My dad bought me one of these brand new when I was 14. It was an 87 modal, I absolutely went everywhere on that bike. Black, with the tri-gold wing and chrome battery box w/REBEL on it. It was beautiful. Wasn't fast, it would tap 80. But it managed to meet every police officer in the town I grew up in. I literally sold it for what it cost new when I was 18. Time for a car, girls you know, didn't always want to take the bike. Ironically, those same girls showed up in my life around that bike. It was basically maintenance free. Got 60 miles to the gallon. I wish I would have kept it for my kids. I recently started riding again. When I found out the rebel was revamped and had an optional 1100cc engine. I HAD to have it. I'm happy with it, but Im reminiscent of that 250. Such a great bike. Everyone should ride one at least once in life.
Now that I'm a little older, that's scary to give a 14 year old a motorcycle that can go 80. Nice story though-I'm happy for you. I just my first motorcycle and am loving it.
Nice video. Like you I also worked my way down on bikes 🏍. I’m 65 and have been riding since 12yrs old. 1st bike was a rupp roadster black widow. Ten bikes n 53yrs later I had total hip replacement surgery and passed my 1200 Harley on to my son. Being a great son he found me a 2007 Rebel with only two thousand miles on her in showroom condition for $1700. I’m in love with her n back riding again. Everyone stay safe and healthy in the new year from Buffalo New York 🇺🇸
You got a great deal. Actual retail value on a bike with only $400 miles on it in perfect condition would be close to $3000. I'm 59 years old, and have had close to 50 bikes since age 18. From mopeds to large Harleys and 1500 Goldwings. The only ones I didn't like were the sport bikes. They are torture racks, and don't belong on the street. They are built for the track. I did have a Kawasaki ZX11 that wasn't too bad, but I prefer cruisers and touring bikes. I've also had a number of dirt and dual sport bikes. But I have also had four Rebels. I bought a new one in 1985 for $1299, just because I liked the looks of it. Unfortunately I would up selling it. But I did not forget it. Something about that little Rebel stuck with me. I bought a used '99, put a lot of miles on it, sold it, then bought a used '04, and did the same thing. I have ridden Rebels all over the country, on the freeway at full throttle. I belong to two Rebel forums, and according to a few riders that have done it, with proper maintenance, a Rebel can last around 80,000 miles at full throttle. That's a lot of miles. And I'm 6' 240. And I loaded the little Rebels down with everything I could get on them. The main problem I have with the Rebel is it's tube type tires. I have a road service plan with 100 miles of towing, but in many parts of the country, especially the southwest (AZ) where I live, that will not get you to a place that can fix a flat. When I first saw a picture of the 2017 "Rebel" (NOT my Rebel) I knew I had to get one more. The local dealer was having a sale on the 2016s, and I got one OTD well under MSRP. I put just over 600 miles on it, did the break in service, and it has been sitting in my living room ever since. I would up buying a 2006 1200 Sportster from a friend of a friend. I have a total of 6 bikes now, but the Sportster is about the only one I ride. I never had a Sportster before. It's great that you can get that same great Harley sound and feel from a much smaller more flickable bike. I will eventually get back to the Rebel. Thinking about a Corbin seat and BCB forward controls. I already gave a backrest and luggage rack on it. This one is a keeper. Not selling it ever. Original Rebels in mint condition are likely to appreciate in value after that abomination that Honda came up with and dared to put the Rebel name on.
I managed to rack up an extra 3,000 miles on her since last summer. After comparing my bike to other Rebels, I'm confident that I got an awesome deal. Even with the added mileage, I can definitely get all my money back if needed. I've been looking into getting a Sportster, would you say that the Harley is a better bike, or the difference from a Rebel to a Sportster is so minimal that it wouldn't make sense to sell?
The difference between a Rebel and a Sportster is huge. I have a 2006 Sportster 1200 Low, pretty much stock except for aftermarket slip ons, backrest, and chrome side covers. The bike is not physically large, though quite a bit larger and heavier than the Rebel. Idling in the garage, with the aftermarket pipes, it sounds like thunder and feels like an earthquake. It shakes so much that it looks blurry. The front suspension dances around, and the mirrors shake so much they are completely worthless. Leaving a stoplight sounds and feels like a top fuel dragster. It is not a powerful bike especially considering it's size, It is kind of like riding a jackhammer down the road. I have to wear earplugs. But it is a very enjoyable ride. the vibration is low frequency, not buzzy at all. It will easily cruise at 80 mph with plenty left in reserve. But it sounds and feels better around 60 mph, where the engine is turning over at a very low rpm, letting you hear the firing pulses. If you even think you might want a Sportster, you owe it to yourself to try one. There is nothing else like it. The 1200 is only 140cc smaller than the EVO Big Twin.
You use the key to open and close the tool box. I put hard viking bags on and use it to get groceries. Size wize one bag can fit a 12pack with more room around. A 15t front sproket widens the gearing a bit so you're not looking for 6th.
I just bought one hate the handle bars but love the bike I think I'm going to get a set of those drag bars. Really dose make that bike look so much better.
I just got mine a couple weeks ago. There's a toolbox?! I'll have to check for it on mine. Thanks for sharing. I've just been using a bookbag with a folder in it for registration. Also useful to get a couple things from the store.
As you can see by my profile photo i have a 2014 that is fully dressed, crash bar , windshield, saddle bags, Honda line padded backrest, floor boards and heel & toe custom shift kit added , i spend $1.85 -$2.85 every time I refuel , very light and easy to handle , i do ride it on all of the major parkways with no problems planning on a long trip this summer.
alan wasserman I ended up buying an 06 sportster 1200 this past winter. I find that the rebel just wasn't cutting it when it came to riding with a passenger, especially on longer rides. I'm still hesitant about selling the Honda, it's such a fun and economical ride.
No the Rebel can't be used for hauling a passenger if i really wanted to do that i would move to a bigger machine myself, good luck with your new bike and safe happy riding, the summer is almost upon us although you would not think so with the lousy weather we are having in the north east.
My first bike was a 92 Rebel 250 and I still have it. It was also my first bobber project after graduating from MMI. They are just fun little bikes, Every time I have a new rider ask me about what bike to get I ALWAYS tell them to get a Rebel 250, They are cheap, light virtually indesructable. Although I have to correct you on 1 thing.... Rebels have an oil filter, it's under the metal cover on the right hand side........
Price might have been a little high but not awful.. i just bought a super clean 09 with 1500 miles for 1500.. looks exactly like yours. Still all stock though. Thinking about putting similar bars on it..
James Eden you got a steal on it with 1500miles for 1500bucks in clean condition. I looked at a lot of Rebels n many of them are rode hard n put away wet for 1000bucks and up. Anything priced less is a beater. Have a nice day 🇺🇸
@@kennithmorella2693 fwiw, it had been dropped once or twice by a previous owner (I'm the 3rd) and has the standard tank dent. That's it's cosmetically though. I also checked listings daily for a few months. Other potential factors were that it was January (first checked it out one year ago today) and that the seller was moving across the country in less than two weeks. They had originally asked 1900. I've put about 6k on it so far with no real issues.. the only thing was having the shift lever pivot bolt break a few months back. I suspect that it was weakened by the drip I mentioned above. Was able to rig up a good temporary fix and had a new one in there within a week. Aside from that, I've Just changed the oil every 1000 and tightened the chain a few times. Thanks though! It's a great little bike that I have no intention get rid of. It also seems like prices are creeping up on them.. I was really close to buying one a few years ago and remember finding several nice examples in the 1000-1400 range.
I have a ZX10R 2016 and I bought this as a second bike (commuter). This is my second Honda Rebel and I'm not disappointed or ashamed to ride in one. It's a beautiful and underappreciated bike. Little suggestion, you should throw a +1 sprocket from JT Sprockets to the front. Best $ 13 can get you. I can comfortably ride on the freeway with this little thing with the new sprocket. Not much else does this bike need.
How does it effect 1st gear clutch takes offs. Worried about clutch slip or wear. I give my dog a ride 50% of the time so need smooth control and live in small town so don't open it up 50% of the time but sure do search higher gear when I do. Hear anything about clutch life or ease of changing one? My 86 has 30,000 on it now but just got it 1000 ago so not sure of history.
I've been thinking the same, right now I have a hd softtail and haven't rode much in the last few years because its so big and heavy and not very fun to ride in town its made for the highway. So I agree with you with a small bike I think I would ride more
ross podvin exactly. Small bikes can be a refreshing change from big ones. 50+years of riding motorcycles 🏍 says to try it. Live to ride ride to live. 🇺🇸
Have a Shadow but also love my Revel. Do tight turns and 8's on it. Nice and nimble to maneuver in the city. Country road ok. I dont take it to highways. NG over 50 mph.
did u change the bars and if so do the straight bars give more of a feeling of stability. i have one with original bars baby apes and feels clumsy, thought to switch
I love these lil bastards! Cool looks with ultra MPGs. Anyone "dissing" these bikes are NOT REAL motorcycle enthusiasts. It reminds me of noob "Fudds" in the firearm world who "diss" any .22LR. I've got NEWS, If you claim to be a "gun guy" and you don't own a .22 (or really SEVERAL- Pistol, Rifle) I doubt your status as a "gun guy". Same for any 250, But Especially "Rebels"! Small cruisers are the best "commuters" IMHO. 👍👍
For a yankee you sound like a cool dude..lol...100% southern here in NC...A friend of mine has a bike like this... wants to give me a bargain deal...it isn't as nice as yours but seems legit...i might just get me a rebel!!
Good luck with your purchase.. these bikes have a proven track record of reliability. I would definitely take a test ride just to make sure that you're comfortable on it. As soon as I bought mine, I knew I had to make some changes in order for it to fit me better. The bars were a huge help. Hopefully my video was helpful. Ride safe!
I have the same bike and had the same idea to basically keep it stock with the exception of the handle bars. I love what you did with it can you let me know where I can get that magnetic dip stick. great video enjoy
Wow.. it’s been a few years and totally can’t remember. I definitely know that when searching.. I was looking for a stem nut clock for a Honda VLX. Hope that helps.
🧡🧡🧡🤍🤍🧡🧡........... U keep talking for the whole day .......... love listening about this Beauty , all day long ..... am picking up one today 1998 Rebel 250, thats better than a woman .....😜😇😇😜😜
My dad bought me one of these brand new when I was 14. It was an 87 modal, I absolutely went everywhere on that bike. Black, with the tri-gold wing and chrome battery box w/REBEL on it. It was beautiful. Wasn't fast, it would tap 80. But it managed to meet every police officer in the town I grew up in. I literally sold it for what it cost new when I was 18. Time for a car, girls you know, didn't always want to take the bike. Ironically, those same girls showed up in my life around that bike. It was basically maintenance free. Got 60 miles to the gallon. I wish I would have kept it for my kids. I recently started riding again. When I found out the rebel was revamped and had an optional 1100cc engine. I HAD to have it. I'm happy with it, but Im reminiscent of that 250. Such a great bike. Everyone should ride one at least once in life.
Now that I'm a little older, that's scary to give a 14 year old a motorcycle that can go 80.
Nice story though-I'm happy for you. I just my first motorcycle and am loving it.
Nice video. Like you I also worked my way down on bikes 🏍. I’m 65 and have been riding since 12yrs old. 1st bike was a rupp roadster black widow. Ten bikes n 53yrs later I had total hip replacement surgery and passed my 1200 Harley on to my son. Being a great son he found me a 2007 Rebel with only two thousand miles on her in showroom condition for $1700. I’m in love with her n back riding again. Everyone stay safe and healthy in the new year from Buffalo New York 🇺🇸
I have an 86 cmx450 and that dual carb 450 is so much fun around the city.
Love the handle bars. Have an 06 Rebel with 65 K miles. No issues. 65000 miles.
Just amazing!
I got through the whole video and heard your detailed explanation of the bars. Thank you, great video!
I have a 1999 Honda Rebel 250 and love it. Its my first bike and has got me wanting more!
Nice bike 👍🏽 I have one too enjoy riding it
You got a great deal. Actual retail value on a bike with only $400 miles on it in perfect condition would be close to $3000. I'm 59 years old, and have had close to 50 bikes since age 18. From mopeds to large Harleys and 1500 Goldwings. The only ones I didn't like were the sport bikes. They are torture racks, and don't belong on the street. They are built for the track. I did have a Kawasaki ZX11 that wasn't too bad, but I prefer cruisers and touring bikes. I've also had a number of dirt and dual sport bikes. But I have also had four Rebels. I bought a new one in 1985 for $1299, just because I liked the looks of it. Unfortunately I would up selling it. But I did not forget it. Something about that little Rebel stuck with me. I bought a used '99, put a lot of miles on it, sold it, then bought a used '04, and did the same thing. I have ridden Rebels all over the country, on the freeway at full throttle. I belong to two Rebel forums, and according to a few riders that have done it, with proper maintenance, a Rebel can last around 80,000 miles at full throttle. That's a lot of miles. And I'm 6' 240. And I loaded the little Rebels down with everything I could get on them. The main problem I have with the Rebel is it's tube type tires. I have a road service plan with 100 miles of towing, but in many parts of the country, especially the southwest (AZ) where I live, that will not get you to a place that can fix a flat.
When I first saw a picture of the 2017 "Rebel" (NOT my Rebel) I knew I had to get one more. The local dealer was having a sale on the 2016s, and I got one OTD well under MSRP. I put just over 600 miles on it, did the break in service, and it has been sitting in my living room ever since. I would up buying a 2006 1200 Sportster from a friend of a friend. I have a total of 6 bikes now, but the Sportster is about the only one I ride. I never had a Sportster before. It's great that you can get that same great Harley sound and feel from a much smaller more flickable bike. I will eventually get back to the Rebel. Thinking about a Corbin seat and BCB forward controls. I already gave a backrest and luggage rack on it. This one is a keeper. Not selling it ever. Original Rebels in mint condition are likely to appreciate in value after that abomination that Honda came up with and dared to put the Rebel name on.
I managed to rack up an extra 3,000 miles on her since last summer. After comparing my bike to other Rebels, I'm confident that I got an awesome deal. Even with the added mileage, I can definitely get all my money back if needed. I've been looking into getting a Sportster, would you say that the Harley is a better bike, or the difference from a Rebel to a Sportster is so minimal that it wouldn't make sense to sell?
The difference between a Rebel and a Sportster is huge. I have a 2006 Sportster 1200 Low, pretty much stock except for aftermarket slip ons, backrest, and chrome side covers. The bike is not physically large, though quite a bit larger and heavier than the Rebel. Idling in the garage, with the aftermarket pipes, it sounds like thunder and feels like an earthquake. It shakes so much that it looks blurry. The front suspension dances around, and the mirrors shake so much they are completely worthless. Leaving a stoplight sounds and feels like a top fuel dragster. It is not a powerful bike especially considering it's size, It is kind of like riding a jackhammer down the road. I have to wear earplugs. But it is a very enjoyable ride. the vibration is low frequency, not buzzy at all. It will easily cruise at 80 mph with plenty left in reserve. But it sounds and feels better around 60 mph, where the engine is turning over at a very low rpm, letting you hear the firing pulses.
If you even think you might want a Sportster, you owe it to yourself to try one. There is nothing else like it. The 1200 is only 140cc smaller than the EVO Big Twin.
That's a really nice bike. I like the handlebar you installed. I'm thinking about getting a Rebel myself.
8:08 that's pretty much everything I'm looking for... I'm sold!
Anything Honda is freakin great!!
You use the key to open and close the tool box. I put hard viking bags on and use it to get groceries. Size wize one bag can fit a 12pack with more room around. A 15t front sproket widens the gearing a bit so you're not looking for 6th.
I just bought one hate the handle bars but love the bike I think I'm going to get a set of those drag bars. Really dose make that bike look so much better.
Not only does it make the bike look better, the bike actually feels much better.
Thanks for the video. Been looking at buying one.
ThatLonelyAstronaut don't, you will hate it, get a 750, you will be glad you did
ThatLonelyAstronaut 50yrs of riding says you won’t regret getting a 250 Rebel for fun times. 🇺🇸
I just got mine a couple weeks ago. There's a toolbox?! I'll have to check for it on mine. Thanks for sharing.
I've just been using a bookbag with a folder in it for registration. Also useful to get a couple things from the store.
As you can see by my profile photo i have a 2014 that is fully dressed, crash bar , windshield, saddle bags, Honda line padded backrest, floor boards and heel & toe custom shift kit added , i spend $1.85 -$2.85 every time I refuel , very light and easy to handle , i do ride it on all of the major parkways with no problems planning on a long trip this summer.
alan wasserman I ended up buying an 06 sportster 1200 this past winter. I find that the rebel just wasn't cutting it when it came to riding with a passenger, especially on longer rides. I'm still hesitant about selling the Honda, it's such a fun and economical ride.
No the Rebel can't be used for hauling a passenger if i really wanted to do that i would move to a bigger machine myself, good luck with your new bike and safe happy riding, the summer is almost upon us although you would not think so with the lousy weather we are having in the north east.
My very first bike and the one that I'm learning to write on I love it so far
Nice bike i love it
Nice bike man!! looks good
Thanks for taking the time to watch my video.
Beautiful machine.
My first bike was a 92 Rebel 250 and I still have it. It was also my first bobber project after graduating from MMI. They are just fun little bikes, Every time I have a new rider ask me about what bike to get I ALWAYS tell them to get a Rebel 250, They are cheap, light virtually indesructable. Although I have to correct you on 1 thing.... Rebels have an oil filter, it's under the metal cover on the right hand side........
love the drag bars
The drag bars made a huge difference to the look and feel of the bike. I get compliments on it all the time.
"A bunch of her friends decided to come over and eat all my food"
The perks of being the hangout house lmaooo
Haha another Rhode Islander with a rebel! Looks nice, I have a 1985 rebel.
Small bike for a small state!
I have a Honda Rebel 03 Bobber built 😅
Great looking bike mate....Enjoy ^+^
Since this video is like a year old now I’m sure you’ve figured it out, if you still have the bike, but the key opens the tool box.
thinking of getting a second rebel to gear one up for cruises......my stock one for me and my dog
8:07 Your daughter gave the "TL,DR" version of the review! AWESOME! 👍😂👍
Price might have been a little high but not awful.. i just bought a super clean 09 with 1500 miles for 1500.. looks exactly like yours. Still all stock though. Thinking about putting similar bars on it..
James Eden you got a steal on it with 1500miles for 1500bucks in clean condition. I looked at a lot of Rebels n many of them are rode hard n put away wet for 1000bucks and up. Anything priced less is a beater. Have a nice day 🇺🇸
@@kennithmorella2693 fwiw, it had been dropped once or twice by a previous owner (I'm the 3rd) and has the standard tank dent. That's it's cosmetically though. I also checked listings daily for a few months. Other potential factors were that it was January (first checked it out one year ago today) and that the seller was moving across the country in less than two weeks. They had originally asked 1900.
I've put about 6k on it so far with no real issues.. the only thing was having the shift lever pivot bolt break a few months back. I suspect that it was weakened by the drip I mentioned above. Was able to rig up a good temporary fix and had a new one in there within a week. Aside from that, I've Just changed the oil every 1000 and tightened the chain a few times.
Thanks though! It's a great little bike that I have no intention get rid of. It also seems like prices are creeping up on them.. I was really close to buying one a few years ago and remember finding several nice examples in the 1000-1400 range.
Her name says it all "Bella" She's beautiful. I just got one myself. 2001 her name is "Raven's Lady"
I have a ZX10R 2016 and I bought this as a second bike (commuter). This is my second Honda Rebel and I'm not disappointed or ashamed to ride in one. It's a beautiful and underappreciated bike. Little suggestion, you should throw a +1 sprocket from JT Sprockets to the front. Best $ 13 can get you. I can comfortably ride on the freeway with this little thing with the new sprocket. Not much else does this bike need.
Pedro freeway, RIGHT, just then WHAM goes the 16 horsepower moped to hell
How does it effect 1st gear clutch takes offs. Worried about clutch slip or wear. I give my dog a ride 50% of the time so need smooth control and live in small town so don't open it up 50% of the time but sure do search higher gear when I do. Hear anything about clutch life or ease of changing one? My 86 has 30,000 on it now but just got it 1000 ago so not sure of history.
I'm thinking about getting a Rebel 250. Love the drag bars. Do you still have the bike?
The bike was great. I got an offer in which I couldn't refuse, so I ended up selling and getting a slightly bigger Sportster 1200 custom.
I've been thinking the same, right now I have a hd softtail and haven't rode much in the last few years because its so big and heavy and not very fun to ride in town its made for the highway. So I agree with you with a small bike I think I would ride more
ross podvin exactly. Small bikes can be a refreshing change from big ones. 50+years of riding motorcycles 🏍 says to try it. Live to ride ride to live. 🇺🇸
@@kennithmorella2693 Yes I did it found a rebel for $800 and now i ride more accept winter hit
I just bought a 2000 rebel.
Nuawd MuSiq welcome to club REBEL. Live to ride ride to live. 🇺🇸
Good choice! Been riding one daily for the past year without any issues.. 6000 miles. Nothing but oil changes every 1000-1500.
Have a Shadow but also love my Revel. Do tight turns and 8's on it. Nice and nimble to maneuver in the city. Country road ok. I dont take it to highways. NG over 50 mph.
You can't beat the mpg!
did u change the bars and if so do the straight bars give more of a feeling of stability. i have one with original bars baby apes and feels clumsy, thought to switch
Yes, the new bars definitely made the bike feel more comfortable and stable.
I love these lil bastards! Cool looks with ultra MPGs. Anyone "dissing" these bikes are NOT REAL motorcycle enthusiasts. It reminds me of noob "Fudds" in the firearm world who "diss" any .22LR. I've got NEWS, If you claim to be a "gun guy" and you don't own a .22 (or really SEVERAL- Pistol, Rifle) I doubt your status as a "gun guy". Same for any 250, But Especially "Rebels"! Small cruisers are the best "commuters" IMHO. 👍👍
For a yankee you sound like a cool dude..lol...100% southern here in NC...A friend of mine has a bike like this... wants to give me a bargain deal...it isn't as nice as yours but seems legit...i might just get me a rebel!!
Good luck with your purchase.. these bikes have a proven track record of reliability. I would definitely take a test ride just to make sure that you're comfortable on it. As soon as I bought mine, I knew I had to make some changes in order for it to fit me better. The bars were a huge help. Hopefully my video was helpful. Ride safe!
Green Power Farm DON'T DO IT, YOU WILL REGRET IT, GET A 750, HAS ALL THE POWER, EASY HANDLING, NOT TO HEAVY, no mopeds
Where do i get these handlebars???
I have the same bike and had the same idea to basically keep it stock with the exception of the handle bars. I love what you did with it can you let me know where I can get that magnetic dip stick. great video enjoy
www.amazon.com/Honda-Billet-Aluminum-Magnetic-DipStick/dp/B009IP8VMC
@@DJJoeFreitas Thanks a lot
You should be smiling...........nice bike ! There supposed to be FUN !!
I went from a Harley Fatboy to a rebel 250 exactly like yours.
I'd love to know links to get custom bars and mirrors
bluecollarbobbers.com/shop/drag-bar-kit-rebel/
www.jpcycles.com/product/207-129/kuryakyn-kinetic-chrome-grips
Nice bike,how do I get that bike,in my home country no Honda dealers,can I import one?,from Tz
Little? Sure. Cheap? Yeah. But god damn they are fucking sharp looking.
Where did you get the clock?
Wow.. it’s been a few years and totally can’t remember. I definitely know that when searching.. I was looking for a stem nut clock for a Honda VLX. Hope that helps.
tool kit opens with the ignition key turning it clockwise
disanco yea idk why everyone thinks it needs a screwdriver.. my 09 only had a screwdriver in there though lol
disanco yea idk why everyone thinks it needs a screwdriver.. my 09 only had a screwdriver in there though lol
U can do what ever u want to those and dont half to worry about it motor indestructible
I'm about to get one tomorrow 09 blue. I dont know much about it. Do they have aftermarket stuff and sissy bars and ape hangers and all?
Wish I never sold mine!
🧡🧡🧡🤍🤍🧡🧡........... U keep talking for the whole day .......... love listening about this Beauty , all day long ..... am picking up one today 1998 Rebel 250, thats better than a woman .....😜😇😇😜😜
Hey men, nice rebel, i have a rebel 2008 AND y need a few peces, you can heplme
Bought one 1200
omg you babble
Thanks for watching.
2300 too much
Mopeds DON'T BELONG ON THE ROAD
You must have a tiny wiener. Or the guy screwing your old lady drove a 250. I've seen you on a few of these vids you weirdo.