[RalphG]

I wanted to cut some weight from my 2017 CB-500F so I bought an Akrapovic (knock-off) on line, with mid-pipe, springs, clamp, etc for $72.51 shipped. That was over 1000 miles ago and if sounds much better (I even keep the decibel killer in place--it's removable) and saved 7# of weight (4# vs 11# for the OEM unit). It was easy to fit, but then I have long experience working on motorcycles and have a well-equipped shop.

The e-bay vendor was "Betterprice_moto". Again, I'm very pleased with price and quality of the muffler and mid-pipe. I've had many bikes and recommend that you stay with the CB-500. You might add a Corbin seat and upgrade the suspension a bit. A 30mm handlebar riser (about $18 on e-bay) is easy to fit (cables all fit the higher bars fine) and is more comfortable for me, anyway.

For anyone buying this exhaust, be sure to rotate the mid-pipe on the exhaust pipe so that the muffler body sits out at least 1/4" from the right leg of the swing-arm. You won't want the two banging each other as the suspension flexes up and down.

Ralph

 

[Karl Hungus]

Thanks everyone, I appreciate the input!

Any thoughts on whether it’s too much bike for my experience level? I’m completely fine with the 500, and the Ninja 650 was fine as well (and a lot of fun!). I realize this is the point where a lot of riders get in trouble due to complacency or overconfidence. I’m trying to be diligent to not be “that guy.”

I migrated from the CBR500R to the CBR650F back in 2017. The 650 has lots more power, but if you're proficient and confident on the 500, the 650 will be no problem at all. I liked my 500, but after upgrading, I never looked back.

 

[wrapfee]

I migrated from the CBR500R to the CBR650F back in 2017. The 650 has lots more power, but if you're proficient and confident on the 500, the 650 will be no problem at all. I liked my 500, but after upgrading, I never looked back.

Whelp, just to bump this thread for anyone looking to follow the same path. I turned 3,000 miles on the CBR650R today. It is darn near the perfect bike (with the addition of a full Akrapovic system, and rear seat delete cowl from Honda). The exhaust note is unbelievable. It's smooth. It's fast. The power is pretty linear just like the CBR500R. The handling is night and day versus the 500, crazy confidence inspiring.

That being said, there are two reasons I'm glad I kept the 500 and they are both related to longer trips.

1. The 500 is a much more upright ride. More roomy feeling overall, even though it's technically the smaller bike. My first couple of days on the 650R really had my back and shoulders hurting later in the day (not as bad as it would be on a 600RR, but much more aggressive riding position than the 500, or even the Ninja 650).

2. Fuel economy. Not because of the money, but because of the tank size. At 160 miles I'm usually looking for a gas station on the 650. I think the tank capacity is the same or even a little less than the 500. But I'm getting 40-50 mpg on the 650 (depending on how I'm riding) whereas the 500 was good for 70+ (and if literally just cruising on a flat highway, it would be over 80 mpg).

So it's the 650R when my riding group is a bunch of super sports (it will keep up, but it is a tad slower up top than any 600 SS). And the 500 when I'm with cruisers and/or going long distances.

Nice complement of bikes to own and I'm super happy with both purchases.

 

[Karl Hungus]

Whelp, just to bump this thread for anyone looking to follow the same path. I turned 3,000 miles on the CBR650R today. It is darn near the perfect bike (with the addition of a full Akrapovic system, and rear seat delete cowl from Honda). The exhaust note is unbelievable. It's smooth. It's fast. The power is pretty linear just like the CBR500R. The handling is night and day versus the 500, crazy confidence inspiring.

That being said, there are two reasons I'm glad I kept the 500 and they are both related to longer trips.

1. The 500 is a much more upright ride. More roomy feeling overall, even though it's technically the smaller bike. My first couple of days on the 650R really had my back and shoulders hurting later in the day (not as bad as it would be on a 600RR, but much more aggressive riding position than the 500, or even the Ninja 650).

It took me a little time to acclimate to the riding position on the 650, but I got used to it pretty quickly. My back and shoulders never bother me, even on longer rides, but my butt does get tired after a few hours.

 

[wrapfee]

It took me a little time to acclimate to the riding position on the 650, but I got used to it pretty quickly. My back and shoulders never bother me, even on longer rides, but my butt does get tired after a few hours.

Same here man. First couple of days was an adjustment, but it's totally fine now. I have a buddy that is in between bikes, so sometimes we'll ride and he takes my 500. If we go on longer rides we'll alternate bikes every hour or so.

 

[wrapfee]

Update: I'm hooked on this bike thing. I have a 2019 Fireblade being delivered tomorrow in Matte Black.

 

[Farlopo]

Hi all, first post here. Looking for some perspective from fellow riders. I've had my 2016 CBR500R (non-ABS) for about a year and put about 4,100 miles on it so far. Bought it new, but it was leftover so I got a pretty good deal I think ($5,200 before tax, plus I put on a Yoshi slip on).

Prior to that my only two wheeled experience was a 150cc scooter that I bought as a joke and ended up riding a couple hundred miles on. I've also taken the Total Control Beginner Riding Course, and spent a few miles on my friends 2019 Ninja 650 (which I felt was an awesome bike, and I had no problem with the additional power...though I thought my legs were a little bit cramped compared to the CBR500).

Anyway, I really, really enjoy the 500. It looks awesome. It handles fine for what I do with it (and I don't have much to compare it to). You guys know all of it's advantages. The only thing I cannot stand, is how it sounds. Which is like an ATV. I really, really enjoy the sound of an inline 4, and I have ZERO desire to own a super sport bike. It also bothers me that I impulse bought this bike, and didn't even realize I could've had ABS for a whopping $300.


So my question, first and foremost, is does anyone have any experience on a CBR650F or CBR650R, and do you think with my experience above it would be reasonable to think I could handle that bike?


And secondly, would you guys think it's crazy to keep the 500R if I picked up a 650R? I'm thinking I might get about $3,500 on a trade, which is a pretty steep hit to own a bike for a year (I probably have $6K in the 500R). I can't see it depreciating a ton from here, and it would be nice to have a backup bike (maybe wifey wants to learn to ride, something to ride when one bike is in the shop), or I've read that the 650R seat/pegs/bars are a bit more aggressive than the 16-18 500Rs, and maybe some days for more casual, longer distance rides, I just might want to enjoy the relaxed position of the 500R (it's pretty darn comfy if you ask me!). Is that crazy, keeping two bikes of that nature?


I've been wrestling with this for a couple of months now, and lurking on this forum, and finally decided to register and see if I could get some insight.

Oh, I'm in my late 30's by the way, if that matters for the first question.

Thanks in advance. And thanks for having me!

If money is not a concern AT ALL, just get the CBR650R and be done with the dilemma. Be advised that the CBR650R is a real sport bike, and therefore a total different kind of machine compared to a CBR500R.

Otherwise, I would keep the CBR500R and try another muffler, if the current sound is not to your liking. Very probably a legit Akrapovic will get a sound you would like more. (In my case, I prefer my bike to be as silent as possible, so I like the stock muffler best).

About the ABS - I have it on my 2018 CB500F, and in my opinion it is garbage - it fires too soon and therefore it is intrusive if you ever try to ride moderately hard. I would prefer my bike not to have ABS, but it was mandatory in Europe in 2018, so I had no choice.

---
Edit: I didn't see that I had already replied to this thread long ago. Luckly, I replied without changing my point of view, LOL.

 

[someone]

You can easily disable ABS by removing the fuse.

 

[wrapfee]

If money is not a concern AT ALL, just get the CBR650R and be done with the dilemma. Be advised that the CBR650R is a real sport bike, and therefore a total different kind of machine compared to a CBR500R.

Otherwise, I would keep the CBR500R and try another muffler, if the current sound is not to your liking. Very probably a legit Akrapovic will get a sound you would like more. (In my case, I prefer my bike to be as silent as possible, so I like the stock muffler best).

About the ABS - I have it on my 2018 CB500F, and in my opinion it is garbage - it fires too soon and therefore it is intrusive if you ever try to ride moderately hard. I would prefer my bike not to have ABS, but it was mandatory in Europe in 2018, so I had no choice.

---
Edit: I didn't see that I had already replied to this thread long ago. Luckly, I replied without changing my point of view, LOL.

Haha no problem man. Your advice was still excellent and will probably help many other riders in the future.

And that's what we're all here for!

 

[Farlopo]

You can easily disable ABS by removing the fuse.

Yeah, I heard so. I'll try to find out which one, and try that whenever I change the air filter next time.

 

[motohonace]

Update: I'm hooked on this bike thing. I have a 2019 Fireblade being delivered tomorrow in Matte Black.

wrapfee, I have turned from being the wet blanket at the beginning of this thread to the congratulatory fellow forum member when you said you had picked up the 650 to now a version of your mother when I say, A Fireblade, really?!?! I have no idea how much experience you have, but I suggest you get some more before you sport a liter bike like that around the street. It is a track machine. Use your better judgement & ride smart. Things can get crazy very quickly on RR liter bikes. No offense intended. Stay safe to ride tomorrow.

 

[wrapfee]

wrapfee, I have turned from being the wet blanket at the beginning of this thread to the congratulatory fellow forum member when you said you had picked up the 650 to now a version of your mother when I say, A Fireblade, really?!?! I have no idea how much experience you have, but I suggest you get some more before you sport a liter bike like that around the street. It is a track machine. Use your better judgement & ride smart. Things can get crazy very quickly on RR liter bikes. No offense intended. Stay safe to ride tomorrow.

Hey no problem man, I know you're giving good advice. I have about 10,000 miles under my belt so far.

I bought the bike for looks. I've taken it to cars and coffee and some other similar stuff.

I planned on getting some track time this year, but covid blew that up. When I do start getting some track lessons, it will be on the 500.

The fireblade is the coolest looking and technologically advanced of the three. But its also th least comfortable and Impractical. Rider aids make it pretty manageable if you want it to be (and I do).

This will someday a long ways down the road get track time. In the meantime it will go to bike/car events where people like to Yap about fast toys.

The 650 is by far th best of the 3 for small around street bike. And the 500 is the most comfortable and best fuel economy for longer rides.

I'm always geared up. I'm almost 40. I have respect for all three machines. And I sincerely appreciate your advice, Alo g with all others. In my relatively short time on two wheels, "ride like you are invisible" is advice that's already paid off many times. I take this advice to heart, I promise!

 

[motohonace]

Cool, I was hoping I wouldn’t offend you. Track time for sure. When I was thinking about your situation I thought I would have recommended skipping the 650 & 1000 & picking up a 600RR as a good super sport starting point. If you are starting a Honda collecton maybe you need to pick up a classic rarity GB 500 single. A somewhat modern version of what motos used to be.

 

[wrapfee]

Cool, I was hoping I wouldn’t offend you. Track time for sure. When I was thinking about your situation I thought I would have recommended skipping the 650 & 1000 & picking up a 600RR as a good super sport starting point. If you are starting a Honda collecton maybe you need to pick up a classic rarity GB 500 single. A somewhat modern version of what motos used to be. View attachment 72488

If I buy another motorcycle anytime soon, I won't have to fear the Fireblade...I'll have to fear the wife. 😂

Sweet bike though! Is that yours?

 

[motohonace]

Get your spouse riding & then all you will have to fear is which moto is missing when you open the garage door.

 

[wrapfee]

I just like to revisit this post once in awhile as there is great advice in it. Just an update...for one, I'm still alive! I have about 4 years of bike ownership and somewhere between 15-20k miles of seat time under my belt now. Zero drops. Zero accidents. Zero tickets. Although my 5 year old did crash her battery powered Jeep into my Fireblade and put a little scratch in it (very little).

Anyway, just want to post this update. And also say that my opinion hasn't changed.

The Fireblade is a beast, but completely unsuitable for anything more than an hour, maybe two if I'm feeling limber (and hey, I'm not even 40 yet).

The 650R is still the best all around bike. It's obviously lower quality build than the Fireblade. But it sounds unreal with the Akrapovic system and looks just as sharp. It's also the perfect amount of power. You can rip on it hard on the street and it's very fast...but you can give it all you've got if you want to. It also gets pretty good fuel economy (50+ mpg) and is a nice "medium" seating position. More aggressive than the 500, but way more comfortable than the Fireblade. I actually think it would be easier to learn on than the 500 because it's less torquey and more "smooth." This assumes the weight difference isn't an issue for you.

And then there's my first...the 500R. I still ride it. I still enjoy it. If I ever go on a long-ish trip, it's the hands down winner. Upright seating position + 75 (or more) mpg. Even with a slip on, it won't wake the neighbors. For mine (a 2016), I wish it had ABS and a gear position indicator (but those have both been corrected since 2016). Mine also has that **** windscreen rattle around 4k RPMS. So annoying. I even put a smoked Puig windscreen on it and it still does it. But that's pretty much the only fault I can think of.

If I could only own one, it would be the 650R. But luckily, I don't have to make that choice and will keep all three for the foreseeable future.

Hope everyone has and continues to be safe!!!

 

[wrapfee]

2023 Updates...

-Still alive, whoo hoo!
-Still haven't wrecked a motorcyle (also, whoo hoo!).
-Have about 30,000 miles under my belt now.
-A friend of mine wrecked my 500. He's OK, but I sold the bike for scrap (poor girl!). Still an OK starter bike, but I'd start on a CBR650R if I could do it over (although the riding position on the 500 was more comfortable than the 650).
-650 still runs well. Turned over 13,000 miles today. It's my favorite bike for riding two up.
-Fireblade is a **** beast and I love it (has 12k miles now). But in my 40's now...it hurts after 1.5 hours. Why do all Honda bikes make weird buzzing sounds by the way?
-I have two Groms now as well. A 20 and a 23. Five speed is a nice addition. These little bikes are fun as ****.

That's all for now. Thinking about a naked bike or a small cruiser. Have never ridden either type of bike before. I kind of want more small displacement bikes...it's way more fun to beat the pants off a low horsepower bike than it is to do the speed limit on a liter bike.

 

[Blackfin]

2023 Updates...

-Fireblade is a **** beast and I love it (has 12k miles now). But in my 40's now...it hurts after 1.5 hours. Why do all Honda bikes make weird buzzing sounds by the way?

This is why I got a Tuono and not an RSV4.