“Honda CB650R and NX500: A Dynamic Duo Set to Revolutionize the Big Bike Scene in Vietnam”

These models are expected to cover the entire mid-range large-displacement motorcycle and off-road motorcycle market in Vietnam.

Looking at the situation in Vietnam, the regular motorcycle segment does not have much room for growth, as it is partly saturated, and the rest of the market is dominated by Honda, which has held a stable market share of over 80% for many years. However, the large-displacement motorcycle segment is a completely different story, with a diverse market share distribution across European and Asian brands and a wide range of product prices. This is the target that Honda Vietnam wants to aim for: to dominate the motorcycle segment.

The clearest indication of this strategy is the dense “coverage” of products in the mid-range segment, after completing the 1000cc range with various styles: sport, naked, retro, cruiser, and ADV; with new and very hot names, including the CB650R, CBR650R, CB500 Hornet, NX500, CBR500R, and CRF1100L Africa Twin. Among them, the two most prominent and notable models are probably the modern Naked Honda CB650R and the off-road Honda NX500.

First, the Honda CB650R is a model with the right size and price, equipped with a 4-cylinder engine that delivers a truly thrilling experience in various conditions, from crowded urban areas to winding mountain passes or long-haul journeys requiring bursts of speed.

The next prominent feature, alongside the powerful engine, is the electronic clutch (E-clutch) technology, which is not new but still unfamiliar in Vietnam. Essentially, Honda’s E-Clutch allows the driver to omit the use of the clutch when shifting gears quickly, smoothly, and stably, similar to using a quick-shifter.

During gear shifts, this technology automatically performs various operations simultaneously, including “half-clutching,” fuel cut-off, and ignition control, to eliminate jerking when shifting or downshifting. Notably, the driver does not need to use the clutch when starting the engine, moving from a standstill, or stopping. Therefore, this model will be very popular with inexperienced large-displacement riders who still want to “get started” with a big bike.

Additionally, if desired, the driver can switch to manual clutch mode by disabling the E-Clutch system through the TFT display and using it normally, quickly, and easily.

The Honda CB650R has a Neo Sport Cafe style – a harmonious blend of classic and modern design elements, allowing the bike to be extremely agile. The LED headlight is designed in a round shape, paired with a high handlebar, front USD forks from Showa, and large wheels with dual discs, creating a very eye-catching appearance with a fairly upright riding position, suitable for multiple terrains.

The bulky engine with four exhaust pipes and a large water jacket is neatly placed under the robust and eye-catching body. The fuel tank is tapered at the sides for easy thigh gripping, and the modern two-tiered seat has a sharp design.

The bike has a thick frame, painted in a healthy matte black, with a twin-spar configuration and a single-shock rear. Additionally, the 5-inch TFT display is another modern feature equipped on this Naked bike.

In addition to the CB650R, Honda has also equipped the sportbike sibling CBR650R with electronic clutch technology. The duo shares the same 649cc 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, and inverted front and single-shock rear suspension, as well as ABS technology on both wheels.

In the Vietnamese market, the exclusive Honda BigBike dealership network is officially distributing the CB650R and CBR650R, with listed prices ranging from 257 to 265 million VND.

In addition to the 650cc duo mentioned above, the 500cc trio, including the Honda CB500 Hornet, NX500, and CBR500R, are also noteworthy. Among them, the most unusual and attention-grabbing name is probably the NX500 – a very eye-catching twin-cylinder ADV developed from the legendary CB500X off-road bike.

The Honda NX500 has a very eye-catching appearance, borrowing significantly from legendary “elder brothers” such as the Africa Twin in the 1000cc segment and the TransAlp in the 750cc segment. Notable features include LED lighting with a modern polygonal headlight design. The streamlined mudguards are placed high, increasing practicality and protecting the rider during inclement weather exploration journeys.

The NX500 has a ground clearance of 181 mm and a seat height of 830 mm, providing a standing riding posture and flexible off-road capability. The front inverted forks are from the renowned brand Showa, paired with cast multi-spoke wheels that reduce vehicle weight by 3 kg compared to the CBX500. Honda has also equipped the NX500 with a standard roll cage and dual auxiliary lights – extremely useful accessories for off-road exploration journeys.

The bike’s fuel tank is angular and upright, effectively aiding the rider when switching from a sitting to a standing position to tackle obstacles. At the same time, the bike features a TFT display for multiple parameters and pre-equipped grip heaters on both sides.

A rare drawback of the Honda NX500 is the design of the rearview mirrors and the slightly tame rear end. However, riders can easily find accessories and modifications, such as side and rear luggage boxes, to enhance the bike’s appearance.

In terms of power, the Honda NX500 is equipped with a twin-cylinder engine producing 37.1 kW and 43 Nm of torque, transmitted to the rear wheel through a 6-speed manual transmission and controlled by HSTC technology, which helps manage rear wheel traction in all conditions, especially on slippery roads.

Other notable features include cast wheels measuring 19 inches in the front and 17 inches in the rear, paired with multi-terrain tires sized 110 in the front and a substantial 160 in the rear. Notably, the tire treads are designed with large cuts and square patterns to improve stability, especially on slippery surfaces like gravel or sand.

The bike is currently available at Honda Bigbike dealerships nationwide at an accessible price of 194.2 million VND, a bargain compared to off-road elders like the Africa Twin and TransAlp.

In this launch, Honda Vietnam also introduced the CRF1100L Africa Twin and the Adventure Sports version, bringing a fresh breeze to the off-road market. As a flagship model, the new 2024 Honda Africa Twin features optional electronic front forks from Showa, allowing dynamic adjustment of shock absorption by changing the spring rate even while riding.

The bike also features tubeless tires, an upgraded larger windshield, and retains the iconic 1100cc engine and frame. The 6-speed transmission with a dual-clutch system enables automatic gear shifting. The Africa Twin is priced at 721 million VND, a significant difference from the standard version, which costs 641 million VND.

PA (Tuoitrethudo)