Honda CB500 vs BSA Gold Star: Compared In Images

Honda has recently unveiled the CB500. Let us see how the retro-styled roadster goes up against the BSA Gold Star 650.

Engine

• The BSA Gold Star 650 has a larger engine and produces more power and torque. 

• Unlike the CB500's air-cooled engine, the Gold Star gets a liquid-cooled engine.

Overall, the Honda CB500 should be more relaxed and easy-going to ride, while the Gold Star is likely to feel punchier. 

Features 

• The Gold Star 650 gets a twin-pod instrument cluster that displays the speedometer and tachometer

• The CB500 gets the same instrument cluster as the CB350, featuring an analogue console with a digital display.

• The Gold Star misses out on Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall both the bikes stay true to their retro roadster DNA, while the CB 500 offers slightly more convenience. 

Underpinnings 

 

Specifications	Honda CB500	BSA Gold Star 650
Front suspension	Telescopic fork	Telescopic fork
Rear suspension	Twin gas-charged shock absorbers	Twin shock absorbers
Front brake	Disc brake	Disc brake
Rear brake	Disc brake with switchable ABS and traction control	Disc brake with dual-channel ABS

There isn't much to separate the two in terms of underpinnings, but the CB500's switchable ABS and traction control make it the more feature-rich package.

BikeDekho Says 

Both the retro roadsters offer very different experiences. The Honda CB500 stands out as the more feature-rich motorcycle with ABS and traction control and modern connectivity features. The motorcycle hasn't been launched yet, but we expect it to be priced at around Rs 2.80 lakh (ex-showroom).

On the other hand, the Gold Star offers stronger performance thanks to its larger engine. Priced at Rs 3,45,950 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it stays true to its old-school character with minimal electronic aids.

Check out how the Honda CB500 stacks up against the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.