Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS. This bike has been turning heads with its sleek design and approachable performance, and I'm here to give you an honest, no-nonsense review. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Rebel 500 offers something for everyone. Let's get into the nitty-gritty and see what makes this bike tick!

Overview of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS

The 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is a cruiser-style motorcycle that slots into Honda's lineup as a beginner-friendly yet stylish option. It's powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine, which is known for its smooth power delivery and reliability. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) version adds an extra layer of safety, especially for newer riders who might be prone to locking up the brakes in emergency situations. The Rebel 500 distinguishes itself with its minimalist, blacked-out aesthetic, low seat height, and comfortable riding position, making it an attractive choice for both men and women.

Beyond its aesthetics, the Rebel 500 is designed with practicality in mind. Its lightweight frame and manageable power make it easy to handle in city traffic, while its comfortable ergonomics ensure that longer rides don't become a pain. Honda has also paid attention to detail, incorporating features like a digital instrument panel, LED lighting, and a well-padded seat. All these elements combine to create a motorcycle that is both functional and fun to ride. The Rebel 500's approachable nature makes it an excellent stepping stone for riders looking to move up from smaller bikes or those returning to motorcycling after a hiatus. Plus, its customizability means owners can easily personalize their bikes to reflect their individual styles. With a reputation for reliability and a strong dealer network, the Honda Rebel 500 ABS is a compelling option in the entry-level cruiser market.

Key Features

• Engine: 471cc parallel-twin
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
• Seat Height: 27.2 inches
• Weight: 408 pounds (wet)
• Fuel Capacity: 3.0 gallons

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is its 471cc parallel-twin engine. This liquid-cooled, fuel-injected powerplant is borrowed from Honda's popular CB500 series, and it's known for its smooth and predictable power delivery. This makes the Rebel 500 incredibly user-friendly, especially for beginner riders. The engine produces around 45 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for confident acceleration and comfortable cruising. One of the best aspects of this engine is its flexibility. It's happy to chug along at low RPMs in city traffic, but it also has enough grunt to overtake cars on the highway without feeling strained. The fuel injection system ensures consistent and reliable starts, regardless of the weather conditions.

The Rebel 500's engine is not only smooth but also surprisingly fuel-efficient. You can expect to get around 60-70 miles per gallon, depending on your riding style. This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting or weekend adventures. The six-speed transmission is smooth and precise, making gear changes effortless. The clutch is light and easy to modulate, which is another bonus for new riders. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS strike a perfect balance between being approachable and enjoyable. It's not going to win any drag races, but it provides a fun and engaging riding experience in a variety of conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring winding back roads, the Rebel 500's engine delivers a satisfying blend of power and control. Its reliability and ease of maintenance further enhance its appeal, making it a smart choice for riders of all skill levels.

Handling and Ride Quality

When it comes to handling, the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS excels with its lightweight frame and low seat height. These features make the bike incredibly easy to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Whether you're navigating through city traffic or making tight turns in a parking lot, the Rebel 500 feels planted and stable. The suspension setup consists of a 41mm fork in the front and dual shocks in the rear. While the suspension is fairly basic, it does a decent job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The ride quality is generally comfortable, although you might feel some of the larger bumps on rougher roads. The low seat height (27.2 inches) makes it easy for riders of all sizes to flat-foot the bike, which inspires confidence, particularly for beginners.

The Rebel 500's riding position is another factor that contributes to its comfortable ride quality. The handlebars are positioned in a way that allows for a relaxed and upright posture, reducing strain on your back and wrists. The footpegs are also placed in a neutral position, which further enhances comfort. On the open road, the Rebel 500 feels stable and composed. It's not a sportbike, so don't expect razor-sharp handling, but it's more than capable of holding its own on twisty roads. The brakes provide adequate stopping power, and the ABS system adds an extra layer of safety, preventing wheel lockup in emergency braking situations. Overall, the handling and ride quality of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS are well-suited for its intended purpose. It's a bike that's easy to ride and comfortable for both short commutes and longer trips. Its predictable handling and stable feel make it an excellent choice for riders of all skill levels.

Styling and Features

The 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS stands out with its minimalist and modern styling. The blacked-out components, including the engine, frame, and exhaust, give it a sleek and aggressive look. The low-slung profile and bobber-inspired design make it a real head-turner. The Rebel 500 also features a simple, yet functional, digital instrument panel that displays speed, gear position, fuel level, and other essential information. The LED lighting adds a touch of modernity and improves visibility, especially at night. One of the most appealing aspects of the Rebel 500 is its customizability. There are countless aftermarket parts and accessories available, allowing you to personalize the bike to your liking. Whether you want to add a new exhaust, change the seat, or install different handlebars, the possibilities are endless.

In terms of features, the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is relatively basic, but it has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The seat is well-padded and provides good support, even on longer trips. The fuel tank holds 3.0 gallons, which is enough for a decent range. The mirrors are well-positioned and provide a clear view of what's behind you. The ABS system is a valuable safety feature, especially for new riders. While the Rebel 500 doesn't have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end motorcycles, it offers a great balance of style, features, and affordability. Its clean and uncluttered design makes it a timeless classic that will never go out of style. The Rebel 500's versatility also makes it a great platform for customization, allowing you to create a bike that truly reflects your personality.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS:

Pros:

• Beginner-Friendly: Low seat height, light weight, and smooth power delivery make it easy to handle.
• Stylish Design: Blacked-out components and bobber-inspired look.
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System adds an extra layer of safety.
• Fuel-Efficient: Excellent gas mileage for daily commuting.
• Customizable: Wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available.
• Reliable: Honda's reputation for reliability and a strong dealer network.

Cons:

• Basic Suspension: The suspension is fairly basic and may feel harsh on rough roads.
• Limited Features: Doesn't have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end motorcycles.
• Stock Exhaust Sound: The stock exhaust sound is a bit quiet for some riders.

Final Verdict

The 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is an excellent motorcycle that offers a great combination of style, performance, and affordability. It's perfect for beginner riders, but it's also enjoyable for experienced riders who appreciate its simplicity and versatility. The Rebel 500's smooth power delivery, comfortable riding position, and stylish design make it a joy to ride in a variety of conditions. While it may not have all the features of some higher-end bikes, it offers everything you need for a fun and engaging riding experience. If you're looking for a reliable, stylish, and easy-to-ride motorcycle, the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is definitely worth considering. Its customizability and strong aftermarket support also make it a great platform for personalization, allowing you to create a bike that truly reflects your individual style.

So, there you have it – my honest review of the 2019 Honda Rebel 500 ABS. I hope this has been helpful in your decision-making process. Ride safe, guys, and I'll catch you on the next one!