Honda motorcycles

It's a relatively new bike, but does anyone have any experience with the new Honda CB500F? Online reviews seem great.

I'm thinking about getting one in the spring. I've never ridden before and I want something that won't break the bank for insurance so anything over 500cc is out. I like the new Ninja 300 but the price is almost the same as the Honda and insurance isn't that much more. The Honda Grom is neat too but I couldn't take it on the highway.

I'm mostly getting it for my commute to work and for fun. I take back roads to work as it is so not being able to take it on the highway isn't a deal breaker.

I'll be taking the motorcycle safety course when they start offering them in the spring before I buy anything.

Just seeing if anyone's ridden any of the aforementioned.

 

I by no means am an expert on Honda motorcycles but I have a 2008 Honda CRF250R dirt bike and I love it!! I know its a completely different format but just Honda in general makes great products so I dont think you would regret it at all.

 

If its anywhere near the fun factor of my old 2007 919 (CB919) then you should have a ball. I love the look of naked bikes and that one seems sweet. Good luck.

 

They're all the same pretty much, so pick which one you like the looks of the best.

I'm saving up for my first bike, and it'll be either a Honda 500 or a KTM 390 whenever they come out.

 

Picked up my 2013 CB500F today. Bought it used with 812 miles from Pittsburgh. Saved $1400 by getting used plus it has ABS. Truck did really well with it. Had to keep the tailgate down since I have a shirt bed but no issues using the ratchet straps.

Can't wait for warmer weather!

 

Another pic. My iPad only let's me upload one at a time.

 

My buddy is a Tesla nut and wanted to see the super charging station which was right off the Turnpike. Pretty neat

 

Good deal, especially worth it having abs. I have a 79 honda 500 that's still going strong, yours should be a great commuter.

 

You're brave using those factory tie downs. Nice bike

 

Cool, congradulations on the bike. Hondas are great, you should have many good years of riding with that one!

 

Just a suggestion you might consider something used to start with. You have a high probability of dropping the bike. With a used machine that already has some cosmetic imperfections you might not beat yourself up as bad as with a new pride and joy. I think you are in the right cc range for a beginner, not too much power but enough to keep your interest for awhile. My youngest daughter started out on a CM450C, my oldest on a 750 nighthawk. either one would be a good choice. The 750 is pretty mild mannered for its displacement. The CM450C does a good job at highway speeds, 6th gear is an overdrive so the rpms on the counter balanced parallel twin drop nicely. Both pretty much bullet proof. Plenty of other choices, find some local riders and get their suggestions.

Insurance wise you can get by with liability with a cheaper used bike just figure to eat your losses. Buying used from a reputable local dealer even though the price might be higher would also be a good idea, less chance of getting someone else's junk/problems.

 

Thought the memo said- "Taco guys only ride Harleys"
A Honda
I'm so confused now.....

 

I second what miniceptor is saying about getting a used bike if this is your first street bike. Also, have you taken the MSF class yet? If not, highly recommended.

A lot of times new riders think they want a certain type of bike (ie. cruiser, standard, sport, motard, etc), and their mind changes after some saddle time. Most often a used bike will affordably let you decide if that particular riding style suits you, and usually can be sold for close to what you paid for it.

 

Post 5 shows my bike. I did buy used. Yes, it's only a year old used but I did save a good amount of money.

MSF course is on April 24 for me and lasts 4 days over 2 weeks.

It's supposed to get up to 55 this weekend so I may end up taking it around the block. Won't be taking it on the main roads though, don't want to hurt myself.

 

You must have missed the memo that said "Taco guys ask Harley guys what happened to their other 2 cylinders?"

 

Ah yes, didn't see the bike, very nice. Glad to hear you're taking the MSF class. I am a big Honda fan (currently own 4), and can speak volumns about their reliablilty/ridability.

If you plan on riding before the class, just a quick suggestion:
- look where you want to go, not at the curb or parked car. Gotta really exagerate the head turns. You can see how far up and around the corner my head is turned here:

 

Cool man thanks for the advice!

 

you mean I gotta get another one?

Congrats to the OP on taking the CLASS! Everyone needs to. Along with any other education one can get on riding. It is great, but everyone is there to kill you!

Any bike is a good bike. Except those Victory bikes. They are just alien life forms.

 

I don't even have a bike and I took the class haha. In PA (where both OP and I live) it cost $5 for your motorcycle permit and if you pass the free MSF class you get your M endorsement. Figured why not.

 

Great first bike. Be safe. Watch for idiots out there.