Kawasaki Vulcan 500 vs. Harley XL883 Custom?

Question

I am a motorcycle and I want to go with one of these two bikes. Can someone please give me some information especially on the Vulcan 500? I already know a lot about the Harleys but I don't know anything about this Kawasaki. Which one would be better?

Answer 1

I'd say the 500 Vulcan, if you want this for actually riding, getting good gas mileage, that sort of thing. Still, maybe the 883 has improved, out the wazoo, since I last looked.

Service costs will eat you alive at a Harley Dealership.

Answer 2

They are both good bikes. I would buy the 883 due to the fact it will be worth more in the long run when it's time for a new bike. It will have good parts availability for a very long time. and the resale can't be beat.

Answer 3

they are both good machines. the kawi is kinda like a desktop pc. when it dies, throw it away. the harley is kinda like a small block chevy. a good solid design that keeps working and working and working. oh, and concerning resale pick-up a cycle trader and do your own comparisions.

Answer 4

i've had both.... funniest part of this is those who bash a harley for not changing their design neglect the fact that the kawi design is the same thing since 1980 as well.

both are good bikes, both are reliable, the kawi is cheaper, the harley is torquier

the harley has 1 carb and it's simple

the kawi has 2 and they are fussy

the harley will be worth 2/3 it's value at 5 years old, the kawi will be worth 1/4 it's value at 5 years old

i'd go 883 if it were me, but your budget will be your decision

Answer 5

Go for the Harley, j*p bikes are like Bic lighters, use them for awhile, then throw them away. You can do wheelies in a pick-up truck, most people out grow that stuff, some still think it's a big deal.

Answer 6

2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD

liquid cooled, 8v, vertical twin, 498cc, ( same engine as the 500 Ninja ), 5 speed chain drive, 439 lbs dry weight

50.2 @9250 measured HP @ RPM

30.9 @ 7750 measured torque @ rpm

12.81 @ 101.2, corrected quarter mile (sec @ mph )

HD XL883  S-L-O-W, Heavy, expensive, classified as a girls bike

Answer 7

Harley is a Harley

Kawasaki is NOT a Harley

I used to own the Kawasaki Vulcan 500.  I loved it. It is cheap, easy to ride, and low maintenance.  It was a beautiful bike (better than the larger Vulcan that only has pipes on the right side).  Not one negative thing I can remember (and I am harsh with remarks on cars / motorcycles I own).

But don't think you will fool anybody. It is not a Harley (which I think is a good thing).

good Luck...

Answer 8

If you have to ask, get the Kawasaki.

Answer 9

Suzuki GSXR600, def. You can do wheelies. And it has about 105 horsepower! You won't look like everyone else either!

Answer 10

How about the Vulcan 900?

Answer 11

The Vulcan is a better bike.  Its quick,  the engine is a de-tuned sportbike engine, it handles and is comfortable.

883s are designed to be traded in on a bigger Harley, but you're still stuck with a Harley.