Man, the Honda Rebel 500 is like that chill cruiser pal who’s perfect for kicking back on the open road—approachable, reliable, and ready to make your first big bike experience feel effortless without the intimidation. Launched in 2017 and holding strong in 2025 with no major changes but a new Matte Black Metallic color option, it’s Honda’s entry-level cruiser for new riders, weekend explorers, or urban commuters chasing that relaxed vibe on a budget. Priced from Rs. 4.5 lakh ex-showroom (equivalent to $6,499 in the US), it’s a steal against the Kawasaki Vulcan S or Yamaha Bolt—perfect if you’re upgrading from a 300cc or jumping from a scooter, with a 471cc parallel-twin pumping 45 hp and 43 Nm for 0-100 kmph in 5.5 seconds, though the 30-35 kmpl real-world mileage might mean extra fuel stops on long hauls.
Retro-Modern Design
This cruiser’s a compact stunner—2,190 mm long, 820 mm wide, 1,090 mm tall, with a 1,490 mm wheelbase that’s nimble for city weaves or gentle curves. At 191 kg kerb and 150 mm ground clearance, it hugs tarmac but skips minor bumps okay. The 2025 keeps the bobber-inspired mash-up with a slim tank, round LED headlamp, and chopped fenders in Matte Black Metallic or Matte Gunpowder Black—updated fork boots and short fender on SE add edge. 16-inch rear and 16-inch front cast alloys with 130/90-16 and 130/90-16 tires grip steady, single-shock rear with preload adjust eats bumps—690 mm seat height welcomes shorter riders, forward controls stretch you out comfy. It’s got that minimalist stance, wide enough for presence but slim for lane splits, though the exposed frame adds raw edge.
Rider-Centric Cockpit
Hop on the solo saddle (pillion kit optional), and low bars with forward pegs feel like a laid-back throne—no numb legs after hours. The digital LCD dash pops speed, tach, fuel, gear, and trip data—no Bluetooth, but it’s simple for focused rides. USB port keeps your phone juiced, 11.2L tank tucks neat—optional backrest adds two-up fun. Low vibes let you chat over the twin’s hum, no overwhelming screens—just that cruiser feel for cafe runs or canyon carves without gadget overload.
Parallel-Twin Power Surge
The liquid-cooled 471cc DOHC parallel-twin churns 45 hp at 8,500 rpm and 43 Nm at 6,000 rpm—6-speed gearbox with slip-assist clutch shifts crisp, blasting 0-100 kmph in 5.5 seconds and topping 160 kmph. ARAI 30-35 kmpl (real-world 28-32) stretches the tank 300-350 km at Rs. 3-4/km—torquey mid-range for quick overtakes, that twin purr on throttle without shake. Telescopic forks up front (120 mm travel) and twin shocks rear (90 mm) soak bumps decently, no wallow in corners—refined for highways, minor vibes at high revs.
Safety with Cruiser Edge
Single-channel ABS pairs 296 mm front disc and 240 mm rear drum for bite in wet—no dual-channel flash, but the steel frame and wide tires grip tight. LED lights with DRLs cut night fog, side-stand cut-off saves slips—no traction control, but it’s tough for urban dings, chasing 4-star Global NCAP with its light build—solid for new riders wanting thrill without worry.
Price and Quick Snag
Base Matte Black at Rs. 4.5 lakh—on-road Delhi Rs. 5-5.5 lakh with taxes. 2017 launch (2025 color update) means stock at Honda dealers or BikeWale, with September perks: Rs. 5k-10k cashback, no-cost EMI from Rs. 9,000/month on SBI cards, or free gear. Waits 7-15 days, 3-year/unlimited km warranty, Rs. 3k-4k yearly service—resale 75% after two years if babied.
Rider Raves and Gripes
Owners love the lightness and torque—”cruiser soul for peanuts,” one Mumbai rider says—but firm seat and no quickshifter bug some. Service solid in metros, spotty in sticks, and the twin hum annoys at idle. Vs. Vulcan S’s zip or Bolt’s refinement, Rebel 500 wins on value—top if entry cruising’s your jam.
Quick Specs
2017 launch (2025 color update), Rs. 4.5 lakh, 471cc parallel-twin, 45 hp, 30-35 kmpl ARAI, single-channel ABS—one variant. Swing by for Matte Black or deals—your cruiser’s ready to roll.
