Revealed at the EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show) at 7.30pm last night Italian time, Honda Australia is thrilled to announce that the new CBR500R, CB500F and CB500X will all be making their way to Australia in 2013.

Honda knows that the modern day consumer has constantly changing demands and expectations. This was taken into consideration and mixed with Honda's rich racing history and technological expertise to create these new models. The CBR500R will be perfect for the budding sports rider, the naked CB500F aims at riders looking for an easy daily commute, and the CB500X will be ideal for those looking for a sense of adventure.

And the best news is still to come; all three of these new models are LAMS approved.

Honda's new 500cc trio will capture the next generation of motorcyclists offering excellent handling, advanced environmental performance, innovative designs and complete convenience, right down to an affordable price.

With the arrival date for the CBR500R and CB500F scheduled for March 2013, these two models will make their first public appearance at the Australian Motorcycle Show in Melbourne on November 23-25, 2012. The CB500X is expected to arrive in Australia in May 2013, exact arrival dates are subject to change.

The new trio share their core features while embodying three quite different personalities offering riders a variety not seen in any other model line. Attracting three very different types of riders the new 500cc trio from Honda will be perfect for entry level riders as well as regular riders and even those who are perhaps returning to the world of two-wheeled travel.

All are powered by a lightweight, compact 500cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine which focuses on high-rpm output characteristics while considering the low-to-mid rpm range that will be most frequently used by the entry user. Excellent fuel efficiency and incredible flexibility are key to this new engine that can be described as very much a "CBR engine".

Honda aimed to fuse flexibility and rigidity when developing the frame and chassis for the new trio. While offering a controlled yet sporty feel, Honda's new releases boast excellent dimensions for a broad spectrum of users.

Key to the new CBR500R was a link to Honda's iconic CBR history; this was focused to incorporate modern styling to highlight the machines powerful engine and all new appeal. The CBR500R is a fully cowled sports model that will offer riders excellent capability for an enjoyable ride around town, on winding roads or for sports riding. Honda achieves fusion of power and practicality by engaging a slim sporty exterior that results in a refined, high-quality design that imparts a sense of the model's easy handling and relaxed riding position.

With individuality in design, easy-to-manage chassis weight, dextrous handling and low seat position, the naked CB500F is the perfect entry level machine to ride around town. Aiming for a modern European style, the CB500F has a powerful frame that supports the functional beauty of its engine. With its dynamic proportions and practical aspects Honda is confident the CB500F will appeal to the next generation of naked motorcycle riders.

Taking inspiration from Honda's 1200cc V4 Crosstourer, the CB500X will excite the most adventurous rider. With a design concept focused around strength and dynamism, the CB500X offers a compact body in pursuit of an easy-to-handle, attractive lightweight crossover model. Ideal for riders from entry level to experienced, the upright riding position and the on/off practicality will be ideal for a variety of environments and situations, from urban to off-road.

Dedicated to providing the utmost rider confidence, the CB500F and CB500X will both feature an ABS braking system, while the CBR500R will come with ABS as an option.

While Honda can assure customers these new 500cc models will be incredibly affordable, more information regarding price will follow in the coming months. The CBR500R will sport three colour variants; tri, black and red, the CB500F will be available in black and red and the CB500X in black and white.

Honda is excited to be offering these brand new models which will bridge the gap between the 250cc and the 600cc motorcycles and is confident that the new CBR500R, CB500F and CB500X with their unbeatable fuel efficiency, flagship good looks and excellent performance will excite a new customer in the Australian market.

IMAGE: (top) CBR500R, (this page) CB500X AND CB500F overseas models shown

Dealer Locator Ph: 1 300 1 HONDA
www.hondamotorcycles.com.au

Media Contact:

Emma Kershaw
Coordinator Public Relations
Honda Australia Motorcycle and Power Equipment Pty Ltd
Telephone: (+613) 9270 1183
Facsimile: (+613) 9357 0826
Website: www.honda.com.au
Email: EKershaw@hondampe.com.au

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