Had mine for 4 years no problems at around 10k miles. The seat is no good for more than an hour. Have tried different covers ect with limited success. Fitted a 16t front sprocket which makes for more relaxed cruising. Never carried a passenger and I wouldn't wish that on anyone, definitely a solo bike. No plans to change it yet. Original Dunlops not pleasant as they wore, they chased white lines and grooves, replaced with Michelin Commander, handle much better but do buzz a bit at certain speeds. For the shorter or older (I'm 73) rider looking for a bike that's easy to live with, highly recommended.
After many years owing bikes and after the last 12 years and 3 Harley Davisons. At the age of 73 I decided to downsize so traded in and brought a Honda Rebel 500A. Its smaller, lower, lighter and at my 5 ft 8 with a 30 inch inside leg its perfect. It may be a too small and low for a person of 6ft or above. Over all its a great bike. I only use the Rebel to ride for pleasure with my old Harley mates and must admit not in these winter months, role on spring. I also have an Atisan Evo Electric motorcycle, looks a bit like a Honda Grom, but it's bigger!
I can't say enough good things about my rebel. It's a very relaxed motorcycle, it's easy, low and confident inspiring. You don't need to go fast to enjoy it but when you do want to go swiftly through corner it does it with surprising ease. The clutch lever is effortless which excellent if you have wrist issues. Gear changes are satisfying in typical honda fashion. Tires don't last long and a relatively expensive for a bike of that size due to unusual measurements. Also my first bike was a 99 Honda CB 500 which was very rev happy and it didn't have much torque down low while on the new Honda lineup it's the other way around. It's no litre bike but it has enough power down low that you don't even need a rev counter. If I didn't read the spec sheet I would have swear that the Rebel had at least as much power as the older twin. I have a few complains about the stock bike. Firstly it doesn't have enough preload at the front for my weight which 72kg, this can be mitigated by adding 50 mL of oil in each fork leg and it's a bit fast in terms of compression and rebound so thicker oil like 15W from Bel Ray will do the trick. Brakes are ok but lack some bite so I replaced the stock pads with some EBC HH road pads, but that's optional really. And lastly the seat is painful after 2 hours of riding. I'm no beginner when it comes to riding but I found myself enjoying these smaller motorcycle more and more. I think your review was on point, you did a great job.
You gave a great overview and summation of this bike. A good way to start motorcycling or stay at it as you get older and have trouble getting your leg over a taller bike……like me….
Of all the bike reviews I watch Mark is the best in my opinion, thorough and straight forward, I wish I had sat my test in'83 with my Yamaha DT LC 125, I would certainly consider this rebel 500 if I get an A2 licence which would do me 💪🏻👌🏻🙏🏼
Great video, I am a first time rider and just brought one because of your reviews ready for when I hopefully pass all my tests in the next month. Thank you
This is hopefully soon going to be my first motorcycle and after sitting on one today I'm sold.. I just can't for the life of me understand why you added the wind guard and the rear seat backrest. Yes I see the practical aspects.. and still.. lol.. just me I guess. Seems so much about about bikes is down to personal preference, I really like that. Great review thankyou.
After sitting on one yesterday I'm hoping this will be my 31st motorcycle. Thanks, Mr Pulling, for an objective and informative appraisal. You've just got a new subscriber, too.
Very nice positive review. I am getting mine in a few weeks, the only real concern as always with the Rebel 500, is the reports of how awful the suspension is. Great to hear from someone matching my height as when I test rode one of these I had exactly the same experience, very comfortable foot on the ground. I am actually downgrading to this bike so good to hear that the engine is solid at higher speeds. Good job. I nearly went for the S model, but in the end went for the basic because I wanted some colour choice and was not convinced that all the extras on the S model were going to be of use to me. I will fit a screen and one of the first things people note is the need to remove the headlight cowl if you fit most screens.
I considered one of these having short legs but the tank range of 150 to 170 miles would mean filling up every time I go for a ride. My previous bike had the same range and it was annoying.
Nice bike sounds just right for me. Getting on a bit . Found bigger bike ok but need more control at my age and strength. Big bike gone. Looking at this for a touring/ camping bike. Cheers🤔😎👍
One thing i hate about english county side they have hedges along the road it’s not open you don’t see nothing so pointless whereas the view is concerned, much better every else in the world. Good review, I have test rode that bike and the DCT is awesome lovely bike
I had kinda ruled this bike out as prob Meteor would do the trick but maybe worth a closer look. But if I do decide a cruiser type is the way forward I might wait to see what the Meteor 650 is like or even try a Harley.
@@markpulling12 I'm thinking of buying Rebel 500 or Rebel 1100 for myself, can't decide. As I'm a new rider, it would be my 1st bike. DCT of 1100 attracts but price is almost 2x higher than 500 model.
I have a Vstrom 2020 650 and I love my bike...a Jack of all trades..but I am planning to change for a bobber/cruiser/ retro kinda bike...and I dont like HD ( for me they suck). Do u guys recommend me swap my Vstrom for this rebel or a RE 650? Thanks..
Two things, you didn't sit on the bike to to compare leg position as you normally do, and you didn't mention if honda heated grips are available, otherwise an excellent report as always.
I sat on one of these to determine whether I'd find the 1100 comfortable. No way could I get on with this riding position. My backside is far too low. Nice bikes, though. The 500 is a reasonably torquey engine and handles well. Thinking about a Mk1 X-ADV750 with accessory motorcycle pegs so I can vary where my feet are.
Had mine for 4 years no problems at around 10k miles. The seat is no good for more than an hour. Have tried different covers ect with limited success. Fitted a 16t front sprocket which makes for more relaxed cruising. Never carried a passenger and I wouldn't wish that on anyone, definitely a solo bike. No plans to change it yet. Original Dunlops not pleasant as they wore, they chased white lines and grooves, replaced with Michelin Commander, handle much better but do buzz a bit at certain speeds. For the shorter or older (I'm 73) rider looking for a bike that's easy to live with, highly recommended.
Thanks for the feedback nick ☺️
After many years owing bikes and after the last 12 years and 3 Harley Davisons. At the age of 73 I decided to downsize so traded in and brought a Honda Rebel 500A. Its smaller, lower, lighter and at my 5 ft 8 with a 30 inch inside leg its perfect. It may be a too small and low for a person of 6ft or above. Over all its a great bike. I only use the Rebel to ride for pleasure with my old Harley mates and must admit not in these winter months, role on spring. I also have an Atisan Evo Electric motorcycle, looks a bit like a Honda Grom, but it's bigger!
I can't say enough good things about my rebel. It's a very relaxed motorcycle, it's easy, low and confident inspiring. You don't need to go fast to enjoy it but when you do want to go swiftly through corner it does it with surprising ease. The clutch lever is effortless which excellent if you have wrist issues. Gear changes are satisfying in typical honda fashion. Tires don't last long and a relatively expensive for a bike of that size due to unusual measurements. Also my first bike was a 99 Honda CB 500 which was very rev happy and it didn't have much torque down low while on the new Honda lineup it's the other way around. It's no litre bike but it has enough power down low that you don't even need a rev counter. If I didn't read the spec sheet I would have swear that the Rebel had at least as much power as the older twin.
I have a few complains about the stock bike. Firstly it doesn't have enough preload at the front for my weight which 72kg, this can be mitigated by adding 50 mL of oil in each fork leg and it's a bit fast in terms of compression and rebound so thicker oil like 15W from Bel Ray will do the trick. Brakes are ok but lack some bite so I replaced the stock pads with some EBC HH road pads, but that's optional really. And lastly the seat is painful after 2 hours of riding.
I'm no beginner when it comes to riding but I found myself enjoying these smaller motorcycle more and more. I think your review was on point, you did a great job.
Amazing comment thanks very much cheers mark
Had my new 2023 Honda rebel cmx 500 far 3 months now and I really love this bike
The best real world bike reviews I've seen on UA-cam. Just fantastic. Thank you for your work - it's appreciated.
Ok Kim many thanks 👍☺️
Cruising the English countryside on a Rebel 500? Heaven! That may have just become one of my top five bucket list things to do.
Thanks Peter yes it's glorious;)
The Honda 500 range is exceptional in its niche. Good power delivery. Diverse range for different styles of riding and rider type. Love my CBR500R.
You gave a great overview and summation of this bike. A good way to start motorcycling or stay at it as you get older and have trouble getting your leg over a taller bike……like me….
Of all the bike reviews I watch Mark is the best in my opinion, thorough and straight forward, I wish I had sat my test in'83 with my Yamaha DT LC 125, I would certainly consider this rebel 500 if I get an A2 licence which would do me 💪🏻👌🏻🙏🏼
Many thanks I appreciate that ☺️😊
Great video, I am a first time rider and just brought one because of your reviews ready for when I hopefully pass all my tests in the next month. Thank you
Many thanks good luck with your biking 😊
This is hopefully soon going to be my first motorcycle and after sitting on one today I'm sold..
I just can't for the life of me understand why you added the wind guard and the rear seat backrest.
Yes I see the practical aspects.. and still.. lol.. just me I guess. Seems so much about about bikes is down to personal preference, I really like that. Great review thankyou.
I didn't add those it's a demo bike
Not mine
Best wishes mark
After sitting on one yesterday I'm hoping this will be my 31st motorcycle. Thanks, Mr Pulling, for an objective and informative appraisal. You've just got a new subscriber, too.
@@m2menuiserie540 many thanks for the sub:)
Very nice positive review. I am getting mine in a few weeks, the only real concern as always with the Rebel 500, is the reports of how awful the suspension is. Great to hear from someone matching my height as when I test rode one of these I had exactly the same experience, very comfortable foot on the ground. I am actually downgrading to this bike so good to hear that the engine is solid at higher speeds. Good job. I nearly went for the S model, but in the end went for the basic because I wanted some colour choice and was not convinced that all the extras on the S model were going to be of use to me. I will fit a screen and one of the first things people note is the need to remove the headlight cowl if you fit most screens.
Thanks for the comment 😊
Front suspension is ok ...rear I found to be a little firm but no probs
Cheers mark
I considered one of these having short legs but the tank range of 150 to 170 miles would mean filling up every time I go for a ride. My previous bike had the same range and it was annoying.
Thanks Mark, A comprehensive and no-frills review - perfect for helping prospective buyers. :>)
Thanks Peter my pleasure 😊
Another great vid. Love what you do and how do it. You’re the best!
Many thanks 👍
Best wishes mark
Nice bike sounds just right for me. Getting on a bit . Found bigger bike ok but need more control at my age and strength. Big bike gone. Looking at this for a touring/ camping bike. Cheers🤔😎👍
Thanks for your final thoughts mark,I think I would go for the f as well,just because it's the style I like.
Thanks James ...yes it's my favorite :)
Hi Mark , great review and final thoughts
probably a silly question but does it have a steering lock ?
Hi Sean yes it does but it's in a different position...I think it's on the frame/ steering head
@Mark Pulling Ohhh yes probably like the older bikes , Thanks Mark
One thing i hate about english county side they have hedges along the road it’s not open you don’t see nothing so pointless whereas the view is concerned, much better every else in the world.
Good review, I have test rode that bike and the DCT is awesome lovely bike
Hello Mark, I'm curious when you say 80 MPG or 70 MPH do you mean it in US terms or UK.
@@njt4253 hi I'm in the UK so uk
Best wishes mark
@@markpulling12 Thanks LOL didn't mean to wake you.
Nice final thoughts, Mark, as I said before nice cruiser, but I prefer naked f Definitely Honda range hard to beat these days Best David
Many thanks David 😊😊
I had kinda ruled this bike out as prob Meteor would do the trick but maybe worth a closer look.
But if I do decide a cruiser type is the way forward I might wait to see what the Meteor 650 is like or even try a Harley.
Nice video, keep it up! Thanks for uploading :)
Thanks my pleasure 😊
@@markpulling12 I'm thinking of buying Rebel 500 or Rebel 1100 for myself, can't decide. As I'm a new rider, it would be my 1st bike. DCT of 1100 attracts but price is almost 2x higher than 500 model.
@@AutoPOVDrive I'd get the 500 as your first bike it still has plenty of power best regards mark
@@markpulling12 Thanks
I have a Vstrom 2020 650 and I love my bike...a Jack of all trades..but I am planning to change for a bobber/cruiser/ retro kinda bike...and I dont like HD ( for me they suck).
Do u guys recommend me swap my Vstrom for this rebel or a RE 650? Thanks..
Try an MT07.
@@Rick-ve5lx yeah the mt07 definitely is a bobber or cruiser type 🙄🙄
Yes, the F model I would get that one also.
Great choice 😊👍
I've not ridden a cruiser yet. It's a nice looking bike :)
Where ?
Great review really informative. However I thought you may of found a fault somewhere.
Hi Mark..I was looking for your review on SV650 but don't see any video. Requesting if you can please review this bike.
Nice review! Is it comfortable for pillion too?
Yes ok for about an hour ...it's only a small seat :)
Cheers mark
Two things, you didn't sit on the bike to to compare leg position as you normally do, and you didn't mention if honda heated grips are available, otherwise an excellent report as always.
Hi Duncan I would have done the sit on the bike leg position on part one my main review on this bike
Best wishes mark
Any idea on how these are with a pillion on? Or any links to a vid.
Hi glen it's quite a small passenger seat...I'd say average comfort for an hour or so
Best regards mark
I sat on one of these to determine whether I'd find the 1100 comfortable. No way could I get on with this riding position. My backside is far too low. Nice bikes, though. The 500 is a reasonably torquey engine and handles well. Thinking about a Mk1 X-ADV750 with accessory motorcycle pegs so I can vary where my feet are.
Thanks nik yes it is a bit of a strange riding position :)
Whats the name of the song that plays at the beginning during the montage?? That song slaps
Audrey Rossi strut. :)
Grate video
Thanks again Eli 🙂
For me a little to much black for my liking.
There are rumours of a 'scrambler' using this engine.
Thanks....sounds great 👍
ugliest bike i ever seen .
Quite the unpopular opinion
Nicer than your welfare bike
@@mcnugget9497 Speak for yourself .I own a triumph sprint thanks. Im 62 and have worked all my life .
@@gazzertrn ohh wow you worked all your life who doesn't
@@mcnugget9497 then dont say im on welfare then troll