Finally, the much-awaited Honda Rebel 500 has arrived in the Indian two-wheeler market. Honda has officially launched this cruiser-style bike and unveiled all its essential features, design elements, and engine details. The launch marks a big moment for Indian riders who have been eagerly waiting for an accessible, powerful cruiser bike from Honda. Now that the Rebel 500 is available for purchase, this article explores its pricing, engine specs, design, features, and whether it’s worth considering over alternatives like the NX500 or the upcoming Rebel 300.
Also Read: Yamaha Aerox 155: Performance, Power, Features And Price In India
The Launch and Market Presence of Honda Rebel 500 in India
Honda has entered the Indian cruiser market with the Rebel 500. This model has been available in international markets for years and is now finally accessible to Indian consumers. Currently, Rebel 300 is still pending for launch, but the Rebel 500 brings along a mature, powerful package derived from Honda’s existing platforms. The engine on this machine is from the NX500, while the Rebel 300 will be based on the CB300R engine. Riders who need a mid-capacity cruiser with refined performance finally have something to look forward to.
Styling, Design, and Comfort: Built for Touring and City Roads
The Honda Rebel 500 comes with a classic cruiser design that emphasizes simplicity and comfort. It has a low seat height of 690 mm, making it easily accessible even for shorter riders. Its 191 kg kerb weight is balanced, and with its short handlebar, you get a comfortable riding triangle suitable for long-distance touring or daily city commutes. The diamond-style steel frame with powder coating adds a clean finish to the structure. While the overall aesthetic is dark and matte, Honda has added glossy elements near the engine head and fuel tank for a premium look.
In terms of seat comfort, the rider’s seat is well-padded and designed for comfort, while the pillion seat is small and less suitable for long rides. The footpegs are positioned neutrally, and the rear suspension is made up of Showa twin-shock absorbers, giving it a retro yet rugged appeal.
Engine Specifications and Performance Details
At the heart of the Honda Rebel 500 is a 471cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine that generates 46 PS of power and 43 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and comes with assist and slipper clutch technology to make gear transitions smoother.
This engine setup is tried and tested in global markets and is appreciated for its reliability, smoothness, and low vibrations. The throttle response is linear, the refinement is top-notch, and the sound profile is deep yet not overwhelming, providing a mature riding experience.
Engine & Performance Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder DOHC |
| Max Power | 46 PS |
| Max Torque | 43 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.2 Liters |
| Mileage (claimed) | 30-35 km/l |
The Rebel 500 is not only suitable for city riding but also works great on highways, thanks to its relaxed ergonomics and strong mid-range power delivery.
Suspension, Brakes, Tyres, and Ride Quality
In the front, the Rebel 500 features telescopic forks (approximately 41 mm), unlike the upside-down forks found in other premium bikes. This setup has been retained from its international counterpart and suits the cruiser geometry well. The rear suspension uses twin shock absorbers with black rings, giving it a classic yet functional aesthetic.
For braking, Honda has used Nissin calipers with a 290 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc. ABS is standard and works seamlessly across both ends. The tyres are chunky, almost like what you’d find on a superbike. The front tyre is 130/90 with 16-inch alloy wheels, while the rear is 150/80, also on a 16-inch wheel. This setup gives the bike superb road grip and an aggressive stance.
Tyres & Braking Table
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks (41mm approx.) |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorbers (Showa) |
| Front Tyre | 130/90 – 16 inch |
| Rear Tyre | 150/80 – 16 inch |
| Front Brake | 290 mm Disc with Nissin Caliper |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm Disc with Nissin Caliper |
Ride quality is plush on well-paved roads but might feel slightly firm on uneven terrain due to the shorter suspension travel. However, the overall balance and grip make it very stable and predictable.
Instrument Cluster, Switchgear, and Electronic Features
The instrument console is a compact fully digital LCD display. It includes a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, and speedometer. However, it does not offer an RPM meter. The layout is minimal but highly readable and functional.
The switchgear quality is top-tier, similar to what Honda offers in higher-end models like the CB350. On the left, you get high/low beam toggles, a pass switch, and indicators. On the right, you have the engine kill switch, hazard light switch, and electric start button.
Other thoughtful design touches include the side key slot positioning, similar to what we’ve seen in Jawa motorcycles. The handle lock is placed separately on the other side, allowing easy access.
Headlight, Taillight, and Exhaust Design
The front headlight is a round-shaped LED unit with four projectors. Two remain always on, while the upper ones function as low beam and the lower ones as high beam. This ensures bright illumination for night rides. The indicators are compact, matching the design of the CB350 series, while the taillight is a simple LED strip that glows brightly when braking.
The exhaust note is a highlight of this bike—subtle yet powerful. It has a large silencer with silver detailing, adding to its aggressive cruiser vibe. The engine starts quietly but delivers a deep thump once revved.
Pricing and Availability in India
Honda has launched the Rebel 500 at an ex-showroom price of ₹5,12,000 in Delhi. The on-road price in Delhi is around ₹5,90,000, while in Gurgaon it may go up to ₹5,92,000. With just a ₹20,000 price difference, the cost remains fairly consistent across NCR.
This pricing positions the Rebel 500 as a premium mid-capacity cruiser. If your budget is around ₹6 lakh, it is a strong contender. However, for more dedicated touring, you may also want to consider Honda’s NX500.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Honda Rebel 500?
The Honda Rebel 500 is a well-designed, powerful, and reliable cruiser that offers solid refinement and comfort. It’s suited for riders of all heights due to its low 690 mm seat height, and the engine is ideal for both city commutes and highway cruising. While the fuel tank could have been larger and the ground clearance is on the lower side (125 mm), these are compromises made for the low-slung cruiser design.
If you’re looking for a stylish, relaxed, and premium cruiser under ₹6 lakh, the Honda Rebel 500 deserves your consideration. It combines Honda’s legendary engine refinement, premium build quality, and an iconic design.
FAQs About Honda Rebel 500
Q1: What is the on-road price of Honda Rebel 500 in Delhi?
The on-road price in Delhi is approximately ₹5,90,000.
Q2: What is the engine capacity of the Honda Rebel 500?
It features a 471cc parallel-twin DOHC engine.
Q3: Is the Rebel 500 suitable for short riders?
Yes, with a seat height of 690 mm, it’s suitable for riders as short as 5 feet.
Q4: What kind of mileage does Rebel 500 deliver?
You can expect around 30–35 km/l under normal riding conditions.
Q5: Is the Rebel 500 good for long rides?
Yes, the riding position, engine refinement, and stability make it ideal for touring.
