Motorcycle specifications BrixtonCrossfire 500 2023 Unprepared incursion

Brixton enters the 500 roadster category with a particularly distinctive Crossfire. In this pool of young licensees, the offer is wide and the challenge consequent for each manufacturer. When A2s make their debut with a motorcycle in this segment, it can mark the beginning of an allegiance or an indelible disgust. In short, you can't go wrong.

The 500 Crossfire plays the game by offering a distinctive design right from the start. A touch Husqvarna in its lines, the roadster shows a very horizontal silhouette, with remarkable attributes: tank with taut edges, spoked rims, inverted fork, highly worked headlight, minimalist stern - Dark charm without being taciturn.

The first prototype of this model was presented at EICMA in 2018. Its iconic X-shaped tank attracted particular attention: it embodies the visual product identity of Brixton - a brand of the Austrian KSR Group. Thus, all vehicles whose design is based on the X will be called "Crossfire". This family represents an independent design line within the range, and will follow its own strategic logic. The name "Crossfire" alludes to the X ("cross") in the brand's fuel tank and graphic identity, but also evokes the passion, the "flame" that drives Brixton fans.

The new Crossfire line was developed in-house by the KSR Group design team, who work and express their creativity at the KSR Group Design Centre in Austria. The motorcycle is made in China, on the bright side; there's no place for a junk impression here. What's more, when it comes to integrated components, the company has chosen well-known global suppliers. The tires are supplied by Pirelli (Italy), the adjustable shock absorbers by KYB (Kayaba - Japan) and the ABS braking system electronics by Bosch (Germany). As for the braking system used, it comes from Spanish manufacturer J.Juan. All of which goes to show our customers our commitment to quality.

At the heart of the Crossfire 500 is a 486 cm3 in-line two-cylinder engine. The 47.6 horsepower output is right on the border of A2 regulations. This power, common to virtually all twins of this displacement, is achieved at 8,500 rpm. Maximum torque is 4.5 mkg at mid-range, or 6,700 rpm.
A force well calibrated for its clientele. But that's all we need, as the braking equipment seems a little inadequate.

the Brixton also wants to stand out from the crowd with an affordable price, but it's a far cry from the rock-bottom prices of the old Chinese models (to be discarded after a year). Good-quality equipment is worth more than "acceptable" products on low-cost models, and this inevitably adds to the bill. The 500 Crossfire gained a more flattering reputation. Except that, as a result, bikes with a solid career like the CB 500 are barely more expensive than it.

The Crossfire 500 is also available in a 500 X version. The latter stands out for its more aggressive look, with grippier tires, wider handlebars, a distinctive seat and a plate holder mounted as an extension of the seat.

M.B / KSR Group / Factory photos