India’s motorcycle market got a new addition in May 2025 with Honda entering the mid-size cruiser segment. The Honda Rebel 500 was launched on May 19, 2025, for riders who want a mix of classic styling and modern technology.
Honda has positioned the Rebel 500 as a premium product and will be available only through BigWing Topline dealerships in three cities. The bike is priced at ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram) and comes in a single Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic colour.
Rebel 500 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram) |
| Engine | 471cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 46.22 PS at 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 43.3 Nm at 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Seat Height | 690 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 191 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 11.2 liters |
| Brakes | Dual-channel ABS |
| Top Speed | Approximately 153 kmph |
The Rebel 500 looks neo-retro bobber. The bike has minimal bodywork and purposeful styling. The round LED headlamp sits up front, while the exposed steel frame and subframe adds to the raw mechanicalness.
Honda has designed the bike’s ergonomics to be accessible. The 690mm seat height is for a wide range of riders, while the low-slung design and wide handlebars gives a relaxed riding position. The solo-plus-pillion seating arrangement keeps the clean lines while being practical for two-up.
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Performance and Engineering
The heart of the Rebel 500 is its 471cc parallel-twin engine that has power characteristics for both city commuting and highway touring. The motor produces 46.22 PS at 8,500 rpm and 43.3 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, with emphasis on low-end and mid-range.The liquid-cooled, DOHC setup is paired with a 6-speed transmission for smooth power delivery. Honda seems to have focused on tractable performance rather than outright sportiness, so the bike is good for relaxed cruising.
Key features:
- Fuel injection system for consistent throttle response
- Wet multiplate clutch for smooth engagement
- Dual-channel ABS as standard safety feature
- Full LED lighting
- Digital instrument cluster with basic information display
The chassis has a steel diamond frame with telescopic front forks and Showa dual shock absorbers at the rear. 296mm front disc and 240mm rear disc with ABS.
Market Position and Competition
Honda’s entry in this segment puts the Rebel 500 in direct competition with established players. The bike competes with Kawasaki Eliminator, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 and Benelli 502C.
The pricing puts it in the premium mid-capacity cruiser segment where buyers prioritize build quality, reliability and brand heritage along with styling.
Availability and Booking
Bookings for the Honda Rebel 500 are open now. The motorcycle is available at Honda’s premium BigWing Topline dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai and Bengaluru. You can also book online on the Honda BigWing India website.
Deliveries will start from June 2025, so Honda has time to stock up initial quantities and set up service support for the new model.
The Rebel 500 is Honda’s attempt to grab a pie of the growing premium motorcycle segment in India where buyers are looking for alternatives to traditional styling. With its accessible ergonomics, proven engineering and unique looks, the motorcycle is for riders who want a reliable cruiser experience without extreme ergonomics or overwhelming power.
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