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2021Honda CBR500R

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The 2021 Honda CBR500R is an accessible middleweight sport bike designed for new and intermediate riders seeking a manageable learning platform. Its 471cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth, predictable performance with 46.9 horsepower, making it ideal for developing skills without overwhelming inexperience. Known for its reliability, affordability, and forgiving handling characteristics, the CBR500R balances sportbike styling with everyday usability.

Capacity
471.0 ccm
Engine
Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox
6-speed
Wet weight
191.0 kg
Seat height
785 mm
Power
46.9 HP (34.3 kW) @ 8600 RPM
⇄ Compare with another bike + Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2021 Honda CBR500R

vs the 2020
Spec20202021
Front brakes Double disc. Wave disc. Two-piston calipers. Double disc. Wave disc. Two-piston calipers. ABS.
Rear brakes Single disc. Wave disc. Single-piston caliper. Single disc. Wave disc. Single-piston caliper. ABS.
Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 40Agility 70Comfort 65Off-road 15Touring 55Road manners 78
Off-road & trail15%
Cornering70%
City riding80%
Daily riding82%
Touring55%
Two-up50%
Track40%
Best for
It's built primarily as a versatile everyday and commuting machine that can also handle occasional weekend backroad rides.
Built for
The parallel twin delivers smooth, predictable power with a friendly, non-intimidating demeanor rather than outright excitement.
Not ideal for
This isn't the right choice for riders chasing top-tier performance, long-distance touring comfort, or any serious off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 785mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2021 Honda CBR500R, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Range and running costs

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
471.0 ccm
Power
46.9 HP (34.3 kW) @ 8600 RPM
CO2 Emissions
78 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.
MHNXC0.47CSB-010
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
3.32 L/100km (70.8 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions
1.1 CO g/km
Torque
43.0 Nm (4.4 kgf-m) @ 6500 RPM
Engine type
Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.2455 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke
67.0 x 66.8 mm
Compression
10.7:1
Cooling system
Liquid
Fuel system
Injection
Starting
Electric
Ignition
Full transistorized
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder
4
Transmission
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Clutch
Assist/Slipper clutch
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1410 mm
Overall length
2080 mm
Overall width
755 mm
Overall height
1145 mm
Seat height
785 mm
Wet weight
191.0 kg
Fuel capacity
17.10 litres
Ground clearance
130 mm
Oil capacity
3.20 litres
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
Frame
Steel diamond-tube
Front suspension
41mm fork
Rear suspension
Pro-Link single shock with nine-position spring preload adjustability
Front wheel travel
120 mm
Rear wheel travel
119 mm
Rake (fork angle)
25.5°
Trail
102 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Double disc. Wave disc. Two-piston calipers. ABS.
Front brakes diameter
320 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc. Wave disc. Single-piston caliper. ABS.
Rear brakes diameter
240 mm
ABS
Yes
Front tyre
120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre
160/60-ZR17
Other
Color options
Matte Axis Grey Metallic, Grand Prix Red, Pearl Metalloid White
Comments
Model ID: CBR500R.
Fuel Tank Material
Metal

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 201320162020202120232026
Capacity 471 cc 471 cc 471 cc 471 cc 471 cc 471 cc
Dry weight 192 kg 192 kg — — — —
Seat height 785 mm 785 mm 785 mm 785 mm 785 mm 790 mm
Fuel capacity 15.5 L 15.5 L 17 L 17.1 L 17.1 L 17 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Honda CBR500R is a sleek and powerful motorcycle with a sporty design and impressive performance. Its 471cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth and responsive power, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced riders. The CBR500R also features a comfortable riding position, making it perfect for long rides or daily commutes. With its sharp handling and reliable braking system, the CBR500R offers a thrilling riding experience while ensuring safety and control.

The 2021 Honda CBR500R is a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a versatile and reliable bike. With its aggressive styling and advanced features, the CBR500R stands out in its class. Whether you're cruising down the highway or taking on twisty back roads, this motorcycle delivers a fun and exhilarating ride every time. Overall, the 2021 Honda CBR500R is a fantastic option for riders seeking a well-rounded and high-performing bike.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Honda CBR500R?

The 2021 Honda CBR500R has a Capacity of 471.0 ccm (28.74 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Honda CBR500R have?

The 2021 Honda CBR500R has a Power of 46.9 HP (34.3 kW) @ 8600 RPM.

How many gears does the Honda CBR500R have?

The 2021 Honda CBR500R has a Gearbox of 6-speed.

What is the torque of the Honda CBR500R?

The 2021 Honda CBR500R has a Torque of 43.0 Nm (4.4 kgf-m or 31.7 ft.lbs) @ 6500 RPM.

How much does the Honda CBR500R weigh?

The 2021 Honda CBR500R has a Wet weight of 191.0 kg (421.1 pounds).

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