Honda has recently unveiled the CB500 retro-styled roadster. Let us see how it goes against the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650:
Engine
|
Specifications |
Honda CB500 |
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 |
|
Engine |
501 cc, single-cylinder engine |
647.95 cc, twin-cylinder engine |
|
Power |
28.1 PS |
47 PS |
|
Torque |
43.3 Nm |
52.3 Nm |
|
Gearbox |
5-speed |
6-speed |
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The Honda CB500 is powered by a 501 cc single-cylinder engine, whereas the Interceptor 650 is powered by a 647.95 cc twin-cylinder engine.
-
The CB500 produces less power and torque, but its single cylinder might give its exhaust note a thump.
-
The extra gear on the Interceptor might allow it to cruise at relaxed engine speeds, on the highway.
Overall, the Interceptor will feel quicker and makes more power on paper. It is also expected to be smoother than the CB500, thanks to its twin-cylinder engine.
Features
|
Specifications |
Honda CB500 |
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 |
|
LED headlight |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Bluetooth connectivity |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Instrument control |
Analogue console with digital inset |
Twin pod, with a digital inset |
-
Both bikes offer similar features
-
The Royal Enfield comes with turn-by-turn navigation and gets a Tripper navigation pod.
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The CB500 features an analogue console with a digital display, which shows the gear position indicator, odometer and tripmeters.
In terms of features, both bikes are true to their retro character.
Underpinnings
|
Specifications |
Honda CB500 |
Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 |
|
Front suspension |
Telescopic fork |
Telescopic fork |
|
Rear suspension |
Twin gas-charged shock absorbers |
Twin gas-charged shock absorbers |
|
Front brake |
Disc brake |
Disc brake |
|
Rear brake |
Disc brake with switchable ABS and traction control |
Disc brake with ABS |
While both bikes are similar in terms of underpinnings, the switchable ABS and traction control give the CB an upper hand
BikeDekho Says
Both the bikes are positioned as retro roadsters. And each bike will appeal to a different set of different audiences. The Interceptor has a mature stance and refinement of a parallel-twin engine. On the other hand the Honda CB 500 has the punch of a single-cylinder and features switchable ABS and traction control. It will all depend on the pricing, but for reference, the Interceptor is priced from Rs 3,37,909 to Rs 3,69,127 (ex-showroom, Chennai).
