Being another of the born-again biker breed I got my CB500S a few months ago after reading rave reviews on MCN's website. I've not been disappointed. OK it's not a superbike but it doesn't hurt your wallet like one either. Running costs are low with 50mpg and reasonable insurance; mine hasn't needed new rubber so far. With 59bhp for the half-faired S version and a top wack of 120+ it won't worry the Ninjas or Blades of the world but the twin cylinder lump - after an initial flat spot below 3,000 revs- is as sweet as a nut and sounds the business too when you get near the redline of 10,500 revs. Most of the wind blast is kept at bay by the fairing (which incidentally has an annoying little plastic tray thing inset for earplugs, the top of which always blows open at 40mph and above), the seating is generous and an upright position saves the old back on long runs. This bike really is an all-rounder. Good for commuting, a bit of weekend scratching down the back roads and comfy enough for relaxed 2-up touring with a near 200 mile range depending on your right wrist. As for reliability, haven't you seen all those London couriers driving bare CB500s, not to mention CBT training instructors? I rest my case. At around £4k new and a huge choice of good used ones at half this, the bus is much less fun and probably not a lot cheaper. Treat yourself!
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