Honda seems to be on a mission to remind everyone that the classics never really die—they just get fuel injection and ABS. Enter the GB500, the long-dormant nameplate Honda is allegedly dusting off for a glorious comeback. Because, clearly, what the world needs now is another retro motorcycle, right?
Option 1: A Scrambler in a Retro Disguise
One theory is that Honda might take the SCL500 scrambler, slap some chrome on it, and call it a day. Why not? It already has a twin-shock chassis and that lovable 471cc parallel twin that Honda has shoehorned into practically everything short of your lawnmower. With the Rebel 500, CB500F, NX500, and CBR500R all sharing this engine, tweaking it for a GB500 isn’t exactly rocket science.
This would be the logical, efficient, and dare we say boring route. But hey, logical is kind of Honda’s thing.
Option 2: The Bigger Single Nobody Asked For
Then there’s the wild card: Honda could take the GB350S’ single-cylinder engine, pull out its metaphorical steroids, and bulk it up to hit 500cc. The current 348cc single is hilariously undersquare, with a 70mm bore and 90.5mm stroke, giving it the aesthetic of a bigger engine without the actual displacement. By upping the bore to 84mm, they could reach 501cc—a perfect excuse to slap the GB500 badge on it.
Of course, this would be a lot more work, but who doesn’t want an air-cooled thumper that feels like it’s been transported straight out of the 1970s?
Why America Needs the GB500 (Or Does It?)
Let’s face it: the GB350S, which recently rolled into Europe as a rebadged CB350RS from India, isn’t exactly setting the streets on fire. With 20.8 hp on tap, it’s more about efficiency and charm than outright performance—perfect for markets where speed limits are merely suggestions.
But America? Oh no. We like our retro bikes with a bit more kick. Enter the GB500. Honda’s already filed trademarks for the name in the U.S. and New Zealand, which basically screams, “We’re bringing this here whether you want it or not.”
A Nostalgic Look Back
For those keeping score at home, the GB500 isn’t a new idea. Back in the ’80s, Honda introduced the GB500TT, a cafe racer with British-inspired vibes and an engine derived from the XR650L. It had all the hallmarks of retro cool:
- A steel-tube frame because aluminum wasn’t hip yet.
- Twin rear shocks for “authenticity.”
- Wire-spoked 18-inch wheels for that old-school flair.
- A fork with rubber gaiters because, well, why not?
Unfortunately, the GB500TT hit the U.S. market in 1989, a time when everyone wanted either neon sportbikes or Harleys. It quietly exited stage left after two years, only to become a cult classic decades later.
Modern Retro, Honda-Style
This time around, Honda seems determined to make the GB500 a hit. Expect a mix of old-school style and new-school tech, like:
- Fuel Injection: Because carbs are fun until they aren’t.
- ABS: Standard, because safety first.
- LED Lighting: Retro in appearance, modern in function.
- Updated Suspension: Twin rear shocks that are actually, you know, good.
- Steel Frame: To keep the vintage vibes alive.
Retro Bikes Are Everywhere
Let’s not pretend Honda is reinventing the wheel here. Royal Enfield’s been printing money with bikes like the Interceptor 650, and Triumph’s Bonneville lineup basically owns the retro market. Even Kawasaki’s W800 has a loyal fanbase. So yeah, the GB500 is more “join the club” than “lead the charge.”
What’s Next?
Whether it’s based on the SCL500’s parallel twin or a pumped-up GB350S single, the GB500 is shaping up to be another option in the ever-growing retro bike category. Will it blow your mind? Probably not. But it’ll look good doing it, and isn’t that what really matters?
Your Turn
Twin-cylinder or single? Cafe racer or scrambler? Or maybe you think Honda should leave the GB500 in the past where it belongs. Let us know your thoughts while we wait for Honda to tell us what they’re actually planning.
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