2025 Honda CB500F Suspension & Chassis Breakdown

Poway Powersports • San Diego

Suspension & Chassis Breakdown

2025 Honda CB500 Hornet (CB500F listing)
2025 Honda CB500 Hornet side view
Balanced street handling, built around a lightweight chassis
Fork, shock, geometry, wheels & braking—what it means on real San Diego roads
Base Price
$6,899
Quick chassis highlights
Front suspension: 41mm inverted Showa® SFF-BP fork; 4.7-inch travel
Rear suspension: Single shock; 4.7-inch travel
Frame: Steel-tube frame
Wheels: Cast wheels
Brakes: Dual 296mm front discs / 240mm rear disc; ABS

How the CB500 Hornet is set up for everyday confidence

The CB500 Hornet pairs approachable power with a chassis that feels predictable at city speeds and composed on faster routes. Below is a practical look at the suspension, frame, wheels, and geometry—so you know what to expect when commuting, carving through local canyons, or riding along the coast.

Showa SFF-BP fork

Front end: inverted Showa® SFF-BP fork

Up front, the 41mm inverted Showa® SFF-BP fork delivers 4.7 inches of travel. In real-world terms, that travel helps the bike stay calm over rough pavement and expansion joints while keeping steering response direct. The inverted design also supports a planted feel when you load the front tire under braking or turn-in.

Lightweight swingarm construction

Rear end: single shock + lightweight swingarm

The rear uses a single shock with 4.7 inches of travel, paired with a lightweight swingarm. This combination is designed to keep the bike stable mid-corner and comfortable over uneven surfaces. It also helps maintain traction when the road surface changes—useful for mixed city streets and weekend rides.

Frame feel

A steel-tube frame provides a solid, predictable platform. For many riders, that translates to a confident “connected” feel without being harsh—ideal for learning lines, improving cornering, and riding daily.

Wheels & tires

Cast wheels keep maintenance straightforward and are well-suited to everyday riding. The tire sizes are 120/70R-17 front and 160/60-17 rear, a common street setup that balances agility with rear-end grip.

Braking stability

Dual 296mm front discs with four-piston calipers and ABS, plus a 240mm rear disc with ABS, help keep braking controlled. ABS can be especially reassuring in stop-and-go traffic or on dusty coastal roads.

Geometry & rider fit: what the numbers suggest

Rake / Trail
25.5° / 4.0 in
Wheelbase
55.5 in
Seat height
31.1 in
Curb weight
414 lb

Together, these specs point to a bike that aims for steady tracking with responsive steering—great for riders who want a comfortable, confidence-building platform that still feels sporty when the road opens up.

CB500F in dealership photo
CB500F photo 1 CB500F photo 2 CB500F photo 3
Next step

Ready to check availability on the 2025 Honda CB500 Hornet?

Use the listing to confirm current inventory, then apply for financing online when you’re ready. Our Poway Powersports team is here to help riders across San Diego get on the right bike.