Honda’s battle for adventure: cb500x vs africa twin face-off

The Honda CB500X and Africa Twin are two of the most popular adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. But which one is the right choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the Honda CB500X vs. Africa Twin to help you make an informed decision.

Engine

The Honda CB500X is powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine that produces 47 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, is powered by a 998cc parallel-twin engine that produces 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of power, the Africa Twin has a clear advantage. However, the CB500X’s engine is more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain.

Suspension

The Honda CB500X has a non-adjustable 41mm fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, has a fully adjustable 45mm fork and a fully adjustable rear shock.

In terms of suspension, the Africa Twin has a clear advantage. The fully adjustable suspension allows you to fine-tune the bike to your specific riding style and terrain.

Brakes

The Honda CB500X has single discs with two-piston calipers at both the front and rear. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, has dual discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a single disc with a two-piston caliper at the rear.

In terms of brakes, the Africa Twin has a clear advantage. The dual discs and four-piston calipers provide more stopping power than the CB500X’s single discs and two-piston calipers.

Weight

The Honda CB500X weighs 439 pounds wet, while the Africa Twin weighs 505 pounds wet.

In terms of weight, the CB500X has a clear advantage. The lighter weight makes the CB500X more maneuverable and easier to handle, especially off-road.

Price

The Honda CB500X starts at $6,699, while the Africa Twin starts at $13,999.

In terms of price, the CB500X has a clear advantage. The CB500X is significantly cheaper than the Africa Twin, making it a more affordable option for budget-minded riders.

Takeaways: Which Bike Is Right for You?

The Honda CB500X and Africa Twin are both great adventure motorcycles. However, they offer different strengths and weaknesses. The CB500X is more fuel-efficient, easier to maintain, and more affordable. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, is more powerful, has better suspension, and has better brakes.

Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly adventure motorcycle that’s easy to ride and maintain, the CB500X is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more powerful and capable adventure motorcycle, the Africa Twin is a better option.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which bike is better for off-road riding?

The Africa Twin is better for off-road riding thanks to its more powerful engine, better suspension, and better brakes.

2. Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?

The Africa Twin is more comfortable for long rides thanks to its more comfortable seat and more adjustable suspension.

3. Which bike is more fuel-efficient?

The CB500X is more fuel-efficient than the Africa Twin.

4. Which bike is more affordable?

The CB500X is more affordable than the Africa Twin.

5. Which bike is lighter?

The CB500X is lighter than the Africa Twin.