In the mid-range Adventure segment in Vietnam, Honda has the CB500X 2019 which is quite popular due to its versatility, attractive design, and reasonable price (starting from 187.9 million VND). This is a direct competitor to the 2018 Versys X300 (from 169 million VND) which is also distributed by Kawasaki in Vietnam.
Honda CB500X 2019 (left) and Kawasaki Versys X300 2018 (right).
The CB500X is a perfect blend of a daily commuter and a weekend tourer. With the improvements for the 2019 model, the CB500X adopts a more pronounced Adventure style, with enhanced refinement and improved handling capabilities. The frame of the bike has been tweaked to make it more precise, helping it conquer any challenge and embodying the essence of the “X” model.
The Kawasaki Versys X300 was first introduced to the Vietnamese market in May 2017 at the Vietnam Motorcycle Show 2017 (VMCS 2017). Compared to other versions in the Versys lineup, the 2018 Versys X300 has a sleeker design. The front of the bike stands out with a single headlight and a high windscreen, along with a new trellis frame.
In terms of overall design, the 2018 Kawasaki Versys X300 has a more rugged appearance compared to the Honda CB500X 2019. This is understandable as Kawasaki designs tend to feature bold and aggressive lines, giving the bike a more menacing look. On the other hand, Honda bikes have smoother and more harmonious lines, creating a friendly feeling for riders.
The Kawasaki Versys X300 2018 features bold and powerful decorative motifs, highlighting the personal style of the bike’s owner. The Versys X300 2018 is referred to as the Touring variant (full-option) since it is equipped with two 17-liter side cases, front auxiliary lights, engine guards, handlebar guards, a charging socket for mobile devices, and a center stand.
The Honda CB500X 2019 draws inspiration from the famous Africa Twin model, with sharp lines on the side covers and radiator shrouds, giving the body a 3D effect. The seamless fuel tank and bodywork create a sense of harmony and consistency. The diamond-shaped frame is robust and lightweight, along with enhanced flexibility, providing better responsiveness to the bike when road conditions change.
The seat design of the CB500X 2019 has been streamlined at the front section near the fuel tank, providing easier maneuverability and easier foot control for the rider. The CB500X instrument panel features a full LCD screen that displays all the necessary information, including speedometer, engine speed, fuel consumption, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, and shift indicator. On the other hand, the Versys X300 is equipped with an LCD screen that displays vehicle information and a charging port for devices located next to it.
The CB500X 2019 features a replacement of the 17-inch front wheel with a 19-inch wheel in the new model, combined with a longer front suspension travel to optimize handling on complex terrains. The bike is equipped with a cast aluminum 19-inch front wheel with a 110/80-R19 off-road tire, and a 17-inch rear wheel with a 160/60-R17 tire. The ABS braking system is standard on this model.
On the other hand, the 2018 Kawasaki Versys X300 features a front suspension system with 41mm telescopic forks and a rear Uni-Trak suspension. The bike is equipped with spoked wheels measuring 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear, along with off-road tires and steel disc brakes integrated with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for both wheels.
