Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 vs Honda Rebel 500
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki Vulcan S 650
Honda Rebel 500
Horsepower (hp)
61 hp
46 hp
Torque (Nm)
63 Nm
43 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
180 km/h
160 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
228 kg
191 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
61 hp @ 7,500 rpm
46 hp @ 8,500 rpm
Torque
63 Nm @ 6,600 rpm
43 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Top Speed
180 km/h (estimated; note: some sources cite up to 185 km/h depending on conditions)
160 km/h (est. — note: Honda does not officially publish top speed)
Weight
228 kg (wet/curb weight)
191 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
4.5 L/100km (approximately 22 km/L, typical real-world average)
3.5 L/100km (approx. 28.5 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki Vulcan S 650
7.5/10
"Underrated used buy with bulletproof mechanicals and smart ergonomic flexibility."
Pros
+Adjustable ergonomics actually work
+Ninja 650 reliability underneath
+Excellent fuel economy
Cons
−Styling divides opinion sharply
−Chain often neglected by owners
−Limited aftermarket support
Honda Rebel 500
7.8/10
"The most competent beginner cruiser Honda has ever built."
Pros
+Honda reliability, near-bulletproof
+Comfortable low seat height
+Better handling than expected
Cons
−Highway cruising feels strained
−Wind protection essentially nonexistent
−Styling divides opinion sharply