Kawasaki Z650 2020 vs. Honda CB500F 2021

Kawasaki Z650 2020

Kawasaki Z650 2020

Honda CB500F 2021

Honda CB500F 2021

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Overview - Kawasaki Z650 2020 vs Honda CB500F 2021

In terms of engine and drive train, both the Kawasaki Z650 2020 and the Honda CB500F 2021 have inline engines with two cylinders. However, the Kawasaki Z650 has a higher engine power of 68.2 HP compared to the Honda CB500F's 48 HP. The Kawasaki Z650 also has a higher torque of 65.7 Nm compared to the Honda CB500F's 43 Nm. In terms of cooling, both bikes have liquid cooling systems. The Kawasaki Z650 has a larger displacement of 649 ccm compared to the Honda CB500F's 471 ccm.

In terms of chassis, both bikes have steel frames. The Kawasaki Z650 2020 has double disk brakes at the front with double pistons, while the Honda CB500F 2021 has a single disk brake at the front with double pistons.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same front and rear tire width and diameter. They also have the same wheelbase and seat height. However, the Kawasaki Z650 2020 has a slightly lower kerb weight of 187.1 kg compared to the Honda CB500F's 194 kg. The Honda CB500F also has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 15.7 l compared to the Kawasaki Z650's 15 l.

Kawasaki Z650 2020

Kawasaki Z650 2020

Now let's discuss the strengths of each bike. The Kawasaki Z650 2020 has a powerful two-cylinder engine that delivers a thrilling performance. It also has an aggressive intake noise that adds to the excitement of riding. The bike has compact dimensions and a low seat height, making it suitable for riders of all sizes. The stable chassis ensures a smooth and controlled ride. The Z650 also features a TFT display with connectivity, allowing riders to easily access information while on the go. Additionally, the bike has a grown-up look that appeals to riders who prefer a more mature aesthetic.

On the other hand, the Honda CB500F 2021 has the advantage of delivering the full 48 hp in the A2 class, making it a popular choice for riders with an A2 license. The bike features a high-quality fork that enhances the overall ride quality. The brakes on the CB500F are also commendable, providing good stopping power. The comfortable seating position and low seat height make it easy for riders to feel at ease on the bike. The intuitive handling of the CB500F ensures a smooth and responsive ride.

Honda CB500F 2021

Honda CB500F 2021

However, there are also some weaknesses to consider. The Kawasaki Z650 2020 has been criticized for its front brake pressure point, which some riders find less than ideal. Additionally, tall riders may find the bike uncomfortable due to its compact dimensions. The Rideology App, while a nice addition, is not considered to be 100% sophisticated.

On the other hand, the Honda CB500F 2021 has been noted to have a suspension strut that bounces on bumpy roads, which can affect the overall ride comfort.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Z650 2020 and the Honda CB500F 2021 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Z650 offers a more powerful engine and a more aggressive aesthetic, while the Honda CB500F delivers the full 48 hp in the A2 class and provides a comfortable riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Z650 2020 compared to Honda CB500F 2021

Kawasaki Z650 2020
Honda CB500F 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore83 mmBore67 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke66.8 mm
Engine powerEngine power68.2 HPEngine power48 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power5,500 rpm
TorqueTorque65.7 NmTorque43 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.8 Compression Ratio10.7
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
IgnitionIgnitionDigitalIgnitionDigital, Transistor
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement649 ccmDisplacement471 ccm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeSingle disk
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width160 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,055 mmLength2,075 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,410 mmWheelbase1,410 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height790 mmSeat Height790 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)187.1 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)194 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity15 lFuel Tank Capacity15.7 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA2

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Z650 2020

Kawasaki Z650 2020

It's simply marvellous what Kawasaki has put together in a complete package with the new Z650. The technical components may not knock your socks off individually, but in combination they make for a pleasantly neutral motorbike that everyone will enjoy. No bitchy idiosyncrasies - simply a naked bike that works really well on winding country roads. Of course, the TFT display, which we don't find in the competition at the moment, is a plus, as is the grown-up look, which is strongly oriented towards the larger Z models. Only the pressure point of the front brake could have been more clearly defined - but you can't have everything in this price range.

powerful two-cylinder engine

aggressive intake noise

compact dimensions

low seat height

stable chassis

TFT display with connectivity

grown-up look

Front brake pressure point

probably uncomfortable for tall riders

Rideology Appn och not 100% sophisticated.

Honda CB500F 2021

Honda CB500F 2021

Honda has significantly improved the rounded package called CB500F for 2022. Thanks to better brakes and a higher-quality chassis, the handling has been significantly upgraded. Both beginners and experienced riders will feel very comfortable on this bike and enjoy it for many years to come. Only the suspension strut is not quite up to scratch - but there still needs to be room for improvement somewhere.

full 48 hp in the A2 class

high-quality fork

good brakes

comfortable seating position

low seat height

intuitive handling.

Suspension strut bounces on bumpy roads

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Z650 vs Honda CB500F

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Z650 2020 and a Honda CB500F 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Z650 2020 is about 24% higher. Compared to Honda CB500F 2021 there are more Kawasaki Z650 2020 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 21 compared to 17. With 80 days it takes the same amount of time to sell a Kawasaki Z650 or a Honda CB500F. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 31 reviews for the Kawasaki Z650 and 22 reviews for the Honda CB500F since model year 2013. The first review for the Kawasaki Z650 was published on 11/8/2016 and now has more than 25,000 views. This compares to more than 18,500 views for the first review on Honda CB500F published on 11/10/2012.

Price Kawasaki Z650

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Honda CB500F

Model year
Current average market prices

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