A Trusted Foundation: The 500cc Platform
Honda’s revered 500cc platform has proven itself time and time again, being the backbone for models like the CB500F, CB500X, CBR500R, and CMX500 Rebel. This family of bikes has won over a broad audience, thanks to its versatility—these are motorcycles well suited to both beginners taking their first ride and seasoned veterans who know every twist and turn.
The Scrambler Spirit Reborn
If the CL500 Scrambler makes its debut, it could seriously strengthen Honda’s lineup: a model that blends the undeniable charm of vintage style with everything modern-day riders expect. This would further expand Honda’s options in a market that’s more in demand than ever.
The concept, designed by Autoby, captures the spirit of the classic Honda CLs from the ’80s and ’90s, but reinterprets it with present-day lines and meticulous details. The style is unmistakably scrambler: simple yet tough, with a modern twist that appeals to purists and those who just want a machine with a fresh look.
Take the engine, for example: it doesn’t sport the classic cooling fins typical of old-school scramblers, but stays true to that functional, essential philosophy that made those bikes legends in the first place.
Retro Charm Meets Contemporary Tech
Should the CL500 become a reality, it would mark a significant new chapter in Honda’s range—not just for its retro design, but for its ability to offer modern technology paired with vintage soul. There are even rumors of future projects, possibly including a revival of the Hawk 1100, a clear sign Honda is still looking closely at its own roots to find inspiration for what’s next.
Ultimately, the final decision will depend on the market and what riders want. In recent years, there’s been a growing interest in bikes with classic looks but modern performance—a trend that’s hard to ignore.
The nod to the 1968 Honda CL250 is unmistakable: an essential, elegant, and functional motorcycle that’s stayed in the memories of many enthusiasts.
While the new CL500 draws on that tradition, it positions itself as a model looking boldly to the future, ready to bridge retro style and innovation.
A Dream on Wheels?
The CL500 may still be a concept, but the excitement it generates is proof that a bike like this is hotly anticipated. The 500cc platform continues to evolve—and it’s entirely possible that this scrambler could soon become a reality. For fans of two wheels who are after a motorcycle that can truly connect past and present, Honda’s proposition might just be a tailor-made dream.
