Honda is at the 2012 EICMA exhibition in Milan to launch a new range of models sharing the same basic architecture, meaning the same engine and chassis.
This new CB500 family of products is made of three brand new models (which we had previously seen in a few spy shot taken on a promotional set in Italy).
These three models are the sporty CBR500R (haevily inspired by the mighty CBR1000RR Fireblade), the naked CB500F (blatantly influenced by the brand new and muscular CB1000R) and the little crossover CB500X (which is pretty reminiscent of the Crosstourer 1200).
All three models use the same liquid cooled 471 cc flat twin DOHC delivering 48 hp at 8500 rpm and 43 Nm of peak torque at 7000 rpm.
As for the chassis, all three models use the same lightweight steel tubolar frame, while suspension is provided by a Pro-Link rear suspension with a preload-adjustable shock and a conventional 41mm telescopic fork.
Braking comes from a 320mm wave-style single disc at the front and a 240 mm one at the rear, coupled with 2- and single-piston calipers respectively.
Almost needless to say since it’s Honda we are talking about here, all three models come with standard ABS.