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NEWS
Since its debut in 2017, Honda’ s CMX500 Rebel has become a modern classic— a motorcycle that captures the spirit of freedom and individuality in a stripped-back“ bobber” style. Its easygoing ride, custom potential and urban-cool attitude made it Europe’ s best-selling custom bike for four years running from 2021 to 2024.
Honda built on that success with the CMX1100 Rebel in 2021, delivering more power, sophistication and presence. The range expanded again with the touringready CMX1100T, and in 2025, Honda refined the formula further with engine, comfort and electronic updates. The lineup now includes the CMX1100SE, a factory-built special edition that looks custom straight from the crate.
For 2026, Honda keeps the Rebel fresh with new colours and subtle refinements that underline its ongoing evolution.
At its core, the CMX1100 remains a bike of dual character— relaxed and easygoing in town, yet agile and engaging on twisty roads. A low 710mm seat height, forward-set footpegs and wide handlebars create a laid-back riding stance that inspires confidence. Power comes from a re-tuned version of the Africa Twin’ s 1,084cc parallel twin, tuned for strong mid-range torque and a more muscular exhaust note.
Electronic sophistication is handled by Honda’ s Throttle By Wire system, offering selectable riding modes and adjustable traction and wheelie control. Riders can also choose Honda’ s Dual Clutch Transmission( DCT), which delivers smooth, near-instant gear changes and has been refined for better slowspeed control. Design remains central to the Rebel’ s appeal. Its minimalist frame, steel mudguards and fat tyres communicate mechanical honesty, while modern touches like LED lighting and a fiveinch TFT display with smartphone connectivity bring it up to date. The display, operated through Honda RoadSync, allows navigation, calls and music to be managed from the handlebars. A USB-C port beside the screen adds practical convenience. The CMX1100 range now offers distinct personalities. The standard model keeps the pure bobber aesthetic; the
CMX1100T adds a half fairing and integrated panniers for touring riders; and the CMX1100SE stands apart with barend mirrors, a diamond-stitched seat, short front fender and anodised details— a custom look straight from the factory.
Performance remains one of the Rebel’ s strengths. The twin-cylinder engine delivers 65kW at 7,250rpm and 98Nm of torque at 4,750rpm, producing a deep, pulsing exhaust note that builds to a throaty growl. More than half of all CMX1100 buyers in Europe choose the DCT option, drawn to its smoothness and convenience. Three automatic shift maps align with the riding modes— Standard, Rain and Sport— while a manual paddle-shift mode offers full control.
The tubular steel frame and revised ergonomics introduced last year make the Rebel comfortable for longer rides and adaptable for a range of rider sizes. Suspension comes from 43mm front forks and twin rear shocks with piggyback reservoirs, both adjustable for preload. Braking is handled by a radial-mount fourpiston front caliper and 330mm disc, while the chunky 18-inch front and 16-inch rear tyres provide stability and grip.
Practical details also reflect Honda’ s attention to everyday usability. There’ s a discreet storage compartment under the removable rear seat, complete with USB-C charging, plus standard cruise control for easy highway travel. Even small design touches, like the side-mounted ignition and seat lock, make a difference in day-to-day use.
For 2026, the CMX1100 will be available in two new colours— Mat Beta Silver Metallic and Mat Ballistic Black Metallic— while the CMX1100T SE arrives in Pearl Deep Mud Gray alongside Mat Ballistic Black Metallic. The CMX1100T Touring continues in Iridium Gray Metallic.
Honda continues to encourage personalisation with a wide range of factory accessories, from comfort seats and luggage to chrome or blackout cosmetic kits. For many owners, the Rebel is more than a motorcycle— it’ s a canvas for self-expression.
Nearly a decade on, Honda’ s Rebel lineup remains a defining statement of what modern cruisers can be: authentic yet advanced, stylish yet functional. The 2026 updates don’ t reinvent the Rebel, but they reaffirm its enduring appeal— a motorcycle that remains true to its name by quietly defying convention. TRAVERSE
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