Honda Rebel 500 Launched in India: A New Era of Urban Cruising
India’s mid-capacity motorcycle segment just got a fresh dose of style and performance with the official launch of the Honda Rebel 500. Unveiled by Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI), the Rebel 500 makes its much-anticipated debut as part of Honda’s premium BigWing lineup, aiming squarely at urban riders and touring enthusiasts alike.
With its classic cruiser design, modern tech, and a tried-and-tested parallel-twin engine, the Rebel 500 brings a much-needed option for those looking for a blend of comfort, character, and Honda reliability.
A Brief Overview: Honda Rebel 500
First introduced globally in 2017, the Rebel 500 has garnered a strong following in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The motorcycle’s stripped-down styling, low-slung stance, and accessible performance make it a popular choice among both beginners and experienced riders.
Now, with the India launch in May 2025, Honda aims to capture the attention of a growing community of cruiser enthusiasts.
Specifications of the Honda Rebel 500
Here’s a breakdown of the key specs in tabular form:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin |
| Power | 47.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 43.3 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Weight | 191 kg (kerb) |
| Seat Height | 690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.2 litres |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Dual shock |
| Front Brake | 296 mm disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm disc with ABS |
| Tyres (F/R) | 130/90-16 (F), 150/80-16 (R) |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹4.85 lakh (approx.) |
Styling & Design: Minimalistic Yet Striking
The Rebel 500 stays true to its ‘bobber’ roots with a minimalist design, blacked-out mechanicals, and a round LED headlamp that gives it a classic, vintage vibe. The fuel tank has a teardrop shape, the seat is a low-slung single unit, and the rear fender is short and stubby – all classic cruiser elements.
The bike is available in multiple color options including Matte Axis Grey, Pearl Smoky Gray, and Matte Laurel Green, catering to different rider personalities.
Performance & Ride Quality
Powered by the same 471cc parallel-twin engine found in the Honda CB500X and CBR500R, the Rebel 500 offers linear and refined performance. Its low-end torque and smooth power delivery make it perfect for city commutes as well as highway cruising.
With a low seat height of just 690 mm, the Rebel is extremely accessible for shorter riders, while its neutral riding posture and well-cushioned seat make long rides comfortable.
Features of Honda Rebel 500
Here's a list of standout features that make the Rebel 500 a compelling option:
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LED Lighting: Full-LED headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators.
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Digital LCD Display: Minimal yet informative with gear position and fuel gauge.
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Assist and Slipper Clutch: Lighter clutch pull and smoother downshifts.
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Dual-Channel ABS: Ensures safety and control during sudden braking.
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Comfort-Oriented Ergonomics: Relaxed riding triangle suitable for long distances.
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Wide Tyres: Offer better grip and a planted feel on the road.
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Customization Options: Compatible with a range of Honda accessories.
Market Positioning & Competition
The Honda Rebel 500 is part of the middleweight cruiser segment, which currently sees limited but growing competition in India. Its closest rivals include:
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Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
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Benelli 502C
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Kawasaki Vulcan S
While the Super Meteor offers more displacement at a similar price point, the Rebel brings Honda’s signature refinement and build quality to the table. The Vulcan S, with its sportier ergonomics, appeals to a slightly different subset of cruiser buyers.
Pricing & Availability
The Rebel 500 will be sold through Honda’s BigWing dealerships across major metro cities in India. Priced at approximately ₹4.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the Rebel is positioned as a premium offering, appealing to style-conscious riders who want a unique motorcycle with everyday usability.
Honda also plans to offer a range of accessories such as a windshield, saddlebags, and backrests, making the Rebel an ideal touring partner.
Final Verdict
With the Rebel 500, Honda India has brought a truly global model to Indian shores that caters to a niche but growing audience. Its blend of modern engineering, classic cruiser aesthetics, and accessible performance make it a great entry point into the world of premium mid-weight cruisers.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape machine or a daily commuter with attitude, the Honda Rebel 500 has all the makings of a cult favorite.
