Revised Honda Rebel relaunches as rather more reserved ride

Honda have revamped the Rebel with revised suspension, full LED lighting, a new gear position indicator, slipper clutch and a more comfortable seat. The new bike was unveiled at Eicma this evening as part of Honda’s preview evening ahead of the show opening tomorrow.

For 2020, the revised fork spring rates give more compliant damping for a smoother ride while the rear shock is now nitrogen-charged, with revised spring rate and reshaped damper rubbers for firmer, more consistent damping.

A new exhaust also helps the CB500F-based parallel twin meet tough Euro5 emissions levels. There’s also a new metallic blue colourscheme for next year. Expect the upgraded custom to come in at under £6k.

2020 Honda Rebel specs

• 47bhp (A2 licence friendly)
• Improved suspension
• Better seat and clutch

Also revealed: 2020 Honda CB1000R

Honda also tore the sheets away from a new CB1000R at the same event, but the changes are minimal to say the least.

The new bike gets an all-black triple clamp and stem, a metallic matt headlight surround, colour changes for rear spring and front brake disc. We’re also promised a silver racing stripe up the spine of the fuel tank and a new colour: Matt Pearl Glare White.

In a year so heavily dominated with new super nakeds, some in the MCN office were left a little cold by the lack of anything groundbreaking on this latest CB.

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