Honda Rebel 250
A happy-go-lucky cruiser from the Nicest People people
What displaces just 234cc, is better described as a piglet than a hog and consistently gets over 60 miles per gallon? Though frequently berated on account of its diminutive stature, this half-pint motorcycle has nonetheless managed to earn a place in history as one of Honda's most consistently purchased and popular cruisers: the Rebel CMX250C.
Since its humble inception in 1985, the Rebel 250 has charmed its way into the nostalgic preserves of countless motorcyclists. The Rebel stood true to its name from the beginning, defiantly blazing its own path to success. With a 23-year history of introducing riders to the joys of two wheels, it continues to appeal to empty-pocketed newbies in this era of high gas prices.
Honda sold 53,000 of these...
Honda sold 53,000 of these little gems between 1985 and '87. Aside from the original $1295 sticker price and a fresh coat of paint, the '08 edition shows more similarities than differences.
Three numbers dominate the Rebel's short list of selling points: 3199, 333 and 26.6. The first figure is the Rebel's price, the second its feather-light wet weight and the third its park-bench-low seat height. Cost has been kept in check by maintaining the same tried-and-true chassis and engine design drawn up when Madonna was still hot. Even the ribbed tires and handgrips are unchanged from '80s spec. Seat height is short to accommodate smaller-framed riders who are unable to sit flat-footed on most other bikes. Comfortable ergonomics, a classic cruiser look and trouble-free performance are other factors that make the Rebel an ideal candidate for new and returning riders.
A naturally positioned handlebar allows for a relaxed posture and ample leverage, maximizing the sense of stability at low speed. This machine instills an overall sense of control, eliminating the initial fear that scares many new riders away. No wonder it's a popular choice for motorcycle training schools.
A true test of healthy riding ergonomics is measurable by a lack of physical distractions while riding. One that was particularly hard to overlook on the Rebel came from motor and road vibrations feeding through the footpegs. Unless you're resilient enough to shrug off such minor nuisances, you may risk trading restful repose for agitation.
Minted shortly after the earth...
Minted shortly after the earth cooled, the 234cc SOHC twin will churn out its 16 friendly horses for decades.
The rider's seat accommodates a wide variety of American backsides; it's charitably broad for such a small machine. The passenger seat is also generous and plush, beckoning for a companion. Simple ramp-type preload adjusters on the dual shocks will accommodate the added weight, although the engine will protest. The Rebel's primitive air-cooled, carbureted, SOHC, two-valve-per-cylinder engine maintains its status as a bulletproof-albeit anemic-powerplant. Twisting the throttle is underwhelming, but eventually yields the desired effect.
Ideally functional for jaunts around town, this no-frills mini-cruiser may come across as minimalist, but it's freeway legal and durable enough for the open road. In fact, Honda has reports of customers completing cross-country tours on their Rebels! If you're a new or returning rider looking for a simple, honest machine with a friendly, docile personality, consider curling your gloves around this timeless classic.
Off The Record
Bekah Snyder
Sportbikes? Been there, raced that. Hence the invitation to saddle up on a Rebel cruiser, much my opposite, was an intriguing proposal. I'd be lying if I didn't admit to eyeballing that teasing Ninja 250 playfully revving next to me, with that whine so near and dear to my heart. But I vowed to give the Rebel a fair shake, and as we compiled the miles, she grew on me: comfy, perky and decent thrust. The secret is high revs for optimal oomph. Spotting our first twisty road, I started to pant involuntarily. If it hadn't been for the Rebel flashing me her sparkling eyelashes, I'd have surely gone off the deep end, indifferent to the sound of scraping pegs and headers. As I rode, I imagined myself passing out flyers advertising, "Free spark show at sunset."
Age: 31 Height: 5' 2" Weight: 115 lbs. Inseam: 28 in.