REBEL 500
HONDA

Tuned for cruising

The engine’s high-tech features and light and compact design contribute to the Rebel’s impressive power-to-weight ratio. Special tuning accentuates low-RPM power and torque, making the Rebel perfect for bopping around the city.

Strong low-end torque

The Rebel’s 471 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin-cylinder engine is drawn from the sporty CBR500R. For cruising duties, revised PGM-FI fuel injection mapping and different valve and ignition timings mean its character is shifted away from the high rpm-focused performance of the CBR to torque-heavy bottom-end output, with smooth and linear delivery throughout the rev range.

Smooth and compact

Engine vibration is kept to a minimum by using crank pins phased at 180 degrees and a balancer shaft behind the cylinders, which also contributes to the engine’s compact size.

Crisp Response

Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) continuously monitors several variables to help ensure the correct fuel mixture for the current riding and atmospheric conditions. The system delivers optimal performance and remarkably crisp throttle response over a wide range of operating conditions. The PGM-FI system also incorporates an Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) to smooth responses to small changes in throttle position.

Slipper clutch

Not only does the Honda Assist Slipper Clutch help to prevent rear-wheel lock up on downshifts, it also reduces clutch lever operation effort by 30 percent, making the six-speed gearbox even smoother.

High-tech design

A light and compact roller-rocker-arm assembly and shim-type valve adjustment allows a lower valve-spring load for reduced friction and a compact cylinder head. And to ensure precise cylinder shape, the engine uses centrifugal-cast thin-wall sleeves.