Let’s Compare MBP M502N Launched at Auto Expo 2023 With Honda CB500F

Middleweight super-sports may be immensely tempting, but the unpleasant fact is that they are impractical in terms of applicability in the real world. On the other hand, sport-naked motorbikes are far more practical (and economical!) than other types of vehicles since they seamlessly combine performance and usability.

Therefore, we are certainly pleased about the freshly released MBP M502N at the Auto Expo 2023 event. Additionally, given that the Honda CB500F was recently sighted in India, a launch there may also be in the works. What else do the two share, if anything, outside an uncanny similarity in their engines, or what do they not share? Let's explore:

MBP M502N vs Honda CB500F: Design 

It is a known truth that attractive bikes tend to sell well in India. Both motorcycles meet those criteria well. The MBP M502N has an LED headlamp that resembles the Suzuki GSX-8S and a vintage streetfighter style. The MBP and the Honda CB500F share a lot of similarities in terms of their general design. They both fit the stereotype of an actual streetfighter in terms of appearance, with a golden fork, a chunky headlamp, and a generally hunched-up, muscular appearance.

MBP M502N vs Honda CB500F: Engine 

A reliable 486cc parallel-twin cylinder engine producing 51.6 bhp and 45 Nm drives the MBP M502N. Meanwhile, the 471cc parallel-twin engine powers the Honda CB500F producing 47.5 bhp and 43 Nm.

MBP M502N vs Honda CB500F: Brakes 

J. Juan is the supplier of the brakes on the M502N; there are two 300mm front discs and one 240mm rear disc. At the same time, Bosch makes the ABS for the bike. Twin 295mm discs in the front and a 240mm unit at the back serve as the CB500F’s leashes. ABS with two channels is typical.

MBP M502N vs Honda CB500F: Suspension 

The USD fork and mono-shock, both from KYB, are used to suspend the M502N. In addition, it is equipped with Pirelli Angel GT touring tyres. On the other hand, the Honda CB500F has a mono-shock and a separate function, a huge piston USD fork from Showa. In addition, it has Michelin Road 5 tyres, which are significantly superior to the Angel GTs.

MBP M502N vs Honda CB500F: Features 

In terms of features, the M502N really excels. It comes with a 4.2-inch TFT console with connectivity and an automatic on/off LED projector headlamp. However, Honda’s somewhat conservative design philosophy for the CB500F is evident in its LCD console, which only includes standard components like a clock, odometer, and trip metre.

M502N weighs in at a “healthy” 195 kg. With a kerb weight of 188 kg, the CB500F isn’t too far behind either. It’s interesting to note that the seat height and gasoline capacity of the two bikes are quite similar.

Conclusion

The verdict? Although the two motorcycles are closer than we initially believed, they nevertheless have a good deal of differences. In contrast to the Honda, which will sound great to the usual Honda fan seeking a pleasant riding experience, the MBP M502N will be more appealing to IT geeks.

While it's too soon to recommend which one to purchase, it's fascinating to see two potential newcomers to India's sparsely populated middleweight naked market. Therefore, these two may be the ideal bikes to bridge the gap between, say, the KTM 390 Duke and the Kawasaki Z650.