After unveiling a new NX500 at EICMA last November, Honda has finally confirmed the arrival of the mid-size adventure model to America. The 2024 Honda NX500 now serves as the successor to the CB500X, featuring updates to the ECU, lighter wheels, new suspension settings, upgraded tech, and more.

Like the CB500X, the fresh NX500 features a 471cc parallel-twin engine with 46.9 horsepower and 31.7 ft-lbs of torque, delivering power through an assisted slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission. Several of the key specs remain unchanged like the approachable 32.8-inch seat height, along with a short 56.8-inch wheelbase for added maneuverability. 

New for 2024, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) manages rear-wheel traction. The system compares front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear slip and, when needed, Honda says it controls the fuel injection to smoothly reduce torque. HSTC can also be turned off completely if the rider wishes. In addition, an ECU update improves acceleration and power delivery across the entire rev range, making it even more adaptable for a range of riding scenarios. 

Acting as a stressed member, the engine complements the frame’s rigidity with four hangers on the cylinder head. Internally, the head uses roller rocker arms; shim-type valve adjustment allows them to be light, for lower valve-spring load and reduced friction.

A silent (SV Chain) cam chain has the surface of its pins treated with Vanadium, reducing friction with increased protection against wear. Inlet-valve diameter is 26.0mm, while exhaust-valve diameter is 21.5mm.

The piston shape is carefully designed to reduce noise at high rpm. Friction is reduced by striations on the piston skirt (a finish that increases surface area and introduces gaps in which oil can flow for better lubrication). The “triangle” proportion of crankshaft, main shaft and countershaft is efficiently compact. The crankcases use centrifugally cast thin-walled sleeves; their internal design reduces the pumping losses that can occur with a 180° phased firing order. A deep sump reduces oil movement under hard cornering and braking.

Chassis / Suspension

Unchanged for model-year 2024, the NX500’s uses a 35mm diameter steel diamond-tube mainframe but the new model is slightly lighter, tipping the scale at a claimed Kerb weight of 432 pounds – 7 pounds less than the outgoing CB500X.

For bump absorption, the new bike uses a Showa 41mm inverted Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork with 5.2 inches of travel. By dividing the functions—Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other—reaction and ride quality are optimized.

The single-tube shock absorber, with 5.3 inches of axle travel and five-stage preload adjustment, has new settings to match the front, and its large-diameter piston offers optimal temperature management. Constructed from 2mm steel, the swingarm employs a hollow cross member that is stiff rotationally and flexible laterally to optimize handling.

Dual front 296mm petal-style rotors and axial-mounted Nissin two-piston calipers are standard. The required lever pressure when braking is minimized, but the small disc size keeps weight to a minimum. The single rear brake has a 240mm rotor.

Also updated for the fresh model, the 19/17” cast-aluminum wheels are completely new. Going from a conventional Y-shaped 7-spoke design to Y-shaped 5-spokes saves 28.2 ounces in front and 24.7 ounces in the rear. This reduction of unsprung weight works with the revised suspension settings to improve handling and feel in all situations. 

New TFT and Lighting

A brand-new, 5-inch full-color TFT screen,inherited from the XL750 Transalp, uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight — a first for a Honda motorcycle. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced, and backlight transmittance improved. It’s customizable between Bar, Circle and Simple display patterns.

The left-hand thumb switches have also undergone a transformation, becoming simpler and backlit for nighttime use. These enhancements make it easier for riders to control various functions and settings, offering an improved user experience.

A new LED headlight design maintains beam penetration but throws out wider light distribution for increased visibility at night. It’s matched to a new LED taillight, and all other lighting is also LED.

New Styling

Another notable change in the transition from the old CB500X to the NX500 is the bike’s new adventure styling. The NX500 boasts improved aerodynamics, which not only give the bike a more modern look but also contribute to its overall stability at speed, according to Honda. 

Model Highlights

• Overall weight is reduced by 7 pounds, from 439 lbs to 432 lbs.
• An ECU update improves acceleration feel.
• Honda Selectable Torque Control is now standard.
• New wheels save 3.3 pounds of unsprung weight.
• New suspension settings for the single shock and 41mm Showa SFF-BP inverted fork.
• Brand-new LED headlight brings improved nighttime visibility.
• New 5-inch TFT screen operated by a simplified and backlit four-way toggle switch.

Pricing and Availability

The 2024 NX500 is currently available with an MSRP of $7,399 — that’s $100 more than the outgoing CB500X model. Unlike the UK which gets the new bike in three different colors, America only gets the bike in Black Metallic.

2024 Honda NX500 Specs