Dropping the price below $7,000 neatly boosts the appeal of this versatile, capable small-displacement ride.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreAmid the hype around Honda's Africa Twin and Transalp, it's easy to forget they aren't the only adventure bikes the brand makes.Let's not forget the DCT-equipped NC750X, whose compelling color updates we just covered last week.Honda's NX500 was already great-looking and approachable; now it's even more affordable, too. - Credit: HondaThen there's the small wonder, the NX500, whose low weight and price make it arguably the most approachable of the bunch. AdvertisementAdvertisementThat case gets even stronger with the news that Honda has dropped the price for the 2026 edition of the bike by a cool 500 bucks.Entry-level excellenceOff the bat, shout out to RideApart's Janaki Jitchotvisut for spotting this change, which sees the 2026 bike hit $6,899, versus the 2025 model year's $7,399.The new price makes it more competitive with rivals such as the Kawasaki KLE 500, which starts at $6,599 and the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, which now starts at $5,999.The comfortable upright seating position lends itself to long days on (and off) the road. - Credit: HondaWhile it's still the priciest of the three, it also boasts the biggest engine, a 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin four-stroke with a six-speed manual transmission, versus the Kawi's 451cc parallel-twin and the Himmy's 452cc single. AdvertisementAdvertisementAnother point in its favor is the obstacle-clearing promise of a 41mm inverted fork with 5.9 inches of travel, a rear single shock with 5.3 inches, plus 7.1 inches of ground clearance. The tall windscreen and LED lighting make riding easier and safer when conditions get gusty or dark. - Credit: HondaMeanwhile, the 32.8-inch seat is relatively reasonable for an ADV, and the 432-pound curb weight makes it easily the lightest of Honda's offerings. Adding to its approachability are a slipper/assist clutch that decreases clutch-lever effort and rear-wheel hop during hard braking and standard ABS, which helps you maintain control on wet roads and gravel. Generous suspension and ground clearance enable the bike to reliably jump off the beaten path when adventure calls. - Credit: HondaTech standout features include a tall windscreen, a full-color 5-inch TFT screen displaying key ride info and a modern LED headlight to illuminate the road ahead. AdvertisementAdvertisementBottom line, if you are looking to get into more adventurous riding, this bike is one heck of a gateway drug.Availability and pricingThe 2026 Honda NX500 is available now, starting at $6,899.2026 Honda NX500 Starts at $6,899 About the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.