Will Honda Develop A Twin-cylinder 500cc ADV?

While Honda’s new trademarks suggest it, there is a catch

Given the current enthusiasm among bikers for ADVs, it makes sense for Honda to dig into its heritage and make the most of it. The last motorcycles with the NX name (NX500 for example) were single-cylinder ones. This time however, Honda is likely to use the 471cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine from the CB500X which pumps out 47.6PS and 43.2Nm. The NX500 though, may turn out to have even more off-road intentions than the CB with wire-spoked wheels like its predecessors. 

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Honda might go for a retro touch for this ADV, taking inspiration from the NXR 750 Dakar racer. We’re seeing more and more manufacturers taking this route with Ducati bringing out the DesertX and MV Agusta with the Lucky Explorers. This would add to the line-up of Honda’s neo-retro motorcycles like the CB300R and the CB650R. 

That said, it’s not uncommon for manufacturers to file trademarks without really putting them to use. The names could even be secured for future use in case a model is being developed. For now, there’s no indication as to when we’ll get to see the aforementioned motorcycles. 

If you’re looking for a mid-displacement ADV, you have options such as the Benelli TRK 502, Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT, Triumph Tiger Sport 660 and the Kawasaki Versys 650.