Is a Honda Rebel too small?

[froldt]

I have never ridden before, and am looking for a beginner's bike. I don't want something too big, but I don't want something that is too small, either.
I want a cruiser. I plan to take weekend trips, just me, my girl, and our gear thrown on the bike.
I am thinking that the Rebel will not be able to carry that weight, especially not at highway speeds (70mph or so). Out here in the country, there are lots of back roads through the parks, perfect for a day ride.
I'm 6' about 180 lbs. Will the Rebel feel too small for me (size-wise, not power-wise)? Inseam's about 32.
I know I won't be loading the bike down first thing, nor will I be riding with a passenger for some time. However, that is still my goal, and I would prefer if I could learn on a bike that will fit the bill later on, so I don't have to go and trade bikes.

[dieziege]

forget the rebel... I'm 6' with shorter legs than you and my knees hit the bars. It's gotta be worse for you.

[froldt]

dieziege, thanks. That's what I was looking for.
I thought that it would be, but a friend told me it would be fine. I think he was thinking engine-wise, though, not size-wise.
Onward! The search continues!

[DivideOverflow]

Get a ninja 250. If you want a 250cc cruiser, go for the Hyosung GV250, or the Yamaha Virago (250).


Edit: After reading the rest of your post, you probably want something like a vulcan 500 or V-star 650.

[camthepyro]

Yeah, I was thinking Vulcan 500.

[Scott58]

Hmmm I have a 32" inseam and my legs don't hit the bars or even come close.

[dieziege]

Where do you put them when you turn? Or have you got really freaky misproportioned legs?

I bet they do hit the bars and you are just used to the weird gyrations (or not making tight turns). Mine do, and, as I said, my legs are shorter.