As a relative newcomer to serious off-roading, I was excited but also a bit intimidated by Honda’s off-road camp at Aamby Valley. We had the NX500 and the Transalp 750 ready to ride. Knowing my limits, I figured the NX500 would be a better fit for me, as I had only done minor trails before.
Honda NX500 off-road ride: Preparing for trails
But the moment I hopped on the NX500, it just felt right. In fact, I was feeling confident until I saw this massive uphill climb they had set up. It was meant to give us a taste of what the bike could do (and how we react) before we hit the real trails. Now, before we discuss what happened next, I’d like to recall the exact same thought that went in my head at that time. “How come this bike is so approachable and welcoming despite looking like a big machine?” I pondered, as I placed my feet flat out. And I honestly couldn’t have asked for more before releasing the clutch lever as I moved towards the “hill”.
After a few uphill climbs and controlled descents, I felt ready for more. The instructor had asked us to climb the slope seamlessly, slow down at the top, and descend as slowly as possible. All this while maintaining a proper view of what’s ahead. That said, vision is very important whether you are riding on tracks, roads, or off-road trails. Anyway, coming back to the topic in hand; the bike’s balance and tractable power delivery allowed me to do what the instructor asked us to. With ease. The slow descends took some learning but after a nod of approval from him, I was eager to hit the trails.
But before that, we had another exercise lined up: braking practice. We had to accelerate and then apply the brakes at a designated cone to understand the feel and technique required for off-road stopping. To my surprise, it was not as easy as it sounds. Once that was done, we were off for the adventure.
Honda NX500 off-road ride: On the trail
So basically, there were two trails and we were divided into two groups. Each group was supposed to follow their lead instructor and cover a trail. Once done, the groups will exchange routes. One of these was relatively easier and flatter while the other was a bit tricky with dirt, stones, downhills, sharp corners and slopes. We went for the latter.
Honda NX500 off-road ride: The ride, initial impressions
Speaking of my initial impressions, the NX500’s suspension setup deserves a mention. The rear is on the softer side and the front suspension was plush and ample for the trails. It absorbs bumps and ruts with ease. Besides that, the motorcycle’s stability at higher speeds is commendable.
Well, a rather difficult off-road trail for a rookie isn’t going to be a smooth-sailing journey, right? Somewhere in between, I had turned the ignition off for a quick hydration break and didn’t switch the traction control on. That’s when things got tricky. As expected, the rear wheel spun out on a gravelly, stone-filled uphill, and the bike started to descend. It was also on a corner, so I ended up dropping the bike.
Anyway, I spent most of the time in first and second gear, and the bike had no trouble putting down power even on inclines. Braking performance is solid, with dual front discs and a single rear disc providing ample stopping power. The ABS, which can be switched off for the rear wheel, allows for controlled slides on loose surfaces.
Furthermore, the wide handlebars offer good leverage, and the footpegs are positioned well for a balanced riding stance. The stock tyres are decent too, however, for light off-roading. On the other hand, more aggressive rubber would undoubtedly improve grip on tougher terrain.
Also, it is worth mentioning that the NX500’s relatively light weight and wide handlebars make it surprisingly nimble, but in technical sections, the 196kg kerb weight can be felt.
Honda NX500 off-road ride: Engine and features
Powering the NX500 is a 471cc, parallel-twin engine that delivers 47 hp and 43 Nm of torque. The engine pulls cleanly from low revs. The clutch is feather-light, and gearshifts were not a problem too at any given point.
Besides several tech nannies, the model also gets a five-inch TFT display, offering Bluetooth connectivity and easy-to-read information – with good visibility under sunlight.
Honda NX500 off-road ride: Design
Visually, the NX500 feels more substantial than its predecessor. It borrows styling cues from the Transalp, with a redesigned headlamp, raised fairing, and a wider profile. The sharp new look adds more visual appeal compared to the CB500X. The overall build quality is top-notch, with premium paint finishes, solid switchgear, and sturdy plastic panels. The brake and clutch lever, however, could be improved in terms of tensile strength as mine broke quite easily during the fall.
Honda NX500: Verdict
The Honda NX500 is an approachable yet capable street-biased ADV that makes off-roading less intimidating for beginners. It is a well-rounded choice for someone who has Rs 5.90 lakh, ex-showroom, to spare for a motorcycle that can be ridden to office, long road trips and doesn’t complain at serious off-road trails as well.
