Honda Rebel

I am a married, 49 year old male. I currently have a boat and have owned a plane. I wanted a motorcycle to try something new in my life. I started researching motorcycles about 6 months ago. I realized that the Honda Rebel is both underpowered and not suitable for a tall individual, nevertheless it made a lot of sense. As a novice, the 26" seat hight provides a great deal of confidence, as you can flat foot when you come to a stop. Also, of course the weight, just a little over 300 lbs is very manageable for a beginner. That's important, because a newbie can have "issues" at slow speeds sometimes and this bike is easy to handle in parking lots, etc. The powerband is suitable for in-town driving, getting you up to speed fairly quickly. But it won't be popping wheelies, so don't worry. Highway driving is another matter and I would not recommend using this motorcycle in high wind or on the freeway, although some do. The best part about it is that it is a lot of fun to drive, handles great, brakes perform fine and of course, is a gas miser, getting in the range of 60 to 70 mpg. There are tons of these bikes out there and they have been around since the mid 80's, so there are plenty of parts and plenty of custom items you can add, such as sissy bar with rack, crash bar/engine guard, saddlebags, windshield, etc. to make it just the way you want it. All can be found on ebay, but do your research, check with Honda Rebel Riders Club and other websites to learn more. The Owners Manual doesn't really provide much info. I bought on Amazon The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance and the Clymer Service Repair Maintenance Manual and the Honda Common Service Motocycle Manual on ebay. It's a good idea to have these handy to reference. They make it easy to understand so you don't get ripped off when you take it in for service. As you read through it, you will find just how much maintenance you can do yourself, saving big $. This also gives you knowledge to know when an item needs service before a problem develops. I bought the '05 because I didn't want an '04 (heard some production had a clutch issue) and earlier models, I couldn't be sure if the owner maintained well. These bikes easily provide 30,000 miles or more when maintained. Look for a knowledgeable seller. It's a great starter motorcycle and easy for women and those vertically challenged to handle. Many buyers, purchase, ride for 6 months or a year and then sell to move up to a bigger bike. Husbands/boyfriends buy for their lady to ride, except 80% of the time, that plan doesn't work out, so they sell. A cherry '05 with low miles will sell for $1850 up to $2400 or so. One that has been dropped or a tank ding but is still in perfect mechanical condition can be had for less. I bought my '05 with 2400 miles for $1650 on ebay. It has a tank dent and a few minor scratches, but is beautiful. Owning and riding a motorcycle requires planning and maturity. Get a new (not used) good quality helmet (shoei, arai, etc), leather motorcycle gloves,jacket with armor and above-ankle boots. I strongly recommend taking the Motorcycle Safety Foundation training course at your local community college. Good luck!

I knew what I was getting....that's why I bought it....the seller was great to deal with....it was a great day to drive to Ohio. The bike will be used as a starter bike for the wife. The size is perfect to start out on. Low power which is great to assure that the fear of the bike getting away from you doesn't enter into the riders' head.

Overall, great....seller was better