The 2025 Honda Rebel 500 is that timeless, beginner-friendly cruiser that’s blending retro bobber style with smooth parallel-twin power, making it a top pick for new riders and casual cruisers worldwide who want effortless torque, low maintenance, and Honda’s legendary reliability. Priced between $6,499 and $6,999 (MSRP), it’s an affordable entry into the mid-size cruiser world for those seeking up to 45 mpg fuel economy and features like ABS on select trims. It competes with the Kawasaki Eliminator, Yamaha Bolt, and Indian Scout Sixty, offering a 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, LED lighting, and updates like a new seat, bars, and rear suspension for enhanced comfort. Launched for 2025, it’s available at Honda dealers with promotions like $500 savings.
Compact and Contemporary Design
The Rebel 500 2025 nails the bobber aesthetic with a blacked-out look, round LED headlamp, and minimalist body that echoes the original Shadow’s charm. It’s a middleweight cruiser at 94.9 inches long, 32.7 inches wide, and 44.7 inches high, with a 64.6-inch wheelbase for stable cruising. Weighing 573 pounds, it boasts 5.1 inches of ground clearance and tubeless tires on 16-inch cast wheels (120/80 front, 150/80 rear). Available in fresh colors like Matte Black Metallic, Pearl Hawkseye Blue, and Pearl Beige, with a solo seat at 25.8 inches height—under-seat storage fits a small toolkit, and the 3.7-gallon tank is ready for daily rides, giving off effortless urban cool.
Clear Display
The digital speedometer and analog tachometer are simple and clean, showing speed, fuel, revs, and gear position with basic trip data. No Bluetooth or touchscreen to maintain affordability, but handlebar switches are intuitive for lights and horn—it’s no-fuss, perfect for keeping eyes on the road during relaxed cruises, though a color TFT would add modern appeal.
Punchy Performance
Powered by a 471cc liquid-cooled 52-degree parallel-twin SOHC with three valves per cylinder (45.5 hp at 8,500 rpm, 47 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm), it mates with a 6-speed manual and chain drive with slipper clutch for smooth shifts. It’s tuned for low-end torque, claiming 45 mpg (19 km/l)—real-world 40-45 mpg in mixed riding, with a top speed of 110 mph and 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. The 3.7-gallon tank stretches 170-200 miles, and telescopic front forks with twin rear shocks deliver a plush ride—peppy for city sprints but composed on highways, ideal for beginners building confidence.
Advanced Safety System
The ABS model includes single-channel ABS on the 296 mm front disc (rear drum on base) for confident stops—no traction control to keep costs down, but the steel frame adds stability. LED taillight boosts visibility, and the side-stand engine cut-off provides basics—handles wet roads or swerves well, making it forgiving for new riders.
Long-Lasting Fuel System
The 3.7-gallon tank covers 170-200 miles for 1-2 days of cruising, refills under 2 minutes. Economy at $2.50-3 per gallon, low vibes for quiet rides—liquid cooling keeps it cool without fatigue.
Connectivity and Features
Halogen headlamp with LED DRL lights the way, with a USB port for charging—no Bluetooth standard, but optional accessories add nav. The slipper clutch smooths downshifts, with a comfortable seat for long rides—no full audio, but earbuds pair for tunes. Extras like alloy wheels keep it stylish, loaded just enough without fluff.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at $6,499 for standard to $6,999 for ABS SE (MSRP), launched for 2025 at Honda dealers with deals up to $500 off. Maintenance $300-500/year, 2-year/unlimited mile warranty. Wait times: 1-2 months.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Owners love the smooth V-twin, low seat height, and value—the 5.1 inches clearance suits smooth roads, and 45 mpg keeps costs low. ABS and ergonomics get thumbs up. But limited colors, firm seat on long rides, and no traction control irk—top speed caps at 110 mph for highways.
Comparison with Competitors
In the $6,500 cruiser bracket, the Rebel 500 undercuts V-Star 650 on price but trails Vulcan 750 in torque. Matches Scout’s style, Honda’s refinement edges for beginners.
Speculative Notes
2025 model at $6,499-$6,999, 471cc parallel-twin, 45 mpg. Confirm with dealers for variants.
Final Thoughts
The Honda Rebel 500 2025, with its middleweight frame, smooth parallel-twin, and cruiser soul at $6,499-$6,999, is the bike that makes classic riding accessible for global roads. It’s not a torque monster or feature beast, but that comfort, mileage, and Honda trust make it a winner. With dealer support, it’s ready to roll.
