Own a 2024-2025 Honda NX500, CB500F or CBR500R? These are five questions owners ask often, with the answers they agree on. All three bikes share the same 471cc twin.
Engine
Which spark plug does the NX500 use?
NGK CPR8EA-9, gapped at 0.8-0.9 mm. The same plug fits the CB500F and CBR500R. Replace the plugs every 25,600 km (16,000 miles).
What coolant does it take, and how much?
Ethylene glycol coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. The engine and radiator hold about 1.32 litres, plus 0.12 litres in the reserve tank. Change it every 3 years.
Electrics
Which battery fits the NX500?
A Yuasa YTZ8V (Honda part 31500-KZZ-J81).
Riding
Is the NX500 legal on an A2 licence?
Yes. It makes 35 kW (about 47 bhp), the most an A2 licence allows. It is built to that limit, so it is not a restricted bigger bike.
Is the throttle jerky at low speed?
Owners describe it as a bit snatchy in first and second gear, but easy to live with if you are smooth on the throttle. It is not an issue from third gear up.
Get the workshop manual
Step-by-step service and repair procedures, wiring diagrams included, are in the 2024-2025 Honda NX500 / CB500F / CBR500R service manual. More: Honda CBR500 manuals.