MyMoto Comparison
Honda Rebel 500 vs Kawasaki Eliminator 500: Which Should You Buy?
These are the two beginner cruisers new riders cross-shop most, and they are remarkably close: both around 450 to 500cc, both low and easy, both in the mid-$6,000s for 2026. So this is not really a price decision. It comes down to a few specific differences, lowest seat and Honda reliability on one side, lighter weight and a bit more power on the other. Here is the honest breakdown.
Photo: Chris Woodrich, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The low-seat icon. The lowest seat here at 690mm, a planted low centre of gravity, bulletproof Honda reliability, and a huge customizing scene. The default beginner cruiser, and the safest pick for shorter riders or anyone who wants zero worries.
Photo: Ohgud.kibn7ewyu2, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The peppier, lighter one. A few kilos lighter than the Rebel, a touch more power from the Ninja-derived twin, a slightly happier highway pace, and a longer, more classic cruiser stance. Adds Bluetooth too. Great if you want more go without giving up much reach.
Specs head to head
| Honda Rebel 500 | Kawasaki Eliminator 500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc parallel twin | 451cc parallel twin |
| Power | ~46 hp | ~51 hp |
| Wet weight | ~185 kg | ~176 kg |
| Seat height | 690 mm (lowest) | 735 mm |
| Price (new) | ~$6,799 | ~$6,499 base / $7,249 SE |
| Reliability | Legendary (Honda) | Excellent |
| Tech | ABS | ABS, Bluetooth |
| A2 option | A2-friendly depending on market | A2-friendly depending on market |
| Best for | Lowest seat, peace of mind | More power, lighter, highway |
Figures are catalog approximations and vary by model year and market; always verify the exact spec and price for your region.
Where the Rebel 500 wins
Seat height and reliability. At 690mm the Rebel has the lowest seat of any mainstream beginner cruiser, which lets more short riders plant both feet flat, the single biggest confidence builder for a beginner. Add Honda's legendary reliability and the largest customizing and accessory scene of any bike in this class, and it is the most worry-free, most personalizable choice. If fit and peace of mind matter most, take the Rebel.
Where the Eliminator 500 wins
Power, weight, and highway ease. The Eliminator is a few kilos lighter than the Rebel and makes a little more power from its Ninja-derived twin, so it feels slightly livelier and is a touch more comfortable holding higher speeds. The longer, lower stance gives it a more classic cruiser look, and it adds Bluetooth connectivity. If you will do more highway miles or just want a bit more go, it has the edge.
Which should you buy?
Buy the Honda Rebel 500 if you want the lowest seat (especially if you are shorter), the most bulletproof reliability, and a massive aftermarket to make the bike yours. It is the safest all-round beginner cruiser pick.
Buy the Kawasaki Eliminator 500 if you want a bit more power and a lighter bike, you will spend more time on faster roads, and the slightly taller 735mm seat is still comfortable for you. At essentially the same price, it comes down to whether you value the lowest possible seat and Honda badge, or more performance and less weight.
Still not sure which fits you?
The right call depends on your height and inseam, how much highway you will ride, and how much you care about reliability versus a bit more power. Tell the MyMoto advisor about yourself in your own words - it weighs all of that, including the regret risks most comparisons skip, asks only what matters, and builds your free personal report in a few minutes of chat.
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MyMoto is an early beta. Always verify current specs, pricing, A2 options, insurance, and local availability before buying any motorcycle. Figures are sourced from our catalog and may vary by model year and market.
See all the best beginner cruisers →
Shorter rider? Read the short-rider guide →
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Comparing sport bikes instead? Ninja 400 vs Ninja 500 →
Naked or faired? Honda CB500F vs CBR500R →
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