Honda VT 500 E vs Harley-Davidson Model X8A (1987)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda VT 500 Estacks up against the Harley-Davidson Model X8A. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda VT 500 EHarley-Davidson Model X8A
Model year19871912
Price
Engine491 cc492 cc
Horsepower50 hp
Weight118 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake
Tires100/90-18 / 120/80-18

Honda VT 500 E vs Harley-Davidson Model X8A — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda VT 500 E and the Harley-Davidson Model X8A usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda VT 500 E brings 50 hp, while the Harley-Davidson Model X8A counters with its own power figure at 118 kg.

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: