Honda CMX 500 scores improved suspension and updates for 2020

2020 Honda CMX 500

Honda announced at EICMA that their entry level CMX 500 cruiser, also known as the Rebel in some markets, will receive a host of updates for 2020, including updated suspension, full LED lighting, a gear position indicator, slipper clutch and new seat for better comfort.

Honda Australia are yet to confirm the local delivery schedule and any movements in pricing but are expected to do so early next year. The CMX has proved a winner as one of Australia’s most popular cruiser options, claiming the #8 position on the sales charts for the YTD as of Q3 in overall road motorcycles, as well as the #3 position in the cruiser category.

A 2020 ‘S’ model variant will also be available in some markets offering factory-fit accessories – as a styling option, and including a headlight cowl, blacked out fork covers and gaiters, plus a diamond-stitch seat. We’re yet to hear whether the S model will be available in Australia.

The CMX retains the 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine which is now Euro5 and produces a LAMS approved 34kW at 8500rpm, while peak torque is 43.3Nm reached at 6000rpm.

The CMX actually draws its powerplant from the CBR500R offering generous performance both for the segment and capacity, with PGM-FI fuel injection –further optimised – and valve and ignition timings revised to focus on bottom-end torque.

A six-speed gearbox is also featured, with the new assist and slipper clutch lightening clutch lever operation by 30 per cent, while downshifting aggressively will remain smooth.

Part of Euro5 compliance necessitated a new LAF exhaust sensor, while the exhaust system is a 120mm shotgun-style affair.

The lean Bobber styling of the CMX is retained, but now includes full LED lighting including the indicators, for a premium feel, alongside the existing 11.2L fuel capacity and fat ‘bars.

The CMX has also had the black out treatment, with fork tubes and discs being the main areas not conforming. The taillight is also new and features mini-circular LED indicators, with a compact main light and die-cast aluminium mount.

The headlight is a compact 175mm item, with die-cast aluminium mount, and the LCD display now includes a new gear position indicator and fuel consumption reading. Ignition remains below the tank on the left side of the bike.

The pillion seat and footpegs are also easily removed, with Honda adding to the accessory line-up, as well as offering the S edition in a special Matte Axis Grey Metallic colour, with the accessories mentioned above.

Suspension has seen both shock and 41mm forks revised, with new spring rates in both.

The Showa shock units are also now nitrogen charged, and feature reshaped damper rubbers, with Honda promising a firmer action as a result. The shocks are still five-step preload adjustable.

The 16inch front and rear wheels are retained from 2019, as is the 296mm front rotor and twin-piston caliper setup, with a single-piston rear caliper. Dunlop tyres are fitted in 130/90 -16 and 150/80 – 16 sizes. Two channel ABS is standard fitment.

The 2020 Honda CMX weighs in at 191kg at the kerb, with an ultra-low 690mm seat height and 1490mm wheelbase.

2020 Honda CMX (Rebel) Specifications