Honda Rebel 500 is a bike that’s made for those who dream of riding a stylish and powerful cruiser that turns heads on Indian roads. If that sounds like you, this motorcycle might already be on your wishlist. But before you take any decision, here’s the full story – the good, the bad, and everything in between.
First Impressions – Love at First Sight?
When you first look at the Honda Rebel 500, it’s hard not to fall in love. Its low-slung stance, fat tires, and minimalistic design give it that true-blue cruiser feel. It’s a bike that speaks style, class, and a bit of rebellion – exactly what today’s young riders love.
The matte finish, chunky tank, and round LED headlamp bring a modern twist to retro charm. Whether you’re riding through city traffic or parked outside a café, the Rebel 500 is definitely a showstopper.
Performance – Smooth Power That Talks
Under the hood, the Rebel 500 comes with a 471cc parallel-twin engine, borrowed from the CBR500R. It delivers 47 bhp and 43 Nm torque – enough power for highway cruising and zipping through city roads.
The engine is smooth and refined, perfect for those who want a relaxed riding experience. The gear shifts are buttery, and the low seat height (690mm) makes it super comfortable, even for shorter riders.
But Not Everything is Perfect…
Now comes the reality check.
While the Honda Rebel 500 is fun to ride, it lacks some features you might expect at this price point. There’s no TFT display, no traction control, and no ride modes – which might be a letdown for tech-savvy bikers. Also, the price in India is on the higher side. Expected to be around ₹5.5 to ₹6 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s not exactly budget-friendly. And since it’s a CBU (Completely Built Unit), spare parts and servicing may not be as easy or affordable as some local models
Who Should Buy It?
The Honda Rebel 500 is perfect for:
Riders who love style and comfort over raw performance
City cruisers who want something different from Royal Enfield or Jawa
People who ride solo and want a cool, premium-looking cruiser
Who Should Skip It?
You might want to look elsewhere if:
You’re on a tight budget
You want a tech-loaded or performance-first machine
You’re looking for easy availability of parts and service
Is Honda Rebel 500 available in India?
Yes. Honda Rebel 500 Bookings Open in India
What is the price of Honda Rebel 500 in India?
Priced at Rs. 5.12 lakh (ex-showroom )
Is Honda Rebel 500 good for new riders?
Yes, it’s a great option for beginners. The bike has a low seat height, is easy to balance, and the engine is smooth – so even if you’re new to big bikes, you’ll feel comfortable riding it.
How much mileage does Honda Rebel 500 give?
The Rebel 500 gives around 25 to 30 km per litre, depending on how and where you ride. For a 500cc bike, this is pretty decent – good enough for city rides and weekend trips.
Does Honda Rebel 500 have modern features like ABS and ride modes?
Yes, it has dual-channel ABS, which is helpful for safe braking. But it doesn’t have ride modes or traction control, so it’s more of a simple, classic cruiser rather than a high-tech bike.
Honda Rebel 500 Summary:
The Honda Rebel 500 has been officially launched in India, creating a lot of excitement among cruiser bike fans. Available through Honda’s premium BigWing dealerships, the Rebel 500 is priced competitively at ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open, and deliveries are expected to begin soon in 2025.
This cruiser comes with a reliable 471cc parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth power and torque, perfect for city rides as well as highway cruising. It features a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, and stylish LED lighting, combining classic cruiser looks with modern functionality.
With a low seat height of 690mm, the Honda Rebel 500 offers a comfortable ride for all kinds of riders. The relaxed riding posture helps reduce fatigue on longer journeys. It is available in attractive colours like Matte Black Metallic, Pearl Smoky Gray, and Pearl White to match different tastes.
While the Rebel 500 impresses with its style and comfort, it lacks some advanced features such as ride modes and traction control. Also, being a completely imported unit (CBU), the cost of servicing and spare parts may be higher.
Overall, the Honda Rebel 500 is a fantastic choice for riders who want a premium cruiser with classic design and modern reliability. It’s perfect for those who enjoy cruising in style without compromising everyday usability.