Ultimate HONDA REBEL 500 Review: LOVE & HATE Exposed!

[@jamessouthworth1699]

One of the reasons I don't ride in groups is I don't want to feel like I have to "keep up" with anyone. I've had motorcycles from 250cc all the way up to 1450 CC and they've all been fine on the highway. You may be surprised to know that Honda made a 500cc touring motorcycle at one time. (GL 500 Silver Wing interstate). I took one halfway across the country. You'd be surprised how your perspective on performance changes when the only one you're keeping up with is yourself.

[@MAJafari]

They sure all do fine and that's a good strategy to not ride in groups. however, a small group of friends with bigger bikes is fun to ride with.

[@jaycardona3492]

You complained about everything that makes this bike affordable, you bought the wrong bike lol

[@lucadonati752]

I crashed with her (green 2021 Rebel 500) going 160km/h... I lived, she didn't. I miss her so much. To anyone who owns this bike, especially if first, trust me, you'll miss this bike. This video brought back so many memories... Ride safe

[@MAJafari]

I'm sorry to hear that but Glad you're safe. I sure will miss her if I end up selling her but will cherish all the moments till then.

[@haydentherg3322]

With all do respect I’m shocked you didn’t turn to a red paste

[@lucadonati752]

​@@haydentherg3322 I just rolled and rolled and rolled and rolled and rolled... jokes aside, I was lucky I didn't hit anything with my body apart the asphalt and that I was wearing all the gear possible, including a big backpack that absorbed the first hits

[@echertbogdan3073]

@@lucadonati752How did it happend?

[@bazooka712]

@@echertbogdan3073 at 160km/h

[@trevorgray4852]

"I feel it to be underpowered and i cant keep up with my brother and father on there 1100's" brother you cant blame a 500cc bike for not being able to keep up with 1100's. Thats like blameing your camry for not being able to keep up with your bros dodge charger, there totally different machines. Sounds like you've just out grown the bike and are comfortable with it and want a new challenge or more power. Nothing wrong with that but it's not the bikes fault, look at it as your skills have just increased

[@_JimmyBeGood]

This dude is silly. The bike is phenomenal for $7-8k.

[@billparker8954]

I have a full season and a bit on a 2018 Rebel 500. Up in Canada, spring hasn't budded yet, but I have had her in my dreams all winter. I can't wait; it's an addictive fun bike.

[@MKBENTOT]

I highly recommend the “red dragon “forward controls. Quick google search will find them. I’m 5’6 even I didn’t like the standard foot position. I also put 1.5 inch bar risers on. Much more comfortable ride now. Night and day difference

[@DerekFrampton]

That's GIRL coffee Seriously though, good review/video. Thanks for the opinions it helps me make a choice. 471cc in many configurations is great. this is the heaviest, but the CB500F, is lighter and faster for the highway etc. Also I wonder if bar risers would help with the triangle etc. The display sucks, the F has a full-blown color screen and more etc. Cheers!

[@equalfps]

What's your thoughts if we debate rebel 500 with Kawasaki eliminator 500

[@ericwilliams626]

Our bodies aren't meant to sit on a bike for hours on end. It's not the bike. It's the same experience in a chair and I have paid for it. I prefer the natural seated position bikes so I can stand to avoid bumps and stretch while I ride. The peg placement is obviously key. I like the straight up seated position for these reasons.

[@tomzuriel9480]

Does having the headlight cowl help with air buffeting? I have the standard version, and I'm thinking whether to get a windshield or the headlight cowl. And yeah, after putting a good amount of KMs on it, you'll definitely find yourself wanting for a more powerful bike. But I guess in my case, I'd keep it for 2 more years and hone few more skills like stoppies and getting rid of my chicken strips before getting a more powerful bike.

[@MAJafari]

The cowl doesn't really help with wind buffeting, it's still pretty brutal to ride in higher speeds, lol. And YES, faster and more powerful bike is definitely needed after a while.

[@Herveyman]

I live in New Zealand. I had a yamaha R3 as my first bike and loved it! I sold my bike after a year when I got a job around the corner from my house. I've changed jobs now and I'm currently riding a Harley Davidson night train which is great and now my wife is looking at getting her learners and I think this is the bike we'll get for her until she gets her fulls 😊 really helpful review!

[@shanewooll8654]

I have a 2022 SE and I absolutely love it. It's my go to choice for most rides and I seriously doubt that I'll ever sell it. I went from a VTX 1300C to this, and although I enjoyed the VTX to the fullest, I enjoy the Rebel so much more. I would highly recommend that you don't sell your Rebel, but maybe consider adding something else to your stable if you want more power, features, etc. I currently have 5 bikes and my experience has consistently been that super basic, lightweight, small displacement bikes are purest way to enjoy motorcycling. Just my two cents.

[@Joke89ful]

for me 2nd bike i would say is same feeling like Rebel is Yamaha MT07 , fun light nimble bike ...

[@shanewooll8654]

@@Joke89ful Very nice choice 👍

[@UltimateT105]

This video has really helped me cement my choice in buying the rebel 500 for my first motorcycle

[@MAJafari]

I'm glad it helped. Rebel 500 is literally the best first bike. Also, I am not getting rid of mine ...

[@simplycdk]

2:30 my brother, change the handle bars to a bit higher. that will create a little more resistance while riding but will be great for your comfort and back situation. Thats what i did ...

[@walterrojas1075]

Asking for rain mode while complaining about 46hp. The 1100 rain mode probably knocks power down to 46 hp. If you already dislike the low power, it’d be even worse putting the 500 into rain mode. As for not keeping up with 1100s, can’t blame the bike. My XSR700 can’t keep up with my cousin’s modified Harley, that’s not the bikes fault. Got to get a bigger bike for that.

[@sambennet8651]

Very valuable in depth review I am impressed with how much detail this had I showed it to my wife and now we will buy a rebel 500 for her 🙏 thank you for encouraging us

[@MAJafari]

Glad it was helpful! Please let me know how she likes her Rebel 500.

[@sambennet8651]

2 weeks have passed and she is loving it @@MAJafari

[@kerrystephens4496]

Yo! M.A. I am about to take a motorcycle riding course. I have been watching dozens of KZbin vids. and I am convinced I want to buy a Rebel 500. The two main things I get from you is (1) This is a great bike to learn on & (2) You are ready to move up to the Honda 1100. Peace Bro!

[@MAJafari]

Hello there, Rebel 500 is definitely an amazing bike to learn on. And YES! I am ready to get on a more powerful bike. Good luck with your riding course.

[@petrovski1948]

Good review. Which tank bag do you have on the bike? Thanks.

[@MAJafari]

thank you for watching, it's a universal Tank Bag - you can find a similar one on Amazon but this one was given to me by a friend of mine.

[@IanCracknell-w5l]

That is exactly how it goes love an evening cruise but some times I look at mine and feel the same😢😅

[@djkilo011]

Bought the exact same Rebel last Memorial Day weekend. Have the same list as you! Question where did you get the yellow running lights towards pegs?

[@MAJafari]

500 SE is the best-looking Rebel out there, Those running lights, I found them on Amazon, I can share the link with you if you would like.

[@KeepItReel]

@@MAJafarican I get a link to those light? I like to been seen at night. Thanks

[@MAJafari]

Here is the link: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C37HMZMF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@KeepItReel]

@@MAJafari thanks alot for reaching out. So, how’s the rebel treating you? Still have it. I just bought one brand new and felt the same. I know I will grow out of it within a year but in the mean time I’ll just enjoy it until I pick up my Yamaha bolt or the rebel 1100 at a good deal.

[@johnja9017]

I don’t understand your issues with this bike? Small gas tank? Can’t keep up with a 1100? It’s too loud?

[@marjaneb2682]

The prettiest bike ever ❤

[@MAJafari]

thank you so much

[@_JimmyBeGood]

I bought a Prius for $35k and it doesn’t have the power or comfort of a Maserati so I’m going to complain about it.

[@ACommenterOnYouTube]

You have NO idea ... smh

[@lesgillard985]

Ah... the motorcyclists dilemma 😊 Should i keep it or sell it ? Good luck mate 😊🎉

[@zacjohnson4411]

I’ve had this bike a year now and I can tell you it’s not a great road tripper but is an excellent city bike… I don’t think there is a better city bike out there considering great fuel economy, and low end pick up and the fact of how nimble and light it is.. its great. However, when you are at highway speed and want to pass a car, that is where the drawback. The bike just feels like it doesn’t really want to go faster than 130 to 140 km/h. And even at 120 km/h it’s vibrating so much. However, BEST decision as my first bike hands down. I really wouldn’t have made any different decision. If I were to have to buy my first bike now knowing what I know.

[@DebtsolutionsGuy]

I noticed that you have the atlas throttle lock. How did you get it to fit with the stock throttle grip? Mine is super tight

[@MAJafari]

There is rubber notch on the side of the ignition/ throttle that is sticking out, I trimmed it a little with box cutter and it fitted right in

[@LightTheBeam.916]

Hi great video I feel them same about mine. Would you mine sharing the amber/yellow lights you have? And how and why here did you attach it to. Thanks 🙏🏼 😊

[@MAJafari]

Thank you so much, the Amber lights are Auxiliary LED by Kewig form Amazon, and I have attached them to the Frame sliders. Also, tapped to my License light wire for the power so they don't stay on when bike is off to drain the battery.

[@miguelvaldez8695]

How did you install that lights?? Looks awesome!!

[@pv3782]

Thank you for sharing your personal takes.

[@AsmodeusT]

3:58 only 26 hp? I thought it had 47? I don't have one but was looking at them, and that's the number that's coming up for me.

[@MAJafari]

It actually does have 47, I messed it up with Rebel 300 for some reason

[@marjaneb2682]

For your question, Please Keep it

[@2wrdr]

Why not change the sprocket if you want lower rpms at speed?

[@ChrisFrand]

Im currently looking at the Honda cmx500 rebel and think I would like this to be my first bike but because how my living circumstances is I ain’t getting a bike before at least 2 year so in that time they can change things on it and for me the only thing I would like changed that I think could be a big deal is it showing rpm so it’s easier to switch gear it’s just more comfortable to have speed, sound and rpm to diside gear in the start at least

[@trevorgray4852]

Cmx500? Is there a different between the "cmx" and non cmx rebels? I know some come with ABS and others don't or maybe in different countries they go by different names I just don't remember hearing cmx 500 before. I'm looking to get my first bike as well and will probably go with the 500. I believe in 21 they updated them and they have a rpm Guage from 21 and up on all 500 models ro help with knowing when to shift gears.

[@ChrisFrand]

@@trevorgray4852 from what I seen I think the cmx version have something to do with following European law or standards because the cmx version comes with the backseat and abs i don’t think there is more chances when that and from I seen the non cmx version is not for sale in the European countries I checked But I would like to recommend also looking at the Kawasaki eliminator 500 the rebel and eliminator is pretty close but from I seen their may be more videos on the rebel

[@trevorgray4852]

@ChrisFrand ah yes I watched a video on that. I'm in the U.S and we don't get the back seat but other places do. And it might be a U.S thing as well but as I mentioned in 2021 I believe they updates the bikes and they got a gear indicator on the display. I'll look into the eliminator thanks. Good luck with your bike journey man, you said in like 2 years. Hopefully I will get mine a little sooner then that, I recently lost my car(that was paid off) and everything I own I'm starting over and a bike is more doable because car insurance is so high and there way better on gas as well. I hope you have a good day bro, keep your head up

[@ChrisFrand]

@@trevorgray4852 yea I’m about to finish what in US is called high school and after that I want to take a degree that takes about 2 years and I don’t really know where I settle after that so I think I first start with my bike journey after I’m settled in It sad to hear the reason for needing a bike but it’s good you see opportunity instead of only the negatives and best of luck on your coming bike journey

[@somewhereelse3813]

Good honest review. Still considering the 1100 away from my CB

[@MAJafari]

thank you so much, YESS! The 1100 is just a different animal.

[@PooyanT]

Great video! I have the same bike too, but I am thinking about changing it to Indian Scout Rogue hopefully by next year.

[@MAJafari]

Thank you so much! And YESS! Indian Scout Rogue is just amazing.

[@karlfonner7589]

@@MAJafari i’m thinking try a used SV 650. Not much difference in price and you could probably sell it for what you paid for it. What interest me is the hornet 750. But that’s gonna cost lots more money. or are used MT 07

[@Storiesfromtheweb904]

How tall are you I know this bike sits low and I’m thinking of getting a 23 500 abs and I’m worried bout the height for me I’m 5”6

[@MAJafari]

You’ll be totally fine, I’m 5’10” and my friend who is 5’2” actually rode it and could easily have their feet flat on the ground

[@nunyabidness323]

Correction. The 300 has 26hp the 500 has 45 hp.

[@MyFluffyClouds]

Trade it for the 1100 engine model.

[@BrJames-yq7iw]

I put foreword control gears on mine and love it helps on long rides .

[@MAJafari]

I’ve been thinking about those tbh, which brand did you go with?

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

I live in New Zealand, we can't ride a bike more than 650cc while on our learner license. I know the SV650 is the obvious answer, but I don't like the look of it. The only cool looking bikes available here are the Rebel 500 and the Harley 500, and I don't really like the Harley, the Honda looks (and performs) much better, so that's what I'm getting. It's a learner bike, when my learner period is over I'm planning on getting an Indian Scout Bobber.

[@MAJafari]

Indian Scout bobber is a good bike! and Looks cool, but, the Rebel 500 is definitely a better first bike to be honest.

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

@@MAJafari Oh, I agree, I was just pointing out that the Honda is my only real option and the Indian is a long term goal.

[@robertmitchell6080]

I bought a CB 350 in 1976, then just my luck, they changed the learner capacity down to 250, so got a XL 250 which i believed was a good starter size, 650cc is a good 2nd bike size, by then ur used to the weight and power. After 6 bikes, 2 and 4 stroke 250-750 i got a GS 650G and didnt like the top heavy tank and weight of the bike because of the shaft drive, to learn on that would be a bad decision, but it looked and sounded good. I couldnt imagine a Harley being a 500 given theres no plastic on them, must be very underpowered. I think 650 as a starter in NZ is a little to big. The CRF 300 would be a great bike to learn on.

[@davidstokes551]

Makers of motor bikes seem to ignore rider comfort, I have a Honda adv 350, still trying to get a comfortable cushion to sit on, hard ride affects my spine.

[@MAJafari]

Speaking the facts David

[@endrhe]

Did you say 26hp? Is that correct?

[@MAJafari]

I did I did, I realized it after week after posting the video 🤦🏻‍♂️ 45/46 is what I meant

[@MatthewAu00]

where are your gloves from?

[@billmurphy-b3q]

45 horse power?

[@brentevans6923]

For what it is it’s a Bargain . Bigger bikes come with a Bigger price. Go for it If you can afford it , otherwise shut up with your whining 😎

[@tomwilliams288]

Have you try Honda Rebel 1100? Just wondering 🤔

[@MAJafari]

I have and absolutely love it, check out the video I posted about the Rebel 1100.

[@basharaasabeh3487]

Is the exhaust modified?

[@MAJafari]

it is, Shorty GP from Radiant Cycles

[@Oubre84]

26 hp?

[@deshavetalkwithkit8935]

Get a cramp buster for your throttle. It will take the pressure off your hand and you won't need a cruise control.

[@MAJafari]

Thank you for suggesting that, I have been actually looking into getting one. thanks again.

[@Undertaker93]

What exhaustis on it?

[@MAJafari]

It's the radiant cycles Shorty GP

[@the_undecidead]

You're probably too tall for that bike. I've had mine for more than a year now (18k mileage) and had absolutely no problem with comfort. I even once rode 250kms without getting off the seat.

[@Hitman-zi1fv]

Sell it and use the money for the 1100. I have the 2024 1100 dct and damn it is a fun bike. Love the dct in stop and go areas.

[@MAJafari]

That is literally the goal! thank you!

[@marjaneb2682]

Safe drive ❤❤❤

[@anhedoniaw5060]

We both have the same model and I literally just traded mine in for all reasons u stated.

[@MAJafari]

I’m glad that I’m not the only one who thought about those reasons! Haha

[@railroad_riley5084]

Im only looking at this because it kinda looks loke Deacon St. John's bike 😅

[@brentevans6923]

Things you want cost much more than you paid for the 500 👍🏻

[@moonmahan1090]

Plszz new video we been waiting

[@AIRMANBEAR]

EVEN WITH THE MUSTANG SEAT ITS UNCOMFORTABLE ?? WELL I KNOW MANY PEOPLE STILL NEED THE ALLYN AIR SEAT OVER IT.. FOR $39 ITS A BARGAIN

[@MAJafari]

It is just the ergonomics of the bike in total that makes it uncomfortable! I have heard about those air seats and might give it try!

[@hamidrezajafari2756]

Always amazing 🤩

[@lons5472]

@ 3:58 lol i know that sign.

[@mikemulrooney4824]

Good vid

[@marcsolomon5394]

Put a different pipe on it,never compare a 500 to a1100,I rode a cb200 honda day and night,if you find it not comfortable you might be too tall for this moto

[@serkev]

"this bike is so uncomfortable" "i missed every second of it" what?

[@MAJafari]

That's why I called it love and hate! Love it sometimes and hate it the other times.

[@ajom67]

Maybe de 1100? I think you'll miss her.

[@MAJafari]

the 1100 is a really good option, and I know I will miss her for sure.

[@ACommenterOnYouTube]

comparing a rebel 500 to an 1100 and wonder why you cant keep up ....

[@Robisme]

That’s why the gas tank is so small. Honda knew their riders would take a break after an hour or so on their seat.😂

[@MAJafari]

Now that makes all the sense 🤣🤣

[@JYMBO]

Basically every single negative is fixed with the 1100

[@MAJafari]

Thats so true!

[@jenniferhofffman-sneed3961]

I dont have a bike, from what im hearing from youbas another rider has stated, i agree brother. You have outgrown your bike! So your bitching for nothing really. All the extras come with a price , just upgrade your ride as many do.

[@charleslanphier8094]

My guess is if you buy something else you'll complain about that too.

[@ACommenterOnYouTube]

Everyone will complain about everything.

[@christiancolvin615]

Coffee more like tea that was see through weak lmao

[@marjaneb2682]

What are you expecting? You almost passed a Range Rover 😅

[@jaredbullock3082]

You bought a cheap bike those things come on more expensive bikes stop complaining

[@johndefalque5061]

Sounds like you have more hates than loves for this bike.

[@edallyn4276]

Buy american

[@ibewscott69]

American bikes are way over priced. Especially for a beginner bike. American bikes really are not for beginners. They have failed to make a entry into the American market. That is going to come back and haunt them when more and more new riders get introduced to product lines with progression. A good example of a full line is what Triumph has done. With Triumph there is a clear progression as you step up in power. For me, as much as i would like to support American, I find myself looking at a growing competitor. CFMoto is shaping up to be a real competitor that is challenging all brands. They are aggressive in pricing for quality product with all the addons and at no additional cost. Their competitor to the Honda Rebel 500 is hitting the market for 2025. CFMoto 450 CL-C. Im going to be honest, It is the right price, Looks better than the Honda Rebel, has a TFT display, Is belt driven, and sounds better with a 270 degree crank. I'm seriously considering it for my first bike. The CFMoto 450 CL-C is at the top of my list. Then Kawasaki Z500 se. and last on my list is the Triumph speed 400 CFMoto came real close to knocking Kawasaki Z500 se out with the 450NK. Triumph speed 400 has reported lots of vibration at 55 and up and that was my first choice. This bike looks great for a beginner but i need to do some Interstate commuting to work. Dont need the vibrating. American bikes are going to have to wait until i get more experience and feel comfortable making the jump from 451cc to a 1200 cc.

[@Max-ti5nq]

Too much bitching. Go get the 1100 or something in that range and i'm sure all of your problems will be solved.

[@Sunandstar13]

You’re wanting filet mignon for hot dog money, buy a more expensive bike

[@MAJafari]

Coming up soon 🤌🏼

[@Steven-zj2yw]

dumbest reasons to “hate” the bike lmao

[@MAJafari]

and that's what makes me love it at the same time, LOL

[@X11CHASE]

It’s not that serious bro, this is useful information for buyers. Better than just hearing fairytales