&width=72&height=72&bgcolor=rgba_39_42_44_0&mode=crop "Author: nastynils")
Nippon Naked Showdown: Honda CB500 Hornet vs. Kawasaki Z500
Folks, you wouldn't believe how often I'm asked which bike to buy. At bike shows, at gas stations, even at airport check-ins. But today, we're talking about two hot machines from Japan: the Honda CB500 Hornet and the Kawasaki Z500. Two bikes that at first glance seem as similar as sake and rice wine. But beware, twisties enthusiasts – the devil is in the details! Before we dive in, let me ask you: What the heck do you actually plan to do with your bike? Yeah, I see the puzzled faces. But seriously, if you don't know where you're headed, how am I supposed to tell you which bike is right for you? So, think hard while I tell you what these two Japanese 500cc rockets have to offer.
Engine Performance and Character
The Honda CB500 Hornet comes with a 471cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 48 hp at 8600 rpm. The torque of 43 Nm at 6500 rpm will make you grin like a Cheshire cat. The Kawasaki Z500 counters with 451cc, 45.4 hp at 9000 rpm, and 42.6 Nm at 7500 rpm.
Sounds like a tie, right? But friends, numbers are like bikinis – they show a lot but not everything. The Honda is as refined as an English butler. Schaaf said it runs so smoothly you could fold origami with it. The Kawa, on the other hand? It's like an espresso on two wheels – lively, nimble, and with plenty of grunt. Kurt Rubik felt a few vibrations above 4000 rpm, but hey, who wants a bike that feels like a sofa cushion?
Transmission and Clutch
Both bikes perform flawlessly in the transmission department. The Honda shifts so smoothly it's like each gear has a dollop of butter in it. Martin Bauer was almost ready to propose to the gearbox. The Kawasaki is no slouch either. Valentin Schaaf called it "exceptionally good for this price range." It slips in like sushi into a hungry sumo wrestler.
Electronic Assistance Systems
Here's where the wheat is separated from the chaff, folks. The Honda comes with traction control that works as subtly as a ninja in socks. The Kawasaki? It says, "Electronics? You don't need that, buddy. Just ride!" Both have ABS, but the Kawa's kicks in a bit earlier – like it has an overly cautious passenger built-in.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Honda feels like a well-worn meditation cushion. Even our colleague Marek, at 1.86 meters, felt comfortable. The Kawasaki leans more towards sportiness. Smaller riders will find it fits like a tailored kimono, but taller guys might feel like a sardine in a can.
Chassis and Handling
Now it gets exciting! The Honda glides through corners. It feels confident and relaxed. Not sluggish but not nervous either. The Kawasaki, however, feels more playful. It feels less sensible and is the more fun bike. The Kawasaki? It's as agile as a ninja on Red Bull. Kurt Rubik called it "crisp," and the guy knows what he's talking about.
Brakes
When it comes to brakes, the Honda takes the lead. Dual discs up front, braking power like the grip of an angry sumo wrestler. The Kawasaki also brakes well, but the ABS can be a bit too eager – like an overzealous intern on their first day.
Conclusion
The Honda CB500 Hornet is like perfectly prepared sushi – balanced, refined, and with just the right amount of wasabi kick. The Kawasaki Z500 is more like a teppanyaki grill – it sizzles, it pops, and in the end, you have a big grin on your face.
Which bike is right for you? Well, that depends on what you plan to do. Want to cruise around relaxed and look as refined as a tea ceremony master? Then go for the Honda. Are you the type who sees every corner as a personal challenge and likes to elbow out? Then the Kawasaki is your thing. Of course, the Honda can also show its fun side. And of course, the Kawasaki is also good for everyday use. But the fundamental character of the bikes leans in these respective directions!
At the end of the day, both bikes are damn good machines. They'll put a grin on your face wider than Mount Fuji. And isn't that what motorcycling is all about?
&width=60&height=60&bgcolor=rgba_39_42_44_0&mode=crop "Author: nastynils")
