Kawasaki Eliminator vs Honda Rebel 500– Which One Is Better in Features, Tech & Price?
In the ever-growing mid-size cruiser market, two names are stirring up serious excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts—Kawasaki Eliminator and Honda Rebel 500. Both motorcycles promise thrilling performance, head-turning style, and modern tech. But which one truly deserves a spot in your garage?
The Kawasaki Eliminator makes a strong comeback with its muscular design and new-age engine setup. On the other hand, the Honda Rebel 500, a favorite among beginner and intermediate riders, offers a balanced mix of comfort, tech, and reliability. Both cater to riders looking for city agility and long-distance cruising abilities.
If you’re confused between the two, don’t worry—we’ve broken down every essential detail from design and engine to tech, mileage, pricing, and EMI options. Let’s dive deep and find out who wins the battle of the mid-weight cruisers!
Overview Table
| Specification | Kawasaki Eliminator | Honda Rebel 500 |
| Engine | 451cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled | 471cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Max Power | 45 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 47.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 42.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | 43.3 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Curb Weight | 176 kg | 191 kg |
| Seat Height | 734 mm | 690 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 13 liters | 11.2 liters |
| Mileage (Claimed) | ~30 kmpl | ~27-28 kmpl |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹5.80 Lakh (Expected) | ₹5.72 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
| Variants | Standard | Standard, S Edition |
Why Kawasaki Eliminator Gets Love From People?
The Kawasaki Eliminator name has history. It’s not just a bike—it’s a legacy revived for today’s generation. Here’s why fans are falling in love with it again:
- Neo-retro cruiser appeal with a modern twist
- Ergonomic riding triangle—ideal for long-distance and urban commutes
- Powerful 451cc engine, based on the Ninja 400 but tuned for torque
- Lightweight chassis that enhances confidence for beginners and pros alike
- Digital instrumentation, slipper clutch, and assist features
- LED lighting setup and low-slung cruiser looks that resemble premium Harley or Indian bikes at half the price
For Indian riders craving cruiser comfort without compromising performance, the Eliminator offers the perfect blend.
Design & Style
When it comes to looks, both bikes ooze attitude, but in very different ways.
Kawasaki Eliminator:
- Long, low, and aggressive—it stays true to traditional cruiser styling.
- Round LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, and blackened mechanicals give it a stealthy, modern edge.
- Extended wheelbase and low-slung seat enhance the stretched-out stance.
- Minimalist tail design and high-mounted front fender keep things tidy yet premium.
Honda Rebel 500:
- Bobber-style design with a minimalist, custom-ready vibe.
- Blacked-out parts, fat tires, and beefy front forks scream rebellion.
- Available S Edition adds flyscreen, fork gaiters, and diamond-stitch seat—more visual aggression.
- Slightly chunkier and more compact than the Eliminator, giving it a tighter urban cruiser look.
Verdict: If you prefer a stretched-out, long-distance look—Eliminator wins. If you’re into bobber minimalism, the Rebel 500 takes the cake.
Engine & Performance
Both motorcycles pack parallel-twin engines but behave differently on the road.
Kawasaki Eliminator:
- 451cc parallel-twin, adapted from the Ninja 400.
- Produces 45 PS @ 9,000 rpm and 42.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm.
- Engine tuned for low-end torque, making it great for cruising and city overtakes.
- Liquid-cooled, high-revving, and smooth—perfect for spirited rides.
Honda Rebel 500:
- Slightly bigger 471cc parallel-twin, borrowed from the CBR500R.
- Generates 47.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm and 43.3 Nm @ 6,000 rpm.
- More linear and beginner-friendly throttle response.
- Engine is refined, torquey, and extremely low-maintenance.
Verdict: The Rebel 500 edges ahead in outright power, but the Eliminator’s Ninja DNA gives it an energetic and responsive character.
Ride & Handling
Kawasaki Eliminator:
- Built on a trellis frame, it weighs just 176 kg—making it lightest in its class.
- 41mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks offer plush, compliant ride quality.
- Excellent balance for highway cruising and urban agility.
- 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels strike a perfect balance between stability and flickability.
Honda Rebel 500:
- Slightly heavier at 191 kg, but low seat height (690mm) ensures easy ground reach.
- 41mm forks upfront and twin shocks at the rear with softer damping for comfort cruising.
- Fat tires (130mm front / 150mm rear) offer grip but reduce corner agility.
Verdict: If you want a sportier cruiser with nimble handling—Eliminator is better. For comfort-oriented cruising—Rebel 500 is your pick.
Features & Tech
Both bikes offer modern features, but let’s see who gives more bang for the buck.
Kawasaki Eliminator:
- Fully digital LCD console with gear position indicator, trip, tachometer, and fuel gauge.
- LED lighting all around.
- Assist & Slipper Clutch for smoother downshifts.
- Optional USB-C charging port.
- Smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki Rideology App (expected in India launch).
Honda Rebel 500:
- Negative LCD instrument cluster, with fuel warning, gear indicator, and trip.
- All LED lighting, including indicators.
- S Edition adds cosmetic and ergonomic add-ons.
- No smartphone connectivity or advanced riding modes.
Verdict: Kawasaki takes the tech crown with more modern and interactive features.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency plays a major role in this segment.
- Kawasaki Eliminator claims an average of 30 kmpl, thanks to its lighter frame and efficient twin-cylinder setup.
- Honda Rebel 500 returns around 27-28 kmpl, which is still respectable for a 500cc cruiser.
With a larger 13-liter fuel tank, the Eliminator also offers longer range per tank.
Verdict: Eliminator wins in both mileage and tank capacity—perfect for long rides.
Price & Variants
Kawasaki Eliminator (Expected India Launch):
- Price: ₹5.80 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Variant: Single standard variant with possible accessory bundles
Honda Rebel 500:
- Price: ₹5.72 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Variants: Standard and S Edition with aesthetic upgrades
Verdict: Honda Rebel 500 offers slightly better value in terms of base price, especially with the S Edition for those who prefer extra flair.
Downpayments & EMIs
Planning a purchase on a budget? Here’s an approximate EMI breakdown (subject to bank offers and region):
Kawasaki Eliminator:
- Downpayment: ₹75,000–₹1,00,000
- EMI: ₹12,000–₹13,000/month for 5 years
Honda Rebel 500:
- Downpayment: ₹70,000–₹90,000
- EMI: ₹11,000–₹12,500/month for 5 years
Some dealers also offer zero down payment schemes and exchange offers during festive seasons. Always check with authorized dealerships for current offers and finance options.
FAQs
Q1. Which bike is better for beginners—Kawasaki Eliminator or Honda Rebel 500?
A1. Both are beginner-friendly, but the Rebel 500’s lower seat height and smoother power delivery make it slightly better for new riders.
Q2. Does the Kawasaki Eliminator offer Bluetooth connectivity?
A2. Expected yes. Kawasaki’s Rideology App may be available during the Indian launch.
Q3. Which one is better for city riding?
A3. Kawasaki Eliminator is more agile due to lighter weight, but Rebel 500 is more stable with its fatter tires.
Q4. Which has more road presence?
A4. The Eliminator offers a longer, stretched-out design which looks more muscular and premium.
Q5. Are these bikes suitable for highway rides?
A5. Absolutely. Both bikes cruise comfortably at 100–120 kmph and are built for long journeys.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Kawasaki Eliminator and Honda Rebel 500 isn’t easy—they’re both exceptional mid-size cruisers. But your decision depends on what you prioritize as a rider.
- Choose the Kawasaki Eliminator if you love sporty performance, tech-rich features, better mileage, and a lightweight design for nimble riding.
- Pick the Honda Rebel 500 if you want classic bobber styling, low seat comfort, better brand familiarity, and a slightly lower price point.
For enthusiasts who crave agility, modernity, and power—Eliminator is the winner. But for those who appreciate comfort, legacy, and custom-style aesthetics—the Rebel 500 holds its charm.
Whichever you pick, one thing’s guaranteed—you’ll turn heads every time you ride out!
Read: Mahindra Bolero New Model Acquires New Look – Check Features, Tech, Price, EMIs & Offers!
