More horsepower, more torque

The DOHC liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine uses a square bore & stroke of 67 mm x 66.8 mm for an optimum combination of strong low-end torque and excellent top-end power. A 4% boost in horsepower and torque for 2019 results in even sportier performance.

New slipper clutch

Not only does the new slipper clutch help to prevent rear-wheel lockup on downshifts, it also reduces effort at the lever by almost half, helping to reduce rider fatigue particularly in city traffic or on long rides.

Revised exhaust system

Improved airflow in the exhaust system—now featuring dual exit pipes—results in extra power and a sportier-sounding edge to the exhaust note.

Smooth and compact

Engine vibration is kept to a minimum by using crank pins phased at 180 degrees and a balancer shaft behind the cylinders, which also contributes to the engine’s compact size.

Crisp throttle response

PGM-FI electronic fuel injection keeps the engine running efficiently in all conditions and ensures crisp throttle response.

Small & light water pump

Careful flow analysis of the cooling system resulted in a water pump that’s small and lightweight, yet still more than capable of keeping the engine running its best at high output levels.

Maximized flow efficiency

In order to maximize air-intake and exhaust efficiency, the profile from the air cleaner through the intake ports to the exhaust pipe was made as straight as possible, helped in part by repositioning the battery away from the rear of the airbox intake duct.

Reduced weight & friction

The four valves in each of the DOHC cylinder heads have narrow stems, thereby reducing weight and friction and increasing efficiency.

High-tech design

A light and compact roller- rocker-arm assembly and shim-type valve adjustment allows a lower valve-spring load for reduced friction and a compact cylinder head.

Improved durability

The pins in the silent cam chain have been treated with vanadium, which both reduces friction and improves durability. Lightweight pistons use an advanced manufacturing process for enhanced durability and performance.

Reduced friction

The oil pump’s internal relief structure uses the same design as found in the CBR1000RR, which reduces friction, improves aeration performance and simplifies the shape of the oil pan.

Excellent response & feedback

The lightweight diamond-shaped steel frame was designed to allow a certain degree of yield, which enables it to better respond to changes in the road surface and to transmit just the right amount of feedback to the rider.

Comfortable & sporty ride

Upgraded for 2019, the Pro-Link® rear suspension boasts a new single-tube shock absorber (as found on larger capacity sportbikes) with five-stage spring preload adjustment, replacing the double-tube design of the previous model. Its large-diameter piston ensures excellent suspension response and improved heat dissipation. The shock connects to a rigid box-section steel swingarm with new pressed-steel chain-adjustment end pieces. Both the shock and the adjustable 41 mm fork are calibrated for a comfortable but sporty ride.

Easy to manage

The 785 mm seat height makes the CBR500R very easy to manage, and its riding position comfortably accommodates riders of any height.

Excellent manoeuvrability

Lightweight cast aluminum wheels with Y-shaped spokes not only look great, they also contribute to the bike’s excellent manoeuvrability.

Standard ABS braking

A powerful dual-piston brake caliper up front and a single-piston caliper at the back provide strong but easily controlled stopping power. Plus, the latest two-channel ABS modulators provide more accurate control and improved stability.

Sporty riding position

New clip-on handlebars are positioned lower and farther forward, producing a more aggressive seating position that’s ideal for sporty riding. Ergonomics were carefully configured to ensure easy manoeuvring in town, an easy reach to the ground, as well as excellent comfort during long-distance highway trips.

Bigger fuel tank

It not only looks more aggressive, but the redesigned fuel tank also boasts increased capacity of 17.1 litres, providing a range of approximately 480 km for longer rides and fewer stops.

LED lighting

The CBR500R’s sporty fairing and rear section incorporate a pair of bright and distinctive LED headlights plus an LED taillight and turn signals.

Enhanced comfort

Strategically placed vents and ducts in the front cowl and side panels improve rider comfort and protection while also aiding high-speed handling.