The 2025 Honda CBR500R proves a sportbike can be quick, comfortable, and durable all at once. Honda’s latest middleweight pairs a refined 471 cc parallel twin with a chassis tuned for weekday commuting and weekend canyon runs, giving riders a single machine that feels at home in every role. Slim fairings and the Grand Prix Red finish nod to Honda’s racing heritage, yet the practical seat height, generous fuel capacity, and proven reliability emphasize that this motorcycle is engineered to cover serious mileage rather than simply draw looks.
Responsive Parallel‑Twin Power
The liquid-cooled, 471 cc DOHC twin puts its oversquare 67.0 mm × 66.8 mm architecture to work with a 10.7:1 compression ratio and PGM‑FI fuel injection. Dual 34 mm throttle bodies meter air with precision, so the engine pulls cleanly from idle through redline. A slick six‑speed gearbox pairs close lower ratios for brisk acceleration with taller upper cogs that keep revs relaxed on the highway. Power reaches the rear wheel through an O‑ring chain spinning 15/41 sprockets, delivering a balanced combination of punch and economy.
Street‑Focused Suspension and Chassis
Honda matches the engine’s approachable character with a chassis that encourages confident corner entries and steady high‑speed composure. Up front, a 41 mm Showa® SFF‑BP fork delivers 4.7 inches of travel, isolating rough pavement while keeping steering light. Out back, a Pro‑Link® single shock mirrors the fork’s 4.7 inches of movement, giving the rear wheel a supple yet connected feel. A 25.5‑degree rake, 4.0‑inch trail, and 55.5‑inch wheelbase create a neutral geometry that turns in without drama yet tracks faithfully across long sweepers. Wrapped in a 120/70R‑17 front and 160/60‑17 rear, the 17‑inch wheels provide a wide contact patch for spirited riding. At just 421 pounds fully fueled, the bike feels responsive during quick transitions while remaining planted at interstate speeds.
Confident Braking with Standard ABS
Stopping duties fall to dual 296 mm front discs with four‑piston calipers plus a 240 mm rear rotor, hardware borrowed directly from Honda’s larger sport models. The setup offers a progressive feel, letting you trail brake deep into corners with feedback you can trust. Standard ABS monitors wheel speed and modulates pressure only when necessary, providing an extra safety net on rain‑soaked asphalt or dusty back roads. Consistent lever travel and fade‑resistant rotors mean spirited rides never compromise braking confidence.
Rider‑Friendly Ergonomics and Everyday Practicality
A 31.1‑inch seat height places most riders flat‑footed at stoplights, while narrow midsections make the stance even more approachable. The clip-ons sit higher than supersport counterparts, reducing wrist strain on daily commutes, and the slightly rear‑set pegs allow a relaxed knee bend for riders of varied stature. With 4.5 gallons in the tank, fuel stops spread farther apart, turning weekend detours into effortless adventures. Mirrors stay vibration‑free thanks to the twin’s counterbalancers, and a clear view of traffic enhances overall situational awareness.
Sharp Styling in Grand Prix Red
Angular bodywork channels air toward the radiator and away from the rider for improved cooling and comfort. Honda’s signature Grand Prix Red paint, contrasted by dark frame elements, brings track‑inspired energy to urban streets. Compact fairings expose enough of the powertrain to hint at mechanical substance, while the sculpted tail section finishes in a sharp upsweep that complements the sport silhouette. The result is a motorcycle that looks fast even when idling at a light.
Clean Emissions and Honda Reliability
The 2025 Honda CBR500R meets current EPA regulations and also satisfies CARB standards for the California model, proving that performance and environmental responsibility can coexist. Every engine leaves the factory with Honda’s stringent quality checks, and a transferable one‑year, unlimited‑mileage warranty reinforces that confidence. Riders who cover serious mileage can extend coverage through the HondaCare® Protection Plan for long‑term peace of mind. Routine maintenance remains straightforward thanks to accessible service points, helping keep ownership costs predictable.
Schedule Your Test Ride near Bay Area Houston
See the 2025 Honda CBR500R in person at Stubbs Cycles near Bay Area Houston, TX, and experience how this middleweight sportbike blends performance, comfort, and control. Feel the responsiveness of the parallel-twin engine and test the precision of its street-tuned chassis during a real-world ride. Inspect the aggressive Grand Prix Red styling and explore the rider-focused features that make this model ideal for both daily use and weekend rides. Discover firsthand how the CBR500R handles city traffic, back roads, and longer stretches with ease. Schedule your test ride today!