Exciting news for motorcycle enthusiasts! The highly anticipated Honda CL500 scrambler is on its way to the US market sooner than expected. Recent findings from Motorcycle.com reveal that the arrival of the CL500 in the States is imminent, as indicated by EPA documents.

It's a logical move for Honda to bring the CL500 to North America, given its foundation on the Rebel 500/CBR500 engine. However, the documents disclosed by MO also highlight some slight retuning of the engine for the CL500:

According to EPA records, the CL500 boasts a peak output of 45.9 hp, similar to the Rebel's claimed numbers, but it achieves this a few hundred revs earlier at 8,200 rpm. This slightly differs from the CB500F, CBR500R, and CB500X, which claim 49.6 hp at 8,500 rpm. Nonetheless, the CL500 compensates for it with increased torque at lower revs, reaching a claimed 32.0 lb-ft at 6,250 rpm.

The EPA document references a single model variant, identified by the model code CL500A used for emissions testing, suggesting that it will come equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard. Notably, American Honda has discontinued the non-ABS versions of the CBR500R, CB500F, and CB500X for 2023, but the Rebel 500 still offers both ABS and non-ABS options.

Embracing the Scrambler Spirit

Unveiled at EICMA in November 2022, the Honda CL500 combines a hint of retro design with Honda's modern engine technology. Although the chassis had been teased in patent drawings over the years, its official debut sparked significant interest and discussion among motorcycle enthusiasts. Opinions on its aesthetics varied, with some praising its appeal while others voiced their reservations in the comments section.

It's remarkable that Honda has taken this long to enter the lucrative scrambler market, given that competitors like Triumph and Ducati have been thriving in this segment for over a decade. Staying true to the classic scrambler formula, Honda has incorporated retro elements such as rubber knee pads, a vintage-style seat, semi-knobby tires, and an upswept exhaust. While it leans more towards street-oriented riding, its off-road capabilities are nothing to scoff at.

Although exact pricing details for the US market are yet to be confirmed, early estimates suggest an MSRP around $7,500. Stay tuned for further updates in the coming weeks.

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