Honda GB500 Trademarked In The US Market

Amidst a slew of updates that Honda is making to its global bike portfolio, it has now come to the surface that Honda has trademarked the name of a new motorcycle. Slated to be called the GB500, the bike’s name was recently registered in the USA, where it also retails the GB350. The latter is basically the Honda H’ness CB350, and just like the GB350, the upcoming GB500 will also explore the middleweight motorcycle segment. This is a strategic move and in all probability will be to challenge the rising popularity of Royal Enfield's popular 650cc lineup. 

But unlike its smaller GB350 sibling with a single-cylinder engine, the GB500 is expected to feature a more powerful liquid-cooled power plant. Honda could leverage its existing 471 cc twin-cylinder engine, currently used in models like the Honda NX500, potentially delivering around 47 horses. The other option is to plonk a big bore single-cylinder unit, which will not only feel more in tune with the roadster characteristic of the bike but will also be cheaper to manufacture. 

Design-wise, the GB500 will most likely boast the same retro aesthetic as the GB350, including a classic circular headlamp, curved fuel tank, and comfortable riding geometry. Thereby, it will most likely feature a tubular steel frame, suspended by telescopic front fork, and dual-shock absorbers. 

However, while all the details above remain speculative, Honda's trademark filings indicate a serious commitment to expanding its middleweight motorcycle portfolio. But will it launch in India? We hope so, but we can’t say anything for sure yet.