Honda CB500X - Owner's Manual > Keys

Ignition Key

This motorcycle has two ignition keys and a key tag with a key number and a bar code. Store the spare key and the key tag in a safe location.

To make a duplicate key, take the spare key and the key tag to your dealer or a locksmith.

If you lose all ignition keys and the key tag, the ignition switch assembly will probably have to be removed by your dealer to determine the key number.

A metal key holder may cause damage to the area surrounding the ignition switch.

Instruments, Controls, & Other Features

Ignition Switch

Leaving the ignition switch in the ON position with the engine stopped will drain the battery.

Do not turn the key while riding.

Engine Stop Switch

Do not use the engine stop switch except in an emergency. Doing so when riding will cause the engine to suddenly turn off, making riding unsafe.

If you stop the engine using the engine stop switch, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Failing to do so will drain the battery.

Odometer

The display locks at 999,999 when the read-out exceeds 999,999.

Tripmeter

The tripmeters return to 0.0 when each readout exceeds 9,999.9.

Document Bag

The owner's manual, registration, and insurance information can be stored in the plastic document bag underside of the seat.

Ignition Cut-off System

A banking (lean angle) sensor automatically stops the engine and fuel pump if the motorcycle falls over. To reset the sensor, you must turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and back to the ON position before the engine can be restarted.

Assist-slipper Clutch System

The assist-slipper clutch system helps to prevent the rear tire from locking up when the deceleration of your motorcycle produces a strong engine braking effect. It also makes the clutch lever operation feel lighter.

Use only MA classification engine oil for your motorcycle. Using engine oil other than MA classification oil could result in damage to the assist-slipper clutch system.

Caring for Your Motorcycle

Frequent cleaning and polishing is important to ensure the life of your Honda. A clean motorcycle makes it easier to spot potential problems.

In particular, seawater and salts used to prevent ice on roads promote the formation of corrosion. Always wash your motorcycle thoroughly after riding on coastal or treated roads.

Washing

Allow the engine, muffler, brakes, and other high-temperature parts to cool before washing.

1. Rinse your motorcycle thoroughly using a low pressure garden hose to remove loose dirt.

2. If necessary, use a sponge or a soft towel with mild cleaner to remove road grime.

• Clean the windscreen, headlight lens, panels, and other plastic components with extra care to avoid scratching them.
  Avoid directing water into the air cleaner, muffler, and electrical parts.

3. Thoroughly rinse your motorcycle with plenty of clean water and dry with a soft, clean cloth.

4. After the motorcycle dries, lubricate any moving parts.

• Make sure that no lubricant spills onto the brakes or tires. Brake discs, pads, drum or shoes contaminated with oil will suffer greatly reduced braking effectiveness and can lead to a crash.

5. Lubricate the drive chain immediately after washing and drying the motorcycle.

6. Apply a coat of wax to prevent corrosion.

• Avoid products that contain harsh detergents or chemical solvents. These can damage the metal, paint, and plastic on your motorcycle.
  Keep the wax clear of the tires and brakes.
• If your motorcycle has any matte painted parts, do not apply a coat of wax to the matte painted surface.

Washing Precautions

Follow these guidelines when washing:

• Do not use high-pressure washers:
  • High-pressure water cleaners can damage moving parts and electrical parts, rendering them inoperable.
  • Water in the air intake can be drawn into the throttle body and/or enter the air cleaner.
• Do not direct water at the muffler:
  • Water in the muffler can prevent starting and causes rust in the muffler.
• Dry the brakes:
  • Water adversely affects braking effectiveness. After washing, apply the brakes intermittently at low speed to help dry them.
• Do not direct water under the seat:
  • Water in the under seat compartment can damage your documents and other belongings.
• Do not direct water at the air cleaner:
  • Water in the air cleaner can prevent the engine from starting.
• Do not direct water near the headlight:
  • The headlight's inside lens may fog temporarily after washing or while riding in the rain. This does not impact the headlight function.
    However, if you see a large amount of water or ice accumulated inside the lens(es), have your vehicle inspected by your dealer.
• Do not use wax or polishing compounds on matte painted surface:
  • Use a soft cloth or sponge, plenty of water, and a mild detergent to clean matte painted surfaces. Dry with a soft clean cloth.

Aluminum Components

Aluminum will corrode from contact with dirt, mud, or road salt. Clean aluminum parts regularly and follow these guidelines to avoid scratches:

• Do not use stiff brushes, steel wool, or cleaners containing abrasives.
• Avoid riding over or scraping against curbs.

Panels

Follow these guidelines to prevent scratches and blemishes:

• Wash gently using a soft sponge and plenty of water.
• To remove stubborn stains, use diluted detergent and rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
• Avoid getting gasoline, brake fluid, or detergents on the instruments, panels, or headlight.

Windscreen

Using plenty of water, clean the windscreen with a soft cloth or sponge. (Avoid using detergents or any kind of chemical cleaner on the windscreen.) Dry with a soft, clean cloth.

NOTICE To avoid possible scratching or other damage, use only water and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the windscreen.

For a dirtier windscreen, use a diluted neutral detergent with a sponge and plenty of water.

Make sure to wash off all the detergent.

(Detergent residue may cause windscreen cracks.) Replace the windscreen if scratches cannot be removed and they obstruct clear vision.

Take care to keep battery electrolyte, brake fluid, or other chemical solvents off the windscreen and screen garnish. They will damage the plastic.

Exhaust Pipe and Muffler

The exhaust pipe and muffler are stainless steel but may become stained by mud or dust.

To remove mud or dust, use a wet sponge and a liquid kitchen abrasive, then rinse well with clean water. Dry with chamois or a soft towel.

If necessary, remove heat stains by using a commercially available fine texture compound.

Then rinse by the same manner as removing mud or dust.

When the exhaust pipe and muffler are painted, do not use a commercially available abrasive kitchen cleaning compound. Use a neutral detergent to clean the painted surface on the exhaust pipe and muffler. If you are not sure if your exhaust pipe and muffler are painted, contact your dealer.

NOTICE Even though the exhaust is made of stainless steel, it can become stained. Remove all marks and blemishes as soon as they are noticed.

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