Honda CB500 Retro Roadster Unveiled in India: Check Expected Price, Specs & Launch Date

Honda has unveiled the CB500 retro roadster in India and confirmed that the motorcycle will be manufactured locally. The new model is powered by an all-new 501cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine producing a claimed 27 BHP and 43.3 Nm. It is intended to sit above the CB350 range, but Honda has not yet announced its India price or retail-launch timeline.

What you need to know

• The CB500 has been unveiled for India with local manufacture confirmed.

• Its 501cc single-cylinder engine produces a claimed 27 BHP and 43.3 Nm.

• A five-speed gearbox is paired with a slipper clutch.

• Honda Selectable Torque Control and RoadSync connectivity are included.

• Price and retail-launch timing remain unconfirmed.

Honda CB500 engine and specifications

The unusual talking point is the large-capacity single-cylinder layout. Rather than chasing a high peak-power number, the specification points towards accessible torque and relaxed road use. The five-speed transmission reinforces that character, though gearing and real-world refinement will need to be assessed on the production motorcycle.

Chassis, brakes and connected features

Honda has listed a telescopic front fork, twin rear shock absorbers and disc brakes at both ends. The equipment package includes Honda Selectable Torque Control, which can help manage rear-wheel traction, and RoadSync smartphone connectivity. These features give the retro roadster a modern convenience and safety layer without changing its classic format.

Positioning above the CB350

The CB500 is designed to sit above Honda’s CB350 family. Local production could help Honda control cost and parts supply, but it does not guarantee an aggressive price. The eventual positioning will depend on variant strategy, localisation depth, warranty, dealership availability and how Honda differentiates the CB500 from twin-cylinder alternatives.

What it means for Indian riders

Riders who value tractable torque, a traditional roadster stance and simpler mechanical character may find the CB500 appealing. Those expecting the smoothness or top-end performance normally associated with a 500cc parallel twin should wait for road tests. Kerb weight, seat height, fuel economy, service intervals and final pricing are also essential unanswered questions.

FAQs

What engine does the Honda CB500 use?

It uses a new 501cc single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine.

How much power and torque does it make?

Honda claims 27 BHP and 43.3 Nm.

Will the Honda CB500 be made in India?

Yes. Honda has confirmed local manufacture for the India-market motorcycle.

What is the Honda CB500 price in India?

Honda has not announced the India price yet. Any current price figure would be speculative.

Conclusion

The Honda CB500 India unveil introduces a distinctive big-single roadster with local-production intent, useful electronics and torque-led specifications. The final verdict must wait for price, launch timing and a road test, but the model creates a clear step above the CB350 range.