2021 HONDA CB500X

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

1RecallsNHTSA Verified0ComplaintsLimited Data0InvestigationsLimited Data
Expert Verdict
✓Good Reliability

The 2021 Honda CB500X exhibits a solid reliability profile with only one recall affecting exterior lighting. While there are no major complaints or TSBs, the recall highlights a minor compliance issue that shouldn't impact safety significantly.

Key Factor:Minor lighting compliance issue

📋Why This Matters

The recall concerning the exterior lighting of the 2021 Honda CB500X pertains to the rear reflector lens not reflecting brightly enough. While this may seem like a minor defect, it is crucial for ensuring visibility to other drivers, particularly in low-light conditions. Effective vehicle illumination directly impacts the safety of all passengers, emphasizing the importance of addressing this recall promptly to safeguard everyone in and around the motorcycle. In a segment where reliability and safety are paramount, a single recall among many models showcases Honda's commitment to manufacturing quality and attention to detail. Such a clean sheet in terms of complaints further highlights Honda's standing as a manufacturer known for engineering excellence and proactive safety measures.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Various
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.3)
    📝
    Summary: The year-over-year safety trend for the Honda CB500X remains consistent with positive expectations based on its reputation for quality. Although there is one minor recall, it does not pose significant risk to passengers and reflects Honda's ongoing commitment to safety standards.
Critical Component: Various

Safety & Reliability Score

90/100
Excellent

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-1.75
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 HONDA CB500X

Model Year2021
MakeHONDA
ModelCB500X
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Dec20
ISSUEFirst Report
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
✅

No Consumer Complaints Reported

Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 HONDA CB500X. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.

Primary Risk Areas

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Exterior Lighting

Issue: Rear reflector lens may not reflect adequately, compromising visibility.

✅

Check rear reflector effectiveness immediately and address any issues.

🔍

Verify compliance status with the latest recall information before purchasing.

Campaign:21V-123
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your HONDA dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (1)

Campaign: 21V382000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Super Cub C125, CB500X, CB650R, CBR300R, CBR500R, CBR650R, Rebel 300, Rebel 500, Monkey, 2020 CRF250L, GROM, 2021 CRF300L, and CB500F motorcycles. The rear reflector lens may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Consequence

A dim rear reflector may reduce the visibility of the motorcycle to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the rear reflector, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2021. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda's number for this recall is KM3.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
✓

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

0 complaints
✓

No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know about recalls for the 2021 Honda CB500X?

For the 2021 Honda CB500X, there has been one recall related to exterior lighting where the rear reflector lens may not meet brightness standards. It is essential for owners to ensure their motorcycle meets safety regulations to maintain optimal visibility on roads.

How reliable is the 2021 Honda CB500X compared to other motorcycles?

The reliability of the 2021 Honda CB500X is commendable as it has minimal recalls and no reported complaints from users. This positions it favorably against many competitors in its class, reinforcing its reputation for quality engineering.

📊Year-over-Year Context

➡️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified HONDA service center—repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in HONDA's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific CB500X year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.
⚖️

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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.