Benelli 502 C: The More Sensible Option Compared To Honda Rebel 500?

The two bikes are almost neck-and-neck when it comes to engine performance. Both cruisers use the same parallel-twin engine configuration with power and torque being delivered at similar rpms.

However, the 502 C does have a slight advantage. It makes 1.28PS and 2.7Nm more than the Rebel 500. Technically, it should be the quicker one to get off the line, but that notion could change when you factor in the bike's weight. It’s a whole 25kg heavier than the Rebel 500.

With that in mind, we believe the Rebel 500 will be the quicker of the two, despite its performance deficit.

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UNDERPINNINGS

The 502 C is clearly better equipped than its Japanese rivals. However, the spec sheet only tells half the story. 

The 502 C features radial calipers, which should ideally ensure better feedback than the Rebel’s axial units (a.k.a. sliding caliper) on paper. It's also likely to drop the anchor sooner thanks to its twin disc setup at the front, compared to the Rebel's single disc. But again, the Rebel 500 is 25kgs lighter, which should make a world of a difference in the real world.

The chunky tyres on both bikes should offer ample stability and grip while accelerating. But it all boils down to the make and compound of the tyres.

DIMENSIONS

The Rebel's shorter wheelbase and smaller 16-inch tyres should make it the better handler. But its 125mm ground clearance could have you scraping the exhaust or footpegs rather quickly if you push it too hard. The 502 C, on the other hand, should clear most speed breakers and potholes in India, making it better suited for our road conditions.

Another big plus for the 502 C is its massive 21.5-litre fuel tank -- almost twice that of the Rebel 500. So you don’t need to worry about constant fuel stops on long hauls.  

The Rebel has its positives too. It’s a lot lighter with an accessible seat height of 690mm -- perfect for shorter riders, especially women.

VERDICT

Benelli 502 C (ex-showroom)	Honda Rebel 500 (ex-showroom)
Rs 4.9 lakhs (expected price)	GBP 5,799 (Rs 5.96 lakh)

Benelli is known to price its products competitively which should give it the edge. A parallel-twin cruiser for under Rs 5 lakh makes for one heck of a value-for-money proposition. That said, it does have its shortcomings. For instance, you’ll have to deal with a rather heavy bike that may not be to everyone’s liking. Then there’s the way it looks. The Ducati Diavel-inspired styling may put people off.  

This puts the spotlight on the Rebel 500, but it all depends on how Honda manages to price the product. The CB500X, which is based on the same engine platform, is priced well north of Rs 6 lakh, a lot of money for a 500cc cruiser. 

That being said, there will soon be another alternative that’ll surely put up a great fight against these two motorcycles. We’re talking about the upcoming Royal Enfield Roadster which will soon be launched in India. Here’s everything you need to know about the bike.