Honda Updates Rebel 300 And Rebel 500 For 2020

New suspension, clutch, lighting, and more update Honda’s entry-level cruiser.

2020 Honda Rebel 500 in Matte Blue Jeans Metallic.Courtesy of Honda

Honda's Rebel is an icon. Through the years, the Rebel has been one of the most reliable and approachable small-displacement motorcycles available, serving as the platform for countless motorcyclists to learn the sport. The Rebel 300 and 500 won our Cruisers of the Year back in 2017 after the model redesign, and are now seeing their first major update since that overhaul.

The Rebel 300 and 500 are very similar beasts, aside from the engine displacement, of course, so all of the updates here pertain to both models. They have now been equipped with a slipper clutch that reduces lever effort by a claimed 30 percent. The suspension has been updated, both front and rear, with stiffer spring rates for a less bouncy feel—one of our largest complaints about previous models. A new gauge system now displays gear position and fuel level, and a new thicker, more dense seat improved support and comfort. A new LED headlight has been repositioned and reshaped, and LED lighting has now been integrated into the turn signals and taillight.

Pricing is still TBD, but new models will be in dealers March of 2020.

The updated fork on Honda’s 2020 Rebel 500.Courtesy of Honda
2020 Honda Rebel 300 engine.Courtesy of Honda
The new rear shock on the 2020 Honda Rebel 500, now with stiffer springs.Courtesy of Honda
New LED taillight and turn indicators on the 2020 Honda Rebel 500.Courtesy of Honda
All-new gauge system on the 2020 Rebels now shows gear position and fuel level.Courtesy of Honda
The updated seat thickness and density increase comfort and support.Courtesy of Honda
The LED headlight has been repositioned and reshaped for 2020.Courtesy of Honda
Updated levers on the 2020 Honda Rebel.Courtesy of Honda
Rear view of the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 in Matte Blue Jeans Metallic.Courtesy of Honda
Front three-quarter view of the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 in Matte Blue Jeans Metallic.Courtesy of Honda
Front three-quarter view of the 2020 Honda Rebel 50 in Matte Armored Silver.Courtesy of Honda
Top view of the 2020 Honda Rebel 300 in Matte Armored Silver.Courtesy of Honda
Front three-quarter view of the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 in Graphite Black.Courtesy of Honda
Rear three-quarter view of the exhaust side of the 2020 Honda Rebel 500.Courtesy of Honda