By Dr V Palanivel 
When it comes to cruisers that combine modern style with impressive performance, the Honda Rebel 500 stands tall. A favorite among beginner and intermediate riders, this mid-weight motorcycle offers a unique mix of power, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re cruising through the city or hitting the open highway, the Rebel 500 is designed to make every ride memorable.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the Honda Rebel 500’s specs, features, performance, mileage, price in India, top speed, and much more. Let’s dive in.
Honda Rebel 500: Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Honda Rebel 500 is a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This is the same engine found in the popular CBR500R, tuned for a relaxed and torque-rich cruising experience. The motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, delivering smooth transitions through gears and ample mid-range grunt for city and highway rides.
The engine outputs 47.5 PS of power at 8,500 rpm and 43 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. It’s quick enough to thrill, yet controlled enough to remain beginner-friendly.
Mileage & Top Speed
Despite its cruiser styling and muscular appearance, the Rebel 500 delivers commendable fuel efficiency. Riders can expect a mileage of around 25-28 km/l, depending on riding conditions and style.
As for speed, the top speed of the Honda Rebel 500 is approximately 170 km/h, making it a great choice for long-distance touring without compromising performance.
Styling & Comfort
One of the major highlights of the Rebel 500 is its minimalist bobber-style design. With a low-slung stance, chopped fenders, blacked-out elements, and a sculpted fuel tank, it has a distinctive road presence. The LED lighting setup, round headlamp, and side-mounted instrument console enhance its retro-modern appeal.
Comfort is another area where the Rebel 500 excels. The low seat height of just 690 mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders. The ergonomics are relaxed, with mid-set footpegs and slightly forward handlebars ensuring a comfortable upright position for long rides.
Features & Technology
Honda has kept things simple but functional on the Rebel 500. Key features include:
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Full LED lighting (headlamp, taillamp, turn indicators)
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Assist and slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts
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Digital LCD instrument cluster with gear position indicator
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Optional accessories like saddlebags, backrest, and more for customization
While the Rebel 500 doesn’t boast the most advanced electronics, its straightforward layout is a plus for riders who appreciate simplicity and reliability.
Suspension & Braking
The bike rides on 41mm telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers at the rear, tuned for a balanced ride across city roads and highways. Braking duties are handled by a 296mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS for added safety.
The 16-inch wheels with fat tires provide ample grip and stability, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned riders.
Honda Rebel 500 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 471cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel Twin |
| Power Output | 47.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 43 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.2 Litres |
| Mileage | 25-28 km/l |
| Top Speed | ~170 km/h |
| Front Suspension | 41mm Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Dual Shock Absorbers |
| Front Brake | 296mm Disc |
| Rear Brake | 240mm Disc |
| ABS | Dual-Channel ABS |
| Seat Height | 690 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 191 kg |
Honda Rebel 500 Price in India & Launch Date
As of now, the Honda Rebel 500 is not officially launched in India, but it is highly anticipated. If brought to the Indian market, it is expected to be priced between ₹5.50 lakh to ₹6.50 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it competitively against the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and the Kawasaki Vulcan S.
Expected launch date in India: Late 2025 to early 2026, depending on market response and demand for mid-weight cruisers.
If you’re in the market for a stylish cruiser that’s approachable, powerful, and loaded with Honda reliability, the Rebel 500 is absolutely worth considering. Its smooth performance, eye-catching design, and rider-focused ergonomics make it a standout in the mid-weight cruiser segment.
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Powersports honda motorcycle cruiser rebel 500