If you are just starting to get into motorcycle riding, then you are most likely wondering which bike to get. While there are a great number of options currently in the market, you’ll have to first figure out which type of bike suits you best. And if you happen to like the cruiser bike category, then you might want to check out the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 as it’s a great bike for new riders. Here are five reasons why.

The Honda Rebel 500 is forgiving

According to Ultimate Motorcycling, the Honda Rebel 500 is a great bike whether you’re looking to get back into riding, or just starting out, because it’s a forgiving bike. What that means is that you won’t be punished by the bike too much if you happen to make mistakes while riding and, with a 471cc engine, you’ll have enough power to get yourself out of trouble in a hurry if you need to.

The Rebel 500 has great ergonomics

One of the main draws of going with a cruiser bike is the more natural seating ergonomics that comes with it and the Rebel 500 is no exception. Cycle World mentioned in their review that the Rebel 500’s ergonomics were comfortable and that the reach to handle was “natural and relaxed,” although, some riders that are six-feet-tall or taller might find the peg placement a little too “compact.” Otherwise, Honda did update the Rebel 500 for the 2020 model year, which came with a thicker and more comfortable seat.

The 471cc motor is smooth

Speaking of the Rebel 500’s engine, the liquid-cooled, parallel-twin makes 40.8 hp and 29.9 lb-ft of torque according to Cycle World’s dyno, which is more than adequate for cruising on any street or back road. As Ultimate Motorcycling also noted, the Rebel 500 is tuned better for low-end performance, so pulling away from stoplights is easy with no “surprising jerks” or “snatchy reactions.”

The Rebel 500’s transmission makes for an easy ride

The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that offers a smooth and easy engagement and its gear ratios are also well-suited for almost all types of driving. Additionally, the new “slipper clutch” makes working the clutch lever a breeze.

The new LED lighting adds a lot of safety

Are you worried about other cars being able to see you when riding at night? Fortunately, the Honda Rebel 500 has some updated brightwork for the 2020 model year. There are four LED lamps up front that make up the center-mounted front headlight, while the LED turn signals and tail lights are bright enough to get almost anyone’s attention.

Additionally, the main readout gauge on the bike displays pertinent information like the bike’s speed, gear position indication, time, and fuel level. It’s also very easy to read, however, it does not include a tachometer, which is a weird piece of information to omit.

The Rebel 500 could be a great bike for you

Whether you’re just starting to ride a motorcycle, or you’re looking to get back into it from being on a hiatus for few months (or years), then the 2020 Honda Rebel 500 could be a great bike for you. After all, if you feel like it might not be, then you can always opt for the Honda Rebel 300 instead.