In a world filled with futuristic motorcycles, the Honda CL500 Scrambler stands out by going back to its roots. Inspired by Honda’s legendary CL series of the 1960s and 70s, the new CL500 revives the spirit of freedom, versatility, and fun—this time, with a dose of modern engineering and urban practicality. Aimed squarely at riders in the UK looking for both style and substance, the CL500 is turning heads for all the right reasons.
Whether you’re a city commuter, a weekend trail seeker, or a new rider in search of something approachable yet bold—the CL500 is ready for the challenge. Let’s explore why this bike is quickly becoming a top choice for UK motorcycle enthusiasts.
🧬 The Legacy Lives On: Classic DNA with a Modern Twist
Honda’s scrambler legacy is deep-rooted. The original CL series brought dirt-ready attitude to street bikes, giving riders the freedom to venture beyond asphalt. The 2025 Honda CL500 takes that retro spirit and packages it in a sleek, rugged frame with contemporary features.
With high-mounted twin exhausts, blocky tires, and a flat bench seat, the CL500 retains that old-school scrambler look. But beneath the retro aesthetics lies Honda’s tried-and-tested 471cc parallel-twin engine—the same one powering the beloved Rebel 500 and CB500 series.
This combination of form and function is what gives the CL500 its unique charm. It looks like a blast from the past, but rides like a machine from the future.
⚙️ Engine and Performance: Built for Urban and Off-Road Exploration
The heart of the Honda CL500 is a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth, linear power. It produces around 47 horsepower and 43 Nm of torque, making it A2 licence compliant—perfect for newer riders in the UK.
Key Performance Highlights:
- 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch
- Light and agile chassis, weighing approx. 192kg
- 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels for scrambler versatility
- Long-travel suspension for bumpy British backroads
Whether you’re darting through London traffic or exploring gravel trails in the Lake District, the CL500 is built for comfort, control, and confidence.
🏙️ Designed for Real-World UK Riding
The CL500’s design speaks directly to the needs of UK riders. With upright handlebars, a neutral seating position, and light steering, this bike is tailor-made for urban commuting.
Even better, it handles wet or uneven roads with ease—something essential for the UK’s unpredictable weather and rural road conditions.
The scrambler design means you can easily switch from city to countryside without hesitation. Think of it as your daily commuter that’s also your weekend escape vehicle.
🎨 Style That Turns Heads
One of the biggest draws of the CL500 is its stylish retro-inspired look. Honda has gone the extra mile to make sure this bike appeals to both the classic enthusiast and the modern rider.
Design Elements That Stand Out:
- High-mounted dual exhaust with heat shields
- Round LED headlamp with classic vibes
- Sculpted fuel tank for a muscular profile
- Rugged fork gaiters and minimalist tail section
- Available in multiple UK-friendly colors like Candy Energy Orange, Matt Laurel Green, and Black Metallic
It’s a bike that sparks nostalgia without compromising on cool. You’ll look just as good pulling up to a café in Camden as you will cruising along coastal cliffs.
📱 Modern Tech Where It Matters
While the CL500 wears a retro outfit, it doesn’t skip out on tech. Honda has equipped it with essential modern features that improve safety, convenience, and ride quality.
Notable Tech & Features:
- Full LED lighting all around
- Digital LCD display with gear position indicator, fuel gauge, and trip meter
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard
- Slipper clutch to reduce wheel hop during aggressive downshifts
There’s no touchscreen or complex interface—just what you need, where you need it. This keeps the bike rider-focused and distraction-free, especially for newer bikers.
🛠️ Easy to Personalize and Maintain
Honda knows that scrambler riders love to customize. That’s why the CL500 is designed with personalization in mind. From luggage racks and crash guards to aftermarket mirrors and seats, the possibilities are endless.
And since the bike is based on Honda’s existing 500cc platform, maintenance is straightforward and affordable, with parts readily available across the UK.
💸 Value for Money
In the UK market, the Honda CL500 is competitively priced, making it an attractive option for:
- Young professionals
- Commuters wanting an everyday stylish bike
- Weekend riders looking for versatility
- A2 licence holders seeking their first “big bike”
With low running costs, great fuel efficiency (approx. 27–30 km/l), and Honda’s legendary reliability, the CL500 is as much a practical buy as it is a passion purchase.
🌦️ Built for British Roads and Riders
Whether it’s navigating cobbled city streets, dodging potholes, or heading out for a countryside spin, the CL500 has been praised for its composure and comfort. Its light clutch, comfortable saddle, and nimble frame make it a joy to ride in everyday conditions.
And yes, it handles British rain admirably—with stable braking, water-resistant components, and grippy tires that make wet weather riding less stressful.
🏁 Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the CL500?
If you’re in the UK and looking for a motorcycle that blends classic looks with modern ease-of-use, the Honda CL500 Scrambler is a solid contender. It’s: ✅ Stylish and unique
✅ Lightweight and beginner-friendly
✅ Capable on mixed terrain
✅ Affordable to buy and run
This isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s an expression of freedom, ideal for riders who crave adventure with a touch of retro flair.
