With the new SCL500 Honda has found yet another home for its 471cc parallel-twin four-stroke, the motor that powers their Rebel 500, CB500X, CB500F and CBR500R models. This time it’s another take on the scrambler style so popular in the 70s and 80s. For those who aren’t familiar, scramblers are street motorcycles that have off-pavement pretensions and styling. The concept dates back to the 60’s, with Honda’s high-piped, trimmed-down CL72 model. As Honda describes it, the SCL500 “features all the key ‘scrambler’ styling elements—upright riding position, block tires, ample suspension travel and a retro aesthetic.” They further note that those elements come “in an approachable package and at an attractive price.” That price is $6799.
A Rebel No More
Hewn from the Honda’s Rebel 500 model, the SCL promises to be light (419 lbs.), nimble, and fun. Being a cruiser style machine, the Rebel framework required some serious mods to give the SCL more spirited handling and overall strength.
Changes include a new subframe, tighter fork geometry, and longer travel suspension. Seat height is a reasonable 31.1 inches. The 500 should appeal to anyone looking to dip their toe into two-wheel adventuring without investing in a true ADV bike. Riders wanting something sporty without the sport-bike crouch should also take a look at the SCL500. A proven eight-valve, liquid-cooled powerplant, standard ABS, and a slipper clutch extend its appeal.
Stylin’
The retro aesthetic Honda touts is most visible in the raised dual-exhaust and round headlight (LED, of course). The front 19-inch and rear 17-inch wheel shod with suitably beefy tires reinforce the SCL’s urges to get dirty. Or at least dusty. 
While the look is retro, the tech is not, evidenced by the LCD instrument pod with digital instrumentation and single Pro-Link single rear shock that provides 4.5 inches of travel. Up front is a 41mm fork set with 5.9 inches of travel. The SCL’s cast wheels and front/rear disc brakes are also a change from earlier scramblers. As for debut colors, Honda eschewed their signature red paint for the 500, instead dressing it in either Candy Orange or Mat Laurel Green Metallic. Both options are set against a blacked-out frame, engine, exhaust, and trim.
Honda SCL500 Accessories
Scramblers of old were seen as blank slates, ripe for customization. Those wishing to carry anything on the bike often started with a luggage rack. Recognizing that, Honda has 25 accessories–including a rack–ready to bolt onto the SCL500. They’ve also defined two accessory packages. The “Tour” pack provides more storage so you can see what’s over the horizon. 
Per Honda, the Rally pack is “off-road inspired.” So far we’ve seen grippy footpegs, a high front fender, and a luggage rack to back this up. With either package, or straight off the showroom floor, the SCL’s 3.2-gallon tank will provide enough range to get out of town and enjoy the ride. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Check out Scott Brady’s assessment of the Honda CB500X.
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