Thoughts on 2008 Honda Rebel?

Question

Hey,

I have been deciding whether or not to get a motorcycle due to the high gas prices. As i'm sure you'll discover as you read I am completely new to motorcycles The real reason for the delay is that every day I discover a bike I like more than the previous day. Recently I have researching the 2008 Honda Rebel. Its a little 250CC machine that I think could be perfect. The main purpose for this bike is just for fun around town and some short 20 minute commutes. My brother owns a honda dirt bike and beat on that thing and it keeps on going, i'm assuming I can expect the same quality from there cruisers? The only concern I have is that I may be a bit to big for the bike. I am 6ft, 215lbs. Again its not for long trips (with the exception of once a year back and forth to school in NH from CT) so is that something I should really be concerened about? What are your thoughts good or bad. If you can think of a bike you feel may be better suited PLEASE let me know under 4K- thanks

Answer 1

At six feet and over 200? You may opt for a LITTLE larger bike even though it is your first. Take a look at a 500cc or something like that. Cruisers are made for you to be comfortable on and the pegs are gonna be a little tight for you. Also the bike will have enough power to move that weight but that's about all. I think you'd be disappointed with it real soon. Go ahead and look bigger because you should be able to hold a larger one up. Have fun on whatever you ride!

Answer 2

I agree... if i were you I'd get a slightly bigger bike for more comfort for a person your size. The gas milage will still be great. Also, consider buying a used bike. Motorcycles lose value upon purchase even more than cars, so go find a good used bike. It will be cheaper to insure, as well. Good luck!

Answer 3

The rebel has lived far past its prime. I have a Kymco Venox and ride it on the  highway on trips a lot and around town. It is a great motorcycle. Then there is a the Hyosung GV250 it is a good motorcycle. Both of the companies are very good to do business with. They have 2 year warranty's and honor them. Both  are Water cooled VTwins which adds up to long engine life. The only ones that get all up set about engine size are wanting to go very fast. I ride my Venox 70    or better and two up all the time. I have a friend who does the same with a GV. To get a  good idea about these motorcycles go to

www.prideinwhatyouride.com this is a forum made up of owners and riders . You need to remember a lot of these guys on here that give so much advice started riding last month and do not really know what they are talking about. Honda and the rest make very good rides and they  charge you for them to. Kymco by the way use to make small motors for Honda. Both Kymco and Hyosung have been making motorcycles since the 60's.

Answer 4

I've never ridden a Rebel, but I just bought a Suzuki GZ250 about 2 months ago to learn on, which is about the same size.  I rode it for about 2 or 3 weeks before I was tired of it...it was VERY uncomfortable after around 30 minutes in the saddle, and could barely pull a hill in 5th without downshifting.  I'm 6'1", 170-ish, and the bike was, ultimately, too small for me.  I know you're planning on getting a short-distance commuter, but you'll probably still find yourself taking some longer jaunts on the bike;  and when you do, you'll want one that's built for comfort.  I'm not sure how prices are in your area, but you should be able to get a nice used 750 or 900cc for $4K without much problem (and perhaps a little negotiating).  Craigslist and Cycletrader.com have helped me alot.  Have fun!

Answer 5

I got a rebel for the purpose of saving gas and having a spare vehicle. It was a great choice for saving gas and its very reliable. I would however though have went for a Kawasaki Vulkan 500 for the extra power and comfort of faster longer rides. Or i would have got a Honda 600 VLX.

Answer 6

If your strictly getting it for commuting and gas prices then go ahead and get a Rebel but as long as your going to spend the money you might as well have some fun and a Rebel will not be any fun after you get comfortable riding in two weeks or so.

I woulnd't get anythign smaller than a 600. As for your commute to school if your riding on an expressway you shouldn't do it wtih anything smaller than a 500 or 600. The Rebel may also be a little smushed for  you because of how the seating is set up.

Personally i think your going to want to trade up very soon and will lose money in the process, buy something bigger your still being way more fuel efficient than a car.