Honda unveils 2016 CBR500R at AIMExpo
Other new models also revealed
At AIMExpo in Orlando, Honda presented most of its 2016 CBR lineup, with the aggressively restyled CBR500R making its world debut. Almost 25 years after the introduction of the CBR900RR, Honda’s modern sport bikes continue to offer performance and reliability.
“Since their respective introductions, the fun, affordable CBR300R and CBR500R models have been very popular with a wide variety of customers,” said Lee Edmunds, manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda. “For 2016, the CBR500R receives striking updates, and we’re happy to unveil it here at AIMExpo. Both of these machines draw from the successful racing DNA of the CBR600RR and CBR1000RR, which return for 2016 with new colors.”
CBR500R
With all-new styling that offers a sharper, more aggressive look and improved airflow for increased rider comfort and better handling, plus refinements like LED headlights and taillights, the new CBR500R adds great curb appeal to legendary performance and reliability. Other updates include a new muffler design for improved mass centralization, lighter weight and an improved exhaust note, plus an adjustable front brake lever, smoother gear-change feel, a larger fuel tank with a hinged fuel cap and front suspension with adjustable preload. The CBR500R also now uses a wave ignition key for smoother function. The inline-twin 471cc engine offers accessible power output that smoothly revs up to redline, while emphasizing low- to midrange torque for real-world usability. Honda Genuine Accessories are also available for the new CBR500R, including a high windscreen, seat cowl, tank pad, 12v accessory socket and seat bag.
Colors:
Red, Matte Black Metallic, Pearl White
Availability:
Early 2016
CBR300R
New riders desiring sporty but user-friendly performance will be pleased with the return of Honda’s popular CBR300R, the smallest-displacement model in Honda’s sport-bike lineup. Known for being an incredible value, the CBR300R impresses with enough versatility that it also appeals to experienced riders. A single-cylinder engine with counterbalance shaft and a wide powerband combines with a narrow cross section to provide a light, nimble motorcycle that boasts excellent fuel economy. Customers can opt for the Antilock Braking System model, and for 2016, the CBR300R is also available in new Bright Yellow/Matte Black and Candy Orange/Matte Black livery, as well as original black.
Colors:
Black, Bright Yellow/Matte Black, Candy Orange/Matte Black
Prices:
CBR300R: $4,399
CBR300R ABS: $4,899
Availability:
December 2015
CBR1000RR
Long heralded for its excellent handling and stellar real-world performance, Honda’s legendary CBR1000RR is back for 2016 with a 999cc liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine, assisted slipper clutch and twin-spar aluminum chassis. It’s offered in standard and SP configurations, the latter boasting standout premium features for track-day enthusiasts, including fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, Brembo front brakes, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC tires, a special lightweight subframe and solo seat cowl. The standard version is available in a striking new Matte Black Metallic color, while the SP model is offered in graphics that match those of the reigning world champion Repsol Honda team.
Colors:
CBR1000RR: Matte Black Metallic
CBR1000RR SP: Repsol Special
Prices:
CBR1000RR: $13,999
CBR1000RR SP: $17,299
Availability:
January 2016
CBR600RR
Returning to Honda’s 2016 lineup in a new Black/White color is the versatile CBR600RR, comprising an impressive package of handling, power, compact size and overall performance. Whether customers are looking to tear up the track, carve through the canyons or commute to work, this versatile middleweight sport bike can handle it all. The popular and race-proven CBR600RR is also available with Honda’s revolutionary electronic Combined Antilock Braking System (C-ABS), offering added confidence under less-than-ideal conditions.
Color:
Black/White
Prices:
CBR600RR: $11,490
CBR600RR ABS: $12,490
Availability:
January 2016
Updated 2016 NC700X, CB500X
Honda unveiled the 2016 NC700X and CB500X at the Tokyo Motor Show. Great choices for customers seeking full adventure-touring capability in a middleweight package, the NC700X and CB500X have been significantly upgraded for the new model year, with both aesthetic and technical improvements.
“As was made clear with today’s unveiling in Japan, the NC700X and CB500X benefit from significant upgrades for 2016,” Lee Edmunds said. “Both of these models have been popular with American customers since their respective introductions, and with exciting new looks plus performance-oriented changes, they’re better than ever. The NC700X and CB500X join our two larger-displacement adventure machines — the VFR1200X and CRF1000L Africa Twin — in Honda’s comprehensive adventure lineup.
Already a hit with adventure riders, Honda’s NC700X provides fun, practicality and reliability in every facet of riding, and it gets new, aggressive styling for 2016. Housing a 670cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, the machine produces tons of torque and enough power to satisfy veteran riders, but it’s also good-natured enough for novices. The NC700X is offered in versions with a standard gearbox and a fully automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), the latter now with three different sport-mode settings. With deft handling, it’s adept at maneuvering through everything from city traffic to canyon roads, while the comfortable, upright seating position and a 5.8-gallon utility compartment — enlarged by 0.25 gallons for 2016 and big enough for a full-face helmet — make long-distance trips a pleasure. Other updates for the new model year include a revised windscreen and meter, as well as an LED taillight, a utility rail to simplify fitting a tank bag, a new pentagon-shaped muffler with an improved exhaust sound. Also new are the “L”-shaped air valves on the wheels for added clearance, and a smoother-functioning “wave”-style key.
Color:
Silver Metallic
Price:
TBD
Availability:
April 2016
CB500X
Honda’s smallest-displacement adventure-touring model is just as serious as its big siblings, as evidenced by the CB500X’s upright seating position and wide handlebar, plus a 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin DOHC engine that’s versatile and fuel-efficient. For 2016, the nimble machine benefits from sharper, tougher styling, plus a taller windscreen, LED lighting front and rear and a stylish new muffler design. Other upgrades include externally adjustable fork preload, an adjustable front-brake lever, improved gear-change feel, a hinged fuel cap, a “wave”-style key and an improved shock setting. An array of Honda Genuine Accessories make it possible for customers to adapt the CB500X to suit their individual tastes.
Color:
Matte Black Metallic
Price:
CB500X: $6,499
CB500X ABS: $6,799
Availability:
February 2016
Honda announces 2016 VFR1200X adventure bike
Reflecting the growing popularity of the adventure-touring segment, American Honda announced that the innovative VFR1200X is coming to the U.S. for the 2016 model year. Already extremely popular in Europe, the VFR1200X receives important updates for 2016 and will now be available to American customers, joining the previously announced brand-new 2016 CRF1000L Africa Twin in Honda’s comprehensive adventure lineup.
Honda also announced that the NC700X and CB500X receive aggressive new styling for 2016, and that the U.S. debut for all four 2016 Honda adventure models was set for the Nov. 20-22 International Motorcycle Shows stop in Long Beach, California.
“We’re very excited to offer such a well-rounded offering of adventure-touring models in the U.S. for 2016,” said Lee Edmunds, manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda. “The introduction of the VFR1200X to North America follows on the incredible reception of the Africa Twin. With the NC700X and CB500X also set to get important updates for 2016, Honda has a model to suit the needs of any adventure-touring enthusiast.”
Now the largest-displacement Honda adventure-touring model, the powerful, smooth VFR1200X is brand-new to the U.S. market. Well suited to customers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort during long days of two-wheel exploration, often riding two-up, the VFR1200X is powered by a 1,237cc V4 engine and is available with a standard gearbox or Honda’s revolutionary six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT); both versions feature Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), combined ABS brakes and shaft drive. The 19- and 17-inch wheels offer capable road-going performance, while the inverted 43mm fork and single-sided swingarm incorporate modern suspension technologies. Other features include a one-hand-adjustable windscreen, handguards and an accessory socket to charge smart phones or power heated vests. An extensive line of Honda Genuine Accessories is offered, including products for storage, rider comfort and customization.
Color:
Pearl Black
Availability:
May 2016
