passengers...

[Monkey]

I am buying my first bike soon. Most likely it will be a 2000s 250cc cruiser by a japanese manufacturer. Ive read ppl say that to carry a passenger you need at least 650-800cc. I don't plan on much hwy riding alone on this thing, I live in a small college town, with some small hills, and slow traffic

I do not intent to let anyone ride until I develop the skill and confidence to have the bike handle differently, but once I do become a better rider...can a Honda Rebel really not carry another person? Like will it not hit 45mph?

I am 5'9 160lbs btw...who can I take with me?

[Kibagari]

Look up how much the Rebel can handle as far as weight. Also, the Rebel will have a problem with highway. It can do it, but it will struggle. Add another person onto the saddle, and the 234cc (that's right, it's not a 250) engine will likely be crying.

As far as first bikes go, a 250 cruiser is alright. But if you plan on taking passengers (in time) with your first bike, I would not recommend a 250 cruiser whatsoever- they just don't have the power.

On your own even, you're going to want enough power to get out of the way of those crazy college kids if they put you in danger. A Kawasaki Vulcan 500 would be an exceptional first bike, or even a Yamaha V-Star 650. They got plenty of putt-putt and a nice big seat for you and your passenger.

Regardless, please don't take passengers until you've had more than enough experience.

[Wrider]

Well, it'll do it, it just won't like you for it. To be honest if you're planning on frequent 2-up riding I'd go with a 650. Still plenty forgiving for a newbie, but capable of carrying you and the passenger much easier.
Wrider

[Monkey]

I will definitely not have a passenger until I have experience. Also, a passenger will not be common, but just on occasion maybe someone will want a ride and I like the rebel's price, but don't want a bike that whenever i want to take a girl out...it won't be able to do it.

90% of the riding is going to be on my own...passengers will only be for fun, if i need to take someone somewhere I have my car.

[Wrider]

Well then yeah, the Rebel 250 would be ok for you. Make sure you sit on one and take the MSF course. It does help quite a bit. But yeah, definitely check out a few different smaller displacement bikes, sit on them, look at them, and if you're planning on 2-up I'd definitely recommend something a little bigger, 500cc range at least! Welcome to the addiction!
Wrider

[Monkey]

Thanks

I just finished the MSF last week. I am looking for a helmet right now and my bike search will begin and conclude in the next 15 days.

[ofblong]

I ride a 650 with a passenger and can do 90mph with no problems on the highway. I know because I did it "accidentally" to avoid getting run over.

[Thumper]

If you asked on a Rebel board, I'm willing to bet you'd hear from lots of people who manage 2 up riding on their little bikes with no problem. You might have to adjust the shocks, and it might not be comfortable, but it can be done.

[MZ33]

it might not be comfortable

Soo, if you're looking to impress the chicks, that ain't the way . . .

[Dragonhawk]

I am buying my first bike soon. Most likely it will be a 2000s 250cc cruiser by a japanese manufacturer. Ive read ppl say that to carry a passenger you need at least 650-800cc. I don't plan on much hwy riding alone on this thing, I live in a small college town, with some small hills, and slow traffic

can a Honda Rebel really not carry another person? Like will it not hit 45mph?

I am 5'9 160lbs btw...who can I take with me?

Don't worry. The people who tell you it is too small are macho idiots who know nothing about motorcycles.

At 160lbs, a 250 Rebel will carry you and a hot little college chick around town with no problems whatsoever. I carried hot college chicks around on Los Angeles highways with a Ninja 250. People who say 250s are too small are smoking crack. Ignore them.

I have a 650 now. Definitely more comfortable and has more power than the 250. But the 250 should never be underestimated. It will serve you well.