Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS: Specs, Background, Performance, and More

Riding a standard bike is fun but riding a cruiser is an extraordinary experience. Many fresh riders aim to hop on a stunning cruiser right after completing the training course. However, where cruisers are well-known for their thunderous rumble, unparalleled style, and long-term comfort, their dominating presence can discourage novice riders from trying to ride them.

Fortunately, Honda took these riders into consideration and manufactured a beginner-friendly cruiser, the Rebel 500 ABS, to help them hone their riding skills without missing out on the adventure. A versatile bike, the charms of the Rebel 500 ABS have not restricted to beginners, as experienced riders can enjoy this bike, too.

Read on to find out what makes the Rebel 500 ABS the perfect cruiser for everyone.

2017 Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS
The 2017 Honda Rebel was only available in black.

2018 Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS was available in only one color: matte silver metallic.

2019 Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS
The 2019 Rebel 500 ABS featured standard specifications and was available in the following colors:

• Matte Gray Metallic
• Matte Fresco Brown
• Candy Orange

2020 Honda CMX 500 Rebel
The Honda 500 Rebel ABS featured the following colors in 2020:

• Matte Armored Silver
• Graphite Blck
• Matte Blue Jeans Metallic

2021 Honda CMX 500 Rebel
The Honda 500 Rebel ABS featured the following colors in 2021:

• Matte Gray Metallic
• Matte Pearl White

2022 Honda CMX Rebel
The Honda 500 Rebel ABS featured the following colors in 2022:

• Matte Gray Metallic
• Pearl Organic Green

Base Price: $ 6599
Destination Charges - $ 400
Freight Charges - $ 200

Honda redefined comfort and sophisticated engineering with its Rebel 500 ABS model. The first most significant attribute of the bike is the absence of chrome. Adopting a minimalist approach, Honda blacked out the exterior of the bike to give it the signature “Bobber style” cruiser feel.

But unlike those heavy cruisers, the Honda Rebel ABS 500 is lightweight and easy to control with its 471 cc parallel-twin engine.

A plush foamy set, narrow-backswept handlebars, mid-mont footpegs, low seat height, and a slim frame make it a comfortable and less-intimidating ride for shorter riders. In the second-generation models, bright LED lights are added for better visibility and a modern look.

The first generation Honda Rebel 500 ABS cruisers - 2017-2019 models - were high-performance and reliable machines. These bikes saw an upgrade in 2020. An assist-slipper clutch, LED lighting, new instrument kit, and stiffer suspension added great value to the bike’s performance and look.

The Rebel 500 ABS variant comes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The standard features of the Honda CMX Rebel 500 ABS are the same as the standard Honda CMX Rebel 500. Here’s a quick overview.

• 471 cc Engine

The 2022 Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS has a lightweight 471 cc liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine.

• The Slipper/Assist Clutch

The second-generation Honda CMX Rebel 500 ABS features a slipper/assist clutch technology. It reduces clutch effort and increases controlled deceleration.

• Round LED Headlight

The round LED headlight mounted with die-cast aluminum imparts a sophisticated look to the bike.

• 27.2-inch Low Seat

The low seat makes flat-footing at traffic signals and parking lots a lot easier. The dense seats prevent saddle sores and allow a painless ride.

• Braking System

The Nissin calipers present in the front and a rear brake provide ample top power. The additional ABS is a great effort for fool-proof braking and added safety.

• Blacked-out Design

The blacked-out design gives a sleek look to the already lean frame. The blacked-out engine parts, exhaust system, frame, and bodywork scream luxury and class.

Since 2017, Honda has been manufacturing an ABS variant for its entire Rebel lineup to provide an even better braking system. An anti-lock braking system is a safety feature that regulates brake pressure and prevents the tires from locking up. When a sharp brake is applied, the ABS keeps the bike from skidding, allowing the rider to maintain better control of the bike, and greatly reducing the risk of accidents. Though a non-ABS version of the Rebel 500 has plenty of stopping power, the ABS version is a safer option for those who are just starting out.

The Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS is available at a base price of $6,699. This highly affordable cruiser exhibits some outstanding specifications that you might not find in this price range.

The Honda Rebel 500 ABS can run at a maximum speed of 95 mph.

The Honda 500 Rebel ABS has an estimated life span of 80,000 miles. On average, a rider travels up to 3,000 miles on his/her Rebel 500 ABS. Given the data, it can be concluded that the Honda Rebel 500 ABS can last for 25 years.

The Honda CMX 500 Rebel ABS is a great bike. With the addition of ABS, you need not worry about losing control of the bike. It is the best stepping stone to move up from a standard motorcycle.

The low-maintenance engine and an efficient fuel economy make it easier on the pockets. The blacked-out style is a head-turner and the option to customize and install add-ons allows you to have fun with your bike’s look.

You can customize the Rebel 500 ABS to your liking and even increase its comfort level with aftermarket parts. A single-seater, this bike can be converted into a double-seater by adding passenger seats and sissy bars.

Better riding ergonomics depend on the rider’s triangle which includes the handlebars, seat, and footpegs. How your hands rest on the handlebars greatly influences your riding posture and level of comfort. Improperly-positioned handlebars can cause muscle strains. The good news is that you can easily install high-quality handlebars that suit your needs.

Moreover, aftermarket luggage allow you to give a unique touch to your bike that resonates with your personality. There is an overwhelming variety of saddlebags available in the market that meet your preference and budget.

Considering all the features and specs, Honda has outdone itself by introducing the Rebel 500 ABS. With new upgrades, resisting this ride would be a challenging affair. This bike will definitely make an accomplished rider out of you!