People who think anyone riding anything under 900cc is a newbie/a "girl"/lack confidence/is physically challenged etc. have their heads up their asses, or they're dealers trying to upsell. TRUE motorcyclists know that anything with 2 wheels and a motor can be a blast depending on how it's ridden.
My first cycle was a Wyler's Chris Cycle. I got it when I was eleven, and man was it fun. I'd rather have a minibike than a huge road machine. I'd like to have a rebel for riding around in the country. Maybe some day.
I ride a 883 Sportster with a 1275cc jug swap AND wait for it, wait for it, a Honda cbr500r poser rice rocket, and I love that bike to the moon, I out run my friend on his bmw s1000r in the Twisties
I’m a new rider call me crazy but traded my Intruder 800cc for a Honda Rebel 250. And I have no regrets. Did I lose value absolutely, but it was worth it because I’m not freaking out the whole time on such a heavy powerful bike. I’m 100% satisfied with my Rebel.
I've been riding my 2005 rebel for 2 years. I think I top out at 75 mph actual. Regular use at that top speed. What keeps me riding it is the absolutely unparallel low cost of ownership and upkeep. 70 mpg easy and a super simple engine. I'd love to get a bigger bike but the economics just aren't there.
Yeah, no shit, 60mpg, cheap parts, simple to work on, bullet proof swiss watch engine. You can't carry much on it, but for local travel, it can't be beat.
@@theItalianshamrock I rode mine for about 2 hours solid through light suburban traffic. My clutch hand got a bit tired but overall not too uncomfortable. I don't know about the 6-8 hours... perhaps if you spread em out like 2 then rest for 1.... 2 -1- 2-1
@@theItalianshamrock I love the looks of the rebel 250 but if you want the same experience with more comfort, just go for the nighthawk 250, it has the same exact engine but the seat is veeeery comfortable, I got one and it's true that these machines are gutless, but I never get tired. The bad thing is that the American nighthawk has 2 drum brakes, I'm from Europe and here it's called Two fifty and has a disc front brake
The nice thing about riding on the Rebel, is you can flick it around anywhere. You are totally in control, there is no question about it. Once you get on bigger bikes, and go faster, you start to realize, you're not really always in absolute total control in every sketchy situation... the bike has a mind of it's own. Difference between riding a pony, and a horse. A lot to be said good for pony's.
Very well said a Honda Rebal 250 Kawasaki Ninja 250 , super scooter 250 , Baja Warrior 200 converted from Chain drive to Chain chain drive to Belt drive to Chain drive turn the governor up or Bypass the governor it will run 65/70 mph put Blinkers on it speedometer write down the numbers on the gooseneck and go to your secretary of state and get it registered as a 49/50cc moped and get a moped sticker I have a Street Legal Baja Warrior 200cc Trail bike and I usually ride it when I am riding with my cousin on his Kawasaki Ninja 250 a friend on his Honda Rebal 250 a friend from work on his Honda Grom 125 and a good friend on his super scooter 250 I ride my Suzuki gsx600f if I am going to be riding with my older brother on his Suzuki gsxr750 a few friends on their bikes Honda cbr600rr Kawasaki zx6r my step son on his Yamaha R6 I ride my Kawasaki kz1000 if I am going to be riding with my older cousin's on their bikes Kawasaki zx14r Suzuki gsxr1000 and Honda cbr1000rr and I ride my 1972 Harley Davidson 900 sportser chopper 7 foot springer front end my very first Big Street Bike my grandpa gave me my 18th birthday or my 1982 Harley Davidson 1200 sportser 25th anniversary of my dad gave me my 21st birthday which I still have all my bikes today I am in the process of getting my 49cc mini Chopper going my 125 cc scooter and 50cc motorized bicycle so my son has a few different bikes to start on when he gets older I am going to start him Riding quads and Manco Dingo Buggy at the age of 4 like my dad started my out on a Kawasaki Drifter 440 snowmobile when I was 4 My 5th birthday my Dad bought me my Manco Dingo Buggy 8hp Briggs Stratton equal to 350cc I still have it today I got my first three wheeler at the age of 10 1984 Honda 125m rare Blue I got my first dirt bike at the age of 12 my 1974 Yamaha Dt175 Enduro and 1973 Rupp 440 snowmobile which I gave my step son so he could go riding with his friends he is from Tennessee so he needed something to trail ride
That's how I felt on my first bike, a Rebel 300. Fantastic little thing, very flickable for cruiser style, and I always always felt in full control of it. I'm 6' and 250lbs and had a blast with that thing. Only problem is it's not made for really long road trips, so I ended up trading for an older Shadow 750, but I still sometimes miss how small and nimble the 300 was.
More than 30 years ago I wanted to get one of these Rebel 250s when they first came out but my biker friends talked me out of it. I had to start on a 750 and gradually worked my way up to a full size Harley over the years. I currently have a Dyna Wide Glide but looking back I would have been just as happy with this little 250 and saved a ton of money over the long term.
i just want to say how awesome the support is on this thread. A 250 has been my first bike like many of ya on here and i've really got nothing but good things to say as well!
I know its a personal choice but i always get a weird feeling when the POV is from your view and see no gloves. Im not a safety freak i just have that fear of sliding on pavement. Taught the MSF course and owned a rebel. Still puts a smile on my face to ride it. Fun little bike to have
I've had an '85 Rebel for a few years. 6' 1" 185 lbs, and it carries me around like a champ. I did always feel like my knees were in my chest until I got forward control extensions, and now the ergonomics are just fine. I'd only ever upgrade if I want a cushier ride for long trips or stronger suspension. My mechanic works on bigger, fancier bikes all the time and he loves this thing. Always says it's a sweet bike and reliable as all get out.
6" 4' live in the mountains and ride a Honda CB250 (same motor, but higher ride profile, pretty much a retro 70s bike geometry) and I'm glad I'm not chugging along on a bigger motor. It pulls me up any mountain comfortably and runs at 60 with just over half throttle. It can run to 80, but I use it on two lanes with lots of blind hills and switchbacks. It can't really sport a passenger of 200 lbs any distance as the shocks can't preload to support 420 lbs. My daughter has ridden with me. That makes a total of 330lbs and that is about perfect since that is bike weight. A 340 lb bike carrying 450 lbs of rider is not truly safe. I typically ride alone anyway and the balance is beautiful. $5 per month for insurance. 90mpg in the hills and 78mpg on flat highway at 65. Nothing but chain and tire maintenance. It is the simple bike that offers simple transport. And it is not a moped.
@@bspratt22 the last CBs (nighthawks) circa 1987 to 2008 were still bulletproof but a hard ride past an hour with stock seat. Smooth motors, but that skimpy dirt bike thin seat. I retrofit one with a fat, foam flat CB360 seat, and it seems like old times. I don't know when they killed the 650 and 750. They kept the 250 (234 and 19hp) till 2008.
The Rebel is a genuine milestone. The perfect starter bike. I've enjoyed mine for over 12 years. Reliable, efficient and surprisingly capable on the highway. I have bigger bikes, but the little Rebel is still special and gets ridden a lot.
I had a 87 rebel 250 back in the early 2000's I changed the rear sprocket gave it a a few more teeth to give it some passing ability I could run 80 all day on it. I rode that little bike to death in the 4yrs I owned it I put on over 60k on it. Rode it to work every day took several road trip on it, longest being 800 miles. I've owned many bikes since and the rebel was one of my favorites.
You can do it. I go to my girls spot 50 miles away every 3 days or so. @@treymathis1189 I'd have no problem doing 150-200 but i think i'd want a rest after that.
John- Nah, man- you are the ideal build for a Rebel. I'm in the process of putting on forward controls (I'm 6', and got a bad back) but 5'8, 185 is kinda right in the ergonomics of the bike.
I have put 30,000 highway miles on a Rebel 250, with the throttle pinned. I have pegged the speedometer and held it at 85 for several miles. Redline is at an indicated 80 mph. I'm 6' 240. I had to install forward controls and a Corbin seat to make it long distance comfortable. But other than lack of comfort, I have had zero issues cruising on the highway. Not bad for a 234cc twin. Honda's new 300cc single replacement for the Rebel is almost 15 mph slower than the 250. EFI and liquid cooling and more displacement and it's still that slower. Great progress Honda. (OH, and it's ugly as hell too)
I am 250 lbs. and have a 250 vtr no passengers I love it. I have been riding for 47 years and I tell my friends its not how fast you go its that you go wide open anyone that owned a 50cc min bike knows what I mean. My 250 I race around my city hard into the corner down the straight if I did that on a big bike I would get arrested. I also have a Victory CC can't go wide open on that.
I just got a Rebel 250 yesterday. It's my first bike. One of the best beginners bike. Lots of fun. But I'm not very confident about taking her to the highway yet.
A very good Rebel highway demonstration! It's there for everyone to see. I have the 2015 Rebel and use it on rural roads anyway, it is capable to do a HW if needed.👍🌟
I can assure you a Rebel 250 is big enough for a man on the highway. I have OVER 200K miles on 3 Rebel 250s, mostly on the highway, much of it at full throttle. I am 6' 240, with a 34" inseam. I did need to make a few modifications. I fabricated some bolt on plates that moved the pegs, shifter, and brake about 6" farther forward. I also replaced the stock handlebars with drag bars. This gave me a lot more room. A place called Blue Collar Bobbers now makes and sells both the brackets to relocate the pegs, and a drag bar kit, so you don't have to make them yourself. I also installed an MC Enterprises backrest, luggage rack, and saddlebag supports. You could also put a windshield on it, but I don't like windshields, so I didn't. I loaded them down with saddlebags, a t-bag on the rack, a sleeping bag and tent on the passenger seat, a 14L magnetic tank bag, and even a front fender bag made for a dirt bike, to carry an extra tube in. That's about 290 pounds, including my jacket and helmet. I have had a '99 Rebel, an '07 Rebel, and now a '16 Rebel, all bought new. I now have 34K miles on the 2016. I have been through a lot of tires and chains. I have made many coast to coast trips, and have ridden all over the U.S., and parts of Canada and Mexico. The Rebel 250 will hold 80 mph on a fairly flat level road at full throttle, and can reach close to 90k miles before needing any engine work if you maintain it properly. I always use 20w50 full synthetic motorcycle specific oil, changed every 1000 miles.
Great post. Only in America would people think you can't go anywhere on a 250cc motorcycle when people do it all over the world, and have been for many many years. The 250 Rebel is a swiss army knife of motorcycles, it will do just about anything short of offroad and even will do some of that on light trails as well. It's a fantastic bike, very simple, very easy to diagnose and fix, and not that many parts to go wrong like with most fuel injected computerized modern bikes. Good luck with yours and thanks for your post.
I'm 6'0 probally about 285 got a 06 pearl white rebel 250 have no problems riding it love it only problem is gas dripping out of overflow hose guess I need carb cleaned or rebuilt maybe ? it has like 3200 miles on it mint condition except a very small shallow dent in tank from previous owner
I crashed a 1984 honda rebel 250 because of its not having a kickstand kill switch on it and I was just begining street bike riding on it. I currently own a different one same year .The one I crashed, was into a guard rail on the freeway doing 70 up hill not realizing theres a guy in a truck honking triing to warn me I forgot to put up my kickstand up at the last gas station. One bad thing on these bikes from the 80's is there is'nt a kickstand kill switch and for that reason would not suggest this bike for beginners without a switch, killing motor if put into gear while kickstand is down. I dont know if they ever changed that about later models but be warned and be safe.
You really can't ask for a better first bike than this one. The pegs do start vibrating pretty bad at 60, though, and get progressively worse as you go faster. It gets really uncomfortable. It's not designed for that. But you can buy this bike and literally ride it for the rest of your life if you don't do a lot of highway riding.
Me and my brother just rode two up on one of these just for shits and giggles, to see how fast it would go. We’re both 6’3” 190 lbs, and the bike topped out at 65 mph without much trouble getting there.
getting my first bike here in a couple weeks - 2005 Honda Rebel 250cc - it's my lead in to my Harley coming the end of next summer 2018 :) great vid guys, thanks!
I've done several 130-160 mile day trips on my Rebel. Lackawaxen PA to Dingmans Ferry via RT 590 -> Rt 6 -> Rt 402 -> Bushkill Falls, Take Rt 209 to Dingmans Ferry Bridge into NJ head up to Port Jervis NY, then up Route 97 through the Hawk's Nest and up to the Roebling Bridge and back into PA, head up 590, headed out to Rt 6, down RT 6 to Hawley, continue on to Honesdale, grab dinner on Main Street, and head back home.
I knew a guy years ago who rode one of these on the freeway back and forth to work for several years, about 20 miles each way. I wouldn't do that, but he did it with no problems.
My rebel is a tank and saved my ass a few days ago! Dude hit me from behind goin 45mph and his radiator ate the back of the bike. Lucky for me I stayed on the entire time. Pushed me about 30ft into the intersection. Only the back fender and a little bit of rim are bent. Stay safe out there guys.
The right tool for the right job. If you're going to commute around town and have weekend rides on the local country roads, one of these works just fine - and is cheap to own and operate. If you need to hit the Interstate for more than a few miles, you should be looking at a bigger bike.
It’s a perfect bike for that commute. The only two drawbacks I have is: no storage space, and after two hours of riding the seat is not too comfy. But hey I do 80mph easily and safely!
Holy Cow!! I never ever thought those Honda 250 Rebels were capable of those kind of speeds! It must have a 180 degree crank. I thought the cruising speeds for those bikes would be about 45 MPH tops. I stand corrected!!
45 mph? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? 125cc mopeds can go 55, I'm 5' 10" with a 2008 Honda Rebel and they have the most beautiful running SOHC 2 valves per cylinder parallel twin engine ever made, they run and rev sooooo smooth, they are a blast to drive and I used to ride a 1200 custom Harley, stage 3 Screaming Eagle Kit, Kuryaukin Vaccuum actuated dual butterfly valve intake, and Hooker Trouble Maker pipes, I have more fun on my Rebel than I ever did on that worthless trash, I will only own Honda Cruisers, but the fun of a Rebel is it's a cruiser, with the heart of a light and nimble sport bike, and they literally do feel like they have more power than an 883cc Sportster.
Thanks for the cool ass vid man, I had a Rebel 250 quite a while ago (maybe 15 years) and they're great little bikes! Only thing is, they don't have a steering head damper, and can be a little 'wiggly' on rough roads :) I don't recommend a 250cc bike if you're a guy that's the size of a freezer, and for highway riding they're unsuitable for going 2-up. Just not enough beans. But for a guy my size (about a buck fitty soaking wet, winter jacket and full bladder) they're a total gas! :)
Nice video. Always wear good leather gloves when riding. Always. I had a Rebel in the mid 90s. Very good for city and suburban travel, but only rode short distances on freeways. Cruises OK at 60-65, but beyond that it is hard on your back and butt for very long. I really enjoyed the Rebel for rides in our mountain roads. Excellent gas mileage.
I've ridden a rebel daily for almost two years.. generally I'll avoid the highway but I'll hop on if I don't have the time to spare. She'll cruise at 70-75 pretty easily. I've had it up to 85-90 once.
@@hasanraza4650 I have. Yes I know it reads a little high but this one occasion, I had the needle significantly beyond the 85 mark. So probably right about 85. Highway with a slight downhill and I was probably over revving it a little.
Small bikes are cool. I went from a Rebel 250 to a sportster to a HD Softail and back on a small Versys x 300.. The HD now gets hardly any use. Love the Versys and miss the Rebel. Very Fun Bikes for daily commuting. :)
Had one years ago, and am getting another (for free, thanks to my sister who's never bothered to ride hers.) IMHO no, they're not a freeway bike. Makes 'em work too hard. But for around town and short distances, they're great, and I'm looking forward to having one again. (For the record, I've also had a Suzuki Savage 650, a Moto Guzzi 800, and a Harley Sportster -- among others. So I'm used to the bigger bikes too, but nuthin' wrong with a small-displacement bike!)
The problem with small cc bikes nowadays is that in all performance caregories, a cheap electric motorcycle would be better. Only downside is range and exhaust noise.
I just got it as my first bike about 3 weeks ago and I'm not ready for highway traffic yet. That said it seems fine for me to ride on the highway when I'm ready. It's not going to blast past traffic at 120mph, but that's not me anyway. I know what happens when you have to stop short going at high speed...it doesn't work out so well for anyone, especially on a bike.
I have a soft tail but bought a 87 rebel to putt around town. I did make some changes i made some forward controls so it is 2 1/2 in wider and 5 inches farther forward much more comfortable. Next i'm going to changes handle bars to move up and forward.
It looks like a Cushman minibike under this tall fellow. 😂 I've always wanted one of these as a town bike. Cheap to own, easy to ride, super common, parts forever. I'm not quite tall though.
Hi! Could you tell me how tall you are? I'm thinking about getting one (my first street bike) and I'm 5'8". You said you were comfortable, but you do LOOK a little bit cramped. What do you think? Thanks!
Im seriously considering buying one of these just to commute around town, and save my Suzuki 750 for the highway. I think i could make one look pretty sweet
My wife and I have a 750 Shadow and a 1800VTX, when I want to unwind and feel the breeze I jump on the 250 Rebel, I think it's a great fun bike for the back roads of North Carolina.
ima 17 year old, 5'10, 140 something kid, and if you're looking at buying something reliable and fun for a first bike, I think the rebels perfect. never had any problems and the thing can punch it. it obviously isnt a cross country bike, but if you wanted to, it definitely could.
Oscar Perez man I swear it's a perfect bike. it's a lotta fun, and I picked mine up with only 40 miles on it, only costed 4,200 for a 2014. so not much at all. A used one could probably go for 2000 to 3000.
Hey, I love all these videos even though I just bought a Shadow 750, it's really good video's with interesting content. However, the MT following you, makes the feeling/sound of the engine you're driving fade out. It's only slightly to loud as follow vehicle. Cheerz.
Have you ridden a Honda helix 250? They are actually extremely peppy and nimble. Would love to see you do a review, and hear your opinion. You can borrow my 87' haha. Love your videos.
Let's be honest, the 250 Rebel isn't big enough for a woman on the highway unless you plan on riding exclusively in the road head lane. It has no real passing power, and after an hour on the highway and your butt ends up sore.
Yeah u can ride a rebel on any highway the rebel will go probably 70 or 80 mph it's just who would want to get something a lil bigger 650 or bigger u could ride the 250 u would just be sick if u bought one
Ive had 2 honda rebels and I'll be completely honest even after getting a 30t sprocket and ducking it'll only max out at 75 mph on a flat surface behind other cars. It really can't do it. It's a decent bike that's easy to maintain and gets good mpg but I'd personally recommend a bigger bike (even a Honda rebel 450 would suffice here)
Always wanted a bike just for cruising around running errands and going to work was looking into a Indian scout but idk if I wanna pay that much I don't like owing money and considering it'd be my first bike I think I'd rather just pay 2k and be on my way
I used to put 87 in my tank for the first few fillups... then I used premium and the bike feels like it has less vibration and has much smoother ride. It might just be my imagination but I'm going to continue the premium especially because one tank is only 1.5 gal.
People who think anyone riding anything under 900cc is a newbie/a "girl"/lack confidence/is physically challenged etc.
have their heads up their asses, or they're dealers trying to upsell. TRUE motorcyclists know that anything with 2 wheels and a motor can be a blast depending on how it's ridden.
alot of it is little dick syndrome bro. guys who want to feel tough because they know they are lacking.
My first cycle was a Wyler's Chris Cycle. I got it when I was eleven, and man was it fun. I'd rather have a minibike than a huge road machine. I'd like to have a rebel for riding around in the country. Maybe some day.
@David Pyc that engine has more displacement than my car
I ride a 883 Sportster with a 1275cc jug swap AND wait for it, wait for it, a Honda cbr500r poser rice rocket, and I love that bike to the moon, I out run my friend on his bmw s1000r in the Twisties
Yep, sometimes its even more fun to ride a slow bike fast.
I’m a new rider call me crazy but traded my Intruder 800cc for a Honda Rebel 250. And I have no regrets. Did I lose value absolutely, but it was worth it because I’m not freaking out the whole time on such a heavy powerful bike. I’m 100% satisfied with my Rebel.
Ey as long as you are happy who cares
The CMX is a great little motorcycle, Mr. Devin.
@@royjaber571 EXACTLY
You only said that cause you didn't have an Intruder 1400
I've been riding my 2005 rebel for 2 years. I think I top out at 75 mph actual. Regular use at that top speed. What keeps me riding it is the absolutely unparallel low cost of ownership and upkeep. 70 mpg easy and a super simple engine. I'd love to get a bigger bike but the economics just aren't there.
Yeah, no shit, 60mpg, cheap parts, simple to work on, bullet proof swiss watch engine. You can't carry much on it, but for local travel, it can't be beat.
How are they for long trips? Im thinking of getting one for weekend trips. So over 3 hours maybe like 6-8 hours on the highway a day
@@theItalianshamrock I rode mine for about 2 hours solid through light suburban traffic. My clutch hand got a bit tired but overall not too uncomfortable. I don't know about the 6-8 hours... perhaps if you spread em out like 2 then rest for 1.... 2 -1- 2-1
@@theItalianshamrock I love the looks of the rebel 250 but if you want the same experience with more comfort, just go for the nighthawk 250, it has the same exact engine but the seat is veeeery comfortable, I got one and it's true that these machines are gutless, but I never get tired. The bad thing is that the American nighthawk has 2 drum brakes, I'm from Europe and here it's called Two fifty and has a disc front brake
The nice thing about riding on the Rebel, is you can flick it around anywhere. You are totally in control, there is no question about it. Once you get on bigger bikes, and go faster, you start to realize, you're not really always in absolute total control in every sketchy situation... the bike has a mind of it's own. Difference between riding a pony, and a horse. A lot to be said good for pony's.
Very well said a Honda Rebal 250 Kawasaki Ninja 250 , super scooter 250 , Baja Warrior 200 converted from Chain drive to Chain chain drive to Belt drive to Chain drive turn the governor up or Bypass the governor it will run 65/70 mph put Blinkers on it speedometer write down the numbers on the gooseneck and go to your secretary of state and get it registered as a 49/50cc moped and get a moped sticker I have a Street Legal Baja Warrior 200cc Trail bike and I usually ride it when I am riding with my cousin on his Kawasaki Ninja 250 a friend on his Honda Rebal 250 a friend from work on his Honda Grom 125 and a good friend on his super scooter 250 I ride my Suzuki gsx600f if I am going to be riding with my older brother on his Suzuki gsxr750 a few friends on their bikes Honda cbr600rr Kawasaki zx6r my step son on his Yamaha R6 I ride my Kawasaki kz1000 if I am going to be riding with my older cousin's on their bikes Kawasaki zx14r Suzuki gsxr1000 and Honda cbr1000rr and I ride my 1972 Harley Davidson 900 sportser chopper 7 foot springer front end my very first Big Street Bike my grandpa gave me my 18th birthday or my 1982 Harley Davidson 1200 sportser 25th anniversary of my dad gave me my 21st birthday which I still have all my bikes today I am in the process of getting my 49cc mini Chopper going my 125 cc scooter and 50cc motorized bicycle so my son has a few different bikes to start on when he gets older I am going to start him Riding quads and Manco Dingo Buggy at the age of 4 like my dad started my out on a Kawasaki Drifter 440 snowmobile when I was 4 My 5th birthday my Dad bought me my Manco Dingo Buggy 8hp Briggs Stratton equal to 350cc I still have it today I got my first three wheeler at the age of 10 1984 Honda 125m rare Blue I got my first dirt bike at the age of 12 my 1974 Yamaha Dt175 Enduro and 1973 Rupp 440 snowmobile which I gave my step son so he could go riding with his friends he is from Tennessee so he needed something to trail ride
How tall are you I just wanna know because I think the bike might be to small for me
That's how I felt on my first bike, a Rebel 300. Fantastic little thing, very flickable for cruiser style, and I always always felt in full control of it. I'm 6' and 250lbs and had a blast with that thing. Only problem is it's not made for really long road trips, so I ended up trading for an older Shadow 750, but I still sometimes miss how small and nimble the 300 was.
More than 30 years ago I wanted to get one of these Rebel 250s when they first came out but my biker friends talked me out of it. I had to start on a 750 and gradually worked my way up to a full size Harley over the years. I currently have a Dyna Wide Glide but looking back I would have been just as happy with this little 250 and saved a ton of money over the long term.
i just want to say how awesome the support is on this thread. A 250 has been my first bike like many of ya on here and i've really got nothing but good things to say as well!
Just bought one of these as my first bike. Looking forward to getting my permit and actually using it!
I know its a personal choice but i always get a weird feeling when the POV is from your view and see no gloves. Im not a safety freak i just have that fear of sliding on pavement.
Taught the MSF course and owned a rebel. Still puts a smile on my face to ride it. Fun little bike to have
I'm buying a 08 Honda rebel tomorrow. Gonna be my first bike.
Congratulations! Have fun and be safe!
husky venom I got an 09 Rebel 250 a few months back, needs carbs cleaned and tuned from sitting so long but I'm excited!!
How’s that Rebel treating you
Im planning on purchasing a 91 nighthawk. Thought it was a 750 but it might be a 250. Im worried about getting something under powered.
I'm buying a 98' Honda rebel in 9 days. Gonna be my first bike. :D
I've had an '85 Rebel for a few years. 6' 1" 185 lbs, and it carries me around like a champ. I did always feel like my knees were in my chest until I got forward control extensions, and now the ergonomics are just fine. I'd only ever upgrade if I want a cushier ride for long trips or stronger suspension. My mechanic works on bigger, fancier bikes all the time and he loves this thing. Always says it's a sweet bike and reliable as all get out.
kicksit1980 how much for the forward extensions if I may ask? I’m 6’3’’ and 210. Is it too much for me size wise?
Do you have a link for the forward extensions?
6" 4' live in the mountains and ride a Honda CB250 (same motor, but higher ride profile, pretty much a retro 70s bike geometry) and I'm glad I'm not chugging along on a bigger motor. It pulls me up any mountain comfortably and runs at 60 with just over half throttle. It can run to 80, but I use it on two lanes with lots of blind hills and switchbacks.
It can't really sport a passenger of 200 lbs any distance as the shocks can't preload to support 420 lbs. My daughter has ridden with me. That makes a total of 330lbs and that is about perfect since that is bike weight. A 340 lb bike carrying 450 lbs of rider is not truly safe. I typically ride alone anyway and the balance is beautiful.
$5 per month for insurance. 90mpg in the hills and 78mpg on flat highway at 65. Nothing but chain and tire maintenance. It is the simple bike that offers simple transport. And it is not a moped.
S Tho A 250cc scooter isn't a "moped", hell even a 150cc wouldn't be considered one either.
$5 a month on insurance? Who do you go through? I’m shocked as hell haha!
Had a1976cb200t , wish I artillery had it .
yes wish they would bring back the cb's - great bullet proof bikes; the rebel is great around town but not so much on the highway or for longer rides
@@bspratt22 the last CBs (nighthawks) circa 1987 to 2008 were still bulletproof but a hard ride past an hour with stock seat. Smooth motors, but that skimpy dirt bike thin seat. I retrofit one with a fat, foam flat CB360 seat, and it seems like old times. I don't know when they killed the 650 and 750. They kept the 250 (234 and 19hp) till 2008.
The Rebel is a genuine milestone. The perfect starter bike. I've enjoyed mine for over 12 years.
Reliable, efficient and surprisingly capable on the highway.
I have bigger bikes, but the little Rebel is still special and gets ridden a lot.
I had a 87 rebel 250 back in the early 2000's I changed the rear sprocket gave it a a few more teeth to give it some passing ability I could run 80 all day on it. I rode that little bike to death in the 4yrs I owned it I put on over 60k on it. Rode it to work every day took several road trip on it, longest being 800 miles. I've owned many bikes since and the rebel was one of my favorites.
Tell me about ur experience lol I jus bought a 2008 rebel 250 I wanna eventually use it to go like 400 miles away when I get comfy would it reach?
You can do it. I go to my girls spot 50 miles away every 3 days or so. @@treymathis1189
I'd have no problem doing 150-200 but i think i'd want a rest after that.
I'm 6 ft tall, 240lbs. I commute 60+ miles a day on a 2014 Rebel 250. In a year, I've put 13k+ miles on it. No problems.
Kevin Poole fat ass
yep.
Do you look like the guy in the neon? I'm around 5,8 145 and looking to buy a 250. Would this fit me, or be to small?
John- Nah, man- you are the ideal build for a Rebel. I'm in the process of putting on forward controls (I'm 6', and got a bad back) but 5'8, 185 is kinda right in the ergonomics of the bike.
Ok, thanks! I've been looking at this for a beginner bike to commute around.
I have put 30,000 highway miles on a Rebel 250, with the throttle pinned. I have pegged the speedometer and held it at 85 for several miles. Redline is at an indicated 80 mph. I'm 6' 240. I had to install forward controls and a Corbin seat to make it long distance comfortable. But other than lack of comfort, I have had zero issues cruising on the highway. Not bad for a 234cc twin. Honda's new 300cc single replacement for the Rebel is almost 15 mph slower than the 250. EFI and liquid cooling and more displacement and it's still that slower. Great progress Honda. (OH, and it's ugly as hell too)
Gerald Scott and she blew up,lmao
I am 250 lbs. and have a 250 vtr no passengers I love it. I have been riding for 47 years and I tell my friends its not how fast you go its that you go wide open anyone that owned a 50cc min bike knows what I mean. My 250 I race around my city hard into the corner down the straight if I did that on a big bike I would get arrested. I also have a Victory CC can't go wide open on that.
My favorite part of the Honda Rebel is the steering wheel. 🤪
my favorite part is how it's a 250 ninja
I just got a Rebel 250 yesterday. It's my first bike. One of the best beginners bike. Lots of fun. But I'm not very confident about taking her to the highway yet.
Definitely cannot take the Rebel 250 to a highway. I'm 242 lbs. You need at least 500cc to ho highway speed.
i know this is a year ago but i'm 165 and i do highway at 65 just fine.@@ricardok5593
A very good Rebel highway demonstration! It's there for everyone to see. I have the 2015 Rebel and use it on rural roads anyway, it is capable to do a HW if needed.👍🌟
I can assure you a Rebel 250 is big enough for a man on the highway. I have OVER 200K miles on 3 Rebel 250s, mostly on the highway, much of it at full throttle. I am 6' 240, with a 34" inseam. I did need to make a few modifications. I fabricated some bolt on plates that moved the pegs, shifter, and brake about 6" farther forward. I also replaced the stock handlebars with drag bars. This gave me a lot more room. A place called Blue Collar Bobbers now makes and sells both the brackets to relocate the pegs, and a drag bar kit, so you don't have to make them yourself. I also installed an MC Enterprises backrest, luggage rack, and saddlebag supports. You could also put a windshield on it, but I don't like windshields, so I didn't. I loaded them down with saddlebags, a t-bag on the rack, a sleeping bag and tent on the passenger seat, a 14L magnetic tank bag, and even a front fender bag made for a dirt bike, to carry an extra tube in. That's about 290 pounds, including my jacket and helmet. I have had a '99 Rebel, an '07 Rebel, and now a '16 Rebel, all bought new. I now have 34K miles on the 2016. I have been through a lot of tires and chains. I have made many coast to coast trips, and have ridden all over the U.S., and parts of Canada and Mexico. The Rebel 250 will hold 80 mph on a fairly flat level road at full throttle, and can reach close to 90k miles before needing any engine work if you maintain it properly. I always use 20w50 full synthetic motorcycle specific oil, changed every 1000 miles.
Great post. Only in America would people think you can't go anywhere on a 250cc motorcycle when people do it all over the world, and have been for many many years. The 250 Rebel is a swiss army knife of motorcycles, it will do just about anything short of offroad and even will do some of that on light trails as well. It's a fantastic bike, very simple, very easy to diagnose and fix, and not that many parts to go wrong like with most fuel injected computerized modern bikes. Good luck with yours and thanks for your post.
I rode my 2006 Honda Rebel across The State of Washington and back, round trip of 700 miles. I was 275 pounds and 6 ft tall at that time.
Gee, how tall are you now???
You got shorter/taller? lol
great question
I'm 6'0 probally about 285 got a 06 pearl white rebel 250 have no problems riding it love it only problem is gas dripping out of overflow hose guess I need carb cleaned or rebuilt maybe ? it has like 3200 miles on it mint condition except a very small shallow dent in tank from previous owner
@@wolfpacak47 Gas is supposed to drip out of the bottom of your carb if that's what you're referring to
I crashed a 1984 honda rebel 250 because of its not having a kickstand kill switch on it and I was just begining street bike riding on it. I currently own a different one same year .The one I crashed, was into a guard rail on the freeway doing 70 up hill not realizing theres a guy in a truck honking triing to warn me I forgot to put up my kickstand up at the last gas station. One bad thing on these bikes from the 80's is there is'nt a kickstand kill switch and for that reason would not suggest this bike for beginners without a switch, killing motor if put into gear while kickstand is down. I dont know if they ever changed that about later models but be warned and be safe.
You really can't ask for a better first bike than this one. The pegs do start vibrating pretty bad at 60, though, and get progressively worse as you go faster. It gets really uncomfortable. It's not designed for that. But you can buy this bike and literally ride it for the rest of your life if you don't do a lot of highway riding.
Me and my brother just rode two up on one of these just for shits and giggles, to see how fast it would go. We’re both 6’3” 190 lbs, and the bike topped out at 65 mph without much trouble getting there.
I ride a rebel on the highway everyday to work, it works, plus the mpg is a plus so yeah, good stuff
getting my first bike here in a couple weeks - 2005 Honda Rebel 250cc - it's my lead in to my Harley coming the end of next summer 2018 :) great vid guys, thanks!
I've done several 130-160 mile day trips on my Rebel. Lackawaxen PA to Dingmans Ferry via RT 590 -> Rt 6 -> Rt 402 -> Bushkill Falls, Take Rt 209 to Dingmans Ferry Bridge into NJ head up to Port Jervis NY, then up Route 97 through the Hawk's Nest and up to the Roebling Bridge and back into PA, head up 590, headed out to Rt 6, down RT 6 to Hawley, continue on to Honesdale, grab dinner on Main Street, and head back home.
Your friend in the avatar seems very deer.
It’s not what you’re riding but where you’re going. Nighthawk 250s become a ninja at the end of every ride.
"Just buzzing along at 65" *bike is literally screaming*
It’s not what you’re riding but where you’re going. Nighthawk becomes a ninja at the end of every ride.
I knew a guy years ago who rode one of these on the freeway back and forth to work for several years, about 20 miles each way. I wouldn't do that, but he did it with no problems.
That is me. I daily mine at 30 miles to work
@5:25 you called it a Ninja....No big deal, loved the video. Took my moto class/license on a Honda Nighthawk 250, great little bike.
The fuel economy reminds me of the motorbike in dumb and dumber. "I get about 90 miles a gallon on this hog"
Buying an 07 rebel for my first bike this week. Saw it and knew it was gonna be my first bike after watching this video, any doubt in my mind GONE
My rebel is a tank and saved my ass a few days ago! Dude hit me from behind goin 45mph and his radiator ate the back of the bike. Lucky for me I stayed on the entire time. Pushed me about 30ft into the intersection. Only the back fender and a little bit of rim are bent. Stay safe out there guys.
wow! thats awesome to hear. (know this was a year ago, but this is comforting as I just bought my first moto, (85))
The right tool for the right job. If you're going to commute around town and have weekend rides on the local country roads, one of these works just fine - and is cheap to own and operate.
If you need to hit the Interstate for more than a few miles, you should be looking at a bigger bike.
Did it on an 08 rebel 250 from Maine to Brooklyn ny and back.
Was it comfortable? I found a $1000 2008 Honda rebel. It looks to be in good condition. It would be my first bike. Should I jump on the deal?
@@arberdemiri get it checked out by a mechanic first.
Cool to see I've been looking for something to do an hour commute at mostly 55 mph. That seems pretty reasonable
It’s a perfect bike for that commute. The only two drawbacks I have is: no storage space, and after two hours of riding the seat is not too comfy. But hey I do 80mph easily and safely!
Holy Cow!! I never ever thought those Honda 250 Rebels were capable of those kind of speeds! It must have a 180 degree crank. I thought the cruising speeds for those bikes would be about 45 MPH tops. I stand corrected!!
45 mph? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? 125cc mopeds can go 55, I'm 5' 10" with a 2008 Honda Rebel and they have the most beautiful running SOHC 2 valves per cylinder parallel twin engine ever made, they run and rev sooooo smooth, they are a blast to drive and I used to ride a 1200 custom Harley, stage 3 Screaming Eagle Kit, Kuryaukin Vaccuum actuated dual butterfly valve intake, and Hooker Trouble Maker pipes, I have more fun on my Rebel than I ever did on that worthless trash, I will only own Honda Cruisers, but the fun of a Rebel is it's a cruiser, with the heart of a light and nimble sport bike, and they literally do feel like they have more power than an 883cc Sportster.
Thanks for the cool ass vid man, I had a Rebel 250 quite a while ago (maybe 15 years) and they're great little bikes! Only thing is, they don't have a steering head damper, and can be a little 'wiggly' on rough roads :)
I don't recommend a 250cc bike if you're a guy that's the size of a freezer, and for highway riding they're unsuitable for going 2-up. Just not enough beans.
But for a guy my size (about a buck fitty soaking wet, winter jacket and full bladder) they're a total gas! :)
I am 6'4 250 been looking at this for a starter bike
Do you have any updates? I’m the same height and weight, I was wondering if I would fit on one lol
Nice video. Always wear good leather gloves when riding. Always.
I had a Rebel in the mid 90s. Very good for city and suburban travel, but only rode short distances on freeways. Cruises OK at 60-65, but beyond that it is hard on your back and butt for very long. I really enjoyed the Rebel for rides in our mountain roads. Excellent gas mileage.
I remember the VW bugs were 1300 ‘s and moved pretty good . The VW bus was a 1600.
I've ridden a rebel daily for almost two years.. generally I'll avoid the highway but I'll hop on if I don't have the time to spare. She'll cruise at 70-75 pretty easily. I've had it up to 85-90 once.
It's not possible to ride a CMX 250 on 90 mph. Check your speedometer.
@@hasanraza4650 I have. Yes I know it reads a little high but this one occasion, I had the needle significantly beyond the 85 mark. So probably right about 85. Highway with a slight downhill and I was probably over revving it a little.
Love your videos man, buying a 03 tomorrow woot!
Bro That's WHAT IM GETTING THID MONTH is it good??
Small bikes are cool. I went from a Rebel 250 to a sportster to a HD Softail and back on a small Versys x 300.. The HD now gets hardly any use. Love the Versys and miss the Rebel. Very Fun Bikes for daily commuting. :)
I'm thinking of getting this bike (1985 Honda Rebel 250cc) for my first bike (Rode a dirtbike before but it wasn't mine)
Nice punpun profile
I got the same bike and it's only 345 LBS rated so really it's a one person bike
Had one years ago, and am getting another (for free, thanks to my sister who's never bothered to ride hers.) IMHO no, they're not a freeway bike. Makes 'em work too hard. But for around town and short distances, they're great, and I'm looking forward to having one again. (For the record, I've also had a Suzuki Savage 650, a Moto Guzzi 800, and a Harley Sportster -- among others. So I'm used to the bigger bikes too, but nuthin' wrong with a small-displacement bike!)
Born to be mild baby! heck yeah!!
😅
The problem with small cc bikes nowadays is that in all performance caregories, a cheap electric motorcycle would be better. Only downside is range and exhaust noise.
I just got it as my first bike about 3 weeks ago and I'm not ready for highway traffic yet.
That said it seems fine for me to ride on the highway when I'm ready.
It's not going to blast past traffic at 120mph, but that's not me anyway. I know what happens when you have to stop short going at high speed...it doesn't work out so well for anyone, especially on a bike.
I have a soft tail but bought a 87 rebel to putt around town. I did make some changes i made some forward controls so it is 2 1/2 in wider and 5 inches farther forward much more comfortable. Next i'm going to changes handle bars to move up and forward.
Always felt comfortable at city speeds but on the highway i felt unsafe due to the tapping out of speed to pass or get out of the way if necessary.
I am about to get an 98” model as my first and im kinda exited
thanks i’ve been looking for this kind of review
I'm around 6'0" do you think I'd be comfortable on this bike?
It looks like a Cushman minibike under this tall fellow. 😂 I've always wanted one of these as a town bike. Cheap to own, easy to ride, super common, parts forever. I'm not quite tall though.
"This thing's just crushin the highway" Woosh......Wooosh......Wooosh (cars passing him constantly).
ClayMation there are always people on SUV's speeding, you cannot help with that.
Maureen Oyarzo As do motorcycles, who should DEFINITELY not be speeding.
Thanks for the side view. I'm 6' 4" 245 and wonder how I would fit. It would be a first bike choice.
Hi! Could you tell me how tall you are? I'm thinking about getting one (my first street bike) and I'm 5'8". You said you were comfortable, but you do LOOK a little bit cramped. What do you think?
Thanks!
I’m 5’8 and around 250lbs, I’m looking to get a motorcycle would the Honda rebel be a good fit for me?
0:54 hands of the wheel?
Im seriously considering buying one of these just to commute around town, and save my Suzuki 750 for the highway. I think i could make one look pretty sweet
My wife and I have a 750 Shadow and a 1800VTX, when I want to unwind and feel the breeze I jump on the 250 Rebel, I think it's a great fun bike for the back roads of North Carolina.
what about comfort do you feel cramped in?
Where’d you get a ninja in the middle of the ride?
Try the new redesigned 2017 Rebels!!!
streetstunna600 I would love to get my hands on one they look great
Srkcycles I just picked up my rebel 500 about a week ago. I love it!
but do you think my DENSE self (270LB) could ride one and ride comfortably at 65mph?
You and Caleb should two up a rebel 250 on the highway and we’d like to see that😂
you going to make a test ride video of the fz-07?
I just got a 1987 CX250 for my first bike, I'm 6' 160lbs and my wife is about 100-115lbs. Could we ride double?
Port and polish, change the jets, and maybe change the sprockets to speed sprockets.
I’m buying one tomorrow and I can’t wait to ride on the highway
How tall are you thought? Just wondering if I want to bobber my 250 I just got?
ima 17 year old, 5'10, 140 something kid, and if you're looking at buying something reliable and fun for a first bike, I think the rebels perfect. never had any problems and the thing can punch it. it obviously isnt a cross country bike, but if you wanted to, it definitely could.
cal h bro same age, height, and weight, really considering buying one of these, how much did you pick yours up for?
Oscar Perez man I swear it's a perfect bike. it's a lotta fun, and I picked mine up with only 40 miles on it, only costed 4,200 for a 2014. so not much at all. A used one could probably go for 2000 to 3000.
does it vibrate your hands and feet on trips over 100 miles?
What is a good price for an 06 Honda rebel 250 that does not run.
Hey, I love all these videos even though I just bought a Shadow 750, it's really good video's with interesting content.
However, the MT following you, makes the feeling/sound of the engine you're driving fade out. It's only slightly to loud as follow vehicle.
Cheerz.
is 6,0 to talk for a honda rebel 250 i’m gonna go pick one up but now im worried
Is it that more powerful than a 125?
They have one for sale for 1,200 with 168k on it, is it a good buy ?
Have you ridden a Honda helix 250? They are actually extremely peppy and nimble. Would love to see you do a review, and hear your opinion. You can borrow my 87' haha. Love your videos.
Let's be honest, the 250 Rebel isn't big enough for a woman on the highway unless you plan on riding exclusively in the road head lane. It has no real passing power, and after an hour on the highway and your butt ends up sore.
Im 16 yo now. Is this a good first bike ? Im interested becouse it's so cheap. Naturally i'll ride it when im 18
Thanks!
The comfortable speed was 35 mph from my 2008 Rebel.
this bike os perfect size style love it
Honestly I just don’t wanna look stupid 😂 I am planning on getting on for my first bike but I’m 6ft1 and I feel like imma look ridiculous lmao.
Yeah u can ride a rebel on any highway the rebel will go probably 70 or 80 mph it's just who would want to get something a lil bigger 650 or bigger u could ride the 250 u would just be sick if u bought one
Iceman1 Bentley I
Where did you get the engine guard?
Ive had 2 honda rebels and I'll be completely honest even after getting a 30t sprocket and ducking it'll only max out at 75 mph on a flat surface behind other cars. It really can't do it. It's a decent bike that's easy to maintain and gets good mpg but I'd personally recommend a bigger bike (even a Honda rebel 450 would suffice here)
30t sprocket isn't going to make you go faster. The twin doesn't have the torque. 15/33 will allow you to achieve a higher speed
5:29 did he say the 250 Ninja? :p
Sava Veo he did
and you could here him say ninja as if he knew he was wrong
Could I pull a small trailer with a rebel
Love the 250 ninja
Always wanted a bike just for cruising around running errands and going to work was looking into a Indian scout but idk if I wanna pay that much I don't like owing money and considering it'd be my first bike I think I'd rather just pay 2k and be on my way
So would this be an ideal bike for someone who's only 5'0" and has never rode on two wheels before?
absolutely.
Yes, do MSF class first
“If you want to ride with your girlfriend whos not the lightest girl” just say shes fat!!! Lol
Riding in Lancaster pa?
Would it make a difference if you used premium gas
I used to put 87 in my tank for the first few fillups... then I used premium and the bike feels like it has less vibration and has much smoother ride. It might just be my imagination but I'm going to continue the premium especially because one tank is only 1.5 gal.
How tall are you tho