DKW ZSW 500 vs Honda VF 500 F (1986)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the DKW ZSW 500stacks up against the Honda VF 500 F. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecDKW ZSW 500Honda VF 500 F
Model year19291986
Price
Engine494 cc497 cc
Horsepower14 hp70 hp
Weight135 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Dual disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc
Tires3.5-27 / 3.85-27 100/90-16 / 110/90-18

DKW ZSW 500 vs Honda VF 500 F — which should you buy?

Picking between the DKW ZSW 500 and the Honda VF 500 F usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the DKW ZSW 500 brings 14 hp in a 135 kg package, while the Honda VF 500 F counters with 70 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: