Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki Versys 650: Image Comparison

What are the differences between the two Japanese ADVs?

The mid-displacement ADV segment in India has received its newest offering, the Honda CB500X. One of its competitors is the Kawasaki Versys 650. So, let’s put up the two ADVs against each other in detailed images and compare them from the design, engine capacity and price point of view. 

Starting from the front, the CB500X uses an  LED headlight running LED DRLs, whereas the Versys 650 uses a split unit with conventional halogen bulbs and pilot lamps.

The  CB500X gets an LCD dash, while the Versys 650 makes do with the analogue-digital instrument console. However, both the bikes get a gear position indicator, a digital speedometer, fuel level gauge and a speedometer. 

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Both bikes feature tall handlebars with slightly neutral-set footpegs and a comfortable seat for an upright riding position -- perfect for long-distance journeys. 

The CB500X uses a parallel-twin 471.03cc liquid-cooled motor that makes 47PS of power and 43Nm of torque. In comparison, the Versys 650  is powered by a larger parallel-twin 649cc liquid-cooled motor pumping out 66PS of power and 61Nm of torque. Both the bikes use a 6-speed gearbox. 

To go the distance Honda has given the CB500X a 17.7-litre fuel tank whereas the Kawasaki Versys gets a 21-litre fuel tank. 

The CB500X has a single-piece 830mm high seat, whereas the Versys 650 gets a split seat with a height of 840mm. 

In terms of hardware,  the CB500X makes use of a 41mm conventional telescopic fork and monoshock with preload adjustability for both. The Kawasaki Versys uses a 41mm adjustable USD fork and a monoshock with preload adjustability. The braking hardware of the CB500X comprises a 310mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc. The Versys 650 gets dual 300mm front discs and a 250mm rear disc. Both get dual-channel ABS as standard.  

Honda has equipped the CB500X with ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) to automatically flash the front and rear blinkers when needed. And the CB500X also features HISS (Honda Ignition Security System) to keep the bike safe from burglars. 

The Honda CB500X uses a 19- and 17-inch front and rear wheel setup featuring a 110/80-section tyre and a 160/60-section tyre respectively. As for the Versys 650, it uses a 120/70-17 front and a 160/60-17 rear wheel setup. 

The CB500X at 199kg is noticeably lighter than the Versys which tips the scale at 218kg kerb.

And then there’s the price. Honda has priced the CB500X at Rs 6.87 lakh (as a CKD unit) and will sell it only from the Big Wing dealerships. On the other hand, Kawasaki offers the Versys 650 for Rs 6.94 lakh. 

All prices, ex-showroom Delhi