- Twin-cylinder with 471 cc, 35 kW and 43 Nm
- Top speed 176 km/h, tank 17.1 l
- Seat height 785 mm (Honda)
- Showa SFF-BP upside-down fork, 41 mm
- 5-inch TFT with Honda RoadSync, HSTC
- Honda E-Clutch from model year 2026
Character: agile naked bike for city and country roads
The model is designed for city traffic and winding country roads. Honda gives the seat height as 785 mm; the tank holds 17.1 litres, and top speed is 176 km/h.
The 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels underline the sporty look. Honda quotes a consumption figure of 28.6 km per litre.
Engine, suspension and equipment of the Hornet 500
The 471 cc twin delivers 35 kW and maximum torque of 43 Nm. The gearbox has six speeds.
At the front wheel sits a Showa upside-down fork of type SFF-BP with 41 mm. Braking is by two discs of 296 mm each and radially mounted two-piston Nissin calipers.
The 5-inch colour TFT display has an anti-reflective coating, and Honda RoadSync shows turn-by-turn navigation on the screen. The HSTC traction control regulates the rear wheel on wet and dry roads.
Variants: with clutch lever or with Honda E-Clutch
Alongside the base version from the 2024 model year, the Honda CB500 Hornet is listed with Honda E-Clutch from the 2026 model year. The electronically controlled clutch looks after starting off, gear changes and stopping, while you only work the gear lever.
You can still use the clutch lever, and the E-Clutch is activated via the TFT display. Both variants produce 35 kW and are therefore suitable for category A restricted.
Who is the Hornet 500 for?
The Hornet 500 suits new riders in category A restricted as well as riders looking for a manageable motorcycle for everyday use. No power restriction is necessary, as the model produces 35 kW straight from the factory.
Returning riders will also find a clear-cut naked bike with up-to-date electronics. If you often ride in city traffic, you should consider the variant with Honda E-Clutch.
CB500 Hornet variants
| Variant | Power | Model year |
|---|---|---|
| CB500 Hornet | 35 kW | 2024 |
| CB500 Hornet E-Clutch | 35 kW | 2026 |
Prices, colours and delivery times of the variants are available from Honda CB500 Hornet at Honda Motorrad Zürich.
Frequently asked questions about the Honda CB500 Hornet
Can I ride the Honda CB500 Hornet with an A restricted licence?
Yes. Its 35 kW output is within what category A restricted permits. That goes for the base version and equally for the variant with Honda E-Clutch.
What is the seat height of the CB500 Hornet?
Honda quotes a seat height of 785 mm. Together with the naked bike concept without fairing, this makes for a clear-cut motorcycle for city and country roads.
What electronics are on board?
The Hornet 500 offers Honda RoadSync for smartphone connectivity with navigation, a 5-inch colour TFT display and the HSTC traction control. The variant with E-Clutch adds the electronically controlled clutch.
What does the E-Clutch bring in everyday riding?
In stop-and-go traffic and when pulling away, there is no need to operate the clutch by hand; you only change gear with your foot. According to Honda, the engine cannot stall. Anyone who would rather clutch manually simply uses the lever as usual.
