The Kawasaki Z500 has been a solid favorite for riders who want a smooth, reliable 500cc naked bike. It runs on a 451cc twin-cylinder engine that puts out about 45 horsepower. Not bad for city rides or weekend cruising. The bike’s got decent weight, around 167 kg, and a 14-liter fuel tank — enough for decent range. Plus, it has safety features like dual ABS and a slipper clutch, which make it easier to handle.
It’s expected to hit the Indian market around April 2025, priced roughly ₹5.3 lakh. That’s a bit pricey but still popular among those who want the Kawasaki name and solid build quality.
Meet the Challenger: CFMoto 650NK
Now, here’s where things get interesting. The CFMoto 650NK is a bike from China that’s shaking things up. It has a bigger 649cc engine, pumping out over 60 horsepower, which is quite a jump from the Z500. This bike weighs a bit more — around 193 kg — but it also has a larger fuel tank (17 liters), and bigger brakes with dual discs upfront.
What’s cool is that it’s priced lower than the Z500 in India, around ₹4.29 lakh. So, you get more power, a bigger bike, and some solid features — for less money. No wonder it’s catching the attention of buyers who want bang for their buck.
The Budget-Friendly Wildcard: Xinshiji Finja 500
Then there’s the Xinshiji Finja 500, also from China. This one looks pretty sharp, borrowing styling cues from the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R — sleek and sporty. It runs on a 500cc twin engine with around 49 horsepower, so it’s right in the middle.
The best part? The price. It’s way more affordable, roughly ₹1.46 lakh. That makes it a tempting choice for riders on a budget who still want style and decent performance.
Quick Comparison: How Do They Stack Up?
| Feature | Kawasaki Z500 | CFMoto 650NK | Xinshiji Finja 500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 451cc, twin | 649cc, twin | 500cc, twin |
| Power | ~45 HP | ~61 HP | ~49 HP |
| Weight | 167 kg | 193 kg | Not specified |
| Fuel Tank | 14 liters | 17 liters | Not specified |
| Price (India) | ₹5.3 lakh | ₹4.29 lakh | ₹1.46 lakh |
What Does This Mean for Buyers?
Basically, the Kawasaki Z500 is no longer the only option for anyone wanting a mid-sized naked bike. If you want more power and features but don’t wanna spend as much, the CFMoto 650NK is worth a serious look. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget but still want something sporty and capable, the Xinshiji Finja 500 could surprise you.
Each bike has its perks — Kawasaki’s reliability and brand, CFMoto’s power and price, and Xinshiji’s style and affordability. So, it really depends on what you’re after.
