The Honda Rebel 300 is a beginner bike that provides riders with everything it takes to develop their skills. More than perhaps any other bike, this Honda gives riders their wings. (Honda/)

Ups

• A top-quality beginner motorcycle
• Wonderfully approachable and reliable 286cc engine
• Light clutch pull with assist and slipper clutch
• Low 27.3-inch seat height

Downs

• Seat is small, dense, and could be more comfortable.
• Long-legged riders will find ergonomics slightly cramped

Verdict

Honda’s Rebel 300 can easily be considered the crème de la crème of beginner cruisers. An integral part of Honda’s small-displacement lineup, this bike has a highly predictable and mild-mannered engine, a low, confidence-inspiring seat, and stable, predictable handling that helps emphasize the fun factor for new riders. Honda hit the nail right on the head with this one.

Overview

Since its introduction as a cheap and cheerful 250cc single in the mid-’80s, the Honda Rebel has been the standard for beginner cruisers. In 2017, Honda transformed the little cruiser into the modern Rebel 300 we see today, adding a modern four-bulb LED headlight, a now-iconic peanut tank, and a solo saddle, giving the bike’s design the look of a larger cruiser in a small-displacement package. Most importantly, this is a bike that welcomes even the most timid new riders with a low seat height and friendly 286cc engine. And that’s how they getcha; once Rebel riders are hooked, Honda cleverly encourages them to enjoy the same familiar goodness in a stronger dose with the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100.

Two colors, Matte Gray Metallic (shown here) and Pearl Blue, are available for the Rebel 300 and ABS version. (Honda/)

Updates for 2022

The Rebel does not receive any significant changes for the 2022 model year. Even color options remain the same, with the bike coming in Pearl Blue and Matte Gray Metallic.

Pricing and Variants

The Rebel 300 comes in ABS and non-ABS versions; standard versions are priced at $4,699 and the ABS at $4,999.

Many cruiserworthy accessories are available through Honda, including custom seats, fork covers, and a headlight cowl.

Competition

Although the Rebel arguably dominates the beginner cruiser market, it has some competition from the Yamaha V Star 250, Indian Scout Sixty, and Royal Enfield Meteor 350.

Honda’s 286cc single-cylinder engine is smooth, predictable, and has enough character to enjoy the ride. (Honda/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Honda’s 286cc single-cylinder engine is user-friendly and fun, quick to rev, and entertaining to push to its limits. It is also very forgiving, as it doesn’t threaten to stall when an inexperienced rider shifts into too high a gear, a great trait for beginners who are still understanding the ins and outs of the powerband. Thanks to a well-developed assist and slipper clutch, clutch pull is light and hand fatigue is not a concern. The Rebel’s six-speed transmission shifts smoothly and does not catch false neutrals, so shifting is straightforward.

With its measured 25 hp, the engine can get up to freeway pace with reasonable alacrity and keep the bike there for the duration. The Rebel’s 0–60 time of 7.85 seconds means riders can even beat out some of the traffic at the stoplight.

Handling

The Rebel carries its weight down low, which makes it easy to tackle everything from tight city streets to the occasional trip into the hills, and its chassis is impressively composed. The 41mm telescopic fork and dual shocks provide decently sporty feedback when tackling tight turns. While small bump compliance is good for soaking up minor road imperfections, Cycle World found that the rear shocks will bottom out on larger bumps. This is still a bike for mellow, laid-back rides, reassuring beginners as they become familiar with motorcycling.

The LCD gauge displays relevant information while keeping the appearance minimalistic. (Honda/)

Brakes

Nissin hydraulic calipers grip onto single 296mm and 240mm discs front and rear respectively. Cycle World’s brake testing of the 2021 model showed a braking distance from 30–0 mph at 35.27 feet and a braking distance from 60–0 mph at 141.3 feet, better than its competition. More specifically, the Rebel’s 60–0 braking distance was 17.48 feet, or the length of an average SUV, shorter than the Royal Enfield Meteor 350′s. That shorter stopping distance gives riders more time to react to suddenly stopped traffic, which is especially beneficial to new riders. And a squeeze of the lever or press of the pedal offers great braking feedback, allowing riders to understand what’s going on and apply pressure as needed.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

During testing the 300 averaged 57.8 mpg in real-world riding.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The Rebel platform is well known for its low seat height. At just 27.3 inches off the ground, the seat is supremely low and easy for riders of all inseams to get comfortable on. This is especially great for shorter riders who may feel intimidated by bike size. Legroom is slightly cramped for those over a 31-inch inseam, but they’ll still find reach to the bars plenty comfortable.

A full LED lighting package brings the Rebel 300 to the modern age. Honda also does well in keeping wiring and cables neat and tidy. (Honda/)

Electronics

Electronics on this bike are fairly straightforward. A circular LCD gauge relays relevant information in an easy-to-read format, while all-LED lighting throws clear, bright light for great visibility. ABS models offer an extra element of protection while braking in adverse conditions, though there are no other riding aids or riding modes.

The Rebel 300′s low-slung weight is a contributing factor to its nimble, yet stable handling. (Honda/)

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Rebel 300 has a one-year, unlimited-mileage transferable warranty. An extension can be made with the HondaCare Protection Plan.

Quality

Honda likes to keep its bikes neat as a pin and the Honda Rebel 300 is no different. Wires and cables are always cleanly wrapped and tucked in, helping to keep up the bike’s clean, minimalist appearance.

2022 Honda Rebel 300/ABS Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com