Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki KLR 650 (I've Owned Both)

Since I published my Honda CB500X review video (   • I WISH This Had Been My First Motorcy...  ) I've gotten one question more than any other: how would you compare the Honda CB500X vs Kawasaki KLR 650. Well, I have some thoughts on the comparison for you.

Statistically, these two bikes are not that far apart. The biggest differences when talking Kawasaki KLR 650 vs Honda CB500X are probably single vs twin cylinder, suspension travel, and five vs six speed transmission. Otherwise, the KLR vs CB500X are a lot closer to one another than you might think. These two great dual sport/adventure motorcycles are the kind of bike you can buy to start on but keep for the rest of your life, and that's a rare thing in the world off off road motorcycles.

I feel like this conclusion is kind of obvious…but the CB500X is better on the road and the KLR is better when you get off of it…BUT the difference isn’t as huge as you might think.

The KLR 650 is better off road but still too heavy and floaty for serious stuff…the 500X is more of a street bike but can still take on gravel roads and beyond.

Conversely, the CB500x is smoother and easier to ride for long periods of time, but the Kawasaki KLR 650 will do 75 (I’ve proven it in a video) and beyond on the freeway. You’re just gonna arrive at your destination with numb hands.

They’re both great bikes for new riders and beyond. Both inexpensive and readily available. Both easy to work on and will last you forever.

My advice is ride both and see which “feels” right…but if you’re looking for something more definitive, here it is:
If you’ll be more than 50% on road, get the 500X. If you’ll be more than 50% off road, go with the KLR.
OR, like I always say, just get the one you can get the best deal on. You’ll be happy either way.


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