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Honda CB500X owner shares his take on the bike, with some humour

13th February 2024, 18:02 by Rahul Nagaraj

The CB500X engine laughs at the mere concept of breaking down. It considers roadside assistance an insult to its mechanical prowess.

BHPian ShivC recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

My world of owning a Honda CB500X ownership – was in fact amongst the first 2 owners in India. This is for those who are thinking of buying one…

Here's my take on what it's like to own and ride this versatile machine albeit with some humour:

The Adventure Illusion: Owning a CB500X makes every ride feel like a grand adventure. Even if it's just a trip to the grocery store, you mentally prepare for the off-road expedition through the treacherous terrain of Bangalore’s speed bumps.
CB500X Language: You start speaking in CB500X code. "I'll be home in 20 minutes" actually means "I found a longer route and will be taking at least an hour."
Mod Fever: You catch the modification fever. You start with new crash bars, luggage racks, top case, hand guards, footrest, and shock absorbers and suddenly your CB500X looks like it's auditioning for a role in a Sholay sequel without the sidecar. Who knew a practical adventure-touring bike could turn into a post-apocalyptic masterpiece?
Gas Station Celebrity: At gas stations, you become a celebrity. People are genuinely curious about your bike, and you find yourself giving impromptu tours, explaining the intricacies of your highly advanced cup holder (read gas tank: kitna dete hai).
Fuel Efficiency Boast: You boast about your fuel efficiency to every rider you meet. It's not a competition, but if it were, you'd be winning. You secretly judge those who need to refuel more frequently – "Amateurs!"
Smooth Gear Changes: Achieving those buttery-smooth gear changes puts you in a state of zen. It's the motorcycling equivalent of finding inner peace, and you're the yogi of the asphalt, one with your bike and the open road.
Indestructible DNA: The CB500X's engine wasn't built; it was forged in the fires of Mount Reliable. Legend has it that the engineers sprinkled a bit of unicorn dust on the blueprint for that extra touch of magic durability. The CB500X engine laughs at the mere concept of breaking down. It considers roadside assistance an insult to its mechanical prowess.
Rainy Day Dilemma: Rainy days become a moral dilemma. Do you protect your pristine CB500X from the elements or take it out for a slippery adventure?
Packed Lunch Under the Seat: You discover the joy of storing random items under the seat. It's like your own tiny storage unit – very small snacks, a spare pair of socks, and that mysterious tool you've never used but insist on carrying. It's certainly small but who’s complaining….
Noise Complaints: Your neighbours complain about the revving noise. Little do they know; you're just testing the horn, which sounds suspiciously like a caffeinated duck. Honk honk! Needs to be either replaced or put to sleep forever.
Uphill Struggles: Uphill struggles become a metaphor for life. Your CB500X might not be the fastest uphill, but it's a trooper, just like you. You both huff and puff your way to the top, victorious in your own right.
Cost: At the price I bought this price is a steal. Long-term assertions also come at a cost and this is a keeper bike through my bifocals of course...

In the world of CB500X ownership, every day is a comedy ride filled with quirky adventures and the joy of being part of the CB500X family. So, gear up, strap on your helmet and let the laughter-filled journey begin! May the chase of sunsets and rainbows be endless. The soul of any ADV warrior is always eternal so ADV Warrior let your eternal soul lead the way through the untamed landscapes and the endless possibilities of the open road!

PS: Have ridden almost all ADV-styled bikes in India right from the GS, Tiger and down to the new Himalayan – this is the most rider-friendly motorcycle you could buy today amongst them all, one that is also guaranteed to put a smile every time you take it out of the garage. It can ride forever on that frugal sipping behaviour - something that no other bike comes close to. In one word it’s the most "forgiving" of them all. However, ownership cost is always subjective and is person-driven and perceived value-driven.