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New to small bikes

3K views 25 replies 10 participants last post by  pdawg67 
#1 ·
Hi all, just recently bought a 2015 Rebel 250 coming down from heavier bikes. I must say there is a certain grace in such a nimble light bike that I had not anticipated. We plan on using it mostly as a tow behind our RV but after using it for a while, I think we may ride it more. Sofar I have put 1600 miles on it the first three weeks we have had it. The question I have is what windshield and saddlebags will fit this model; mind that it has the signal lights near the top of the headlight. I would like to use a small one such as Slipstreamer S-06. Would that fit?
 
#2 · (Edited)
Hello and Welcome!

A few months back I installed a National Cycle polycarbonate windscreen on my 2016 Rebel 250. I am very pleased with it, performance-wise and appearance-wise. In my opinion, it’s a perfect match to a bike the size of a Rebel and doesn’t overwhelm it the way some larger screens do. However, if you are looking for a particularly large/oversized screen, it wouldn’t be a good choice.

The model I purchased was the National Cycle, 7/8” bar, QuickSet Clear Street Shield # N25010.

http://www.nationalcycle.com/vehicl...acmx250rebel/2016hondacmx250rebel/n25010.html

I wanted polycarbonate rather than acrylic, and a 4-pt mount system. It was easy to install and is very stable/secure. It is fully compatible with the Rebel’s signal lights, headlight, etc.

I actually ordered mine off Amazon for significant savings over msrp. It came directly from National Cycle in one day.



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#3 ·
Welcome to the forum. What size bags are you looking for? Medium size bags will fit without modification. Large or jumbo may require moving the rear signals with a bracket. Here are instructions for making a bracket that doesn't require any rewiring. https://www.hondarebelforum.com/f39/moving-rear-turn-signals-49930.html

To ensure the bags didn't rub the shocks, I cut small diameter PVC pipe, sprayed it black, and ran longer fender/strut bolts through them to move the saddlebag brackets farther out.
 
#8 ·
Welcome!

If it's any consolation, I started with a 50cc 2-stroke in the UK before moving up to a 125 4-stroke. Thankfully neither were restricted :grin2:


My driving course here in the US was on a 250 Kawasaki and I'm thinking 'this is a big bike to learn on' :lol2:
 
#17 ·
I would agree if the course were more comprehensive and hadn't been completely in a parking lot. We did 5 minutes on the last day where everybody was going around like real traffic. Everything else was a spot exercise IMO.


Now don't get me wrong, that course was an excellent introduction, but having been professionally trained to drive both cars and 18-wheelers, it was simply not enough time 'in the seat'.


As you said earlier, it's a culture difference. There's no "L" plates here in the US!!! (well not in the states I've had experience with).
 
#18 ·
That sounds a lot like a CBT course here in the UK minus the complete and total restriction. What do you need for a US motorcycle driving licence apart from being old enough, nothing? Some just do the MSF course purely to get an intro to riding from what i've seen.
 
#20 ·
In Louisiana, you have to pass a written and a road test. The road test involves riding around the block with the observer in the parking lot. They can't see you over half the time. If you don't drop the bike, you qualify for a license and there is no size restriction. There are too many rider caused or contributed motorcycle deaths in this state.
 
#22 ·
When my grandmother applied for her car license, it was a trip to the post office, fill out a form, pay a fee, receive your license and off you go!
 
#23 ·
in New Jersey, as of 2019:

if you have a driver's license, you just pass MSF course and you get your endorsement. if you do not have drivers license... silly thought.. it's New Jersey, you need the DL as soon as you can crawl...

Though course I took had former and current motorcycle cops teaching you so they were rather strict, especially when it came to the riding test at the end. they offered no help and did not allow for shortcuts of any sort. which is good, of course. Having never been on a bike, I felt I learned a lot in 2 days. but yes, nothing can replace road experience.... so I got myself a Rebel to gain it. smart move !

2015 rebel 250
 
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