Honda’s Rebel 500 and Kawasaki’s Eliminator 500 are best indorsed as cruisers and they offer competitive pricing unlike any other advance in styling, modern tech, and ride intricacies of the automobile industry.
The mid-size cruiser market in India saw a fierce showdown in 2025, with the Honda Rebel 500 and Kawasaki Eliminator 500 competing for the top spot.. The two compete in different philosophies in cruiser motorcycle design, each trying to appeal to a specific type of rider in the premium motorcycle cruiser.
With the bobber style and retro looks, Rebel 500 Honda took the offset devilish route step by step. The liesurely bike is all about ease of riding and comfort which makes it an optimal vehicle for cruising veterans. At the same time, Kawasaki Eliminator 500 gives something new and aggressive styling for those who want advanced features in their cruiser.
Honda Rebel 500 – Classic
The Honda Rebel 500 is reminiscent of older cruiser models. The bike has a reclining stance which is comfortable and easy to use for both novice and veteran riders. The bike design captures the essence of American bobber style with smooth curves and low bodywork.
Honda Rebel 500 Specifications:
- Engine: 471cc parallel-twin
- Power: 45.5 horsepower
- Torque: 43.3 Nm
- Price: Rs 5.12 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Suspension: Twin rear shocks
- Brakes: 296mm front disc
- Display: Analog-digital combination cluster
- Fuel Tank Design: Retro teardrop shape
The Rebel’s engine delivers smooth power, ideal for laid-back cruising rather than hard acceleration. The motorcycle prioritizes comfort over performance, making it good for city commuting and highway touring.
Kawasaki Eliminator 500 – Modern
Kawasaki took a crack at the cruiser design with the Kawasaki Eliminator 500. The bike incorporates traditional cruiser features while blending in sportbike elements, which makes the motorcycle stand out in the market. Comparatively, the bike performs more aggressively than its Honda counterpart due to the upright riding position and more defined fuel tank.
Kawasaki Eliminator 500 Specifications:
- Engine: 451cc parallel-twin
- Power: 44 horsepower
- Torque: 42.6 Nm
- Price: Rs 5.76 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Features: Slipper clutch, preload adjustable monoshock
- Tech: Full digital LCD display with Bluetooth
- Lights: Full LED
- App: Rideology
Even with a smaller engine, the Eliminator’s performance is unmatched. Moreover, the addition of modern features, such as smartphone integration and adjustable suspension, is what distinguishes it from other cruisers.
Technology and Features Comparison
The difference in technology on these bikes version exhibits exactly who is marketed to. The Kawasaki Eliminator 500 comes with full LCD display digital connectivity and smartphone integration through the Rideology app. Riders can access navigation, call alerts, and ride data directly from the display.
The Honda Rebel 500, a more traditional bike, has a simple instrument layout. The bike caters to essential information only, and no digital distractions appealing to riders wanting a non-technological riding experience.
Performance and Riding Experience
Both bikes deliver similar performance numbers but are different in character.The Honda Rebel 500 offers a comfortable, easygoing ride with its low seat and relaxed riding position. The engine is tuned for smooth power delivery over peak performance so its perfect for cruising.
The Kawasaki Eliminator 500 has a sportier ride with a more upright posture and a tuned engine with quick response. The slipper clutch improves shift smoothness and the adjustable rear suspension allows customization of the suspension settings.
Pricing and Value Proposition
At Rs 5.12 lakh (ex-showroom), the Honda Rebel 500 is the most affordable among the two models, and cruisers priced lower than this will appeal to more users. The shimmed pricing increases access to premium cruising.
The Kawasaki Eliminator 500 comes with a price tag of Rs 5.76 lakh (ex-showroom) which is placed higher due to the added tech and features. The price difference is for the extra equipment and modern design elements.
Target Buyer Analysis
The Honda Rebel 500 delivers a true cruiser experience, free from modern complexities. First time cruiser buyers and riders who want simplicity will like the Rebel’s approach. The lower price point also makes it more affordable for budget conscious buyers.
The Kawasaki Eliminator 500 is for riders who want modern features in their cruiser without compromising on the cruising character. Tech savvy riders and those who want a more aggressive look will like the Eliminator’s modern approach.
Read more: Jawa 42 Bobber Launched: Retro Look, Modern Muscle Starting at Rs 2.09 Lakh!
FAQs
Q: Which bike is more fuel efficient between Honda Rebel 500 and Kawasaki Eliminator 500?
A: Both are similar in real world conditions, with slight variations depending on riding style and conditions. Honda Rebel 500 might have a slight edge due to its relaxed engine tuning.
Q: Is Honda Rebel 500 good for tall riders?
A: Honda Rebel 500’s low seat and forward controls might feel cramped for taller riders. Kawasaki Eliminator 500 has an upright riding position that can accommodate different rider heights better.
Q: Which bike has better resale value in Indian market?
A: Honda bikes have stronger resale value in India due to the brand’s wide service network and reliability. But both brands have good after sales support.
Q: Can these bikes do long distance touring?
A: The Kawasaki Eliminator 500 and Honda Rebel 500 share the same classification as touring bikes. When it comes to comfort during long rides the Rebel is superior compared to the Eliminator, which excels in technology for navigation and connectivity while on tours.
Q: Which bike has lower maintenance cost?
A: Honda Rebel 500 is generally lower maintenance due to simpler technology and Honda’s wide service network. Kawasaki Eliminator 500 might have slightly higher maintenance cost due to its advanced features and components.
