New Honda Rebel 500 Cruiser Launched in India at ₹5.12 Lakh: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has finally introduced the much-anticipated Honda Rebel 500 cruiser to the Indian market. Priced at ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram), this iconic middleweight cruiser brings a touch of retro appeal infused with modern technology and engineering. The launch marks a significant step in Honda’s strategy to strengthen its premium motorcycle portfolio in India. Known globally for its rugged build, laid-back riding style, and reliable performance, the Rebel 500 is set to turn heads and win hearts on Indian roads.
Bookings for the Rebel 500 are now open at select BigWing Topline dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with deliveries set to commence in June 2025. Designed for both urban cruising and long highway rides, the Rebel 500 arrives in India in a single Standard variant, finished in a stylish Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic. With its low seat height of just 690mm, relaxed ergonomics, and eye-catching aesthetics, the bike is tailor-made for riders who appreciate a blend of form and function.
What sets the Honda Rebel 500 apart is its global legacy, coupled with rider-centric features that elevate the riding experience. From its muscular design language and low-slung profile to its smooth twin-cylinder engine and advanced suspension setup, every aspect of the Rebel 500 has been engineered to deliver a refined and enjoyable cruising experience. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner stepping into the cruiser segment, this motorcycle promises to offer an unmatched combination of comfort, control, and charisma.
Honda Rebel 500 Specifications
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key specifications of the Honda Rebel 500 cruiser:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 471cc, Liquid-cooled, Parallel Twin-Cylinder |
| Maximum Power | 34 kW @ 8,500 RPM |
| Peak Torque | 43.3 Nm @ 6,000 RPM |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual |
| Fuel System | PGM-FI (Fuel Injection) |
| Exhaust | Stubby Exhaust with Deep Note |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock Absorbers |
| Front Brake | Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | Disc with ABS |
| Seat Height | 690 mm |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 191 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.2 litres |
| Tyres | 130/90-16 (Front), 150/80-16 (Rear) |
| Frame Type | Diamond Steel Frame |
| Variant | Standard Only |
| Colour Option | Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic |
| Launch Date | May 2025 (Deliveries from June 2025) |
| Ex-showroom Price (India) | ₹5.12 Lakh (Gurugram) |
Design and Styling – Classic DNA with a Bold Identity
The Honda Rebel 500 design remains true to its global roots. Its low-slung, bobber-inspired stance is characterized by a steeply raked fuel tank, wide handlebars, a round LED headlamp, and blacked-out mechanical components. This cruiser is minimalistic yet muscular in its aesthetics, offering a look that’s both timeless and urban.
The Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic paint job enhances its stealthy presence on the road, while the chopped fenders, stubby exhaust, and circular indicators stay true to the cruiser theme. The Rebel 500 stands out for those who prefer an understated yet aggressive visual appeal.
Also read: Skoda Slavia B Café Racer Concept: A Tribute to the 1899 Classic Two-Wheeler
Engine and Performance – Smooth, Strong and Refined
At the heart of the Rebel 500 lies a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine that delivers a solid 34 kW (45.6 hp) at 8,500 RPM and 43.3 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM. This liquid-cooled engine is tuned for strong low-end torque, making it ideal for relaxed city commutes and highway cruising.
Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, the power delivery is smooth and linear, especially in the mid-range. Honda has ensured that the engine is not only refined but also responsive across the rev range. The stubby exhaust with a deep note further adds to the emotional appeal of riding this motorcycle.
Comfort and Ride Quality – Cruiser Ergonomics Perfected
The low 690mm seat height makes the Rebel 500 extremely accessible to a wide range of riders, including beginners and those of shorter stature. The upright handlebars, mid-mounted footpegs, and sculpted single seat provide a natural and relaxed riding posture ideal for long rides.
The telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers ensure a comfortable and balanced ride, even over uneven Indian roads. Honda’s attention to detail in ergonomics and ride comfort makes this bike a practical cruiser for daily use and occasional touring
Technology and Features – Modern Amenities for Today’s Riders
While it embraces a classic design language, the Honda Rebel 500 doesn’t shy away from modern features:
- Full LED Lighting Setup – Headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators.
- Digital LCD Instrument Console – Minimal yet informative display with gear position indicator, clock, fuel gauge, and trip meter.
- Dual-Channel ABS – Ensures safe braking on diverse road conditions.
- Assist and Slipper Clutch – Reduces clutch effort and prevents wheel hop during aggressive downshifting.
- Wide Tyres on Alloy Wheels – Adds to the bike’s road presence and stability.
Price and Availability – A Premium Cruiser Worth the Wait
The ex-showroom price of Honda Rebel 500 in India is ₹5.12 lakh (Gurugram). It is currently available for booking through Honda’s BigWing Topline dealerships located in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Deliveries are expected to begin in June 2025.
While it comes in a single variant and single color, Honda has hinted at possible accessory packages and customization options in the near future to enhance the ownership experience.
Competitors and Market Position
In the Indian middleweight cruiser segment, the Rebel 500 will compete with:
- Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
- Benelli 502C
- Kawasaki Vulcan S
- Keeway V302C
While some of these bikes offer more features or higher displacement, the Rebel 500 stands out for its refined engine, premium build quality, and Honda’s legendary reliability. It’s also likely to attract riders who want a fuss-free, approachable cruiser with strong brand value.
Honda Rebel 500 Cruiser Launched Conclusion
With the launch of the Rebel 500, Honda has re-entered the middleweight cruiser segment in India with a strong contender that checks all the right boxes. Its timeless cruiser design, refined performance, premium fit-and-finish, and a host of modern features make it a well-rounded offering for those seeking relaxed, enjoyable rides without compromising on style or quality.
Whether you’re a weekend cruiser or a daily rider, the Rebel 500 offers a perfect balance between form and function, appealing to both experienced and first-time cruiser buyers. Its entry into the Indian market signals Honda’s commitment to expand its premium two-wheeler lineup and provide Indian riders with globally recognized motorcycles that offer performance, comfort, and reliability in one sleek package.
Honda Rebel 500 Cruiser Launched FAQs
1. What is the price of the Honda Rebel 500 in India?
The Honda Rebel 500 is priced at ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram). The on-road price may vary depending on state taxes, insurance, and registration charges.
2. When will the Honda Rebel 500 be available for delivery in India?
Deliveries for the Honda Rebel 500 will begin in June 2025. Bookings are already open at select BigWing Topline dealerships in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
3. What are the color options available for the Rebel 500 in India?
Currently, the Honda Rebel 500 is available in one color option only – Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic. More color choices may be introduced in the future.
4. How does the Rebel 500 compare with Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650?
The Rebel 500 has a slightly smaller engine but offers a smoother and more refined parallel-twin performance. While the Super Meteor 650 is more powerful and comes with more tech, the Rebel 500 wins on refinement, ease of use, and Honda’s service network reliability.
