CB500X and NX 500 – Honda's A2 dual sport for road and gravel
The NX500 is the successor to the Honda CB500X: the same twin with 471 cc and 35 kW, homologated for the A2 licence straight from the factory – but lighter, with a revised chassis and available with E-Clutch. We keep it in Volketswil ZH, new and as a demonstrator, together with genuine accessories, custom work and servicing from our own workshop.
1Specs & data
471 cc, 35 kW and a twin with character
The Honda NX500 at a glance
A light dual sport with 471 cc for the A2 licence
The NX500 is Honda's light dual sport: a parallel twin with 471 cc, 35 kW and 43 Nm at 6,500 rpm. That places it inside the A2 category – known in Switzerland as category A restricted – with no restrictor kit needed.
The chassis is built for distance: a 19-inch front wheel on a 110/80 tyre, 160/60 on 17 inches at the rear. The tank holds 17.5 litres, seat height is 830 mm and the machine weighs 175 kg. Six gears, optionally with E-Clutch.
Which version is on the floor right now – with colour, mileage and price – is shown in the vehicle list further down this page. It comes straight from our own stock.
Honda NX 500 technical data
The documented figures from our own stock
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Category | Enduro / dual sport |
| Displacement | 471 cc |
| Engine | Four-stroke parallel twin |
| Power | 35 kW |
| Torque | 43 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6 speed, optionally with E-Clutch |
| Seat height | 830 mm |
| Weight | 175 kg |
| Tank capacity | 17.5 litres |
| Tyres front / rear | 110/80 R19 · 160/60 R17 |
| Emissions | Euro 5 |
| Licence | A2 / category A restricted |
Current prices are shown with each machine in the list on this page – they come from our live stock and change with availability.
FAQ specs & data
Common questions about the Honda NX500
The NX500 has 471 cc from a four-stroke parallel twin – the same base engine you know from the CB500X.
35 kW, with 43 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.
The A2 licence is enough – the machine is built to 35 kW from the factory and needs no restrictor. The Swiss route to the licence is described under motorcycle licence.
830 mm. That is moderate for a dual sport – whether it suits you takes ten seconds to find out on the machine. Come by and sit on it.
17.5 litres. Together with the frugal twin that gives you a range where a full day's ride needs no fuel planning.
2CB500X & NX500
What changed with the successor
From the CB500X to the NX 500
Same engine, new name, lighter machine
If you are looking for the Honda CB500X, you end up at the NX500 today. Honda renamed the model and reworked it in the process: the proven 471 cc twin with 35 kW stayed, the machine got lighter and the chassis was retuned.
The NX in the name is no accident – Honda used it for its travel enduros in the past. The NX 500 therefore sits clearly in the dual sport camp, while the CB prefix marks Honda's road models – the CB650R or the CB750 Hornet, for example.
In practice: what you valued on the CB500X – the good-natured engine, the upright riding position, the 35 kW homologation ex works – you will find again on the NX500. If you are after a used CB500X, tell us: we keep an eye out and get back to you as soon as one arrives.
FAQ CB500X & NX500
Common questions about the model change
Yes. Honda developed the CB500X into the NX500 and renamed it. Engine and displacement stayed, the machine got lighter and the chassis was revised.
The CB500X is no longer built new. It turns up used from time to time. Leave your request with us and we will come back to you as soon as one is available. What is on the floor today is in the vehicle list on this page.
NX is Honda's designation for travel enduros. The name change moves the machine to where it belongs on the road – away from the CB road series.
Some do – bolt-on parts such as carriers and screens are model specific. Bring the part along or give us the part number and we will check the fit in the workshop before you order anything.
No, both make 35 kW – the ceiling for the A2 licence. The difference is the lower weight and the revised chassis, not the output.
3E-Clutch & versions
With or without a clutch lever – your choice
Honda NX500 E-Clutch
Shifting without clutching, manual control retained
The NX 500 is available with E-Clutch. The system operates the clutch electronically: pulling away, shifting and stopping all work without touching the lever, while the six-speed box stays an ordinary manual gearbox with a foot lever.
The difference to the dual clutch transmission DCT you know from the NC750X and the X-ADV: with E-Clutch you still choose the gears yourself, only the clutching is taken care of. Pull the lever if you want to – it is there and it works.
In town that takes real work off your left hand; off road you keep full control over gear choice. We stock both versions: the NX 500 with a conventional clutch and the NX 500 E-Clutch. Which colours are here right now is shown in the vehicle list.
FAQ E-Clutch & versions
Common questions about the electronic clutch
An electronically operated clutch. You shift with your foot as usual but never have to clutch, neither pulling away nor stopping. The clutch lever stays usable.
Yes. The system can be deactivated and you ride the machine like any conventional manual bike. We show you the controls at handover.
The NX 500 with a conventional clutch and the NX 500 E-Clutch. Which colours and model years are available right now is shown in the vehicle list on this page.
It takes the stress out of hill starts and stop-and-go traffic while you still learn to shift normally. Best is to ride both versions back to back – we charge a contribution towards costs for test rides, which we credit against the purchase.
4Used & demonstrators
Second hand NX 500 and demo machines
NX500 used, second hand and as a demonstrator
What is here now – and what we can source on request
Alongside new machines we run demonstrators: low mileage, technically as new, with the balance of the warranty. What is available today is in the vehicle list on this page – it comes live from our stock and is the only reliable answer.
Used machines on request. A second hand NX 500 or CB500X is not permanently on the floor. Leave your request with version and colour – we come back to you as soon as one arrives.
What we check on a used machine: a complete service book, the condition of chain, brake pads and tyres – including tyre age, not just tread depth – and on the E-Clutch the current software level. That is exactly what we go through before a machine enters our list.
Part exchange. We take your current machine in part exchange – other makes and older model years included. We value it on site.
Honda NX500 used bikes and demonstrators in stock
Used and demonstrator NX500 currently available
I am interested in one of these motorcycles
I am interestedLoading current stock …
All prices non-binding, subject to change.
FAQ used & demonstrators
Common questions about buying used
What is available right now is in the vehicle list on this page. Second hand NX 500 are not permanently in stock – leave your request and we will contact you as soon as one arrives.
A machine from our own fleet used for test rides: few kilometres, technically as new, with the balance of the warranty – and cheaper than a new one.
The service book, the state of chain, brakes and tyres – including tyre age – and on the E-Clutch the software level. We check all of that in our own workshop before handover.
Yes, other makes included. We value your machine on site and offset it against the purchase.
Yes. We prepare the version you want. We charge a contribution towards costs for test rides, which we credit against the purchase.
5Genuine accessories
Panniers, top box, screen and protection for your NX 500
Honda NX500 accessories and custom work
We advise, order and fit in house
A dual sport only becomes your machine through the parts you bolt on. For the NX 500 we supply genuine Honda accessories – we order them, fit them in our own workshop and set everything up before handover.
Which parts make sense depends on how you ride: commuting asks for something different than two weeks across France. Talk to us before you order – we will also tell you when a part is not needed.
Honda NX500 top box
The top box is the everyday classic: helmet in, lock it, done. We fit the matching carrier and make sure the rear light and plate stay clear.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| 38 L top boxtakes one helmet and runs off the Honda one-key system with the ignition key, carrier plate plus lock and key cylinder included, load capacity 6 kg | 08ESY-MLR-TB38 | approx. CHF 405 |
| Rear carrierwith integrated grab handles for the pillion and required for any luggage mounting | 08L71-MGZ-D80ZA | approx. CHF 315 |
| Top box inner bagnylon bag with shoulder strap, expandable from 15 to 25 L | 08L75-MJP-G51 | approx. CHF 65 |
| Top box backrestpolyurethane foam, matched to the 38 L top box, fits without drilling. | 08F00-MJP-G50 | approx. CHF 120 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX 500 panniers
Side panniers take the touring luggage. The carrier mounting is what matters – we align it so the machine stays narrow and you do not catch anything in traffic.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Pannier setsemi-rigid resin bags with waterproof inner bags and padlocks, 16.5 L each, quick release, max. 1.4 kg per side, mounting kit 08L74-MLB-D00 included | 08ESY-MLR-SBX 08L74-MLB-D00 | approx. CHF 650 |
| Rear bag15 L, expandable to 22 L, with its own bracket and rain cover | 08ESY-MKP-SEAT | approx. CHF 115 |
| Tank bag 3 Lwith magnetic flaps and fitting kit. The rear carrier 08L71-MGZ-D80ZA is not included with the panniers. | 08ESY-MKP-TKB19B 08L71-MGZ-D80ZA | approx. CHF 130 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX500 screen
A taller screen takes pressure off your upper body and makes motorway stages noticeably calmer. The right height depends on how tall you are – best worked out together.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| A taller touring screen is not listed for the NX 500 in the genuine accessory range. What is available: tinted screena darkened screen on the front fairing, same material and size as the standard one | 08R71-MLR-D80 | approx. CHF 40 |
| wind deflectorsblack deflectors that steer the airflow around your waist and knees and the heat off the radiator away from you. | 08R70-MLR-D80 | approx. CHF 55 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX 500 crash bars and engine guard
Crash bars and an engine guard belong on a dual sport. They protect the fairing and the engine casing in a standstill tip-over – which is where most damage happens.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Front protection barsstainless steel, painted black; they reduce damage to outer parts on contact | 08P70-MLR-D80ZA | approx. CHF 335 |
| Centre standa stable park on soft ground, makes cleaning and servicing easier | 08M70-MKP-J80 | approx. CHF 185 |
| Tank padscratch protection for the fuel tank. | 08P70-MGH-J20 | approx. CHF 50 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX500 hand guards
Hand guards keep wind, rain and branches off your hands. Ride early in the season and you notice the difference on the first outing.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Hand guardsthey protect hands and arms from cold and rain and deflect the wind. | 08P70-MKP-DQ0 | approx. CHF 90 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX 500 heated grips
Heated grips extend the season at both ends. We route the wiring tidily under the fairing so nothing chafes.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Heated gripsslim handlebar accessory that heats your hands all the way round, with adjustable heat levels; attachment 08T70-MLR-D80 included | 08ESY-MLR-HGX 08T70-MLR-D80 | approx. CHF 315 |
| 12 V socketcharges devices at 2 A and sits next to the instrument panel | 08U70-MKP-D80 | approx. CHF 35 |
| LED fog lightstwo additional lights with strong output and low consumption, operated by a switch on the cockpit and shown on the TFT display; mounting 08V70-MLR-D80ZA included. | 08ESY-MLR-FLX 08V70-MLR-D80ZA | approx. CHF 565 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Honda NX500 exhaust
On exhausts Swiss law is clear: only a system with valid homologation may be fitted. We tell you in advance what is permitted and register the conversion properly.
Honda does not list a silencer for the NX 500 in its genuine accessory range. If you want a different system, we clarify what is homologated in Switzerland before ordering and register the conversion.
Honda NX 500 seat
The seat lets you adjust seat height – lower for confident ground contact, higher for more legroom on long stages. What suits you comes out of a sitting test.
The Honda accessory brochure does not list a seat variant with a part number for the NX 500. Which versions Honda can supply – and what else can be done about seat height – we clarify before ordering.
Honda NX 500 accessory packs and wheel stickers
Honda groups the most common combinations into accessory packs, all of which can be combined with each other. We tell you which parts your chosen pack contains before you order – and whether ordering the parts individually works out better in your case.
| Part | Part number | Price (non-binding) |
|---|---|---|
| Adventure packeach | 08HME-MLR-ADVZA 08HME-MLR-ADVZB | approx. CHF 1’100 |
| Urban pack | 08HME-MLR-URB | approx. CHF 975 |
| Travel pack | 08HME-MLR-TRAX | approx. CHF 760 |
| Comfort packThe brochure lists the rear carrier as required but not included – unless the pack is combined with the Urban pack. Wheel sticker kit approx. CHF 25 per wheel, in Lemon Ice yellow 08F70-MLR-D80ZA (rear) and 08F71-MLR-D80ZA (front), in Indi Grey Metallic with a red accent 08F70-MLR-D80ZB and 08F71-MLR-D80ZB, and in Matte Crypton Silver Metallic 08F70-MLR-D80ZC and 08F71-MLR-D80ZC. | 08HME-MLR-COMX 08F70-MLR-D80ZA 08F71-MLR-D80ZA 08F70-MLR-D80ZB 08F71-MLR-D80ZB 08F70-MLR-D80ZC 08F71-MLR-D80ZC | approx. CHF 510 |
All prices non-binding and subject to change at any time · fitting not included.
Every NX 500 accessory with a picture, part number and price is listed in the Honda accessory brochure as a PDF. We order the parts and fit them in our own motorcycle workshop.
Accessory brochure Honda NX 500Every part with picture, part number and non-binding price · PDF · 4 pages · 0.6 MBOpen PDFI am interested in accessories for the Honda NX 500
Ask about accessoriesAll prices are non-binding and subject to change. For a binding quote please enquire preferably via the form. Fitting in our own motorcycle workshop; labour is not included in the part price.
FAQ accessories & custom work
Common questions about bolt-on parts
Top box and panniers, a taller screen, crash bars and engine guard, hand guards, heated grips and seat options. We order genuine Honda accessories and fit them here.
Yes, in our own workshop. On a new purchase the machine is fully built up and set up at handover.
Only with valid Swiss homologation. We clarify that before ordering and register the conversion properly – so the roadworthiness test holds no surprises.
The seat adjusts the height in both directions. Come by for a sitting test – that is decided on the machine, not on a data sheet.
In many cases yes. Give us the model year and the frame number and we check availability through Honda before you order.
6Workshop & servicing
Maintenance, repair and roadworthiness test in Volketswil ZH
NX 500 servicing, maintenance and repair
Our own motorcycle workshop, Honda trained
We run our own motorcycle workshop in Volketswil ZH. Our mechanics are Honda trained, we work with genuine parts and document every service in the service book – which protects the value of your machine.
What we do on the NX500: scheduled maintenance to Honda specification, tyre changes, brakes, chain and sprockets, valve clearance, software updates for the E-Clutch, preparation for the roadworthiness test and winter storage.
We also service machines that were not bought from us – and older models such as the CB500X. Spare parts come through Honda; anything not on the shelf is usually here within a few days.
FAQ workshop & servicing
Common questions about maintenance
That depends on the service interval and the mileage. Call us with the mileage and we will tell you the scope and the price up front – no surprises on the invoice.
Yes. We check the machine through beforehand, put right what needs it and prepare it so the test passes without a second appointment.
Yes, regardless of where you bought it. Older Honda series such as the CB500X are in good hands with us too.
Not in daily use. At each service we check the software level and install updates when Honda releases them.
Yes. We take the machine in over the winter, service it in the meantime and hand it back ready to ride in spring.
7Where it works best
The ground the NX500 was built for
Where the Honda NX 500 plays to its strengths
Commuting, alpine passes, touring – and light gravel
Commuting. Narrow, light and easy to place – an advantage in evening traffic around Zurich. With E-Clutch the constant clutching in stop-and-go disappears.
Corners and passes. 35 kW sounds modest but is entirely enough for brisk riding on mountain roads. The low weight makes the NX500 handier in tight hairpins than a big travel machine.
Touring. Upright riding position, a 17.5 litre tank, room for panniers and a top box – day stages of several hundred kilometres are no issue.
Light gravel. The 19-inch front wheel and the ground clearance allow gravel and unmade roads. If you want to go further off road, train the technique first – see riding courses.
Starting out after the test. A2 ex works, no restrictor, nothing to derestrict later – and a machine that does not get boring once you move up to the unrestricted category.
FAQ riding the NX 500
Common questions about everyday use
Yes. Upright riding position, a 17.5 litre tank and room for panniers and a top box – it is built for full day stages.
It is made for gravel and unmade roads – the 19-inch front wheel and the ground clearance help. For demanding terrain we recommend an enduro training course first.
Yes. The twin pulls cleanly from mid revs – on country roads and passes nothing is missing. On the motorway a taller screen helps.
Very well: narrow, light and easy to see out of. With E-Clutch stop-and-go traffic becomes noticeably more relaxed.
Yes. It is A2 legal ex works, easy to handle and forgiving. More starter models are listed under beginner motorcycles.
8Comparisons
Where the NX 500 sits – and when another model fits better
The Honda NX500 compared
Dual sport, all-rounder or the bigger sister?
| Model | Displacement | Power | Licence | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX500 | 471 cc | 35 kW | A2 ex works | light dual sport, daily use and touring |
| XL750 Transalp | 755 cc | 68 kW | A | bigger travel enduro, more reserves |
| NC750X | 745 cc | 43 kW | A | all-rounder with storage, also with DCT |
| CB650R | 649 cc | 70 kW | A | naked bike for the road, also with E-Clutch |
In short: if you hold an A2 licence and want a machine you will not have to replace straight away, the NX 500 is the obvious choice. If you already ride unrestricted and travel two-up with luggage, look at the Transalp instead.
An overview of every machine that falls into the 35 kW class ex works is under 35 kW motorbikes.
FAQ comparisons
Common questions about choosing a model
The NX 500 if you ride on an A2 licence or want a light machine. The XL750 Transalp if you often travel two-up with luggage.
The NC750X is a road all-rounder with storage in the tank compartment and optional DCT. The NX500 is the real dual sport with a 19-inch front wheel and more ground clearance.
The NX 500 and every model with a 35 kW version. The full overview is under A2 motorcycles and 35 kW motorbikes.
Yes. Make an appointment and we will have the machines ready side by side. We charge a contribution towards costs for test rides, credited against the purchase.
Very much so. Many riders choose it deliberately for the low weight – off road and in tight hairpins that is an advantage no amount of displacement makes up for.
9Riding courses
Technique decides, not power
Courses and training for NX 500 riders
From the learner licence to enduro training
A dual sport rewards technique more than power. At the MX-Academy you train braking, vision and cornering where mistakes cost nothing – off road and on closed ground.
For beginners the taster course is the easiest start. For returning riders a safety training session is worth it before going back on the road.
Particularly useful for NX500 riders: enduro training. Once you have braked and turned on loose ground, you ride more calmly on gravel too. The Swiss route to the licence is described under motorcycle licence.
FAQ riding courses
Common questions about training
At the MX-Academy. All courses and current dates are listed there.
No. Training runs on machines provided, off road – you then carry the technique over to your NX 500.
Especially for it. Standing up, braking and turning on loose ground – that cannot be read up, it has to be practised before you need it.
The route from the learner permit to the test is described on our page about the motorcycle licence in Switzerland.
Yes. If you have not ridden for a while, you rebuild braking, cornering and vision at the MX-Academy before going back on the road.
10Buying & contact
Test ride, part exchange and advice in Volketswil ZH
Buying a Honda NX500 at Honda Motorrad Zürich
Advice, test ride and handover
We are a Honda Dream Dealer in Volketswil ZH, a few minutes from Zurich. Which NX 500 is ready right now – with colour, mileage, equipment and price – is shown in the vehicle list on this page, straight from our stock.
Test ride. Seat height, wind protection and the feel of the E-Clutch decide the purchase – and none of that can be read up. We prepare the version you want, both back to back if you like. We charge a contribution towards costs, which we credit against the purchase.
Part exchange. We take your current machine in part exchange – other makes included. We advise on financing and leasing in house.
Handover. Accessories are fitted before handover, the machine is checked and set up by our workshop. After that we remain your contact for servicing and maintenance.
