The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is a popular cruiser motorcycle known for its approachable styling and user-friendly nature. First introduced in 2017, the Rebel line, including the 500 ABS, aims to capture both new riders and experienced enthusiasts. Its bobber-inspired design with a low seat height and minimalist aesthetic sets it apart. The primary trim is the Rebel 500 ABS itself, with a new price range typically starting around $6,799 for the 2018 model year. Its popularity stems from its blend of retro charm and modern Honda engineering.
The Good
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS offers a fantastic blend of accessible performance, renowned Honda reliability, and a head-turning, customizable design. Its low seat height ensures comfort and confidence for riders of all statures, while the efficient engine provides great fuel economy, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for daily commutes and weekend escapes.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS include its limited suspension travel, which can lead to a harsher ride on rough roads. The stock seat might not be the most comfortable for very long journeys, and the engine, while capable, can feel a bit strained at sustained high highway speeds.
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS: Quick Overview
- Engine: 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
- Horsepower: Approximately 45.3 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Torque: Approximately 32.4 lb-ft @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy: Estimated around 67 mpg (city/highway combined)
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.5 - 6.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable; this is a motorcycle designed for rider and passenger only.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Clutch: Assist/slipper clutch
- Brakes: Front: 296mm disc with ABS; Rear: 240mm disc with ABS
- Suspension: Front: 41mm fork, Rear: Pro-Link with spring preload adjustment
- Tires: Front: 130/90-16; Rear: 150/80-16
- Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
- Seat Height: 27.2 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 2.9 gallons
- Weight: Approximately 408 lbs (wet)
- Trim-Level Features (2018 Rebel 500 ABS):
- Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety.
- Stripped-down, bobber-inspired styling with a minimalist aesthetic.
- Low seat height for easy maneuverability and rider confidence.
- Digital meter with fuel gauge and clock.
- LED lighting for improved visibility.
- Honda's legendary reliability and build quality.
- Available in various color options.
- Designed for customization with a wide range of Honda accessories.
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Rebel 500 ABS |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Thailand |
| Manufacturing City | BANGKOK |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 471CC |
| Engine Size | 471L |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Have?
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS, like most Honda motorcycles, enjoys a strong reputation for reliability. Frequently reported issues are generally minor and often related to rider preference or external factors rather than inherent design flaws. Some owners have noted that the stock suspension can feel a bit stiff and unforgiving on rough pavement, which is a common characteristic of many cruiser-style motorcycles with limited suspension travel. The stock seat, while aesthetically pleasing, can become uncomfortable on longer rides for some riders, leading to aftermarket seat upgrades.
In terms of mechanical concerns, the 471cc parallel-twin engine is known for its durability and smooth operation. There haven't been widespread reports of major engine failures or critical component issues specific to the 2018 model year. Similarly, the ABS system is generally reliable.
Recalls are rare for the Rebel 500, and when they occur, they are typically addressed promptly by Honda. It's always advisable for potential buyers to check for any outstanding recalls with a Honda dealer using the vehicle's VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns are minimal. The quality of materials and Honda's engineering ensure that with regular maintenance, the 2018 Rebel 500 ABS should provide many years of dependable service. Issues that might arise over extended mileage typically involve wear-and-tear items like brake pads, tires, and chain/sprockets, which are standard for any motorcycle. The electrical system is robust, and the engine is designed for longevity. Overall, the 2018 Rebel 500 ABS is considered a very solid and dependable machine with few commonly cited problems.
In terms of mechanical concerns, the 471cc parallel-twin engine is known for its durability and smooth operation. There haven't been widespread reports of major engine failures or critical component issues specific to the 2018 model year. Similarly, the ABS system is generally reliable.
Recalls are rare for the Rebel 500, and when they occur, they are typically addressed promptly by Honda. It's always advisable for potential buyers to check for any outstanding recalls with a Honda dealer using the vehicle's VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns are minimal. The quality of materials and Honda's engineering ensure that with regular maintenance, the 2018 Rebel 500 ABS should provide many years of dependable service. Issues that might arise over extended mileage typically involve wear-and-tear items like brake pads, tires, and chain/sprockets, which are standard for any motorcycle. The electrical system is robust, and the engine is designed for longevity. Overall, the 2018 Rebel 500 ABS is considered a very solid and dependable machine with few commonly cited problems.
How long will the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS last?
Based on owner data and Honda's reputation for durability, a well-maintained 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS can reasonably expect to see 50,000 to 100,000 miles or more in its service life. Owners typically report excellent long-term durability, with the engine and drivetrain proving to be very robust. Weaknesses that may emerge over time are primarily related to the wear and tear of consumable parts like tires, brake pads, and the chain. The suspension components, while adequate for everyday riding, might show signs of wear after extensive mileage, potentially leading to a less plush ride. However, the core mechanicals of the Rebel 500 are built to last, making it a dependable long-term investment for riders who prioritize regular maintenance.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS prioritizes simplicity and rider engagement over extensive technological integration, which is part of its appeal. The bike features a compact, all-digital LCD instrument cluster. This display provides essential information such as speed, engine RPM, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, and a clock. While it doesn't offer smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth audio, or advanced navigation systems, its clarity and readability are excellent.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the primary safety technology present is the standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This is a crucial feature, especially for newer riders or in challenging riding conditions, as it helps prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, significantly reducing the risk of a skid and fall. The ABS is integrated into both the front and rear braking systems, providing a comprehensive safety net.
Optional features are typically focused on customization and comfort. Honda offers a range of genuine accessories, which may include different seat options for enhanced long-distance comfort, passenger seat kits, luggage solutions like saddlebags, protective components such as engine guards, and aesthetic enhancements. These accessories allow owners to tailor the Rebel 500 to their specific needs and style.
Crash-test ratings, as typically understood for automobiles, are not applicable to motorcycles. However, the Rebel 500 ABS is designed with rider safety in mind. The low seat height and neutral riding position contribute to rider confidence and control. The ABS system is the most significant built-in safety feature. The motorcycle's build quality and Honda's engineering standards contribute to its overall safety profile, ensuring dependable performance and handling characteristics.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the primary safety technology present is the standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This is a crucial feature, especially for newer riders or in challenging riding conditions, as it helps prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, significantly reducing the risk of a skid and fall. The ABS is integrated into both the front and rear braking systems, providing a comprehensive safety net.
Optional features are typically focused on customization and comfort. Honda offers a range of genuine accessories, which may include different seat options for enhanced long-distance comfort, passenger seat kits, luggage solutions like saddlebags, protective components such as engine guards, and aesthetic enhancements. These accessories allow owners to tailor the Rebel 500 to their specific needs and style.
Crash-test ratings, as typically understood for automobiles, are not applicable to motorcycles. However, the Rebel 500 ABS is designed with rider safety in mind. The low seat height and neutral riding position contribute to rider confidence and control. The ABS system is the most significant built-in safety feature. The motorcycle's build quality and Honda's engineering standards contribute to its overall safety profile, ensuring dependable performance and handling characteristics.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS had an MSRP typically starting around $6,799. Current used market prices for a 2018 model vary significantly based on mileage, condition, location, and any added accessories, but generally range from $4,500 to $6,000.
The Honda Rebel 500 experiences a moderate rate of depreciation, typical for well-built motorcycles. Factors that positively affect its resale value include low mileage, excellent maintenance history, pristine condition, and the presence of desirable factory or reputable aftermarket accessories. The enduring popularity of the Rebel line, its reputation for reliability, and the inclusion of ABS also contribute to strong residual values. Conversely, high mileage, signs of neglect, damage, or modifications that detract from its original styling can lower its resale value.
The Honda Rebel 500 experiences a moderate rate of depreciation, typical for well-built motorcycles. Factors that positively affect its resale value include low mileage, excellent maintenance history, pristine condition, and the presence of desirable factory or reputable aftermarket accessories. The enduring popularity of the Rebel line, its reputation for reliability, and the inclusion of ABS also contribute to strong residual values. Conversely, high mileage, signs of neglect, damage, or modifications that detract from its original styling can lower its resale value.
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Cost of Ownership
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is considered an economical motorcycle to own and operate.
Insurance: Premiums are generally moderate, especially for riders with good records, due to its manageable engine size and safety features like ABS.
Fuel: With an estimated 67 mpg, fuel costs are very low.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance (oil changes, chain lubrication, tire checks) is straightforward and affordable. Honda parts are readily available and reasonably priced.
Repairs: Major repairs are infrequent thanks to Honda's reliability. When needed, parts and labor are typically less expensive than for larger, more complex motorcycles.
Overall, the Rebel 500 ABS is a cost-effective choice for riders seeking an enjoyable and affordable riding experience.
Insurance: Premiums are generally moderate, especially for riders with good records, due to its manageable engine size and safety features like ABS.
Fuel: With an estimated 67 mpg, fuel costs are very low.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance (oil changes, chain lubrication, tire checks) is straightforward and affordable. Honda parts are readily available and reasonably priced.
Repairs: Major repairs are infrequent thanks to Honda's reliability. When needed, parts and labor are typically less expensive than for larger, more complex motorcycles.
Overall, the Rebel 500 ABS is a cost-effective choice for riders seeking an enjoyable and affordable riding experience.
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Insurance
Insurance for a 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS competes in the highly popular entry-level to mid-weight cruiser segment. Its primary rivals include models like the Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Indian Scout Bobber (though the Scout Bobber is often positioned slightly higher in performance and price).
Performance: The Rebel 500's 471cc parallel-twin engine offers a balanced mix of torque for city riding and enough power for highway cruising, making it more versatile than some smaller displacement bikes. The Kawasaki Vulcan S, with its 649cc parallel-twin, offers more outright power and torque, making it better suited for sustained high-speed riding and quicker acceleration. The Indian Scout Bobber boasts a much larger 1133cc V-twin, providing significantly more power and a more traditional cruiser rumble, but at a higher cost.
Features: The Rebel 500 ABS shines with its standard ABS, a crucial safety feature for its class. Its minimalist, bobber styling is a strong selling point, appealing to a wide range of tastes and offering excellent customization potential. The Vulcan S also offers ABS as an option and a slightly more modern, customizable platform with its adjustable rider ergonomics. The Scout Bobber leans heavily into its retro-modern aesthetic with premium finishes, but typically lacks ABS as standard on base models.
Reliability: Honda has an unmatched reputation for bulletproof reliability, and the Rebel 500 is no exception. It's generally considered more dependable and requiring less intensive maintenance than some competitors, especially when compared to older designs or more complex engines. Kawasaki also has a strong track record for reliability, while Indian, though improving, has historically faced more reports of minor issues compared to Japanese manufacturers.
Price: The 2018 Rebel 500 ABS was competitively priced, making it an excellent value proposition. The Vulcan S typically came in at a similar or slightly higher price point, offering more displacement for the money. The Indian Scout Bobber was considerably more expensive, reflecting its larger engine and premium branding.
Recommendations:
If you prioritize pure value, legendary reliability, and a highly customizable, approachable cruiser, the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is an outstanding choice.
For riders seeking a bit more power and highway capability without straying too far from the price point, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a strong alternative.
If budget is less of a concern and you desire a more potent engine, classic V-twin character, and a more substantial presence, the Indian Scout Bobber (or even a used earlier generation) is worth considering, though it represents a step up in performance and cost.
Performance: The Rebel 500's 471cc parallel-twin engine offers a balanced mix of torque for city riding and enough power for highway cruising, making it more versatile than some smaller displacement bikes. The Kawasaki Vulcan S, with its 649cc parallel-twin, offers more outright power and torque, making it better suited for sustained high-speed riding and quicker acceleration. The Indian Scout Bobber boasts a much larger 1133cc V-twin, providing significantly more power and a more traditional cruiser rumble, but at a higher cost.
Features: The Rebel 500 ABS shines with its standard ABS, a crucial safety feature for its class. Its minimalist, bobber styling is a strong selling point, appealing to a wide range of tastes and offering excellent customization potential. The Vulcan S also offers ABS as an option and a slightly more modern, customizable platform with its adjustable rider ergonomics. The Scout Bobber leans heavily into its retro-modern aesthetic with premium finishes, but typically lacks ABS as standard on base models.
Reliability: Honda has an unmatched reputation for bulletproof reliability, and the Rebel 500 is no exception. It's generally considered more dependable and requiring less intensive maintenance than some competitors, especially when compared to older designs or more complex engines. Kawasaki also has a strong track record for reliability, while Indian, though improving, has historically faced more reports of minor issues compared to Japanese manufacturers.
Price: The 2018 Rebel 500 ABS was competitively priced, making it an excellent value proposition. The Vulcan S typically came in at a similar or slightly higher price point, offering more displacement for the money. The Indian Scout Bobber was considerably more expensive, reflecting its larger engine and premium branding.
Recommendations:
If you prioritize pure value, legendary reliability, and a highly customizable, approachable cruiser, the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is an outstanding choice.
For riders seeking a bit more power and highway capability without straying too far from the price point, the Kawasaki Vulcan S is a strong alternative.
If budget is less of a concern and you desire a more potent engine, classic V-twin character, and a more substantial presence, the Indian Scout Bobber (or even a used earlier generation) is worth considering, though it represents a step up in performance and cost.
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS a Good Motorcycle?
The 2018 Honda Rebel 500 ABS is an ideal motorcycle for new riders seeking an unintimidating yet stylish first bike, experienced riders looking for a comfortable and customizable urban cruiser, or anyone who values Honda's renowned reliability and low ownership costs. It's definitely worth buying, particularly on the used market where it offers exceptional value.
This bike is best purchased used. Buying new would mean paying a premium for a motorcycle that depreciates moderately and has few significant updates in later model years. The ABS trim is highly recommended over the non-ABS version for its enhanced safety, especially for those new to motorcycling or riding in varied conditions. It's a fantastic all-around machine for commuting, leisurely rides, and developing riding skills, providing a rewarding experience without breaking the bank.
This bike is best purchased used. Buying new would mean paying a premium for a motorcycle that depreciates moderately and has few significant updates in later model years. The ABS trim is highly recommended over the non-ABS version for its enhanced safety, especially for those new to motorcycling or riding in varied conditions. It's a fantastic all-around machine for commuting, leisurely rides, and developing riding skills, providing a rewarding experience without breaking the bank.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.