&width=72&height=72&bgcolor=rgba_39_42_44_0&mode=crop "Author: nastynils")
Today we're taking a close look at six absolute cracker entry-level nakedbikes. Honda CB500 Hornet, Kawasaki Z 500 SE, CF MOTO 450 NK, KTM 390 Duke, Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and Triumph Speed 400.
Honda CB500 Hornet - The Japanese all-rounder
Let's start with the Honda CB500 Hornet, the all-rounder from the land of the rising sun. This bike is like a well-trained ninja - agile, powerful and always ready for action.
Schaaf, our sensei of smooth cornering, was quite taken with the development since the model before last. He said the chassis had improved tremendously. While the old CB500 tended to wallow slightly over waves at lean, the new Hornet stays stable while offering pleasant damping.
Martin Bauer, our race track guru, was impressed by the engine's smoothness. However, he found the riding position less direct than the Kawasaki's - as if you're sitting on the bike rather than merging with it.
Kurt Rubik, our stunt maestro, described the Hornet as the more mature and stable bike compared to the KTM 390 Duke. He said the Hornet always offers reserves and conveys a feeling of safety and stability.
Adam Child, our British guest tester, praised the comfortable setup, but warned that the chassis could be overwhelmed with sporty riding or a heavier rider weight. It's like a well-mannered butler - polite and attentive, but not necessarily suited for wild parties.
Marek, our tall rider at 1.86 m, was surprised how well the Hornet handled despite his size. He even compared the riding feel to that of a pit bike - agile and responsive.
Conclusion on the Honda CB500 Hornet: A solid, mature bike that offers stability and comfort. Perfect for beginners who want to feel safe.
Kawasaki Z 500 SE - The green flash
Now let's get to the Kawasaki Z 500 SE, the green flash from Japan. This bike is like an espresso on two wheels - strong, lively and guaranteed to wake you up!
Kurt Rubik was so enthusiastic about the Z500 SE that he probably would have loved to do a wheelie with it right away. He praised the strong engine and crisp riding behavior. However, he noticed more vibrations than on the CF-Moto - apparently the Kawa likes it when it tingles a bit.
Martin Bauer found the riding position a bit too cramped for taller riders - like trying to squeeze a sumo wrestler into a Mini. But he praised the twin-cylinder engine for its smoothness and good low-end power. He described the clutch and gearbox as butter-smooth.
Schaaf was impressed by the engine, which he described as "grand." He praised the light and stable handling, even though he didn't get as much feedback from the chassis - as if the bike whispers instead of shouting.
Adam Child warned that the riding position could be uncomfortable for taller riders. He praised the strong engine but criticized the conventional electronics and ABS - as if Kawasaki had slept through progress on the electronics front. The intervention control dampens the riding pleasure a bit!
Marek preferred the Z500 SE for sporty riding, but would choose the Honda for everyday use.
Conclusion on the Kawasaki Z 500 SE: A zippy, sporty bike that's fun and delivers performance. Ideal for riders who like it a bit wilder.
CF MOTO 450 NK - The Chinese challenger
Kurt Rubik was surprised by the quality of the 450 NK. He praised the comfortable riding position and the well-functioning engine. However, he warned about the rear wheel locking up when downshifting on wet roads.
Martin Bauer was impressed by the smoothness of the twin-cylinder engine and the clean throttle response. He described the sound as gutsy. However, he noticed that the fork twists slightly under heavy braking.
Adam Child found that the 450 NK has character and pep. He praised the display but criticized the cheap-feeling switches. The bike feels a bit too sluggish for his taste.
Schaaf was impressed by the engine's smoothness on wet roads. He recommended keeping the revs above 4,000 to 5,000 rpm to get the best out of the engine.
Marek had fun with the 450 NK and praised the revvy engine and pleasant riding behavior. He was surprised by the comfortable riding position, even though legroom was limited.
Conclusion on the CF MOTO 450 NK: A surprisingly solid bike that offers more than you'd expect. It will make very cautious beginners happy. It rides remarkably accessible, harmonious and simple. For ambitious riders, other models are better suited.
