First bike?

[MEB302]

Hey everyone,

After riding on the back on my girlfriend's father's motorcycle recently, I am considering buying a bike. Very spontaneous eh? Oh well, I just really liked the excitement being on a motorcycle brought. Anyways, I understand that the Honda Rebel is a good bike for a beginner like myself. Could you guys tell me a little more about the bike? As of right now, I would be looking for a bike that could get me from place to place around town and to school. I don't need anything too fast or anything. Any advice or ideas would be appreciated. Also, if I decide to get a Rebel, I was curious as to why I see a lot of people want to trade the bike in for a larger bike only after a short time. Spending $3000 for a bike is a lot for me right now, and I just don't want to buy something that I would only want to trade in after a short time. Thanks everyone!

Matt

[cTc]

The rebel is a great first choice, It will allow you to get the feel for a bike and they bring just as much enjoyment as bigger bikes. People offten upgrade saying they are ready to move on, but I know plenty of people who upgrade and then say "I wish I still had my rebel". Regardless, it is the best choice for begginers and still a good bike for the veteran rider. My wife has a 2001, I just sold a 1987, and I just bought and am in the process of chopping a 1985.

[meb302]

Thanks for the reply! I'll definately keep you guys updated on my decision. Just two more quick questions... How long does it take to get your license? I've heard a few friends get it through a class within a couple weeks. Lastly, how do I find the closest Honda dealer to me that has a Rebel? Possible to test ride? Thanks again, hope the new forum goes over well!

Matt

[cTc]

The license are not to tough, I was able to get my learners on the first try, I went the same week and got my regular license no problem. My wife also got the learners on the first try, but she has not yet taken the drivers test.

As for finding a rebel, there may be a locator you can use, but the best way would be to call the dealers. An even better suggestion would be to find a good 2001 or so used rebel that you can get a good deal on, we were planning to buy my wife an new rebel ($3,000) Then I found a friend of ours with a 2001 that onle had 2400 miles on it, I got it for $1600.00, put bags, custom rear turn signals, and a few other mods, and I have turned down $2500.00 for it on several occasions. But if you are more comfortable with a new bike, by all means go that route.

[bobinillinois]

I would strongly recommend that you take the nearest MSF training class before you buy a bike. I did this 2+ years ago when I was only 50 and I learned many skills which are invaluable.

Buying a used Rebel is a very good idea because there is a better than even chance you will drop the bike at some time. Better to do it on a bike that is not brand new. But the choice of the Rebel for your first bike is very wise - it is the type of bike that they typically use in the training classes due to its light weight and low seat height. Beyond that, it is fun to ride!

You should also consider buying good gear: helmet, gloves, boots, jacket and pants. Riding is inherently risky, so protect yourself as much as you can.

Good luck.

Bob

[ozguyar]

my first motorbice is honda rebel too.. it s great... ı advıce everybody... :D

[ford4me1965]

I just got a 86 rebel 450 ,I dont have a owners man, or any other book yet,whitch plug do you drain,and is it any special oil for the engine,and what is the other plug for?

[GearJammer]

In agreement with the others here. The 250cc Rebel is an EXCELLENT choice as a 1st bike. It handles very well, is reliable & in spite of it's size, is capable of approx. 75 mph.

Would also very much agree on looking for a used Rebel, for the reasons that "bobinillinois" offerred. Used Rebels can usually be found at affordable prices & most are still in decent shape. You could use it for learning on, then if you decide to up-grade (some don't feel a need to up-grade) you could very likely sell the Rebel at the price you paid for it.

"ford4me1965", I just recently bought an '86 450cc Rebel as well. A manual would definitely be a worthwhile investment. Heard someone say that the manual for one's own bike is one of the most valuable tools a person could own & I fully agree.

On the 450cc, you'll notice that one of the plugs is for draining the oil, one is for access to changing the oil filter. The oil filter retaining plug is the one on the right hand side & you'll see the cover that it's located within. The other is your oil drain plug. 10W30 or 10W40 should be fine for most applications.