If you’re looking for that perfect blend of power, style, and practicality, the Harley-Davidson X500 and the Kawasaki Z650 are two bikes you need to consider. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an enthusiast looking for your next thrill, or a commuter who wants a little bit of edge — both bikes offer a unique experience. But how do they compare? Let’s break it down, piece by piece, so you can make the right choice.
Harley-Davidson X500 Design: Bold, American Muscle
The Harley-Davidson X500 brings that signature American muscle look that’s hard to ignore. With its rugged design, sharp lines, and solid stance, this bike looks like it’s made to dominate the streets. The X500 carries that typical Harley identity with a bit of modern flair. The minimalist LED headlamps, wide handlebars, and a robust fuel tank give it a streetfighter vibe, all while keeping it comfortable for daily use.
In contrast, the Kawasaki Z650 flaunts a more agile, urban look. Its naked streetfighter design is sleek, with its sharp-edged fairings, an aggressive front, and twin LED headlights that give it an edgy vibe. It’s a bike that demands attention but is still compact enough to feel agile in city traffic.
Kawasaki Z650 Design: Sleek, Agile, and Ready for the Streets
If the Harley X500 screams power and presence, the Kawasaki Z650 whispers agility and finesse. The lightweight frame and compact build make it easier to handle, whether you’re carving through city streets or enjoying an open stretch on the highway. The Z650 has a well-balanced design that doesn’t just look good — it feels good. With a more performance-oriented stance, it’s built for riders who like precision and control.
Harley-Davidson X500 vs Kawasaki Z650 Performance Showdown: Power vs. Precision
The Harley-Davidson X500 comes with a 471cc twin-cylinder engine that churns out around 47.5 horsepower and 45Nm of torque. It’s enough to get you through city traffic with ease and hit the highways for those weekend getaways. The power delivery is smooth but has that characteristic Harley punch, with a low-end torque that makes city rides effortless. If you’re the kind of rider who loves that thump and grunt, the X500 will give you that satisfaction.
On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z650 packs a 649cc parallel-twin engine, cranking out 67 horsepower and 64Nm of torque. It’s an absolute performer in its class. The Z650 comes alive when you twist the throttle — its power delivery is aggressive, yet it remains refined enough to be manageable. The Z650 shines in corners and tight turns thanks to its compact design, light weight, and sharp handling. The performance is more track-oriented, so if you’re the kind of rider who loves high-revving engines, the Z650 won’t disappoint.
Harley-Davidson X500 vs Kawasaki Z650 Features: Convenience Meets Technology
Both these bikes come packed with modern features designed to make your ride comfortable and thrilling.
- Harley-Davidson X500 Features: The X500 doesn’t just look good; it’s practical too. You get digital instrumentation, Bluetooth connectivity, and LED lighting that gives it a futuristic touch while retaining that classic Harley vibe. The seats are designed to keep you comfortable on long rides, and the suspension system provides a decent balance of comfort and performance.
- Kawasaki Z650 Features: The Z650 stands out with its fully digital instrument cluster, which includes everything you need to monitor your ride at a glance. It also comes with ABS, traction control, and ride modes. For those who appreciate a tech-savvy ride, the Z650 offers more advanced features in terms of rider assistance and safety, making it a smarter choice for new riders or those focused on handling.
Harley-Davidson X500 vs Kawasaki Z650 Mileage: More Miles for Your Money
When it comes to fuel efficiency, both bikes do well, but there’s a clear winner when it comes to saving at the pump.
- Harley-Davidson X500 Mileage: The X500 offers around 25-30 km/l in real-world conditions. It’s decent for daily commuting and highway trips, and with a 14-liter tank, you can expect a range that doesn’t require constant stops.
- Kawasaki Z650 Mileage: The Z650 comes in at about 20-25 km/l, slightly lower due to its larger engine, but it’s still manageable for everyday use, especially if you like pushing your limits on the highway.
Harley-Davidson X500 vs Kawasaki Z650 Price and EMI Plans: Affordable Thrills for the Masses
The Harley-Davidson X500 is expected to come in at around ₹5.50 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a premium choice in the middleweight segment, but still more affordable compared to other Harley models. This makes it an attractive option for someone looking for the Harley experience without the high-end price tag.
The Kawasaki Z650 is priced around ₹6.50 lakh (ex-showroom), which puts it in a slightly higher price bracket, but you’re paying for the performance and tech that comes with the Z650.
Harley-Davidson X500 EMI Plans for Harley-Davidson X500 (On-road ₹6.1 Lakh):
- Down Payment: ₹55,000
- Loan Amount: ₹5.55 Lakh
- Interest Rate: 9.75%
- EMI Tenure: 5 years
- Monthly EMI: ₹12,200
EMI Plans for Kawasaki Z650 (On-road ₹7 Lakh):
- Down Payment: ₹65,000
- Loan Amount: ₹6.35 Lakh
- Interest Rate: 9.75%
- EMI Tenure: 5 years
- Monthly EMI: ₹13,500
Final Verdict: The Choice is Yours
So, which one’s the better option for you? The Harley-Davidson X500 is for those who want that classic Harley look, feel, and ride, without compromising too much on budget. It’s rugged, full of attitude, and perfect for city commuting while offering enough punch for the highways.
The Kawasaki Z650 is ideal for those who crave precision, a sportier ride, and all the latest tech features. It’s slightly more expensive, but you’re getting performance that outshines most in its category.
For the middle-class rider, the X500 offers a lot of value for the price, while the Z650 offers the performance edge if you’re willing to spend a little more.
