Honda Rebel 500 vs. Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 - 'The Ride' Comparison & Review

Sal and Ninja each ride the Honda Rebel 500 and the Kawasaki Vulcan S 650, compare them, and provide a review with specifications.
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[@Ludonauta]

The Vulcan S is a sporty cruiser (forward pegs, long wheelbase, stiff suspension, heavy) while the Rebel 500 is an urban bobber (mid pegs, short, light, mild power band). Each bike is perfect in its own context.

[@mcSal]

Agreed!

[@stephaniemadison5210]

Great review! I just bought a Vulcan S. It’s so hard as a beginner, shorter 5’ 4 women to know what a good beginner bike would be. I rode a rebel 300 in my MSF course and can totally appreciate the ease of the Rebel. However, I am in love with my Vulcan S! I actually bought a HD 883 first which I love also. As a beginner though, I find the Vulcan S much easier to handle. Nice job ladies!!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! You can't go wrong with the Vulcan S. (Or the Rebel 500.) The Vulcan S is very comfortable and has plenty of power. I understand why you love it! I researched the HD 883, sat on one last weekend and really liked it, but the 883 is known to be last off the line and last to a stop sign. You made a good choice. Thanks for watching, and ride safe!

[@floridaredneck]

Did you keep your Vulcan S?

[@blueroadsroll]

This is the first of three videos I had saved to my "watch later" list, and you both did a great job describing the feel of each motorcycle. I think you touched on several important things, the clutch lever pull resistance, comfort of the seat, and power delivery being what caught my attention the most. Nicely done, thank you! I may not need the other two videos now!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! I appreciate that!

[@eliasaragasi1547]

My gratitude for these ladies. Their reviews are very enlightening for me. Thanks to you both. Kudos.

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Glad you like them!

[@MarB1313]

Congratulations! I really liked your comparison, you scored very well on both the good and the bad parts. Please continue with other comparisons

[@mcSal]

Thank you!

[@bernie0905]

My problem solve im fix for the rebel 500 now. Its all because of you Sal at Decco Ranch, you made me feel brand new. You are great guys. 😍

[@mcSal]

Lol. Thank you! I hope you love your Rebel 500 as much as I have mine.

[@zoecheng2756]

I love this video! Thank you for yet another brilliant one!

[@Concionator]

Great comparison; thumbs up and greetings from the Czech Republic!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Hello from sunny California!

[@GeorgeVoukitchevitch]

This video was super helpful! I am looking at both of these bikes so this really helped me make a decision. Thank you!

[@longbeachgary]

I had a 2017 Rebel 500 which I sold to get a 2018 Vulcan S which I sold to get a 2019 Shadow 750. I missed the Rebel so I just added one (a 2019 Rebel 500) as a garage mate to the Shadow. While the Vulcan S was a nice bike for some reason I don't miss it. The Vulcan has a gear indicator, tachometer, highbeam flasher, ergo seat and handlbars - all of which the Rebel doesn't have but I prefer the Rebel.

[@mcSal]

Thank you for your comment. It's fun to see what riders like and don't like, and why. You can't go wrong with any of the bikes you chose.

[@Aramis7]

Good video! Appreciate the different perspectives. thanks

[@MichaelWTurner]

Really great comparison. I see myself getting the versys or Vulcan in the future. I know...two different styles, but not sure which suits me yet. Anyway one small suggestion for your vid. I love that you flash specs on the screen, but they disappear too quickly. I had to rewind a few times to see the info. Not a big deal. It got me watching the vid longer, so it might actually help with your retention time 😀

[@mcSal]

Thank you! I really appreciate all the feedback. I will be sure to display text longer in the future. If you do get either the Vulcan or the Versys, you know it will pack a big punch when you hit the throttle.

[@07Kimo07]

Thanks for the input ladies!

[@rhumbline3641]

Great video, really interesting to hear the different views. Many thanks. :)

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@sabrinal6103]

Thank you for your video! These are top 2 bikes in my list now and keep considering for a few days. It’s really nice to see girls feedback on these 2 bikes. As a short and slim rider maybe I’ll go for rebel first although I prefer the Vulcan style. But maybe confidence is more important as a beginner!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! I think you should at least sit on them both with a foot up on a foot peg to see which has a more comfortable seated position for you. The Rebel has mid-pegs, while the Vulcan S comes standard with forward pegs (but can be modifiable in foot pegs, handlebars and seat with Ergo Fit). The Vulcan S is more aggressive on the move than the Rebel 500. The Rebel 500 gives a smoother ride and is more confidence inspiring. Decisions, decisions!

[@Manutschki]

Tested both before I decided to go for the Vulcan. Test ride on the vulcan was horrible though - that on the rebel was a joy. However I went with the Vulcan because I thought it’s the better looking bike plus once I’d go with something as easy as the rebel i might never really „learn“ to ride anything else which is a bit harder to ride. Especially for a beginner I found that challenge important to have with a first bike. Ultimately the rebel was a bit too small as well for me and now after 4000m on my Vs I’d never change it again - now it just goes as easy as the rebel - just gotta get used to the larger bike

[@mcSal]

Thank you for a glimpse into why you chose the bike you did. It was enjoyable to read.

[@john4404]

Great video. I’m in the process of doing my bike test and was looking at the rebel and Vulcan as my bike options.

[@mcSal]

Both great options with different strengths! The Rebel is smooth and easy, and the Vulcan S is more of a muscle bike. If you're tall, you may feel cramped on the Rebel. Ride safe!

[@bikerbeliever8169]

Own the vulcan. Originally got for my wife, but it intimidates her so now looking at getting rebel for her. It seems perfect. Great style but very easy and super light from times I've sat on one. Great vid

[@mcSal]

Thank you! If you start her on the Rebel 500 (smooth, easy, light, responsive), she can work up to the Vulcan S. The Vulcan is 75 pounds heavier, and women feel that weight. Plus, the Vulcan has a lot more mass, doesn't like to go slow, and gets jerky at low rpm's (any gear). If women tend to be lighter (less aggressive) on the clutch and throttle, this jerkiness can be disconcerting. Experience will get her past all that, though. The Rebel 500 is a great first choice and a confidence builder. Six months on the Rebel 500, and she'll be ready for the extra weight, mass and shifting quirks of the Vulcan S. Ride safe!

[@helderpolonio7849]

thats a realy great and useful video...good work

[@mcSal]

Thank you!

[@karloanttila]

As a six-footer and 225 lbs, the ergo-fit was a BIG selling point. That, and others I considered (HD 883 etc.) were 2X or 3X pricier. Paid $6,900 OTD (plus TT&L) for a 2020, brand-new. Specs are virtually identical, just diff pain schemes. Put 5,000+ miles on during my first 6 months...added OEM hard saddlebags...seat (mid-range) is marginally more comfortable now but painful on 1 hr+ rides...one FAST bike...been riding since 1974...cheers! Great videos, GF!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Great comment. Harley Guy Mike also complained about the seat on the Vulcan S after a long ride. Otherwise, it's a great bike.

[@garyteague9555]

These are so helpful thanks

[@chuongnda06]

Both are well made and starter-friendly bikes. Love them all

[@mcSal]

Agreed!

[@srinathacharya25]

Very practical presentation. I am new to biking. Very helpful and practical video, liked this.

[@mcSal]

Thank you!

[@ibrahimamer4006]

thanks alot for a great Review thanks for exerted effort and Ur time

[@mcSal]

You’re welcome! Glad it was helpful.

[@robertf3397]

Great video! Really good video and commentary on both bikes. I'm looking at both of these as a first bike. I've seen many vids with the Rebel 500, and I think this is the first time I've ever been able to clearly see the instrument cluster. Every other vid is in fairly bright sunlight and the speedo/instrument cluster looks completely dark and unreadable. Maybe it's just the camera quality. But the gauges on the Vulcan are CLEARLY visible no matter the lighting conditions.

[@mcSal]

Thank you! The Rebel’s screen sometimes gets overwhelmed by the sun. That has been one of my complaints. That, and you eventually want more power. The Rebel 500 really is a nearly perfect bike for a 500. You can’t go wrong.

[@Vato-Psyko-Loko]

thank you, ladies. very informative.👍👍👍🏍🏍🏍

[@RichardRoth-xg7bh]

Thank you for this straightforward comparison of these two bikes. I enjoyed hearing what two women would say about them. I'm going for the Vulcan.

[@th3mute]

Just recently picked up my first bike and went with a Vulcan. I'm a little over 6' so the Vulcan's riding position definitely suits me better and I hope (when the weather picks up again, probably next spring - I'm in Scotland...) to get a lot of full day and weekend's away on the bike. I was originally quite tempted by the Rebel and it's a good looking bike, but when I seen my first Vulcan in the flesh, I fell in love :) (Great vids btw)

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Congratulations on your purchase! You made the right choice between the two bikes. You're tall, and taller people ride more comfortably (fit better) on the Vulcan S. And, if you use ErgoFit, the Vulcan S has two different seats to choose from. One seat is wider and sits back further (like what is on my Vulcan S for this video), and one seats you more forward for shorter riders (which went on the Vulcan S later). Plus, of course, the handlebars and pegs change out for different riding positions. Hope you can ride before spring! I'm thankful and feel fortunate that California has almost year round riding, except on the rainy, foggy or really windy days.

[@jeeroslaily7865]

Wow great reviews ladies. My vulcan s so far is still the best sport cruiser in my opinion. I'd replaced the exhaust with two single left and right HARLEY DAVIDSON Street Glides mufflers and then wala.. awesome sound, performance and a new handsome look as well 😀..

[@mcSal]

Thank you! What a great modification! Wish I could see the pictures after you put on the double pipes.

[@leandrovidal3604]

Great comparison!!! Thank you girls. For me, Vulcan is perfect. Greetings from Brazil!!!

[@mcSal]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. Hello from sunny California!

[@my2wheels]

Love the Vulcan S, it just works for my kind of riding😁

[@mcSal]

It's a great bike!

[@chris-007]

Nice video, my choice was also Honda Rebel 500 2020 in blue Color, great bike! Greetings from Germany!

[@mcSal]

Chris Krecik007 Great choice! (As you know.) Hello from California! Ride safe.

[@chris-007]

Sal at Decco Ranch Thank you ✌️

[@fourforaboy575]

I'm trying to decide between these two. I prefer the style and sound of the rebel but love the power and bulkiness of the vulcan. I'm wanting to go on long trips across the country and I think the vulcan would be best for me... But I just can't get over that awful heart headlight!

[@mcSal]

Lol. Put bags and a windshield on either one for a nice touring bike.

[@vapiddragon6789]

Think im leaning towards the rebel thanks for the vid😀

[@michellegonzalez4330]

Thank you for doing this video. I'm on the fence between these 2 bike. I like the look of the Vulcan, but the clutch is worrying me. This will be my first bike and I hope the dealership will let me ride around the parking lot before I make my final choice.

[@mcSal]

Michelle Gonzalez Thank you! There's nothing wrong with the clutch on the Vulcan. The Vulcan is like most other bikes in that respect. The Rebel's clutch is just super easy and forgiving. Both are great bikes. Whatever choice you make will be the right one for you.

[@frontdeskstaff9359]

My experience with both bikes. My friend and I are basically new riders. I have the Vulcan, he has the Rebel. We both agree that the Rebel is easier to learn on being that it's smaller, the mid controls, and a smoother throttle (Vulcan throttle is a bit twitchy). The other plus of the rebel is that since it is more narrow, it's easier to lane split. We both agree that the Rebel is probably a better choice if you just plan to commute around town and lane split in traffic, but the Vulcan is the better choice for Highways, longer distance cruising, and twisties. More power and with the ergo fit, more comfortable in my opinion.

[@_odinsson9569]

Always test ride a bike before buying it. If the dealership says you can't, find a new dealership. Never buy without a test ride/drive. Same rule for cars and bikes no matter what you buy always test it first. Only sketchy dealerships will refuse a test ride.

[@born2moto]

Super cool motorcycle. It is very suitable for modifications, and I have made many on my Vulcan S 650

[@mcSal]

Agreed. What mods have you made to your Vulcan S?

[@born2moto]

@@mcSal Hi, You can see here: kzbin.info/door/kX41CbUL5zFRxbqvYz74iA

[@PaulGuy]

I know on paper the Vulcan is the better bike, but I just can't get excited about it. And I think the Rebel would be better for my needs anyway (splitting slow traffic in Los Angeles). Good to see how it stacks next to the Vulcan though, good video.

[@mcSal]

Thank you! They're both great bikes. Can't go wrong with either one.

[@martindelrosario4676]

Awesome video! I’ll be getting my motorcycle license and hopefully a new bike in the next month or so. I’m leaning towards the rebel 500 but considering other cruisers as well.

[@mcSal]

Martin Del Rosario Thank you! The Rebel 500 is a great bike. What other cruisers are you considering?

[@martindelrosario4676]

Also considering the Yamaha bolt and the Vulcan. Definitely leaning towards the rebel 500...from what I’ve researched it’s probably the easiest bike to learn on and it seems like it’s really fun to ride.

[@mcSal]

Martin Del Rosario The Rebel is very easy to learn on. I originally looked at the Bolt, but went with the Rebel. But... each person has to get what is right for them. Good luck in your quest and ride safe!

[@Mackathne]

Definitely go sit on both and go with which you're most comfortable on. I just got a 2015 Vulcan S as my first bike pretty much straight out of the msf course. I was a bit intimidated the first time I took it out, but once I got it into traffic and really took it on a good ride and got comfortable on it, MAN DO I LOVE THIS BIKE! The power is absolutely there, but if you don't ask for it it won't give it to you if that makes sense. It really wakes up at higher RPMs. I do wish I took more time and considered other options though, I think I lucked out more than anything. Go with what's right for you in the end and good luck with everything

[@Fogbrush]

Great review - thank you. I'm trying to decide between the Vulcan and the Rebel, and leaning towards the Vulcan even though it's MUCH more expensive in Thailand (where they are both made). I've been riding forever, but want a more relaxed cruiser as I'm getting older. Also, I'm 6' tall, and how I look and feel on the bike is a factor, so your first video was really useful. I think the Rebel may be a bit cramped for my legs on longer rides, and the Vulcan looks a lot bigger than the Rebel, so I won't look like a circus bear on a child's bike?

[@mcSal]

You are correct - The Vulcan S will fit you better. You will most likely feel cramped on the Rebel 500 due to a more compressed 'rider triangle' (distance between the handlebar, seat & foot pegs). Have you looked at the Honda Rebel 1100 DCT or Manual transmission? Maybe it is cheaper in Thailand than the Kawasaki Vulcan S? The 1100 has a ton of power and torque with a comfortable cruiser riding style, but... you also may feel too cramped with the rider's triangle. You may want to sit on one to see for yourself.

[@Fogbrush]

@@mcSal Thank you - useful insights. The Vulcan price in Thailand is between the Rebel 500 and the 1100. I'll try to find an 1100 to try.... I've just had a chance to try the Rebel, and my knees felt a bit high putting a lot of weight into the seat.

[@teamlamzon2854]

very enlightening video. . . am thinking of visiting a kawasaki dealer first thing this monday . . . watching from quezon city, philippines 8:14PM september 4, 2021

[@mcSal]

The Vulcan S is a great bike. Greetings from sunny California. You’re about 15 hours ahead of us. Does that mean you’re in the future? Lol

[@teamlamzon2854]

@@mcSal you could be back to the future if you're here at my time . . . confusing??? hehehehe

[@johntheaccountant5594]

Your USA roads are in terrible condition with pot holes everywhere like the UK. For a short girl, the Honda Rebel is better because it is not so wide for the legs. I really like the large rev counter on the Vulcan compared to no rev counter on the Rebel. I do not like the handle bars on the Vulcan compared to the Rebel I prefer the mid position of the foot pegs on the Rebel as opposed to forward pegs on the Vulcan. However, I would take the Honda for the smooth gearbox and quality of build.

[@mcSal]

I love seeing what riders like and don't like about these bikes. Yes, our back rural roads are in bad shape. But they are a quick test of the suspension on each bike. Lol. More frequently traveled roads are much better maintained.

[@DJB851]

I have 'done' the sports bike thing. Now I need comfort more than speed and I think a cruiser may be the answer. (I am not quite ready for the full Goldwing experience yet!) I know Harley 'invented' the cruiser but I think others do it better - OHC, water cooled, less chrome, etc. These two are both contenders. Am I right? I was interested to note the Vulcan was more comfortable - thicker saddle and forward pegs. I know the Rebel has a 270 degree crank to 'feel' like a V twin. What does the Vulcan have - not even the Kawasaki website can tell me.

[@KalJoao]

Now that you have the Rebel 1100... do you think that's better than the Vulcan S? So hard deciding what bike to get next! Thanks for all your fun videos ladies!

[@mcSal]

The Vulcan S is a fun bike. But I like the Rebel 1100 (Manual version) much better than the Vulcan S. The 1100 has riding modes and cruise control, the Vulcan S does not. The Vulcan S has power, but the Rebel 1100 has much more power and torque. The Vulcan S has Ergo-fit, the Rebel 1100 does not.

[@floridaredneck]

I was on the fence about these two bikes, but had decided on the Vulcan S, although I haven't purchased it yet. I also told myself I'm not going to change my mind; it's nerve wracking to go back and forth. I surmise the most logical thing to do is go for the Vulcan, for the same logical reason Vulcans are famous throughout the galaxy. Thing is, I'm 64 and I don't want to replace or upgrade, and wasn't sure if I'd be happy forever with the Rebel 500. If they made a 600, well, they don't. It does make sense to go for 150cc more for relatively a reasonable price increase. I also think the instrument gauge is easier to read on a Vulcan, but I'm not sure as I have not ridden either one, but have observed that. I dislike the headlight enormously, but oh well. I am a returning rider, but you can't ride one without a license, and you can't get a license without riding one. I'm sure Spock would say, "The conundrum is a fascinating one". I'll handle that after my endorsement. Thanks for the video; I am aware of it's age and that is irrelevant. I think the differences then would be the same differences now. You have solidified my decision on the Kawasaki for the power alone. I would not use it, but it seems to reason using less of a capacity could make the engine last longer and as I said, I'm not replacing it - ever. My car is 6 years old and looks new (I'm an auto detailer); I'm not replacing it either, and I'm not changing my mind. I got all my gear first, now I just need a bike!

[@rickyl.colney7489]

Vulcan is a better choice thats is why i too am buying the New Vulcan bs6 2021.

[@mcSal]

It's a great bike. Ride safe!

[@ibrahimamer4006]

i.m really need this comparison urgently . may be I will get a one of them , but prices in Gulf area complty more and more that prices 650 may 10500 $

[@yamaharider8014]

I may pu one of the 2bikes you tested as an around town machine. I currently ride a Yamaha Super Tenere that is 600lbs wet,and is quite tall. Shorter folks have a hard time sitting/riding it. I'm 6'/32"inseam/200lbs. I had a Yamaha Vino 125scooter for around town riding, and it was fun with a top speed of 55mph. It got 80mpg too. I hope to check out both bikes soon, and would but a used bike as there are some good deals on Cycletrader.com. Ride safe Sal!👍♥️😺

[@mcSal]

Sounds great! Your Vino sounds like my little Honda Grom 125... fun! At your height, the Vulcan S is probably a better choice. It fits a taller person well. You would probably feel a bit cramped on the Rebel. The Vulcan S is strong and spunky, performs best at higher rpm's, and hugs the road really well in curves. It is also a bit stiff in the rear suspension. The Tenere is a great bike! Unfortunately, it's too tall for me. Ride safe!

[@MrHiggie16]

Hello Sal: Where did you get the saddle bags for the Rebel.

[@mcSal]

The dealer put them on, but you can find them at VikingBags.com.

[@rogelio1381]

It’s the 500 big enough for a big city hyway ?

[@jsprite123]

Honda finally added the much-missed gear indicator on the newer Rebels. They also got a much better LCD screen than when they came out in 2017.

[@mcSal]

Yes!

[@nitrorc4life1]

I'm old school getting back on a bike, gear indicator.. what's that. After a short time on any bike, you will know what gear your in.

[@jsprite123]

@@nitrorc4life1 I'm sure, but for the newbies and "new school", it helps a lot! :)

[@roberthodges296]

Hi Sal! Which would be better for a new rider? Also I'm a solid 270lbs, 5'8"

[@mcSal]

It's really about what you feel most comfortable on, but I'd guess the Vulcan. If you buy new, have the pegs, handlebars and seat set where you want them (Ergo-fit). The Vulcan's suspension is much stiffer than the Rebel's, which should work to your advantage. Just keep your wrist down so you're not as likely to hit the throttle too hard and have the Vulcan jump out too fast. It has nice, long gears. It does not perform well at low rpm's (gets jerky), so make sure to be at high rpm's when you shift to the next gear. The Vulcan does perform really well at higher rpm's regardless of gear, which will put a big smile on your face. Those are my thoughts, but you should sit on each one and see what makes you happy.

[@roberthodges296]

@@mcSal sounds great!! Thank you for your thoughtful response!!

[@kawavulcan8411]

No battle the Vulcan is the winner at the first round by KO!!

[@PaulGuy]

Only if you want a long Versys 650. I need a small, light bike to split lanes during rush hour on LA freeways, and I'm going with the Rebel. Top speed isn't important in the city. It's about the needs of the rider.

[@ravendon]

@@PaulGuy Or if you want speed, power, comfort, adventure, and everything good and fun about motorcycling.

[@shamhild]

I was wondering if Ninja felt the extra weight and size on the vulcan s problematic in any way (manuvering slow speed and even getting it up from the kick stand, at stop signs etc) Im looking for my first bike and the choices are between the rebel 500 and the vulcan s. The head says rebel and the heart says vulcan. Im guessing im about Ninjas height and weight and being able to flat foot any first bike is very important to me. I notice the seat on the vulcan is the extended reach seat so im not sure if the pegs and handlebars are also extended reach. I know you recommend going to a store and try to sit on the bike and see how u feel about it, the vulcan is nearly impossible to find in any biker stores in this part if the country. So im going for 2nd hand information.

[@mcSal]

None of us have any problem handling the Vulcan S at any speed. It is low to the ground so you can flat foot it, has good ergonomics, and is easy to stand up and easy to maneuver. Good eye catching the extended reach seat! I was given both seats with it. The seat eventually got changed out to the reduced reach seat and that was much more comfortable for us ‘vertically challenged’ folks.

[@jaywinters2483]

That easy clutch on the Honda won me.

[@Gettinghip]

I want to buy a Vulcan S for my beginner bike I don’t know if I should buy it used or new

[@mcSal]

If you can find what you want in a used bike with low miles, that is probably the way to go. But if not, then new is a good option, too.

[@chengsgroup2518]

is the Vulcan on shirt setup ? pegs seat and handlebar?

[@mcSal]

No. There are 18 Vulcan S Ergo-fit configurations. I don't know exactly which one it is on, but it is not the short setup. The shortest configuration would use mid-pegs, and this has forward pegs. I bought the bike from a man, and it only had 570 miles on it. The forward pegs, big seat and handlebar setup suggest it is configured for a bigger, taller person.

[@Leadfoot19]

Short set up doesn't use mid pegs it just brings them back 1 inch

[@sathishrao7926]

Did ‘Ducati girl’ keep saying ‘Falcon’ instead of Vulcan ? That’s what I heard and that’s what the auto generated Captions displayed every time 😄 Anyway, nice comparison from a typical end user’s perspective! More points like refinement level, braking, handling under low (city) and high (highway) speeds etc.. could have made the comparison more complete..

[@mcSal]

Sathish Rao I’m sure her accent can throw off auto captions at times, but we all know it’s a Vulcan. Something else we didn’t mention at the time is that the Vulcan doesn’t like going too slow in any gear (including first) and will start to jerk. It handles well on the freeway at 75 mph and in the city at 25-30 mph. Thank you!

[@sathishrao7926]

Sal at Decco Ranch : No issues.. Also, I own a Vulcan ( More than 10K+ Kms on it ) 😊

[@mcSal]

@@sathishrao7926 That's great! They're awesome bikes! Ride safe.

[@joonhokim79]

what is your conclusion which one is better? I am ready to buy bike. let me know please. thank you !!!

[@mcSal]

I prefer the Rebel 500 and Ninja prefers the Vulcan S 650. There is not a clear cut winner. Pretty much any height will enjoy the Vulcan S due to the ErgoFit, but tall people will probably feel cramped on the Rebel. Both are good bikes.

[@eugeniolambino7663]

Rebel 500 is the best for me.but no money to buy

[@mcSal]

Just hang in there and it will happen when the time is right.

[@ToddWg]

I had my Rebel up to 115 (full tuck)

[@mcSal]

I'm the 'safe' rider, but I'm sure some others would appreciate knowing the Rebel can go faster than 95. We had them at 74/75 mph on the freeway and they handled it very well. Was the wind helping push you? Lol

[@PaulGuy]

I know people have cleared 120 on the CB and CBR 500's, which are the same engine with slightly different torque mapping. So it's a very capable engine, just tuned for more low end in the Rebel.

[@williamrose2506]

Believe the Vulcan is is the better bang for the buck. But that's just my opinion.

[@mcSal]

I think half the people out there would agree with you. It's a great bike. The other half are Rebel 500 lovers. And that's what makes them great for comparison.

[@dougp5044]

Thanks ladies I'm a 5'7 170lb man do you think the Rebel 500 would be to small for myself and do you think it would be a bike that you grow out of to fast? Also you have a new subscriber.

[@mcSal]

Yay! Thank you! The Rebel 500 should be a good fit for you. If you are an aggressive rider that wants an aggressive bike, the Vulcan would be better. But if you want a smooth and easy ride with plenty of power to do whatever, the Rebel 500 is the better fit. That's my thought.

[@dougp5044]

@@mcSal I'm 50 so just cruising for this man. Hoping to get my permit at beginning of year then license by end of next summer. Our testing has been shut down so going to be a year behind of my plan was. Thanks again 👍

[@mcSal]

@@dougp5044 You will Love the Rebel 500! It's perfect for cruising. Wishing you much success with getting your license!

[@dougp5044]

@@mcSal thank you and will be looking forward to your next video.

[@ToddWg]

160 5'9" here, the Rebel would be perfect for you, fast, nimble, great for lane splitting.

[@chengsgroup2518]

so what's u all weight and height?

[@mcSal]

I'm 5-4 and 127 lbs. Ninja 5-1 1/2 and much slimmer than me.

[@themotorcyclemaiden9162]

I just stumbled upon this video as I was looking for reviews in comparison with the Vulcan and the Honda Shadow but instead I enjoyed the reviews on the Vulcan S and the rebel 500. I consider myself still in the new stages although this is my first real riding season. I’m currently on rebel 250, but bought a Harley Davidson sportster 883 super low and found that to be top-heavy and cumbersome and I recently sold it. I’m still on the rebel 250 and I am looking to upgrade and was leaning towards the Honda Shadow but now I am convinced that the Kawasaki Vulcan S is the bike to go with. Also I’m about 145 pounds and I’m 4’11, I’m a shorty!😝

[@mcSal]

Both the Rebel 500 (27.2" / 690 mm seat height) and the Kawasaki Vulcan S (27.8" / 706 mm seat height) would be great bikes for shorter riders, and both have great ergonomics. Another bike for you to consider... I actually rode the Indian Scout Bobber (mid-reach pegs, instead of the regular Scout's forward pegs that are too far for me to be comfortable). The Scout Bobber (25.55" / 649 mm) seat height) was a Fantastic ride!! I have bypassed the Scout before because I didn't know there was a Scout model (Bobber) that came with mid-pegs. The Indian Chief also gives a great ride, has a 26" / 660 mm seat height and amazing ergonomics! The new Indians feel so much lighter than their advertised weights due to the low center of gravity and awesome ergonomics. Definitely Not top heavy! Just increasing your selection of good bikes that may fit you. One of our group is 4'11", like you, and she can flat foot the Rebel 500.

[@themotorcyclemaiden9162]

@@mcSal thank you so much for replying, I’ve always loved the Indian Scout, maybe it’s time to check it out. I’m a little afraid of the power but I’m definitely ready for a little more power.

[@mcSal]

@@themotorcyclemaiden9162 The Scout & Scout Bobber definitely have a lot of get up and go. The Scout Bobber is easy to ride. I would suggest a test ride to see how you feel about it. Take it slow and go easy on the accelerator. Then tell me what you think!

[@dougp5044]

Sal is it true that the weight feels more like it's lower on the Rebel but it feels higher on the Vulcan S. The Vulcan feels a bit top heavy?

[@mcSal]

Yes. You definitely feel the extra 75 pounds of weight on the Vulcan because of the weight distribution. The Rebel 500's weight sits lower than the Vulcan S, which is why the Rebel 500 feels so light in comparison, regardless of the 75 pounds difference. I almost believe the Rebel 500 would stand up on its own (don't try it); the ergonomics and weight distribution are that good. The Vulcan S is a much bulkier bike in every way, with a much bigger and wider fuel tank. The Vulcan S also uses a LOT more fuel than the Rebel 500.

[@dougp5044]

@@mcSal ok thought I heard about it somewhere that's probably the reason people say the Rebel feels a little better and more secure to ride. Gives them a feel of comfort.

[@mcSal]

@@dougp5044 I agree with that. But it's really just when you're stopped (at every stop sign and stop light along the way). When you're moving, you probably won't notice.

[@harnavworld6144]

Still confused a lill bit

[@mcSal]

What do you find confusing?

[@forrestnome9521]

There is no comparison. The rebel is a kids or beginner bike.

[@albertosalvalaggio8214]

Idioma no lo de

[@mcSal]

lo siento

[@douglasradowick508]

Sal, gotta say that-as a guy, I like to hear a bike review from a lady biker perspective. Because are getting into riding motorcycles at a great pace in just the past few years, and, to to have reviews from women bikers-it gives them confidence that was not really out there before to encourage them to "go for that goal" & "reach for that dream" not letting ANY male chovanist PIG to keep you from attaining your accomplishments. Doug🏍️👍 sorry if I sound like I can't stand the way men "bad attitude" women that want to go out and show other women that you CAN get the endorsement and be all you can be! MEN "🙄🥺" no wonder you wanna "slap the stupid" out of them before it takes root in their personalities!😵

[@garyteague9555]

At my time in life lighter is better

[@_odinsson9569]

95mph? Lmfao the rebel 500 is capable of 105mph

[@_odinsson9569]

The vulcan s tops around 115mph as well. Not a huge top speed difference

[@mcSal]

Thank you for the info! I haven't pushed them past around 85 mph, so just went with the specs. Both great bikes!

[@_odinsson9569]

@@mcSal im looking into buying one of them in the next few weeks since my car broke down. Saw a video of a guy doing 105 on his rebel so that's the only reason i know lol but size amd weight of rider is also a factor im sure! The vulcan s i have also seen in a video supposedly topping out around 111-115, just couldn't see if he was down hill or not so im assuming its between 110 amd 115mph! Helpful video though! No idea which one i will buy yet hahaha the more i look the more i come to the conclusion that i will just have to go get in the saddle of both and test ride them to be sure of which to buy!

[@TranslateToEnglish]

Comparing apples to oranges.

[@mcSal]

Yes and no. They are both considered good beginner to intermediate cruisers. They have different pros and cons, but both bikes are great. Wouldn't you agree?

[@arnelbuendia1022]

Half motorcycle 500 cc nwver mind