Nighthawk 250 Ex-Rebel With A Cause

NIGHTHAWK 250 EX-REBEL WITH A CAUSE

QUICK RIDE

HONDA’S REBEL 250, WHICH made its appearance on American roads nearly a decade ago, was a motorcycle with a difference. It did not leave other bikes behind at stoplights. It did not outbrake or rip past other bikes on mountain roads. Nor did it carry two people and their luggage from coast

to coast in royal luxury. What it did do was provide an easy entry into motorcycling, a platform from which to learn essential riding skills.

Honda’s newest entry-level model, the Nighthawk 250, fulfills the same purpose. Descended directly from the Rebel, the 234cc aircooled Twin starts easily, idles almost inaudibly and displays only moderate cold-bloodedness. Forging into rush-hour traffic, the bike immediately shows some of the qualities that made the Rebel a success, such as a low seat that keeps the ground within reach for just about any sized rider, and an engine which, while responsive, doesn’t require intense concentration to use efficiently and effectively. Threading between lines of stopped cars comes naturally to the Nighthawk, thanks to its light handling, low center of gravity and, by modern standards low weight—31 9 nounds

with a full fuel tank. Basic, legible instruments, excellent mirrors and simple, rugged controls enhance ease of operation.

On the open highway, the fivespeed 250 performs remarkably well, sounding only a bit strained at fast cruising speeds. The Nighthawk remains stable in such conditions while the non-adjustable front suspension copes with pavement imperfections. At the rear, the dual shocks give an acceptably smooth ride, but do transmit sharp jolts straight to the rider. Seating position is typical standard-bike upright and, except for slightly forward footpegs, just about perfect. The two-passenger seat is well shaped, surprisingly roomy and supportive enough for hours of riding comfort.

When it comes time to haul the 250 to a stop in a hurry it becomes clear that cost was a significant factor in the selection of major components. The cable-actuated drum front brake, which can best be described as adequate, is fortunate to be mated to so little weight, as one two hard stops from highway speeds leads to noticeable fade. Nonetheless, in most circumstances ¿he front and rear drums do what they were meant to do.

The most intense grins came when the fuel tank was filled and mileage was calculated. Our average worked out to a whopping 69 mpg.

Breathing new life into an old Rebel has resulted in an inexpensive machine—list price, $2198—that is cheap to run and fun to ride. And that’s just the kind of machine that put Honda in the motorcycle business in the first place. —Pal Tracy