2025 Honda NX500 Review – UK Test Ride
The 2025 Honda NX500 review shows Honda’s latest take on the middleweight adventure category. Tested by Liam Simm for Moto Planet, this UK road test proves that you don’t always need a litre-class Africa Twin to enjoy touring, commuting, and B-road adventures. The NX500 carries forward the CB500X spirit but sharpens it with new styling, updated tech, and Honda’s trademark balance of approachability and reliability.
Liam took the NX500 across UK roads, mixing first-ride impressions with real-world use. From light off-roading to steady commuting speeds, the NX500 feels like a true all-rounder for riders who want practicality without intimidation.
Summary
- Engine 471cc parallel twin
- Power 47 hp @ 8,600 rpm
- Torque 43 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Weight 196 kg
- Fuel Capacity 17.5 litres
- Price £6,899 (UK, 2025)
Buying Advice: Who is this bike for? Who should skip it?
The Honda NX500 is built for riders who want an adventure bike without the intimidation of a litre-class machine. With A2 licence compliance, low running costs, and an upright riding position, it’s a natural choice for new riders, commuters, or weekend explorers. It’s especially well-suited to those looking to tour the UK on a budget while keeping fuel stops infrequent.
Riders who regularly want to carry a pillion at high motorway speeds, or those seeking outright horsepower, may feel underwhelmed. In that case, larger-capacity machines like the Honda Africa Twin or Yamaha Ténéré 700 may be a better fit.
Design & Styling
The NX500 inherits its silhouette from the CB500X but sharpens the lines with Dakar-inspired aggression. The flat-fronted headlight gives it “mini Africa Twin” appeal, while the adventure styling hints at both B-road fun and green lane capability.
Engine & Performance
Powered by Honda’s proven 471cc parallel twin, the NX500 delivers 47 hp and 43 Nm of torque. Thanks to refinements such as a cam balancer, vibration is reduced, giving a smoother ride at UK speeds. The engine is predictable, tractable, and forgiving—perfect for newer riders but still engaging for experienced commuters.
Handling, Brakes & Suspension
Honda has fitted 41 mm upside-down forks and a linkage-mounted rear shock, creating a plush yet confident ride. Combined with a 19-inch front wheel and lighter rotational mass, the NX500 feels stable yet agile. Dual 296 mm front discs with Nissin calipers provide controlled stopping power, though not as sharp as radial setups on pricier rivals.
Comfort & Ergonomics
With an 830 mm seat height, narrow frame, and upright bars, the NX500 is accessible to most riders around 5'8" and up. At 5’11”, Liam was able to flat-foot confidently. The non-adjustable screen could cause buffeting for taller riders, but aftermarket options are easy to source from Moto Planet.
Features & Tech
The TFT dash is clear and intuitive, enhanced by Honda’s RoadSync app offering turn-by-turn navigation via handlebar controls. While basic by premium adventure bike standards, the system is slick for the price point and integrates smartphone navigation better than some larger bikes.
Ownership, Running Costs & Reliability
Servicing follows Honda’s typical intervals (every 8,000 miles or annually), with reasonable UK costs compared to European rivals. Warranty is 2 years standard, with optional extensions. Real-world fuel economy hovers around 64 mpg, giving a 250-mile tank range. Honda’s 500cc twin platform has a strong reputation for bulletproof reliability and solid resale values. Comfort is sufficient for touring, with scope for luggage thanks to Honda’s accessory packs.
How the Honda NX500 compares to its rivals?
Against the Yamaha Ténéré 700, the NX500 is lighter, cheaper, and more beginner-friendly, though it lacks the raw off-road ability. Compared with the Kawasaki Versys 650, it’s easier to manage and more economical, but gives away some midrange punch. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 undercuts it on price and offers rugged charm, but the Honda wins on refinement, reliability, and dealer support.
Verdict
The 2025 Honda NX500 proves you don’t need a litre-class bike to enjoy adventure riding. It’s approachable, affordable, and genuinely capable for UK roads. While not the most powerful option, its blend of comfort, practicality, and Honda reliability makes it one of the best-value adventure bikes available.
Pros
- A2 compliant and beginner-friendly
- Strong Honda reliability
- 64 mpg and 250-mile tank range
- Confident handling on UK B-roads
- Excellent value at £6,899
Cons
- Non-adjustable screen causes buffeting
- Lacks top-end power for motorway touring
- Basic rear brake feel
2025 Honda NX500 – UK FAQ
The UK starting price is £6,899.
Yes, it produces 47 hp, making it A2 licence compliant.
Expect around 64 mpg in mixed UK riding.
Yes, with a 250-mile range and luggage options, it’s capable of UK and European touring.
Direct rivals include the Yamaha Ténéré 700, Kawasaki Versys 650, and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
It uses Honda’s proven 471cc twin platform, renowned for reliability and low running costs.
Standard UK warranty is 2 years, with optional extended coverage available.
Yes, its light weight, economy, and upright ergonomics make it excellent for daily commutes.
Honda offers Urban, Adventure, Travel, and Comfort packs. Aftermarket screens and luggage are also popular—check Moto Planet.
Consider your riding needs: if you want affordability, A2 compliance, and touring range, the NX500 excels. If you need high-speed motorway power, a larger bike may be better.