2025 Honda Rebel 500 Launched in India at ₹5.12 Lakh: Specs, Features & Bookings

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has officially launched its highly anticipated cruiser, the 2025 Honda Rebel 500, in the Indian market. Priced at ₹5.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram), the Rebel 500 marks Honda's latest entry into the burgeoning mid-capacity cruiser segment in the country. Bookings for the motorcycle have commenced at select Honda BigWing Topline dealerships, with deliveries slated to begin in June 2025.

The Honda Rebel 500, a globally acclaimed model, brings its distinctive 'bobber' styling and accessible performance to Indian enthusiasts. It will initially be available through Honda's premium BigWing Topline network in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Customers can also book the cruiser online via the official Honda BigWing India website.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, expressed his delight, stating, "We are delighted to introduce the globally acclaimed Rebel 500 in India. This much-anticipated cruiser motorcycle has received tremendous response across international markets, and we are confident it will appeal to Indian riders as well. The Rebel 500 is more than just a motorcycle — it's a statement of style, performance, and freedom."

Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, HMSI, added, "We are very excited to bring the Rebel 500 to Indian shores. It has been a motorcycle that riding enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for years, and it's now finally here. With its unmistakable street presence, torquey engine, and laid-back ergonomics, the Rebel 500 is perfect for riders looking for a machine that's both engaging and a unique extension of their soul."

Design and Aesthetics: Classic Bobber Meets Modern Lines

The Honda Rebel 500 stays true to its minimalist, 'bobber'-inspired design philosophy. It features a low-slung silhouette, a steeply raked 11.2-litre fuel tank, and wide handlebars, contributing to its classic cruiser appeal. The motorcycle is predominantly blacked-out, enhancing its understated yet imposing presence. For the Indian market, the Rebel 500 will be available in a single Standard variant and comes in a Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic color scheme, complete with seats for both the rider and pillion.

A key characteristic is its exceptionally low seat height of just 690mm, making it highly accessible for a wide range of riders and easy to manage in urban traffic. The bike also features full LED lighting, including a signature round headlamp, slim indicators, and an oval taillight, blending retro looks with modern technology. An inverted LCD instrument cluster provides essential ride information clearly.

Engine and Performance: Smooth Power for Cruising

At the heart of the Honda Rebel 500 lies a 471cc, liquid-cooled, 8-valve, DOHC parallel-twin engine. This is the same powerplant found in other Honda 500cc models like the NX500. Tuned for a strong bottom-end torque delivery and smooth, linear power throughout the rev range, the engine produces 34 kW (approximately 45.59 bhp or 46.2 PS) of maximum power at 8,500 RPM and 43.3 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 RPM. This powertrain is mated to a slick 6-speed gearbox, promising an engaging ride for both city commutes and highway cruising. The stubby exhaust is designed to deliver a characteristic cruiser soundtrack.

Chassis, Suspension, and Braking

The Rebel 500 is built on a robust tubular steel frame. The suspension duties are handled by conventional telescopic forks at the front and dual Showa shock absorbers at the rear. The bike rides on chunky 16-inch Dunlop tyres, with a 130/90 section at the front and a 150/80 section at the rear, contributing to its muscular stance and stable handling.

Braking is managed by a 296mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear, supported by a dual-channel ABS system for enhanced safety. The motorcycle has a kerb weight of 191 kg and a ground clearance of 125mm.

Market Positioning and Competition

The Honda Rebel 500 enters a competitive segment in the Indian market. Its primary rivals include the Kawasaki Eliminator (priced slightly higher at around ₹5.62 lakh), the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 (starting around ₹3.64 lakh), and the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 (starting around ₹3.59 lakh). Other motorcycles in a similar price bracket or category include the Keeway V302C.

Being brought in as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the Rebel 500's pricing is on the premium side compared to some locally manufactured competitors. However, Honda is banking on the Rebel's established global reputation, distinctive styling, refined engine, and the brand's renowned reliability to attract discerning buyers looking for a unique and accessible cruiser experience.

The launch of the Rebel 500 signifies Honda's intent to strengthen its premium motorcycle portfolio in India and cater to the growing community of leisure riding enthusiasts.