2026 Honda Rebel 300 Gets E-Clutch
Honda claims the Rebel 500 is the industry's top-selling cruiser
American Honda announced its 2026 Rebel line-up, including the Rebel 300 receiving E-Clutch as standard equipment. It joins the returning Rebel 500 and 1100 models, with new color options.
The Rebel 300 becomes the third model in Honda's U.S. range to receive E-Clutch. The system uses electronic motors to automatically control the clutch, while still leaving riders the option of controlling the clutch at any time. It joins the Rebel 1100 DCT, Rebel 1100 DCT SE, and Rebel 1100T DCT touring variant in offering some form of electronically assisted shifting.
Meanwhile, Honda claims the Rebel 500 is the industry's best-selling cruiser, which may come as a surprise to those who primarily picture heavyweight V-Twins when it comes to cruisers.
Begin Press Release:
Rebel 300 E-Clutch Headlines 2026 Honda Cruiser New-Model Announcement
- Popular entry-level cruiser now even more approachable for new riders
- Industry’s best-selling cruiser—the Rebel 500—returns for the new model year
- Rebel 1100 available in five different trim levels, including three with DCT
American Honda today announced its 2026 Rebel lineup, reinforcing the model family’s position as one of the most popular and versatile names in the cruiser category. Long recognized for combining timeless styling with rider-friendly performance, the Rebel models continue to attract new motorcyclists while also appealing to seasoned riders.
For the new model year, the spotlight is on the Rebel 300, which becomes the third powersports model to feature Honda’s innovative E-Clutch technology, further lowering the barrier to entry for new riders, while enhancing convenience for all. Rounding out the lineup, the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 return for 2026, delivering the performance, reliability and character that have made the Rebel nameplate a mainstay of Honda’s on-road lineup.
“The Rebel brand has been a cornerstone of Honda’s on-road lineup throughout its long history, and it continues to resonate with riders of varying ages and backgrounds,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “The 2026 Rebel 300—now with E-Clutch technology—builds on that legacy by combining timeless design with cutting-edge innovation, while the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 platforms carry forward the same trusted qualities that have made Honda’s cruisers so popular.”
2026 Rebel 300 E-Clutch
When it comes to introducing new riders to on-road motorcycling, few models can compete with Honda’s Rebel 300. Thanks to its unintimidating nature, low seat height, feathery overall weight, controllable power, fun style and affordable MSRP, this little cruiser has long served as an entry point for folks looking to dip a toe into the excitement of riding. Consequently, it makes sense that the Rebel 300 is a common choice for riding schools like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse. For the 2026 model year, the popular model is even more approachable, as it comes with Honda E-Clutch technology, which is designed to make motorcycling even more enjoyable and exciting.
- Colors: Matte Black Metallic; Pearl Smoky Gray
- MSRP: $5,349
- Available: December
- Info
2026 Rebel 500
As the industry’s best-selling cruiser, the Rebel 500 has a proven record as a fun, approachable machine that offers comfort, performance and style. Nimble and light, it’s a great option for those getting started in motorcycling, those stepping up from a smaller bike or even for experienced riders seeking an affordable machine for getting around town in style. Available in a standard version and an SE trim level with select factory-installed accessories, the Rebel 500 promises to retain its popularity for years to come.
- Colors
- Rebel 500: Pearl Black; Pearl Smoky Gray
- Rebel 500 SE: Pearl Blue
- MSRP
- Rebel 500: $6,799
- Rebel 500 SE: $6,999
- Available: January
- Info
2026 Rebel 1100
Blending classic lines with advanced technology and Honda’s renowned engineering, the Rebel 1100 platform continues to redefine what a modern cruiser can be. In a category often driven by tradition, Honda’s largest Rebel pushes boundaries by offering riders not only timeless styling and strong performance, but also the kind of innovation and versatility that resonate with today’s motorcyclists. The model boasts a long list of features focused on comfort and convenience, including rider-friendly tech like Honda RoadSync for seamless connectivity. With five distinct trim levels—ranging from the stripped-back standard to the touring-ready T—there’s a Rebel 1100 version to suit every style of rider. Each iteration delivers the same foundation of reliability, performance and character that has made the Rebel nameplate a favorite since its introduction.
- Colors
- Rebel 1100: Matte Black Metallic; Matte Silver
- Rebel 1100 DCT: Matte Black Metallic; Matte Silver
- Rebel 1100 DCT SE: Deep Pearl Gray
- Rebel 1100T: Gray Metallic
- Rebel 1100T DCT: Gray Metallic
- MSRP
- Rebel 1100: $9,699
- Rebel 1100 DCT: $10,399
- Rebel 1100 DCT SE: $11,199
- Rebel 1100T: $10,899
- Rebel 1100T DCT: $11,599
- Available: December
- Info
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I'm a 63-year-old mechanic.
Most 20-something kids that buy a motorcycle these days are gentle, little lambs that are interested in 300cc bikes that have automatic transmissions and electronic rider aids. They have never even seen a CAR with a manual transmission, spend 80% of their day on a smart phone, and wouldn't know a day of hard work if it bit them. I KNOW this because I WORK with them. Many of these kids come from single-parent households. THIS motorcycle is EXACTLY what you need for TODAY'S entry-level rider. Ten years ago, you couldn't give a bike like this away. Times change.....
I wonder if by "Industry Leading cruiser", Honda is referring to the global market? Harleys, and bigger cruisers, with some exceptions, just aren't as popular elsewhere.