Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki Versys 650
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Honda CB500X and Kawasaki Versys 650: three different takes on what a great bike should be. The Honda CB500X undercuts the Kawasaki Versys 650 by about $2,700, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Kawasaki Versys 650 leads on power with 66 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Our pickHonda
Honda CB500X
Kawasaki
Kawasaki Versys 650The verdict
The Honda CB500X edges it overall at 8.2/10, but the Kawasaki Versys 650 wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB500X
A2-legal, 47 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Kawasaki Versys 650
66 hp and 0.30 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Honda CB500X
Our 8.2/10 at $7,399, the most bike per dollar.
Honda CB500X
196 kg with an 833 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Honda CB500X
Our top score in this matchup at 8.2/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki Versys 650: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Honda CB500X or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The Kawasaki Versys 650 makes the most power at 66 hp and 61 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Honda CB500X or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The Honda CB500X is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $7,399.
Which is lighter, the Honda CB500X or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The Honda CB500X is the lightest at 196 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Honda CB500X or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB500X: A2-legal, 47 hp and 196 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
