam on its top end, so that high-speed freeway antics can be difficult past 130km/h
The new screen arrangement does a great job of protecting the rider, but it is not adjustable. With the NX being more road-biased now, gravel expeditions become a little bit more finicky. It's plain to see that the NX500 is geared more toward road activity, with the occasional foray off the beaten path, but it's not an actual adventure machine; instead, it's more of a suburban tourer.
Model and Price
| Honda NX500 | R 131 399 |
* Price correct at time of publishing, subject to change without notice
**NX500 is sold with a 2 Year warranty. Consult your local Honda Wing distributor for special deals and packages.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Bulletproof engine
- Reduced weight
- Comfy riding position
- Good tech upgrade
Cons
- Fixed windscreen
- Messy switchgear arrangement
- Not really made for off-road use
Verdict
The 2025 NX500 not only features a new look but also gains key modern electronics, including a TFT display with RoadSync connectivity and the addition of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), making it a significantly more contemporary and capable adventure package. It is a reliable, refined, and versatile machine that is much easier to manage than larger adventure bikes, even though it is really not geared for off-road expeditions. It's a true do-it-all daily crossover commuter but may disappoint riders who prioritise high horsepower or hardcore off-road performance.
