HONDA CA125 REBEL (1995 - 1999) Review

This 125 cruiser from the '90s loses out a little bit, mainly because it uses the old 1980s Honda CB125cc twin cylinder motor. If you're short in the leg, or short on cash, then the Honda CA125 Rebel makes an acceptable used bargain, as the build quality is a cut above some other 125 cruisers, but Honda's VT125 Shadow is miles better.

Most 125cc cruisers have pretty basic suspension and frame technology and the Honda CA125 Rebel is no exception. But apart from a bit of choppiness and a slightly vague feeling at the front end, it commutes just fine. It just lacks the finesse of more modern motorcycles.

The old four valve, twin cylinder engine in the Honda CA125 Rebel dates back to the CB125 of the 1980s - the baby Superdream as it was known back then - and just hasn't got the refinement, or the acceleration of some V-twin powered 125cc cruisers. The engine gets you there eventually, and is frugal on fuel, but overall the Honda CA125 Rebel is hard work.

The Honda CA125 Rebel is a bit better made than the average 125cc cruiser from the Far East. Even today, there are some who would say that buying a used Honda CA125 Rebel would be a more reliable choice than an unknown brand new 125cc motorcycle off the internet. The Honda CA125 Rebel may be a bit dated, but at least it's a proven design.

As a first time machine the Honda CA125 Rebel allows the learner biker to try out motorcycling on the cheap, and if they find it isn't for them, sell the thing on fairly easily, losing relatively little money. If you can find a used motorcycle which hasn't been dropped on a wobbly three point turn, then you've probably started motorcycling for under a grand. Can't be bad.

Honda's own CG125 is a more popular choice if you're after a classic and has been tried and tested to destruction by CBT centres around the country.

If you're after a new 125 on a budget, Honda's CBF125 is worth consideration. Most manufacturers have a 125 in their range and the more desirable options these days are the KTM Duke 125 naked and Yamaha R125 sportsbike.

The Honda CA125 Rebel is a one person cruiser, the pillion pad is just that - a small pad. There are basic mirrors, lighting and brakes fitted on the Honda CA125 Rebel. It's got everything it needs, but extras basically boil down to spoked wheels, forward foot controls and a grabrail.