This reviewer is the best I have found for comparison of motorbikes before one road tests them. I have bought a Honda CB300R from his comparison reviews and I have bought a Honda CB650 from his comparison reviews. I concluded that the Honda Rebel 500 was the best affordable cruiser 6 years ago for a short female based on quality and price and appearance and my opinion hasn't changed since the introduction of the ugly Kawasaki Eliminator that doesn't look like a cruiser to me or the offerings from Royal Enfield.
I grew up riding dirt bikes and then at age 58 i got a Suzuki intruder 1500. It is a recliner on two wheels but also a slug. I am looking for something that puts the fun into riding again and wondering what you would suggest I look into. Central Florida and have to cross the state to see family on highway 42 for a fun ride and 40 for a straight fast ride.
@davidcoleman6211 I would highly recommend test riding the Vulcan S. You may also enjoy the Super Meteor 650 but i would caution you that it does need you to be fairly comfortable with working on your bike. They rarely have major issues but minor pesky issues are fairly common.
@@RiderXpI am wanting to get away from the cruiser for something more sporty. Still want the comfort for the 3 hour ride but with the power to pass on the two lane roads that have moderate traffic. The Vulcan S still has the forward foot position and i like to stand up at times do to age and injuries from a life as an iron worker.
@@RiderXp Thank you for your advise. I am a UK expat living in Thailand. I have been looking at the Rebel 500 for my 5 foot (154 cm) Thai secretary. Honda have 76% of the Thai motorbike market. Nearly all Hondas under 750cc are manufactured in Thailand for the world market including the Honda Rebel.
I appreciate the way you deliver content. I owned a 2018 Himalayan for two years and had one issue that was covered under warranty. I've noticed some dealers dropping Royal Enfield after three years. If I decide to buy another and test ride the Himalayan 450, I'll ensure the dealer has a history with Royal Enfield for more than three years.
Thank you! US is a new market of Royal Enfields and they haven’t become as strong here as they are in the UK. I’m sure with time it’ll get better. And obviously, as i said, I’m in no way claiming that all RE’s are unreliable but dealer support is certainly important. Here in Florida I at least know one dealer who has been carrying RE’s for the past 3 yrs if not more. I’m not sure if they sell them a lot but I’m keen find out next time i go see them
Amazing. I have a rebel 500. Nowhere near your mileage. Do you find you have to change the chain quite often? I've done 3.5k and there's a clunking I can feel through the footpegs which seems to indicate chain/sprocket wear.
I've owned my Vulcan S for 5 years, I road a Sportster for 18 years and also own a Triumph Bonneville. The Vulcan S is my go to daily bike. Absolutely love it!
There's no such thing. Everyone has an accent. His is quite strong to me, but so would mine be to him. He does however enunciate quite clearly, but does so with an accent that is natural for him. Perhaps you have a similar accent, which might be why you think he doesn't have one. The more similar you are, the less difference you would notice.
@floridaredneck That’s a good point. Everyone has an accent. My Indian friends claim I’ve got an American accent since I moved here, my American friends agree I’m easier to understand but I have an Indian accent. So I joke that I have an Atlantic ocean accent because it’s lost somewhere between India and America. That said, I’m eternally grateful to be a part of the motorcycling community that shares mutual love and respect no matter where we’re from.
True. I did a little more research for another RE video and there are some more exciting performance improvements options out there. Video will be up this weekend.
I have a shotgun 650 in the uk. For anyone in the Uk considering getting one i will add to this review by saying the power is adequate for motorways, great in the city as it has a lot of low down torque for a 47 hp bike. The tyres are a bit squirmy in the wet, not dangerously so, but enough to give you a fright every now and then. I want to change mine asap. The exhaust note is too quiet for my liking, but sounds great with some new slip ons. The DNA air filter is a great addition in this bike. It majes a noticeable difference. So you may need to change a few things as i did, but its a great bike and a lot of fun to ride
Thanks for the kind words! Rebel 500 is a great choice, Honda reliability & ease of use is unbeatable. Please share the video with other who may enjoy it. Currently working on my next video which will be released next week, please consider subscribing and watching it.
Take a look at the Honda PC800 Pacific Coast! The bike was ahead of it's time with respect to styling. I'm a returning rider! Before I bought my Pacific Coast, I rode the sport bike king of all time, a 1976 Kawasaki KZ-900. A wonderful machine! Now, 40 years later, I'm back in the saddle again. You'll find nothing priced at the level of the Pacific Coast! Mine is a 1990 edition, almost perfect, runs perfectly, has only 26k mikes on it, and was dealer serviced! I paid an astounding $2,234 for it, last month, that's September 2024!
After 3 decades I am returning to riding. So I've been considering 3 of the bikes you reviewed, so thank you for that. Leaning towards the Vulcan S but very disappointed they didn't use LED head light and include a center stand, the latter being almost essential! Still looking at used late model CTX and the V Strom as alternatives. Thanks again!
I have the Rebel 1100. I know its more expensive than the 500, of course, but, it is still half the cost of a mid-grade Harley or Indian. and I couldn't be happier with it.
I chose the Eliminator 400(Thailand) in my market and though the Shotgun 650 looks amazing and has a slightly better riding position for my liking, I'm in love with this torque rich, surprisingly versatile bike. The engine is a real masterpiece of performance and usefulness. Short shifting and it feels like a comfy cruiser, fun to ride and enjoy the scenery. Over about 6500rpm the intake roar picks up with the rpm's and HP and by 8000-8500 you are in 'hold on' mode until redline.
I wish Kawi updated the Vulcan S with LEDs, full LCD screen, and perhaps a bit more ground clearance...something like 140mm. It'd be a perfect cruiser IMO.
The Vulcan S, although rather heavy for a newbie, can carry a passenger, once so equipped, easily down the Florida Highways. Plus since it is an older model it is easily discounted, many times down to the Eliminator price, which is barely discounted. The Honda also does not get that much discounted.
I love the Vulcan S. I think it has the best silouethe of them all (when I think of a Crusier I imagine an Indian scout bobber, Indian scout rouge or Harley Davidson Breakout). It has plenty of power, it is reliable enough, ergo fit is unparalleled across the industry, it is lightweight... I mean, I can see someone buying one as their first bike, enjoying it, geowing on it, buying a Harley or an Indian then and keeping the Vulcan for daily commute or to help someone get started. I personally will keep it around after I get to afford a Harley Breakout, just to have a daily driver, a bike to take a friend for a ride with me and to teach my kids how to ride a bike without putting them in my dream bike or anything that costs as much as a sedan and could actually have some collectors value down the road.
Yeah, I agree that the Vulcan S wins your test/review. The ergo-fit allows for shorter/taller riders. I've checked out many small to midsize cruisers recently, including the Yamaha Bolt and Honda Shadow Phantom. For me it boils down to the Phantom and the Vulcan S. Nice review!
The Phanton is a great bike as well, I have included that in the previous video I did comparing 7 or 8 cruisers. You'll enjoy watching that one as well. ua-cam.com/video/RLbbUz2Us-A/v-deo.html
Between those I agree and I used to be a Honda fan. I don't care for the wide gas tank on the Shadow. The Vulcan is like a bigger Eliminator. The Eliminator (my bike) wins over the Rebel. I'm 155# and don't need the extra power of the Vulcan and insurance is cheaper.
(4:34) Anyone notice that guy going off the road? Target fixation. The clutch cover on the Rebel is a deal-breaker. It's in the way, uncomfortable and I can't believe it left the drawing table. If there was nothing else wrong with it, it would still be a deal-breaker. The foot pegs are also too far forward, the seat's too low, the gauge cluster is too dim, but it doesn't matter. I stopped at the clutch cover. (8:44) 1500 miles is not "a couple thousand"; it's 1500. How many miles is it if you're selling it? 1500, not a couple thousand. The exhaust examples were great! When I was a new rider, there was a distinct difference between the Kawasaki Eliminator and the Vulcan 650, that being weight and power. I rode both on a Kawasaki Demo Tour, and the Vulcan was too much at the time. It was the weight I noticed most and noticed it a lot; power I can control. I settled on the Eliminator SE and have no intentions of "upgrading" it. The foot pegs are adjustable but no center stand (how stupid). I love it and I'm not changing it. I'm not trading it and I'm not selling it. I bought it to keep it and that's what I'm going to do. My car is finally paid for and I'm keeping that too; that's how I work. I don't do long trips on a bike and basically ride it around town when I don't need a car. (10:54) Strange that they would put the cover of the USB port to swing open upside down. The hinge should be on the top and should flip open from the bottom to keep water out. The way it opens now, water can collect in the open cover like a bowl and splash the USB port when you close it. It is easier to see open as it is now, but is not practical for water resistance and that should be the focus, not convenience. If it is ruined by water, it doesn't matter how easy it is to open. The SE only came in orange in 2024 at the US price of $7249. The last, lowest dealer price new I saw in my town was $5,799 in the third quarter of 2024. I made an offer of $6,800 in March and they said no. Currently in December, the advertised price is the original MSRP again, and becoming scarce. My vast and extensive price shopping experience over a year shows that September is the best month to buy a bike in Florida, based on dealers in the central west coast area by comparing and visiting about 7 different stores, some of them twice over months. The same people won't be there if you wait long enough. Doing your own scheduled service on a Kawasaki does not void the warranty. Thanks for the great comparison. This has to be the best, and I've seen quite a few!
This is one of the most thorough comment. Thanks for a review of my review. Let me respond to the points I found most interesting; I'm glad you agree with the rest of the things. Yes, I did notice the guy running offroad; he was a beginner rider. I said a 'couple thousand' miles while the ownership forum page showed 1500 because I went through several ownership forums, review videos and even spoke with a few previous owners and they all had varying numbers somewhere around that mark so I aggregated that in the interest of time instead of showing all the numbers and averaging them. In such case I usually use a conservative figure instead of an optimistic one. Thank you for sharing the very useful price shopping insights for Central & West Florida motorcycle dealership, I might try it out myself. I know that doing your own scheduled service does not void the warranty in the US, but in a lot of other countries it does. (For example in India a manufacturer can deny a warranty claim if you didn't get all your services done at the Manufacturer authorized service center). Since my videos are watched in many countries, I have to make sure I tell them to check how it works in their region. I'm glad you liked the video and appreciate your constructive feedback. Please consider sharing the video with your friend groups & help me grow the channel. Enjoy the Eliminator and ride safe. Cheers! - Faraz
@@RiderXp Thanks for your review of my review of your review, so let me review your last review. In reviewing my own review, that you reviewed, I didn't mean to sound so serious on the 1500 miles not being a couple thousand, and you being conservative is a good thing. There is humor in what I say, but it's not picked up on always. It's not you, it's me. I'm one of those who hates seeing prices like $9,999; it's $10,000; not $9,000 and change, or even something cheap at $4.95; it's $5 not $4. So we (not me) have been conditioned to think when I say my bike was $7,250 (MSRP $7249), some immediately think I got a $7,000 bike. No, it was $7250 (although I didn't pay that). I think you know I really liked your video, and I like you too. Check out this buying attempt. My Eliminator SE was a $7,250 bike was on sale at a dealership that had a Kawasaki Demo Tour. You sign up and try out their bikes and they give you a voucher for $250 cash off of a Kawasaki bike that day, over and beyond the dealer's best price. That's why it's called a cash voucher. First, you now I'm licensed, or Kawasaki wouldn't loan me a bike. Second, I'm in full riding gear, so you know I can ride a bike right off your lot. Third, I didn't drive and hour and a half just to ride a bike and I had talked to a salesman before I got there. After my rides, the salesman produced a sales proposal "discounting" the bike to $6,500 ($500 more than their online price) and deducted my $250 Kawasaki cash for a total of $6,250 (before fees). That was incorrect and still $250 more than their website price without the voucher. The advertised price was $6,000, so with my $250 voucher from Kawasaki, the price should have been $5,750, not $6,250. They were ripping me off $500 right there in front of Kawasaki. I don't argue, so I left mad as hell the whole way home. By the time I arrived home about an hour and a half later, they had changed their website price to from $5,999 to $6,999, not thinking I had a screenshot of it before they did. Why would they do that after my visit? So I wouldn't expose them maybe? My Google review and BBB complaint will show the sales proposal and the screenshot of the $6,000 price with the same date before they changed it and the $6,999 price with the same date and time stamps no further apart than the time I was traveling. Let's point that out: Pasco Powersports, Port Richie, FL. That's why I didn't buy my bike from you; You lied to me and then tried to cover it up.
@@floridaredneck That's a lot of reviewing going on ha! ha! My bad, I didn't pick on the humor. Most of my friend are rednecks and sometimes it does take a minute to get the humor but I'm getting better with time. About the pricing inconsistencies, I've noticed it's just how most dealerships are (although, changing price on the website is just next level stuff). I think they're counting on people overlooking things due to euphoria of getting themselves a new bike. They don't like when a customer makes them work for a sale either. Since moving to the US, I've purchased 3 motorcycles and I don't think I got a 'great' deal on any. The only time I was able to get a decent-ish discount was when I bought a 2021 Yamaha XSR900 in 2022. They probably gave me a discount because it was the last year's model or maybe because my wife was with me & stared him down. So next time, I'm gonna buy a bike in September and take my wife with to play good cop-bad cop with them and see how that plays out.
What a great review! I really enjoyed the exhaust sounds on the different bikes. Would be nice to see what the clocks look like for night riding though. I find my Meteor 350 clocks are way too bright and slightly hamper my vision at night. A bit like a small torch constantly shining straight at you.
He was a new rider, probably came right after MSF to the demo ride. Being unsure of line and input on curves is pretty natural for new riders. Thankfully he made it back safely.
@@RiderXpI'm a new rider. Here in Quebec/Canada you cannot drive at a demo with a learner's driving licence 🙂 I already drove 1600km with my Vulcan S650 in 2 months. 🏍️ BTW nice reviews.
@draloha296 Awesome! Unfortunately, in the US (also in India) there is no such regulation so we get to see silly things like that. I’m glad you liked the videos, please share them with your friends who may find them useful.
I sold the last Harley I will ever own last Fall. I paid $37,000 for it and it broke down four times within the first year. So I wanted to go back to an Asian built bike. The Honda Rebel was never an option for me because I think they are ugly, I hate the angle of the fuel tank and the bar behind the rider's seat. I test rode a Royal Enfiend Suoer Meteor and the ride was the harshest I have ever experienced on any two wheeled motorcycle. I think if I ran over a gnat I would have felt it. I was leaning towards the Vulcan S, but it is more expensive and you have to buy the passenger seat and passenger foot pegs as extras making the total pirce close to $10,000. Then I looked at the Eliminator with it's lower price and mid mounted foot controls. I asked the saleman at the nearest Kawasaki dealer what was the best he could do on an Eliminator SE. I bought the bike for a little over $5800 making the total cost out the door $7,000. And I LOVE it. I love the looks, the riding position with the mid foot controls and easy reach to the bars. The Eliminator is plenty quick, I'm sure it could out run any of the Harley's I've owned. And the Eliminator is one of the best cornering motorcycles I've ever owned. I am 71 years old and have owned many motorcycyclw since 1967. I did add a rear carrier from Kawasaki and a Givi 29Liter topcase so I can carry things. And coming from several V-Twins where I was use to a lower RPM at highway speeds I changed the front spocket from a 14 tooth to a 15 tooth to lower the RPM;s at highway speeds which lowered the RPM's about 500 at highway speeds. For me, I think I made the right choice because I simply LOVE the Eliminator SE. It has brought back to me why I love riding motorcycles so much...FUN. And just like when I was a kid, I can hardly wait to go for my next ride.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I currently track a Ninja 400 which is the same platform from 6 yrs ago. You can’t go wrong with that. I’m glad you’re loving it. Ride well, be safe! Cheers!
@@RiderXp I've owned many Japanese bikes, and I think Kawasakis are my favorite. They are comfortable and dependable. My wife liked my 2002 Suzuki Intruder LC 1500 the best, but that is back when we were doing a lot of motorcycle vacations. I've always enjoyed smaller bikes for their flickability and just the FUN, that a large bike cannot provide. I've owned four Harleys and they kept me out there riding, but were they ever fun.......NO. The Eliminator is the most fun I've had on a motorcycle this century. The last bike I enjoyed was a 1997 Honda VLX 600 and it couldn't come close to comparing to the fun I'm having on my Eliminator. LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!
For me, Kawasaki are best looking in this contest! Both Eliminator and Vulcan S. RE are like what you said. Also 350 looks a lot better than 650. And Rebel ain't my style at all. Even though I ride Honda all my life.(apparently not the case for Rebel1100) Too bad that Vulcan doesn't update like 10 years now. And.... I don't know why my brain keep remembering that Vulcan use 17" front.😂
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I've loved Hondas all my life but now I've been trying newer bikes. I'm with you on the missing updates, it would've been nice if they gave it a refresh beyond just 'bold new graphics'. It is a 18" front and 17" rear but handles pretty well(I remembered clearly but still double checked since you mentioned it). I am planning on videos about Royal Enfield 350s as well very soon. So stay tuned for that. Cheers!
If you want to talk about affordable cruisers for new riders, you HAVE to at least mention the RE Hunter, which is exactly that. Reviewers will say it's even more nimble and comfortable than the Meteor. It's a little underpowered at 20 hp (aircooled single cylinder) and needs fairly frequent service. But like most other things with this bike, even servicing it is easy and fun. I'm a little biased, but fans of modern retro bikes should give this one more than a little consideration.
@RiderXp great :) I'm already convinced, it's my first bike. Really glad I waited long enough that this one became an option. Haven't been using my license that I got seven years earlier. My brother and I share a passion for these type of motors. He's my ride or die.
Should I be offended that I bought my first bike last year and it was a Vulcan S? (and honestly, it was for all the same reasons. A 650 in the US is highway capable at 70+ speeds. And we aren't all 160 lbs anymore...)
Haha! No actually validated. When I lived in India I found it overkill when US content creators recommended 600s for beginners. But when I moved here and rode around on highways and interstates I realized that the sense of speed is different. A lot of people are a lot bigger and need the bike to have torque to get around. So the perception has changed. Funny story: In India a CBR650F was my third bike that I only dared to buy after about 7 yrs of riding experience and it still felt very powerful and I rode it with great respect. Cut to 2024, I was at a demo ride and out of curiosity I rode a CBR650R (newer gen of the same bike) to see how it feels on US roads. I was shocked that it felt painfully slow & unexciting. But it was a good reminder that the context changes by the region and I try my best to keep that in mind during my videos.
@@equalfps Rebel has been around as a cruiser platform for longer so parts and support would be a lot more. Finding used bikes & used parts for cheap would be a lot easier with the Rebel. Just my two cents from a practicality standpoint. Other than that both are pretty good bikes to be honest.
i have a re continental gt, had some issues at the beginning, after that no other issues. its a simple bike with simple solutions, its great but not perfect. its like a good girlfiend has some issues but nothing crazy xd
Thank you for sharing your experience. I've been researching and talking to a lot of Royal Enfield owners for my next video and everyone who has owned Royal Enfields (especially from the 80s and 90s) keeps calling it that... a temperamental girlfriend that they're madly in love with. Stay tuned for the next video coming soon. I hope to capture the right vibe about REs in the next one and be less analytical and possibly more romantic about that one.
Next Time Maybe, Think about adding anther medium size Cruiser motorcycle. Mine New owner of 2025 1st year model. The MOTO MORINI CALIBRO 700 cc 2 cylinder parallel twin water cooled , 6sd, Belt drive, abs brakes, fuel 3.9 gal ,Tires Front 140/70R18 Rear 180/70R16 # 443 wet, Best for last maybe, puts out 68 HP BEST PRICE ,,$5,999 Your Welcome..... SAFE TRAVELS JR from ohio
Thank JR! I shall indeed include more bike as i get access to more test rides. Atm though, I have a tiny channel and don’t often get the same treatment as bigger reviewers. Nevertheless, thanks for your suggestion, I appreciate it. ~Faraz
For a second there I went "Hold on a minute.. My Honda Rebel has a USB port, tachometer, and never had an option for no ABS" Then I realized that I have the Rebel 1100, not the 500 lmao
I am planning to ride the Rebel 1100 soon. Do you have any recommendations about things I should look for. (Sorry for the late response, I've been struggling with youtube notifications lately)
@nashd.2248 Rebel and Vulcan have the lowest seat height, you can choose between the two based on your preference for riding stance. Rebel has mid mounted foot controls, Vulcan has forward mounted ones. You may want to refer to the ergonomics section of the video one more time to get a sense of that.
I understand the Kawasaki is the one to go for, but in my opinion the only one that looks like a cruiser should is the Enfield. The others look like they’ve been designed by a racing bike engineer. Don’t like them at all :(
@@markjeepingful None in this group. I did make another video that includes a couple of shaft drive bikes (Boulevard & Shadow) that’s linked here: ua-cam.com/video/RLbbUz2Us-A/v-deo.html
Noise = sound = note = numerous other synonyms you could find in the English language. Usage will vary according to the life experience of the speaker and where it is spoken.
I usually say that but for some weird reason, the Vulcan S is an exception. In fact I have never liked that specific 650 Kawasaki engine but somehow Kawasaki made it work in the Vulcan, I was legit surprised how they did that.
Any recommendations. Cruiser bike that can take highway 300 miles trip? I had older Honda rebel 250 before. Im 5.4”, looking for budget easy maintain cruiser bike. Thanks
This reviewer is the best I have found for comparison of motorbikes before one road tests them.
I have bought a Honda CB300R from his comparison reviews and I have bought a Honda CB650 from his comparison reviews.
I concluded that the Honda Rebel 500 was the best affordable cruiser 6 years ago for a short female based on quality and price and appearance and my opinion hasn't changed since the introduction of the ugly Kawasaki Eliminator that doesn't look like a cruiser to me or the offerings from Royal Enfield.
Thank you sir! I truly appreciate your support!
I grew up riding dirt bikes and then at age 58 i got a Suzuki intruder 1500.
It is a recliner on two wheels but also a slug. I am looking for something that puts the fun into riding again and wondering what you would suggest I look into. Central Florida and have to cross the state to see family on highway 42 for a fun ride and 40 for a straight fast ride.
@davidcoleman6211 I would highly recommend test riding the Vulcan S. You may also enjoy the Super Meteor 650 but i would caution you that it does need you to be fairly comfortable with working on your bike. They rarely have major issues but minor pesky issues are fairly common.
@@RiderXpI am wanting to get away from the cruiser for something more sporty. Still want the comfort for the 3 hour ride but with the power to pass on the two lane roads that have moderate traffic. The Vulcan S still has the forward foot position and i like to stand up at times do to age and injuries from a life as an iron worker.
@@RiderXp Thank you for your advise. I am a UK expat living in Thailand. I have been looking at the Rebel 500 for my 5 foot (154 cm) Thai secretary. Honda have 76% of the Thai motorbike market. Nearly all Hondas under 750cc are manufactured in Thailand for the world market including the Honda Rebel.
I appreciate the way you deliver content. I owned a 2018 Himalayan for two years and had one issue that was covered under warranty.
I've noticed some dealers dropping Royal Enfield after three years. If I decide to buy another and test ride the Himalayan 450, I'll ensure the dealer has a history with Royal Enfield for more than three years.
Thank you! US is a new market of Royal Enfields and they haven’t become as strong here as they are in the UK. I’m sure with time it’ll get better. And obviously, as i said, I’m in no way claiming that all RE’s are unreliable but dealer support is certainly important. Here in Florida I at least know one dealer who has been carrying RE’s for the past 3 yrs if not more. I’m not sure if they sell them a lot but I’m keen find out next time i go see them
I have 70,000 Miles on my Rebel 500, hoping to get 100k miles by next year.
Nice! Hondas are most certainly the benchmark for reliability! More power to you man! Ride safe, go farther!
I have a 1987 gb400 with 64k as my daily ride - Honda rocks
80,000 miles on the 919. Did you experience any troubles with your 500 so far?
@@karlfonner7589 still on the stock battery, with basic motor oil.
Amazing. I have a rebel 500. Nowhere near your mileage. Do you find you have to change the chain quite often? I've done 3.5k and there's a clunking I can feel through the footpegs which seems to indicate chain/sprocket wear.
I've owned my Vulcan S for 5 years, I road a Sportster for 18 years and also own a Triumph Bonneville. The Vulcan S is my go to daily bike. Absolutely love it!
Right on!
As a non-native English speaker, I appreciate your accent-free pronunciation. U also did a good job of reviews.
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Please share it with others who may find it useful.
There's no such thing. Everyone has an accent. His is quite strong to me, but so would mine be to him. He does however enunciate quite clearly, but does so with an accent that is natural for him. Perhaps you have a similar accent, which might be why you think he doesn't have one. The more similar you are, the less difference you would notice.
@floridaredneck That’s a good point. Everyone has an accent. My Indian friends claim I’ve got an American accent since I moved here, my American friends agree I’m easier to understand but I have an Indian accent. So I joke that I have an Atlantic ocean accent because it’s lost somewhere between India and America. That said, I’m eternally grateful to be a part of the motorcycling community that shares mutual love and respect no matter where we’re from.
That Royal Enfield 650 engine with S&S is glorious. One of the best Parallell twin sound there is...
True. I did a little more research for another RE video and there are some more exciting performance improvements options out there. Video will be up this weekend.
I have a shotgun 650 in the uk. For anyone in the Uk considering getting one i will add to this review by saying the power is adequate for motorways, great in the city as it has a lot of low down torque for a 47 hp bike. The tyres are a bit squirmy in the wet, not dangerously so, but enough to give you a fright every now and then. I want to change mine asap. The exhaust note is too quiet for my liking, but sounds great with some new slip ons. The DNA air filter is a great addition in this bike. It majes a noticeable difference.
So you may need to change a few things as i did, but its a great bike and a lot of fun to ride
Thank you for sharing your ownership experience, it helps the community and also gives me a better sense beyond the test rides and research. Cheers!
Thanks for this honest, straightforward, no BS video. I bought a Rebel 500 several months ago but found your take on the other bikes very interesting.
Thanks for the kind words! Rebel 500 is a great choice, Honda reliability & ease of use is unbeatable. Please share the video with other who may enjoy it. Currently working on my next video which will be released next week, please consider subscribing and watching it.
The most thorough review series I've ever seen. Really impressive. Also, as a Vulcan S owner for my first bike I agree with your results.
Thank you for the kind words, I appreciate you. Please consider sharing the video with others and help my tiny channel grow.
You just made may day....thanx bro.
My pleasure, thanks! Please subscribe, more content coming soon.
Wow! What a great comparison. Bravo!
Thanks! I’m glad you liked it. Please share with others and help me reach more people
Another excellent video Faraz! Keep up the great work!
Thank you Julian! Please share the video with others who may find it useful. Cheers!
Mr fraz you made a very informative vlog….keep it up bro
Thank you!
Great video… This one of the best comparison videos I have seen, keep up the good work 👊 uk 🇬🇧
Thank you! please share it with others who may find it helpful. Cheers!
I love your videos very informative and you dont push one brand over another . Thank you
Thanks for your support, please help me grow the channel and share the videos with others who may like it.
Take a look at the Honda PC800 Pacific Coast! The bike was ahead of it's time with respect to styling. I'm a returning rider! Before I bought my Pacific Coast, I rode the sport bike king of all time, a 1976 Kawasaki KZ-900. A wonderful machine! Now, 40 years later, I'm back in the saddle again. You'll find nothing priced at the level of the Pacific Coast! Mine is a 1990 edition, almost perfect, runs perfectly, has only 26k mikes on it, and was dealer serviced! I paid an astounding $2,234 for it, last month, that's September 2024!
Great comparison video. The Vulcan S looks a clear winner to me.
It is my favorite among them. Thank you for the appreciation, please share the video with others and help my tiny channel grow. - Regards, Faraz
After 3 decades I am returning to riding. So I've been considering 3 of the bikes you reviewed, so thank you for that. Leaning towards the Vulcan S but very disappointed they didn't use LED head light and include a center stand, the latter being almost essential! Still looking at used late model CTX and the V Strom as alternatives. Thanks again!
I'm glad you found it helpful. Please consider sharing it with others who may find it helpful.
Thorough and enjoyable comparo! Subbed
Thank you good sir, welcome onboard. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Working on a few more that maybe of interest to you.
What an amazing comparison!
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I have the Rebel 1100. I know its more expensive than the 500, of course, but, it is still half the cost of a mid-grade Harley or Indian. and I couldn't be happier with it.
I'm glad you found a bike that works for you, happy riding!
I chose the Eliminator 400(Thailand) in my market and though the Shotgun 650 looks amazing and has a slightly better riding position for my liking, I'm in love with this torque rich, surprisingly versatile bike. The engine is a real masterpiece of performance and usefulness. Short shifting and it feels like a comfy cruiser, fun to ride and enjoy the scenery. Over about 6500rpm the intake roar picks up with the rpm's and HP and by 8000-8500 you are in 'hold on' mode until redline.
Plus the Japanese reliability! I have engine in my racebike (Ninja) and I love it
been looking to upgrade my 2012 Hyosung GV 250 for a couple of years now , excellent review , thank you ..
I'm glad you found it helpful. Good luck with your upgrade, there are a few more mid segment motorcycle comparison videos that you may enjoy watching.
I wish Kawi updated the Vulcan S with LEDs, full LCD screen, and perhaps a bit more ground clearance...something like 140mm. It'd be a perfect cruiser IMO.
I love my Vulcan S, but it'd be cool if they made a 750 or 1000 version.
Get an aftermarket full exhaust. Removing that massive underbelly exhaust tank will significantly raise ground clearance.
The Vulcan S, although rather heavy for a newbie, can carry a passenger, once so equipped, easily down the Florida Highways. Plus since it is an older model it is easily discounted, many times down to the Eliminator price, which is barely discounted. The Honda also does not get that much discounted.
I love the Vulcan S. I think it has the best silouethe of them all (when I think of a Crusier I imagine an Indian scout bobber, Indian scout rouge or Harley Davidson Breakout). It has plenty of power, it is reliable enough, ergo fit is unparalleled across the industry, it is lightweight... I mean, I can see someone buying one as their first bike, enjoying it, geowing on it, buying a Harley or an Indian then and keeping the Vulcan for daily commute or to help someone get started. I personally will keep it around after I get to afford a Harley Breakout, just to have a daily driver, a bike to take a friend for a ride with me and to teach my kids how to ride a bike without putting them in my dream bike or anything that costs as much as a sedan and could actually have some collectors value down the road.
Yeah, I agree that the Vulcan S wins your test/review. The ergo-fit allows for shorter/taller riders. I've checked out many small to midsize cruisers recently, including the Yamaha Bolt and Honda Shadow Phantom. For me it boils down to the Phantom and the Vulcan S. Nice review!
The Phanton is a great bike as well, I have included that in the previous video I did comparing 7 or 8 cruisers. You'll enjoy watching that one as well. ua-cam.com/video/RLbbUz2Us-A/v-deo.html
Between those I agree and I used to be a Honda fan. I don't care for the wide gas tank on the Shadow. The Vulcan is like a bigger Eliminator. The Eliminator (my bike) wins over the Rebel. I'm 155# and don't need the extra power of the Vulcan and insurance is cheaper.
(4:34) Anyone notice that guy going off the road? Target fixation. The clutch cover on the Rebel is a deal-breaker. It's in the way, uncomfortable and I can't believe it left the drawing table. If there was nothing else wrong with it, it would still be a deal-breaker. The foot pegs are also too far forward, the seat's too low, the gauge cluster is too dim, but it doesn't matter. I stopped at the clutch cover. (8:44) 1500 miles is not "a couple thousand"; it's 1500. How many miles is it if you're selling it? 1500, not a couple thousand. The exhaust examples were great! When I was a new rider, there was a distinct difference between the Kawasaki Eliminator and the Vulcan 650, that being weight and power. I rode both on a Kawasaki Demo Tour, and the Vulcan was too much at the time. It was the weight I noticed most and noticed it a lot; power I can control.
I settled on the Eliminator SE and have no intentions of "upgrading" it. The foot pegs are adjustable but no center stand (how stupid). I love it and I'm not changing it. I'm not trading it and I'm not selling it. I bought it to keep it and that's what I'm going to do. My car is finally paid for and I'm keeping that too; that's how I work. I don't do long trips on a bike and basically ride it around town when I don't need a car. (10:54) Strange that they would put the cover of the USB port to swing open upside down. The hinge should be on the top and should flip open from the bottom to keep water out. The way it opens now, water can collect in the open cover like a bowl and splash the USB port when you close it. It is easier to see open as it is now, but is not practical for water resistance and that should be the focus, not convenience. If it is ruined by water, it doesn't matter how easy it is to open. The SE only came in orange in 2024 at the US price of $7249.
The last, lowest dealer price new I saw in my town was $5,799 in the third quarter of 2024. I made an offer of $6,800 in March and they said no. Currently in December, the advertised price is the original MSRP again, and becoming scarce. My vast and extensive price shopping experience over a year shows that September is the best month to buy a bike in Florida, based on dealers in the central west coast area by comparing and visiting about 7 different stores, some of them twice over months. The same people won't be there if you wait long enough. Doing your own scheduled service on a Kawasaki does not void the warranty. Thanks for the great comparison. This has to be the best, and I've seen quite a few!
This is one of the most thorough comment. Thanks for a review of my review. Let me respond to the points I found most interesting; I'm glad you agree with the rest of the things. Yes, I did notice the guy running offroad; he was a beginner rider. I said a 'couple thousand' miles while the ownership forum page showed 1500 because I went through several ownership forums, review videos and even spoke with a few previous owners and they all had varying numbers somewhere around that mark so I aggregated that in the interest of time instead of showing all the numbers and averaging them. In such case I usually use a conservative figure instead of an optimistic one. Thank you for sharing the very useful price shopping insights for Central & West Florida motorcycle dealership, I might try it out myself. I know that doing your own scheduled service does not void the warranty in the US, but in a lot of other countries it does. (For example in India a manufacturer can deny a warranty claim if you didn't get all your services done at the Manufacturer authorized service center). Since my videos are watched in many countries, I have to make sure I tell them to check how it works in their region. I'm glad you liked the video and appreciate your constructive feedback. Please consider sharing the video with your friend groups & help me grow the channel. Enjoy the Eliminator and ride safe. Cheers! - Faraz
@@RiderXp Thanks for your review of my review of your review, so let me review your last review. In reviewing my own review, that you reviewed, I didn't mean to sound so serious on the 1500 miles not being a couple thousand, and you being conservative is a good thing. There is humor in what I say, but it's not picked up on always. It's not you, it's me. I'm one of those who hates seeing prices like $9,999; it's $10,000; not $9,000 and change, or even something cheap at $4.95; it's $5 not $4. So we (not me) have been conditioned to think when I say my bike was $7,250 (MSRP $7249), some immediately think I got a $7,000 bike. No, it was $7250 (although I didn't pay that). I think you know I really liked your video, and I like you too.
Check out this buying attempt. My Eliminator SE was a $7,250 bike was on sale at a dealership that had a Kawasaki Demo Tour. You sign up and try out their bikes and they give you a voucher for $250 cash off of a Kawasaki bike that day, over and beyond the dealer's best price. That's why it's called a cash voucher. First, you now I'm licensed, or Kawasaki wouldn't loan me a bike. Second, I'm in full riding gear, so you know I can ride a bike right off your lot. Third, I didn't drive and hour and a half just to ride a bike and I had talked to a salesman before I got there.
After my rides, the salesman produced a sales proposal "discounting" the bike to $6,500 ($500 more than their online price) and deducted my $250 Kawasaki cash for a total of $6,250 (before fees). That was incorrect and still $250 more than their website price without the voucher. The advertised price was $6,000, so with my $250 voucher from Kawasaki, the price should have been $5,750, not $6,250. They were ripping me off $500 right there in front of Kawasaki. I don't argue, so I left mad as hell the whole way home. By the time I arrived home about an hour and a half later, they had changed their website price to from $5,999 to $6,999, not thinking I had a screenshot of it before they did. Why would they do that after my visit? So I wouldn't expose them maybe? My Google review and BBB complaint will show the sales proposal and the screenshot of the $6,000 price with the same date before they changed it and the $6,999 price with the same date and time stamps no further apart than the time I was traveling. Let's point that out: Pasco Powersports, Port Richie, FL. That's why I didn't buy my bike from you; You lied to me and then tried to cover it up.
@@floridaredneck That's a lot of reviewing going on ha! ha! My bad, I didn't pick on the humor. Most of my friend are rednecks and sometimes it does take a minute to get the humor but I'm getting better with time. About the pricing inconsistencies, I've noticed it's just how most dealerships are (although, changing price on the website is just next level stuff). I think they're counting on people overlooking things due to euphoria of getting themselves a new bike. They don't like when a customer makes them work for a sale either. Since moving to the US, I've purchased 3 motorcycles and I don't think I got a 'great' deal on any. The only time I was able to get a decent-ish discount was when I bought a 2021 Yamaha XSR900 in 2022. They probably gave me a discount because it was the last year's model or maybe because my wife was with me & stared him down. So next time, I'm gonna buy a bike in September and take my wife with to play good cop-bad cop with them and see how that plays out.
What a great review!
I really enjoyed the exhaust sounds on the different bikes. Would be nice to see what the clocks look like for night riding though. I find my Meteor 350 clocks are way too bright and slightly hamper my vision at night. A bit like a small torch constantly shining straight at you.
Thank you! I’m glad you liked it. I am planning to make a video about a few other Royal Enfields soon. You may like it, so watch this space. Cheers!
Great reviews, thanks
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4:36 the guy went off the road 😮
Haha! yeah, he kept doing that throughout the ride lol
@@RiderXptarget fixation?
He was a new rider, probably came right after MSF to the demo ride. Being unsure of line and input on curves is pretty natural for new riders. Thankfully he made it back safely.
@@RiderXpI'm a new rider. Here in Quebec/Canada you cannot drive at a demo with a learner's driving licence 🙂
I already drove 1600km with my Vulcan S650 in 2 months. 🏍️ BTW nice reviews.
@draloha296 Awesome! Unfortunately, in the US (also in India) there is no such regulation so we get to see silly things like that. I’m glad you liked the videos, please share them with your friends who may find them useful.
Awesome analysis!
Thank you, I'm glad you liked it! Working on more videos, please consider subscribing.
I sold the last Harley I will ever own last Fall. I paid $37,000 for it and it broke down four times within the first year. So I wanted to go back to an Asian built bike. The Honda Rebel was never an option for me because I think they are ugly, I hate the angle of the fuel tank and the bar behind the rider's seat. I test rode a Royal Enfiend Suoer Meteor and the ride was the harshest I have ever experienced on any two wheeled motorcycle. I think if I ran over a gnat I would have felt it. I was leaning towards the Vulcan S, but it is more expensive and you have to buy the passenger seat and passenger foot pegs as extras making the total pirce close to $10,000.
Then I looked at the Eliminator with it's lower price and mid mounted foot controls. I asked the saleman at the nearest Kawasaki dealer what was the best he could do on an Eliminator SE. I bought the bike for a little over $5800 making the total cost out the door $7,000. And I LOVE it.
I love the looks, the riding position with the mid foot controls and easy reach to the bars. The Eliminator is plenty quick, I'm sure it could out run any of the Harley's I've owned. And the Eliminator is one of the best cornering motorcycles I've ever owned. I am 71 years old and have owned many motorcycyclw since 1967.
I did add a rear carrier from Kawasaki and a Givi 29Liter topcase so I can carry things. And coming from several V-Twins where I was use to a lower RPM at highway speeds I changed the front spocket from a 14 tooth to a 15 tooth to lower the RPM;s at highway speeds which lowered the RPM's about 500 at highway speeds.
For me, I think I made the right choice because I simply LOVE the Eliminator SE. It has brought back to me why I love riding motorcycles so much...FUN. And just like when I was a kid, I can hardly wait to go for my next ride.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I currently track a Ninja 400 which is the same platform from 6 yrs ago. You can’t go wrong with that. I’m glad you’re loving it. Ride well, be safe! Cheers!
I've got to say, this is super helpful, thanks!
@@RiderXp I've owned many Japanese bikes, and I think Kawasakis are my favorite. They are comfortable and dependable. My wife liked my 2002 Suzuki Intruder LC 1500 the best, but that is back when we were doing a lot of motorcycle vacations.
I've always enjoyed smaller bikes for their flickability and just the FUN, that a large bike cannot provide. I've owned four Harleys and they kept me out there riding, but were they ever fun.......NO. The Eliminator is the most fun I've had on a motorcycle this century. The last bike I enjoyed was a 1997 Honda VLX 600 and it couldn't come close to comparing to the fun I'm having on my Eliminator. LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!
Enjoying my Vulcan S so much I started a channel about it 🖖
The stock kawasaki exhaust sounds real good
It does!
I would like you to please make a video on the Royal Enfield Himalaya!
Working on it... , thank you for your patience. Stay tuned!
I would half all those mileages for an oil and oil filter change if you want your engine to last.
Fair enough, that’s probably why Royal Enfield and Suzuki tend to have shorter service intervals
I change the oil based on shifting feel, which is around 5k miles still lower than Honda's 8k.
For me, Kawasaki are best looking in this contest! Both Eliminator and Vulcan S. RE are like what you said. Also 350 looks a lot better than 650. And Rebel ain't my style at all. Even though I ride Honda all my life.(apparently not the case for Rebel1100)
Too bad that Vulcan doesn't update like 10 years now.
And.... I don't know why my brain keep remembering that Vulcan use 17" front.😂
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I've loved Hondas all my life but now I've been trying newer bikes. I'm with you on the missing updates, it would've been nice if they gave it a refresh beyond just 'bold new graphics'. It is a 18" front and 17" rear but handles pretty well(I remembered clearly but still double checked since you mentioned it). I am planning on videos about Royal Enfield 350s as well very soon. So stay tuned for that. Cheers!
I am liking the Eliminator , got grandkids .
It is a good bike. I just got that engine in my Ninja 400 race bike and I love it.
Great video. Thanks...
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Riding dirt bikes and Riding street, it seems 100 hp is always needed.
I think it’s personal preference. I feel like 80-100 does it for me on public street. Closed course racing is a whole another matter haha
Great job I think you’d also should mention something about Price
Thank you! I did mention all the prices in 4 countries, you may have skipped that bit.
If you want to talk about affordable cruisers for new riders, you HAVE to at least mention the RE Hunter, which is exactly that. Reviewers will say it's even more nimble and comfortable than the Meteor. It's a little underpowered at 20 hp (aircooled single cylinder) and needs fairly frequent service. But like most other things with this bike, even servicing it is easy and fun.
I'm a little biased, but fans of modern retro bikes should give this one more than a little consideration.
It is certainly on the list for the follow up video.
@RiderXp great :) I'm already convinced, it's my first bike. Really glad I waited long enough that this one became an option. Haven't been using my license that I got seven years earlier. My brother and I share a passion for these type of motors. He's my ride or die.
Should I be offended that I bought my first bike last year and it was a Vulcan S? (and honestly, it was for all the same reasons. A 650 in the US is highway capable at 70+ speeds. And we aren't all 160 lbs anymore...)
Haha! No actually validated. When I lived in India I found it overkill when US content creators recommended 600s for beginners. But when I moved here and rode around on highways and interstates I realized that the sense of speed is different. A lot of people are a lot bigger and need the bike to have torque to get around. So the perception has changed. Funny story: In India a CBR650F was my third bike that I only dared to buy after about 7 yrs of riding experience and it still felt very powerful and I rode it with great respect. Cut to 2024, I was at a demo ride and out of curiosity I rode a CBR650R (newer gen of the same bike) to see how it feels on US roads. I was shocked that it felt painfully slow & unexciting. But it was a good reminder that the context changes by the region and I try my best to keep that in mind during my videos.
i am between rebel and eliminator, so hard to decide. new driver as well. i hope i can get some comments to help me decide hehe
@@equalfps Rebel has been around as a cruiser platform for longer so parts and support would be a lot more. Finding used bikes & used parts for cheap would be a lot easier with the Rebel. Just my two cents from a practicality standpoint. Other than that both are pretty good bikes to be honest.
Honda Rebels are like Cokes: small, medium or large? Cruiser insurance can be way less than 600 sportbikes.
haha! Without all the sugar though:)
i have a re continental gt, had some issues at the beginning, after that no other issues. its a simple bike with simple solutions, its great but not perfect. its like a good girlfiend has some issues but nothing crazy xd
Thank you for sharing your experience. I've been researching and talking to a lot of Royal Enfield owners for my next video and everyone who has owned Royal Enfields (especially from the 80s and 90s) keeps calling it that... a temperamental girlfriend that they're madly in love with. Stay tuned for the next video coming soon. I hope to capture the right vibe about REs in the next one and be less analytical and possibly more romantic about that one.
Hey can you do Husqvarna svarpillion 401?
Yes I can. It is in the works, stay tuned. :)
Super meteor 650 back tyre is 150 btw (not 130)
Thanks for catching it. It's a 150/80/16.
@@RiderXpnws all g
Next Time Maybe, Think about adding anther medium size Cruiser motorcycle. Mine New owner of 2025 1st year model. The MOTO MORINI CALIBRO 700 cc 2 cylinder parallel twin water cooled , 6sd, Belt drive, abs brakes, fuel 3.9 gal ,Tires Front 140/70R18 Rear 180/70R16 # 443 wet, Best for last maybe, puts out 68 HP BEST PRICE ,,$5,999 Your Welcome..... SAFE TRAVELS JR from ohio
Thank JR! I shall indeed include more bike as i get access to more test rides. Atm though, I have a tiny channel and don’t often get the same treatment as bigger reviewers. Nevertheless, thanks for your suggestion, I appreciate it. ~Faraz
For a second there I went
"Hold on a minute.. My Honda Rebel has a USB port, tachometer, and never had an option for no ABS"
Then I realized that I have the Rebel 1100, not the 500 lmao
I am planning to ride the Rebel 1100 soon. Do you have any recommendations about things I should look for. (Sorry for the late response, I've been struggling with youtube notifications lately)
Allo countdown
Any thoughts on the moto morini calibro?
Haven’t had the opportunity to ride one yet, so no opinion just yet.
Thanks
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How about the C90 or Vulcan Vaquero
Haven't ridden them yet.
Hi mate thank you for this video. I just want your opinion. Which is better for 5'2 height, rebel, vulcan s or eliminator?
@nashd.2248 Rebel and Vulcan have the lowest seat height, you can choose between the two based on your preference for riding stance. Rebel has mid mounted foot controls, Vulcan has forward mounted ones. You may want to refer to the ergonomics section of the video one more time to get a sense of that.
@@RiderXp oh great, thanks mate! 🙏
@nashd.2248 You’re welcome! Please share the video with others who may find it helpful
@@RiderXp will do! 🫡
I understand the Kawasaki is the one to go for, but in my opinion the only one that looks like a cruiser should is the Enfield. The others look like they’ve been designed by a racing bike engineer. Don’t like them at all :(
The Super Meteor does look the part.
watch life of birch he had huge issues with his Honda rebel
Any bike have driveshaft?
@@markjeepingful None in this group. I did make another video that includes a couple of shaft drive bikes (Boulevard & Shadow) that’s linked here:
ua-cam.com/video/RLbbUz2Us-A/v-deo.html
What is in an exhaust noise?🤔
@@Wog68 Not sure what you mean.
vroom vroom
Noise = sound = note = numerous other synonyms you could find in the English language. Usage will vary according to the life experience of the speaker and where it is spoken.
180 degree parallel twin…. no thanks.
I usually say that but for some weird reason, the Vulcan S is an exception. In fact I have never liked that specific 650 Kawasaki engine but somehow Kawasaki made it work in the Vulcan, I was legit surprised how they did that.
Any recommendations. Cruiser bike that can take highway 300 miles trip? I had older Honda rebel 250 before. Im 5.4”, looking for budget easy maintain cruiser bike. Thanks
Also lightweight so can pick up if drop. Im not experienced rider
Rebel 500 is great for beginners. 300 miles isn't a big deal on any of these but I would recommend taking breaks to avoid fatigue.
Take a look at the CFMOTO 450CL-C. Nice TFT display. Low seat height cruiser. Belt drive so lower maintenance.
The Vulcan seems good when you sit on it, but boring as hell on the road, likewise with the Honda.
Interesting take. I found it quite fun to ride. I guess that's where personal preference comes into the picture.
@@RiderXp I find everything Japanese boring, there products have no soul...now the Indians yes, Italians, Brits likewise.
Boring? 😂
Yamie Noob Vibes
All of these bikes only have a single front disc. So I'll never buy any of them. Absolute crap for stopping quick when you need too.
I save you the time: Vulcan S wins all the way 🫵😎
Royal enfield are nice but more expensive.
Thanks for the 2 line summary but there is a lot more that makes the video worth watching. ha! ha!