Honda Canada's all-new middleweight standard bike shares its chassis and powertrain with two other 500cc models. However, unlike the CB500F and CB500X, the 2013 Honda CBR500R is styled after the new CBR1000RR: an excellent way to discover and enjoy the thrills of a genuine sport bike at a lower price.


Geared like the big boys
Wrapped in a full sport fairing like its larger siblings, the 2013 Honda CBR500R offers very interesting value. In fact, with a lightweight steel frame, sporty 17” wheels, a 41-mm front fork, available C-ABS (the front brake lever also actuates the rear brake, proportionally), and a preload-adjustable Pro-Link rear shock, it matches a number of larger-displacement street bikes that cost up to $3,000 more. The CBR500R retails for just $6,299 -- count an extra $500 for the ABS-equipped variant.

The new 471cc, 8-valve, DOHC, parallel twin-cylinder uses a liquid cooling system and a 6-speed transmission. Output is rated at 48 hp (8,500 rpm), along with 33 lb-ft of torque (7,000 rpm). According to engineers, the 2013 Honda CBR500R burns a mere 3.7L/100km.

Attractive for beginners and experts alike
The fully digital, race-inspired instrument panel includes a tachometer, speedometer, clock, fuel gauge, and two trip odos. Furthermore, the 2013 Honda CBR500R features the Honda Intelligent Security System (HISS), which means you can only start the engine with the factory-coded key.

Thanks to relatively high handlebars, a low seat height (785 mm), and conveniently positioned footpegs, riders will enjoy comfortable ergonomics -- very similar to the riding position on the CBR250R.

Starring on the track
Foxy and fairly well equipped, the 2013 Honda CBR500R was selected for the European Junior Cup, helping turn young riders into bona fide racers. This new competition series will serve as an undercard for the 2013 World Superbike Championship. Let's just hope that Canada will follow suit and create a CBR500R series to succeed the CSBK's popular CBR250R class.

Photo: Honda