2023 Honda SCL500 Review [A Dozen Scrambler Fast Facts]

Motorcycle riding has this magical ability to transport me from my day-to-day whirlwind full of the pressures of modern life to a time that almost stands still. No matter what has been going on in my day, as soon as the faceshield clicks down or the goggle strap settles on my helmet, everything else fades away. This is the beauty of two wheels and a twist of the throttle. Pretty much any bike has this effect on me, and the new 2023 Honda SCL500 adds that extra element of time shifting, as it evokes an era when life truly was slower and simpler.

Photography by Drew Ruiz

RIDING STYLE

2023 Honda SCL500 Specs

ENGINE

CHASSIS

DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES

2023 Honda SCL500 Price: $6799 MSRP

While the styling of the 2023 Honda SCL500 references the Honda twin-cylinder scramblers of the 1960s and early ’70s, it’s not meant for offroad riding.Ergonomics are all-day friendly.The 2023 Honda SCL500 is novice-friendly, yet still appealing to seasoned riders looking for a more casual ride.The SCL500’s non-adjustable suspension is nicely tuned and never felt unsettled.Smooth and torquey, the familiar minutely oversquare DOHC 471cc parallel-twin engine requires no managing.The 2023 Honda SCL500 has enough spunk for rousing rides in the canyons.Well-matched brakes with stock ABS boost self-assurance and let you explore your boundaries. Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires look the part—vintage scramblers did not have knobbies—and are secure on pavement.The SCL500 is freeway-capable, so scramble to work if you like. Modern touches blend with old-school styling.There are over 20 accessory items available.The 2023 Honda SCL500 is a lifestyle statement that’s also functional.RIDING STYLE2023 Honda SCL500 SpecsENGINECHASSISDIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES2023 Honda SCL500 Price: $6799 MSRP