Honda Rebel 500
The Honda Rebel 500 has a top speed of 160 km/h (est. — note: Honda does not officially publish top speed), produces 46 hp and weighs 191 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
The Honda Rebel 500 (CMX500) was introduced in 2017 as part of Honda's revamped Rebel lineup, designed to appeal to both new and experienced riders seeking a modern, minimalist cruiser. It shares its parallel-twin engine platform with the CB500 series, offering a balance of accessible performance and classic bobber-inspired styling. The Rebel 500 quickly became one of the best-selling entry-to-mid-level cruisers globally, praised for its low seat height, lightweight chassis, and urban versatility.
46 hp
Power
43 Nm
Torque
191 kg
Weight
160 km/h (est. — note: Honda does not officially publish top speed)
Top Speed
3.5 L/100km (approx. 28.5 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Rock-Solid Reliability
The Rebel 500 uses Honda's proven parallel-twin engine from the CB500 family, known for extremely low failure rates. Regular oil changes every 4,000 miles are virtually all it needs to run indefinitely.
Strong Resale Value
Used Rebel 500s consistently hold 70-80% of their original value after two years, outperforming most competitors in its class. High demand from new riders keeps the used market prices firm.
Watch for Stator Issues
A small number of 2017-2019 models reported stator failures that can cause charging system problems and unexpected battery drain. Always check electrical health and charging output before buying used.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original CMX450C Rebel introduced; 447cc parallel-twin, cruiser styling, low seat height.
"Honda's best gateway drug to real motorcycling."
I put about 4,000 miles on a used '86 Rebel 450 and it genuinely surprised me — that parallel twin pulls cleanly from low revs and the 690mm seat had me flat-footing at 5'7", which builds confidence fast on city streets. It's not quick, but it's honest: the power comes on predictably, the chassis forgives sloppy cornering inputs, and the whole thing feels indestructible in a way modern bikes don't. The weaknesses are real though — that top-end breathlessness above 90 km/h makes highway riding a vibrating, slightly miserable exercise, and the single front disc is adequate but no more than that. Carb jetting runs lean from the factory, and if you buy one used expect a gummed-up float bowl; it's a twenty-minute fix, but you will do it.
Pros
Cons
All-new CMX500 Rebel; 471cc parallel-twin, modern chassis, ABS option, updated styling.
Used Buyer Review
"The most competent beginner cruiser Honda has ever built."
$4,500-$6,500 usedThe Rebel 500 is one of those bikes that's hard to hate. Honda built it around the parallel-twin from the CB500 family, which means you're getting proven, bulletproof mechanicals underneath that low-slung cruiser styling. Used examples from 2017 onward have aged well — Honda's reliability reputation is fully earned here, and high-mileage bikes rarely show major issues beyond typical wear items. What surprises most people is how capable it actually is. The 471cc twin pulls cleanly through the rev range, the low seat height inspires confidence in traffic, and the chassis handles corners better than the looks suggest. It's not a speed demon, but it's genuinely fun rather than just competent. Used market pricing is sensible — previous owners rarely thrash these, and parts availability is excellent. Check for tip-over damage on the engine cases and pegs, since new riders frequently drop them. Exhaust systems and grips get swapped constantly, which can actually work in your favor if the mods are tasteful.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Honda Rebel 500 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALListen for ticking noise on first cold startup
Test battery voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V
Check for rough idle or hesitation during acceleration
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Generally reliable, minor issues on neglected examples
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Honda Rebel 500
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
Kawasaki Vulcan S
Suzuki Boulevard S40
Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
Honda Rebel 300
Compare Honda Rebel 500 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Honda Rebel 500 vs Royal Enfield Meteor 350
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Rebel 500 vs Kawasaki Vulcan S
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Rebel 500 vs Suzuki Boulevard S40
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Rebel 500 vs Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Rebel 500 vs Honda Rebel 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Honda Rebel 500? +
Cam chain tensioner rattle on cold start: Listen for ticking noise on first cold startup (moderate) | Stator failure causing charging issues: Test battery voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V (serious) | Corroded or clogged fuel injectors from ethanol: Check for rough idle or hesitation during acceleration (moderate)
Is the Honda Rebel 500 a good motorcycle? +
The most competent beginner cruiser Honda has ever built. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: New riders wanting style plus genuine capability. Avoid if: You need serious highway touring ability.
What is the horsepower of the Honda Rebel 500? +
The Honda Rebel 500 produces 46 hp @ 8,500 rpm, with 43 Nm @ 6,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 160 km/h (est. — note: Honda does not officially publish top speed).
Is the Honda Rebel 500 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Honda Rebel 500 is a reasonable choice for new riders (46 hp is manageable), weighing 191 kg. New riders wanting style plus genuine capability
Is the Honda Rebel 500 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Honda Rebel 500, notably: Stator failure causing charging issues (Test battery voltage at idle, should read 13.5-14.5V). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Honda Rebel 500 good for daily use? +
New riders wanting style plus genuine capability Fuel: 3.5 L/100km (approx. 28.5 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Honda Rebel 500? +
The Honda Rebel 500 reaches a top speed of 160 km/h (est. — note: Honda does not officially publish top speed), producing 46 hp at 191 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Honda Rebel 500? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Honda Rebel 500, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/honda/rebel-500/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
