MyMoto Bike Profile
Honda CB500 Hornet
471cc · ~47 hp · seat 785 mm · ~$5,899
Practical reliable beginner-to-intermediate naked with a lower 2026 US MSRP than the outgoing CB500F. Ideal rider: A rider who values Honda reliability and sensible street use over image.
Photo: Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick specs
| Engine | 471cc |
| Power | ~47 hp |
| Wet weight | ~189 kg |
| Seat height | 785 mm |
| Price (new) | ~$5,899 |
| Typical used range | $4200 - $6200 (used, condition varies) |
| Years | 2026-present |
| Licence fit | A2;US beginner |
Figures are catalog approximations and vary by model year and market; always verify the exact spec and price for your region.
Who it is for
Practical riders who want reliable beginner-to-intermediate transport.
Where it fits best: Commuting; low-stress ownership; beginner/intermediate road riding.
Who should skip it
Avoid if the rider wants a highly emotional or premium-feeling bike. The 2026 US model is CB500 Hornet; used-market searches may still use CB500F through 2025.
Can create regret by feeling too plain or underpowered for emotional buyers.
The honest reality
- For beginners
- Very good beginner-to-intermediate platform.
- In the city
- Good city/commuter fit.
- On the highway
- Can do highway but not exciting or highly protective.
- Engine character
- 471cc parallel twin; smooth, practical, not dramatic.
- Owning it
- Honda reliability/low stress is the main appeal.
Buying used
Check service, tires, brakes, chain, drops, and whether the listing is the newer CB500 Hornet or older CB500F. Typical asking range: $4200 - $6200 (used, condition varies).
Bikes riders cross-shop
Kawasaki Z500 · Yamaha MT-03 · Honda NX500 · Rebel 500 · Suzuki SV650 for step-up.
Does the Honda CB500 Hornet actually fit you?
A spec sheet cannot weigh your height, budget, roads, experience, and the regret risks that show up after buying. MyMoto's free advisor can. Tell it about yourself and see whether this bike, or something better for you, comes out on top.
Chat with the MyMoto advisor
MyMoto is an early beta. Always verify current specs, pricing, licence rules, insurance, and local availability before buying any motorcycle. Figures are sourced from our verified catalog and may vary by model year and market.
Deep dive: Honda Cb500f vs Cbr500r →
See the best beginner naked bikes →
See the best beginner motorcycles of 2026 →
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