The wait is over!
Honda has officially launched the Rebel 500 in India on May 19, 2025, and it’s already turning heads across the country. With its stripped-down bobber styling, low seat height, and easy-going performance, the Rebel 500 is Honda’s answer to the growing demand for mid-size cruisers in India.
If you live in Bangalore, Chennai, or Mumbai and have been searching for a bike that looks cool, rides easy, and handles Indian roads with confidence—this one deserves a closer look.
Quick Look: Honda Rebel 500 Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin |
| Power | 47 HP @ 8,500 RPM |
| Torque | 43 Nm @ 6,000 RPM |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Seat Height | 690mm (lowest in class) |
| Weight | Approx. 191 kg |
| Brakes | Disc (Front & Rear) with Dual-Channel ABS |
| Lighting | Full LED setup |
| Display | Negative LCD digital meter |
Honda Rebel 500 On-Road Price (India)
| City | On-Road Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹5.72 lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹6.15 lakh |
| Chennai | ₹5.95 lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹6.08 lakh |
Prices may vary slightly based on RTO and insurance charges. Check with your nearest Honda BigWing showroom for accurate pricing and finance offers.
Who Is the Honda Rebel 500 Made For?
The Rebel 500 is designed for urban riders, short-statured riders, and first-time big-bike buyers looking for something easy to control yet stylish. With a low 690mm seat height and a relaxed riding triangle, it’s perfect for maneuvering through traffic in Bangalore or Chennai or cruising along Mumbai’s coastal highways.
It’s a no-nonsense cruiser that delivers refinement over aggression, making it one of the most approachable mid-size bikes available in India right now.
Rebel 500 vs Rivals: How Does It Stack Up?
| Feature | Honda Rebel 500 | RE Super Meteor 650 | Kawasaki Vulcan S | Benelli 502C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc Twin | 648cc Twin | 649cc Twin | 500cc Twin |
| Power | 47 HP | 47 HP | 60 HP | 47.5 HP |
| Weight | ~191 kg | ~241 kg | ~235 kg | ~216 kg |
| Seat Height | 690mm | 740mm | 705mm | 750mm |
| Ride Comfort | Balanced & Light | Heavy & Stable | Sporty Stretch | Urban-Ready |
| Best For | City + Weekend Rides | Touring | High-Speed Cruising | City Cruising |
Features
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Assist & Slipper Clutch – Smooth, effortless shifting
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Full LED Lights – Stylish and functional for night rides
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Low Center of Gravity – Confidence-inspiring handling
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Dual-Channel ABS – Safer braking for Indian roads
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Custom-Ready Frame – Compatible with backrests, panniers, and more
Whether you’re riding through the tech parks of Bangalore, navigating traffic in Mumbai, or planning a weekend trip out of Chennai, the Rebel 500 feels at home.
Pros & Cons of the Honda Rebel 500
Pros:
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Extremely low seat height (great for Indian riders)
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Light and easy to handle in city traffic
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Smooth, refined engine perfect for daily and weekend use
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Premium build quality from Honda
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Modern looks with classic cruiser vibes
Cons:
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No smartphone connectivity or ride modes
-
Lacks top-end power compared to Vulcan S
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Rear seat isn't great for long pillion rides
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Slightly premium pricing vs Royal Enfield
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
The Honda Rebel 500 is not about flashy power figures—it's about real-world rideability, comfort, and timeless design. It doesn’t try to out-muscle the competition; it outsmarts it with rider-focused ergonomics and usability.
For Indian riders—especially those in Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and other metro cities—this could be the perfect cruiser for navigating everyday roads with weekend-ready style.
Or better yet—book a test ride at your nearest Honda BigWing showroom and feel it for yourself.
What are your thoughts?
Would you choose the Honda Rebel 500 over the Super Meteor 650 or Vulcan S?
Is this the cruiser you’ve been waiting for?
Let us know in the comments below!
