If we were to take a quick poll, undoubtedly we’d find that many of you cut your riding teeth on a Honda Rebel. Thanks to a low seat height, neutral handling and a less than intimidating powerplant, the CMX series became the go-to bike for rider training courses worldwide.
Beyond that, since its debut in 1985 the Rebel has also offered a light, fun and reliable cruiser for urban commuters seeking something with a touch of style. But with 31 years on its relatively unchanged clock, the time has come for a serious refresh.

The all-new Honda Rebel is a fresh take on the growing entry level market?with built-in engineering forethought towards customization. We?ll get into the nitty-gritty on that below, but when you see how many builders are flexing their chops on small displacement bikes these days?and how the custom scene is playing a major role in riding?s resurgence?it makes a lot of sense for Honda to tap into this scene. Especially with something as approachable, both financially and physically, as the Rebel. It?s now available in 300cc thumper or 500cc twin variants, and I?ve just returned from a day of splitting through L.A. traffic on both models to see if this new bike is a Rebel in name alone?or if can lead a revolution of new riders into our fold.

Design There?s no denying the refreshed Rebel was penned with an Instagram feed in mind. And that?s not a bad thing. Unlike the staid and traditional approach of its wimpy looking, mini-me predecessor, this ge...