Brixton Crossfire 500 [2020-2022] Review: The All-Rounder That Surprises

Introduction

The Brixton Crossfire 500 arrived in 2020 as a bold statement in the mid-size all-rounder segment. With its neo-retro styling fused with modern engineering, this motorcycle targets riders who crave versatility without sacrificing personality. Over three years of production, it carved a niche for itself by blending approachable performance with everyday practicality. After spending a week with a 2022 Crossfire 500 X variant, here's why this machine deserves your attention – and how it holds up against its rivals.

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Design & First Impressions

At first glance, the Crossfire 500 walks a tightrope between classic café racer aesthetics and contemporary aggression. The LED daytime running lights form a distinctive "X" motif, while the sculpted 13.5-liter fuel tank (3.57 US gallons) flows seamlessly into a compact tail section. Available in Backstage Black or Bullet Silver, the paint quality resists fingermarks surprisingly well – a boon for riders who hate constant polishing.

The 795mm (31.3") seat height accommodates shorter riders without making tall pilots feel cramped. However, the narrow profile of the saddle becomes apparent after 90 minutes of continuous riding. The digital speedometer provides crisp data but lacks smartphone connectivity – an area where aftermarket upgrades could shine.

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Engine Performance: Smooth Operator

Beating at the heart of this Brixton is a 486cc liquid-cooled parallel twin, producing 46.9 HP @ 8,500 RPM and 43 Nm (31.7 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 6,750 RPM. These numbers translate to real-world usability:

• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): ~5.2 seconds
• Overtaking Punch: 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) in 4th gear feels eager
• Fuel Efficiency: Observed 4.2L/100km (56 mpg) in mixed riding

The DOHC engine's character changes dramatically across the rev range. Below 4,000 RPM, it's docile enough for urban commutes, with fuel injection that eliminates low-rev stutters. Past 6,000 RPM, the exhaust note develops a metallic snarl that encourages spirited riding without becoming obnoxious.

The 6-speed transmission shifts with positive clicks, though the clutch lever could benefit from adjustable reach – a common modification our MOTOPARTS.store team recommends for riders with smaller hands.

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Handling & Suspension

Brixton's chassis engineers deserve applause. The steel trellis frame feels taut yet compliant, working harmoniously with:

• Front Suspension: 41mm USD telescopic forks (non-adjustable)
• Rear Suspension: KYB monoshock with preload adjustment

Pirelli Angel GT tires (120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear) offer predictable grip, even when leaned hard into hairpins. At 190kg (418.9 lbs) wet weight, the Crossfire flicks through traffic with the agility of lighter nakeds, yet remains stable at its 160 km/h (99 mph) top speed.

The suspension setup leans toward sporty compliance. Over broken pavement, the front end communicates surface textures without jarring impacts, while the rear KYB unit soaks up expansion joints admirably. For touring enthusiasts, increasing rear preload transforms the bike's load-carrying capacity.

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Braking & Safety

Dual-channel ABS elevates the Crossfire's safety credentials:

• Front Brake: 240mm single disc with 4-piston caliper
• Rear Brake: 240mm single disc with single-piston caliper

Initial bite feels progressive rather than abrupt – perfect for wet conditions. Hard stops from 100 km/h (62 mph) see minimal nose dive, thanks to the well-balanced suspension. However, aggressive riders might crave more initial bite; swapping to sintered brake pads (available through MOTOPARTS.store) could address this.

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Comfort & Ergonomics

The riding position strikes a near-perfect balance between sporty and relaxed:

• Handlebar: Wide moto-style bars enable leverage without straining wrists
• Footpegs: Mid-set position allows both knee grip and legroom
• Wind Protection: Minimal; consider adding an aftermarket fly screen

The seat's firm foam initially feels supportive but becomes unforgiving on 200+ km rides. This presents an opportunity to explore our premium gel seat upgrades. Vibration damping is exceptional – only a faint buzz reaches the pegs at highway speeds.

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Technology & Features

While not overflowing with gadgets, the Crossfire 500 nails the essentials:

• Full LED lighting with excellent nighttime visibility
• Digital dash showing gear position, fuel economy, and trip data
• Euro 4 compliant with O2 sensor (simplifying aftermarket exhaust installs)

The absence of ride modes keeps things refreshingly simple. Maintenance reminders appear as basic icons – interpretative skills required!

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Competition

The Crossfire 500 competes in a crowded segment. Key rivals include:

1. Honda CB500F
- Superior dealer network
- 8 HP advantage but heavier chassis
- Lacks the Brixton's visual flair

2. Kawasaki Z400
- Lighter (167kg / 368 lbs) and nimbler
- 12 HP deficit becomes apparent above 110 km/h
- Basic suspension compared to KYB units

3. KTM 390 Duke
- Sharper handling and premium WP suspension
- Single-cylinder vibes vs. Brixton's twin refinement
- Higher maintenance costs

Where the Crossfire Shines:
- Best-in-class suspension adjustability
- Timeless design that ages well
- Aftermarket-friendly engineering

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Maintenance & Upgrades

The Crossfire 500 rewards diligent owners. Key considerations:

Scheduled Servicing
- Oil changes every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) with 10W-40 semi-synthetic
- Valve clearance checks every 10,000 km (6,200 miles)
- Coolant replacement every 2 years/20,000 km

Common Upgrades:
1. Exhaust Systems: The stock muffler weighs 7.2kg – swapping to a stainless steel system saves weight and unlocks throatier acoustics.
2. Suspension Tweaks: Progressive fork springs improve front-end feel during aggressive braking.
3. Ergonomics: Gel seat inserts and adjustable levers transform long-distance comfort.
4. Performance: High-flow air filters and ECU reflashes can liberate 5-7% more power.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- NGK CPR8EA-9 spark plugs (stock replacement)
- Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires for enhanced grip
- DID 520VX3 chains for prolonged drivetrain life

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Final Verdict

The Brixton Crossfire 500 doesn't just compete in the middleweight category – it redefines expectations. While not the fastest or lightest in its class, it delivers a compelling package of style, adaptability, and mechanical charm. The liquid-cooled twin's flexible powerband caters to both novices and experienced riders, while the chassis encourages exploration beyond city limits.

For owners looking to personalize their Crossfire, the aftermarket potential is vast. From café racer conversions to adventure-ready bolt-ons, this platform welcomes modification – a quality we at MOTOPARTS.store particularly appreciate. Whether you're maintaining a stock example or building a custom masterpiece, this Brixton proves that character and capability aren't mutually exclusive.

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Specifications sheet

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