They will do just fine, What I would add is some 80/20 dual-sport tires if possible, or sem-Knobbies of some kind, plus Fat bars. She did good to install foldable levers but if the bars are standard 7/8 In diameter they could bend in easily with a Fall since the Rebel is also a heavy Bike.....and regarding Caitlyn, Man she's super cute!
@@ScramblerStories I would stay with 16'' if possible, going for bigger wheels could raise the ride height. since she is vertically challenged she can have some difficulty on rough terrain, even a small rock under the wheel can raise the seat by a few inches, and since the rebel is a bit on the heavy side it can lead to falling.
I think the best adventure bike is whatever bike you own. Yes there may be better ones, but play the hand you have, because the journey is as much of the story as the destination. RIDE ON!
@@ScramblerStories Add brush guards in front of your grips, if you want to keep your hands warm while riding they cut the wind and make an incredible difference!!
I love that. I've put a dent or a scratch in both of my Triumphs when they were pretty new. I didn't buy them just to polish them after a quick ride on a Sunday, I got them to ride into the ground!
Any bike can be an adventure bike. People have ridden around the entire globe on everything from 250 trail bikes to GS's to Honda 50cc scooters. It's like everything else in life, it's what you make it. Good effort, keep it up! 👍
@@ScramblerStories Thank you Caitlyn, meant every word sincerely. You rock, keep it up and don't let anything ever stop you! Till you decide otherwise anyway. 😁
there are several youtubers camping and doing some crazy adventures on Honda Cub's (new and old ones), as well as many other moto's, fun to watch, even though I am commuting to/ from work on my Versys x300
This is motorcycling in it's purest form. Regular people, itching for a little adventure, working with what they've got to get away and be apart of the outside world. Not worrying about what's "acceptable" or "cool" or "trendy". Just doing whatever you can to keep the breeze on your knees. I love this. I've been budget riding for 24 years and this really boosts my inspiration for motorcycling. Good on you. Pay attention, be careful, good luck. You are representing the lifestyle well. Cheers.
That is a sweet setup. Everything you chose to do makes sense and you'll find out The changes you make as you go along. Makes me want to get a rebel as well now.
As a non rider yet the accessories you covered was helpful. Also the production of this video was outstanding. Much better than some that do it full time.
"the key to a successful adventure is being comfortable on a reliable bike."...so very true, 100% agree. can i quote that on my bike group's wag ? thankyou
Awesome! I can't wait to see Caitlyn out and about adventuring on it. Dual Sport tires will definitely make a difference and make it look a lot meaner. Definitely correct that you can tour on anything, you just need to plan accordingly. People used to cruise all over the country on small bikes and still do in many other countries. It just means taking scenic routes more usually. That's not a bad thing on an adventure.
Yeah, you'll have to meet up with use somewhere sometime. We're going to miss Barber this year to check out the Albuquerque Balloon Festival. But let's get in touch and figure something out. Otherwise maybe we'll visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras 2023!
Nice! I’ve got Rebel 300.. but I’m in Vietnam)) And I used it off-road a bit. Fells fine.. but I’ve changed fork oil from 10w to 15w without changing the springs, but I think you can put 20w, should be alright.. gonna follow you for sure!
As has been said, the best adventure bike, is the one you own. When I was a much younger man, my adventure bike was my 1973 Honda CB450, that I bought new. Not a dirt bike, but it saw a lot of dirt roads. Enjoy your adventure.
I like the mods you did. Your choice to not overload that Rebel and make your safety and comfort choices based on solid thinking shows good sense. Funny how so many say this is or isn't right for your ride.... Go back 30 years or more. What were they using for cross country or any other type of riding they did. The bike that fits you and your style is the bike you need. It is great we have choices so we can find the right bike for us. Enjoy your ride!
Thanks Kevin. Yeah I always default to what Ted Simon did and figure any modern bike is fine in comparison. Never mind some of the round the world riders from the 30s!
Wow.. You have really motivated me..Thank you. I just recently purchased a Rebel 300. New to riding again.. It's been 30 years since I had my last bike. Just getting used to it and building my confidence. Your video helped! Very cool!! Thank you for sharing
Great video guys, easy to watch and great choice of mods. All quality and with a proper thought out purpose. Looking forward to seeing the travels, especially Mexico!
Crash bobbins for the front forks and rear swing arm and handle bar ends. 12 v din power point, so able to charge things on the move. May be a tank bag( nine magnetic) .
Good review, the more I see of these the more they appeal to me, it is possible to tour on any bike as long as you feel it suits you. All the best from England.
thank you for this video. i am looking for a rebel 500 abs for my first bike (500 is an absolutely a must for me) and seeing these beginner friendly changes were helpful
I have just gone to a Honda Rebel from a Honda ATV Scooter 150 cc, the scooter was just too high for me so I bit the bullet and got a Honda Rebel 500 and it is sweet and my feet a flat on the ground, but it is a big change having gears, you have inspired me to be brave and get riding. I know this is nothing to do with your talk but anything that inspires is good. (Melva)
Awesome, definitely! Since this video was released, the Rebel has 30,000+ more miles, has seen a ton of off-road riding, across the US, Canada, Mexico, up to Alaska, and it's still doing great!
Good for you, hope you enjoy all the adventures you have on your bike. People have been around the world on tiny bikes, the adventure is what you make it...
love my 2017 Rebel 500, it has taken me all over Canada, as well as parts of the States. we just finished a 13,000km trip to the Arctic Circle, Yukon Terratory.
The Honda Rebel sure is a lot sexier than it was when I was learning on an old Honda Rebel 250...that bike was squirrely and drove me nuts! Yours looks great, and I like that you've been proactive with upgrades that work for you. I started out on a non-touring bike too...I had a Harley Davidson Heritage classic which while a softail offered a nice ride but was not designed for the 500+ mile days we often do on trips. But I loved her. Upgraded to a Street Glide Special two years ago and never looked back...although I do not have heated grips and I really would like them!
My wife and I purchased the 2019 cb500x with bark busters,crash bars and a centre stand we have done just fine,we also lowered the seat height on my wife’s bike. We do have sat navigation on both bikes and helmet intercoms so me wife can tell me to speed up.
Hi Caitlin, regards from Spain. I have too one Rebel 500, I have mods to mini cruiser. This video confirming that the Honda Rebel is the most custom bike of the world, she make all that you wants. Thanks
I found some long shocks for the rear shocks. And for the front shocks they have some long travel shocks as well. And as for the rear fender they do sale some large saddle bags with bungie cords. Then for the tank they sale plastic tank protectors that will stop any scratches. I'm sure you got it figured out. But if your ever solo running they sale a large rear bag mount with a sissy bar that allows for more vertical storage.
Great bike and awesome setup! I'm a Goldwing driver but sold off all my other bikes so I need something to move around on and not have to rely on taking my Freight Train everywhere... maybe this is my next toy.
What a fun setup. As a fellow short woman that started on the original 250 Rebel, I love the idea that you're using the newest version for your adventures. It's amazing that there are now skid plates for those bikes! Protection has come a long way in the past 30 years! Just a suggestion for your hands - add some BarkBuster guards with the "Storm" wind-breakers. I don't have heated grips, but the Storm wind breakers really keep the worst off my hands (I ride year-round - now on a Versys x300). Another 'short person' tip for long-distance riding on a cruiser - shift your leg position by using the passenger's pegs. Not sure if the Rebel is set up where you can do that safely, but I did that all the time on my old Kawasaki Nomad and it really was more comfortable for longer rides. Looking forward to watching your adventures! Stay safe and have fun!
Thank you. This bike doesn't have passenger pegs unfortunately, they're extra with teh passenger seat kit. We've considered putting highway pegs on the engine dresser bars, but we'll see.
My daughter wants an adventure bike but she is also vertically challenged so she had to settle on a Rebel. (I spent a lot of time and money modifying a BMW G650 for her but it was still too tall.) I wonder when the motorcycle manufacturers are going to figure out that not everyone is 6 foot tall. I am confident that when the first major motorcycle manufacturer makes an adventure bike for shorter people, it will be an instant success. Until then, we may have to borrow some of your ideas for her Rebel. Great video. Thanks.
Yeah, the fact that the Harley Pan America has the electronic suspension that lowers at a stop is great, but still not enough for those with the shortest inseams. But people have gone around the world on bikes less suited than a Rebel, so it can be done. But for those wanting to get aggressive off-road their isn't much out there. We've been looking for a XT225/250 to see if that could be a possibility. The seat height is fairly low for a dual sport, then if the suspension is set right for proper sag, plus a lowering link, I think it's possible to get it pretty low.
This summer i rented a rebel 1100T and did about 2800 miles through Colorado, utah, arizona, & wyoming. The bike road nice except for gravel roads where i did a lot of camping and it did not handle them well. That and the seat being uncomfortable made the journey harder than it had to be. I could have rented a 500 rebel and that would have been better for me. The trip was a great experience though. You have a nice bike. Best of luck.
I'd be curious how the 1100 and 500 compared on gravel roads if they both had the same tires. Ultimately it's not what they are designed for, but Caitlyn has to make do with what she can. Definitely an underrated motorcycle though. I enjoy riding it too.
W ith the right tires, probably wouldn't be a problem for her bike. Part of my problem may have been all my gear and camping supplies thar made the gravel hard.
Nice setup. About the only thing I don't like about the rebel is the small tank but that just means you need to stop more often. I have hand guards and heated grips. I have found that the heated grips are nice on cold mornings in the mountains. I bought some cheap hippo hands and added Velcro to make them easy on and off. Great when it gets down near freezing. The 500 should have plenty of power for anything. I ride a Honda Falcon 400 in south America and it gets by with 30hp. Good riding and I'll be watching your adventures.
I have a rebel 300 and wow you gave me a lot of information and ideas to add to my bike. Those crash bars would have saved me twice. Oh well. I like the two dents on either side of my fuel tank.
Get some bark buster storm. In the cold and the rain, the push the air off your hands. Heated grip liners are very small, and can be made to fit tight inside regular gloves. In case you did not know, there is a usb ready hookup cable under the gauge cluster.
It’s a pigtail, ready for a USB adapter. It’s a switched 12v. Also, your little triangular side cover just pop off, you can put tools and some small items in those covers like a the Allen key for the seat, spare key, and what not. Not a lot of space, but Ana ziplock bag and some gorilla tape and you are golden.
Great mindset to have. Any bike is a touring bike as long as you can put up with it, the touring options just make it comfortable! I drove my Yamaha WR125 over 10000km on all sorts of roads, including highways. I would just make a reason up to go visit neighbouring cities/countries every weekend and just go lol.
The T-rex center stand, T-rex engine guard & sliders are perfect for us "newbie"riders. The Atlas throttle lock and back rack for long trips is "spot on"! Wind shield is another smart choice! The seat and shocks would be another item to strongly consider! Have a great time on the road and enjoy the journey! Doug🏍️😇👍😁❤️
Awesome! Worth a review. We poor fellas are not getting this bike in India, but we do have CB300R and CB500R which is heading same engine. We are in the huge monopoly market of Royal Enfield Meteor cruiser. Though we don't have low seat height cruiser yet therefore Honda Rebel 300/500 are good potion for us... Your presentation again tempting our adrenaline. Your bike is loaded perfectly. Have many miles ahead. Thanks
Wow, that's surprising. The meteor isn't a low enough seat height for riders like Caitlyn. Hope the rebels get there eventually, they're a great platform.
New subscriber! Love it! I just went on a moto-camping trip with my 81 Kawasaki 440 LTD! It was fun but wasn’t perfect but it is what I have and I love it!
i just got my endorsement and am looking at the rebel 500. i am also short and would love an adventure bike too once i get practice on the rebel. BMW has the 700GS (dual sport) that can be lowered down to 30 inch seat height which i will consider in the future once i get more confident. i wont be doing crazy off roads so it may be doable.
Throw a leg over and see how one feels! I think they're really great bikes, I'm so glad we got Caitlyn one. The 700GS would be super cool, perhaps the rebel will get you to one quickly!
Comfort is key. Problems that made longer distance uncomfortable for me were 1. wind noise, which can be deceptively tiring not to mention putting you at risk for tinnitus. and 2. bunching up of riding pants (or whatever you wear) behind the knee. As for problem 1. trial and error and with three after-market windscreens I finally found one that worked for my bike, a BMW F800 ST. 2. you probably have a good choice already there with your knee bend not being too extreme. Best wishes and safe travels.
Sick bike! Way better than the angry lawnmower. The after market parts you put on (and those that came with it) are pretty slick, but also functional - so win win! Happy trails, and safe travels to you both!
pretty cool bike! i have a 2019 Rebel 500. the second day i had mine, i dropped it in my front yard, forgot to put the kickstand down. i have hard lockable bags on mine, footboards instead of pegs. need risers, had some on order, but after delay for 2 and a half months cancelled. gonna order another brand. need a windshield. a sissybar to stack my motocamping gear on the rear rack(just like the one you have) i am planning to go cross country next May. no interstate, unless it's necessary, country roads only. the Rebel is a poor man's cruiser, not an adventure bike. but riding in traffic is an adventure. not going to Mexico, or Alaska. mostly the states i haven't been to. Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, those states north of I 80 i think. gonna sub, to learn some things about long trips on the Rebel 500. thanks for now. be safe.
Superb choice. Great bikes. The bike I’m going to get the missus when/if she decides to take the plunge and learn to ride. Love the mods. Looking forward to seeing your travels. 👍🏻 Didn’t realise the TFT on the Scrambler had a night mode. The TFT was always the one thing on that bike I was never keen on, but the brief glimpse we got it looked mint!
So far the Rebel has been awesome! Yeah the TFT is display is really good, far better than I would have thought. I would have put it my cons of the bike before owning, but now it's definitely in the pros.
I would add a rear carrier so you could pack more luggage. I would also suggest a beeline navigation instead of the phone & phone as backup. But this is just what I would do. Everybody’s requirement is different. Best of luck & have a safe trip. Nigel 🇩🇪
Seat issue? Do what I did, I bought myself cycling shorts with padding, and what a difference. It really helps especially on a long drive, give it a try.
Assuming you have a long inseam, I do think you'll be cramped on the bike. My husband is 5'11" with a 33" inseam he can ride it, but is a bit too cramped for a long period of riding. With forward foot controls it might be a bit better.
A perfect motorcycle is the one which we can flat foot with manageable weight, good average and can maintain decent speed on highways. Happy motoring 🙂
I would fit some hand guards, keeps some of the wind off your hands, and if off road they will prevent bushes putting your front brake on if you brush past them.
I see someone else already suggested handguards. A really good idea if you ride in colder climates, and also keeps a ton of dead bugs off your hands. I like the setup you have. It may not be the typical touring or adventure bike, but that's irrelevant unless what others think matters to you. You will have the same experiences riding and see the same sights as someone with the big Beemer or the Africa Twin, and pay a lot less. I picked up an old "WeeStrom", set it up the way I wanted it, and love it. Safe travels!
Oh nice. Our friend Marek had a V-stom 650 for years and loved it. Of the many bikes he's owned over the years, he'd buy another one in a heartbeat. I think it's be his second favorite after his DR650.
have fun, I'm on my third moto now, Versys x300 it's not about size, it is about having fun, but I don't have a problem sitting on the bike at 6'7" of course my thighs are not flat like when sitting on my first moto 30_ years ago in Taipei (Sanyang 125 4 speed plus neutral/ classic motorcycle) so, small for the usa but big to me anyway.
I think you've made some very intelligent mods given you're intended use. I have a 500 and love it. It is strictly street use. Longer rides tell me I would be happier with a better saddle. I will be anxious to follow your journey.
Girl you r right about the fact that every motorcycle is an adventure bike. I have a 100 cc kawasaki CT 100motorcycle that churns out 70 km per ltr fuel economy and can do 110km/hr top speed. I have built it on scrambler style and I've covered long trip on it
I would consider strapping two large water bottle holders to the crash bars and adding two small amber/yellow lights to the front to make you more visible. Amber/yellow lights really draw attention more then white lights
Handguards would make a huge contribution to keeping your hands warm by protecting them from the wind.. I have Barkbusters on my Street Scrambler, which also protect the levers (not that it ever goes off road), and I was surprised how much difference they make in the UK winter.
Nice setup! I live in a colder environment myself and had put some thought into getting handguards to keep the wind at bay. And they also have the added protection for the controls.
If you don't want to change the seat, for longer days on saddle may I recommend a pair of biking shorts (the ones with padded bottoms) under the long pants. They work really well for me in India on my CB350. Also, be careful of which way the exhaust is pointed at - it could be targeting the bottom of the side bag and melt it.
OMG I dropped my Rebel too during a left u-turn after one month having it, the front wheel ended up in a ditch at the side of the road. fortunately, I had crash bars installed and I only needed to change the left fork cover as it was scratched.
Don't now how much off roading or mud riding you are planning on doing but perhaps raise the front fender a bit to allow for clearance of those more aggressive tires and to let the mud not build up.
Sweet bike! I have a 2022 500 in Pearl Organic Green and absolutely Love it! In the name of Jesus I am praying for your safe travels and also that you find the perfect gloves for your Carnie hands 🙏 😁
I've got a 2021 Honda Rebel ABS SE and the very first thing I did was get a good seat. Mustang makes one that will change your riding life for the better, believe me. Also, you should look into Viking saddle bags, the big ones. They hold a lot and look good on the bike, the best 300 bucks you can spend aside from the Mustang seat. Stock seat has pretty much no padding. Happy riding! Also, don't tell people they're going to drop the bike. I've been riding since I was 10 and I'm 66 and I've never ever dropped a bike. That's a very weird and negative thing to put into a new rider's head. :)
Thanks for the tip. Once you start taking a bike off-road, it will definitely be dropped. It's not a negative, it happens to most once you start going off-pavement, traveling fully loaded, etc. But that's great that you've avoided it!
300 miles is fantastic, if you're backside complains buy an airhawk cushion, you will not be disappointed...Good luck, just found your channel and subscribed
Funny enough, I totally got a seat cushion similar to airhawk. A cheap one from Amazon but did the job. We're really behind on videos right now, but made it across the country on the rebel and then down into Mexico. Including riding through the desert with deep send, rock gardens, and river crossings. Longest day on the Rebel now is just over 500 miles, but definitely always trying to keep it to 300 or less on travel days.
It may not be the perfect bike for adventure riding but I like the honest and unpretentious approach to riding a motorcycle. Many shorter riders insist on riding a BMW GS Adventure or something similar just to prove something or maybe for the Instagram :D
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
How do you think Caitlyn's new motorcycle will do riding through the US, Canada, and Mexico?
Canada and US…👍 Mexico = cartel💀
They will do just fine, What I would add is some 80/20 dual-sport tires if possible, or sem-Knobbies of some kind, plus Fat bars. She did good to install foldable levers but if the bars are standard 7/8 In diameter they could bend in easily with a Fall since the Rebel is also a heavy Bike.....and regarding Caitlyn, Man she's super cute!
@@ripmax333 Either putting MT60rs tires on (available in 16" size) or looking to upgrade the wheels to 17" for more options.
@@ScramblerStories I would stay with 16'' if possible, going for bigger wheels could raise the ride height. since she is vertically challenged she can have some difficulty on rough terrain, even a small rock under the wheel can raise the seat by a few inches, and since the rebel is a bit on the heavy side it can lead to falling.
@@ScramblerStories there are also K784F/K784 BIG BLOCK Tires by KENDA TIRES
I think the best adventure bike is whatever bike you own. Yes there may be better ones, but play the hand you have, because the journey is as much of the story as the destination. RIDE ON!
So very true!
@@ScramblerStories Add brush guards in front of your grips, if you want to keep your hands warm while riding they cut the wind and make an incredible difference!!
just like the photography community: the best camera is the one you have in hand, the best bike is the one you have under your a**
Any vehicle can go off road if your brave enough and prepared enough
All bikes are adventure bikes.
A bike without a scratch, is a bike without a life.
I’ve been saying this lately. 🤙🏻
I love that. I've put a dent or a scratch in both of my Triumphs when they were pretty new. I didn't buy them just to polish them after a quick ride on a Sunday, I got them to ride into the ground!
Any bike can be an adventure bike. People have ridden around the entire globe on everything from 250 trail bikes to GS's to Honda 50cc scooters. It's like everything else in life, it's what you make it. Good effort, keep it up! 👍
Well said!
@@ScramblerStories Thank you Caitlyn, meant every word sincerely. You rock, keep it up and don't let anything ever stop you! Till you decide otherwise anyway. 😁
there are several youtubers camping and doing some crazy adventures on Honda Cub's (new and old ones), as well as many other moto's, fun to watch, even though I am commuting to/ from work on my Versys x300
This is motorcycling in it's purest form. Regular people, itching for a little adventure, working with what they've got to get away and be apart of the outside world. Not worrying about what's "acceptable" or "cool" or "trendy". Just doing whatever you can to keep the breeze on your knees. I love this. I've been budget riding for 24 years and this really boosts my inspiration for motorcycling. Good on you. Pay attention, be careful, good luck. You are representing the lifestyle well. Cheers.
Thank you!
That is a sweet setup. Everything you chose to do makes sense and you'll find out The changes you make as you go along. Makes me want to get a rebel as well now.
Take for a spin next time we're in Ontario!
As a non rider yet the accessories you covered was helpful. Also the production of this video was outstanding. Much better than some that do it full time.
Thank you, appreciate the compliment!
Every bike is a touring/adventure motorcycle. Good luck, safe travels to you and Chris.
Exactly. Thank you!
The key to a successful adventure is being comfortable on a reliable bike. I think you’ve built yourself the perfect ADV bike, for you. Sweet ride!
I think so too. Certainly more reliable than the S40!
"the key to a successful adventure is being comfortable on a reliable bike."...so very true, 100% agree. can i quote that on my bike group's wag ? thankyou
@@adityarizki6683 sure thing. All the best!
Awesome! I can't wait to see Caitlyn out and about adventuring on it. Dual Sport tires will definitely make a difference and make it look a lot meaner. Definitely correct that you can tour on anything, you just need to plan accordingly. People used to cruise all over the country on small bikes and still do in many other countries. It just means taking scenic routes more usually. That's not a bad thing on an adventure.
Yeah, you'll have to meet up with use somewhere sometime. We're going to miss Barber this year to check out the Albuquerque Balloon Festival. But let's get in touch and figure something out. Otherwise maybe we'll visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras 2023!
Nice! I’ve got Rebel 300.. but I’m in Vietnam))
And I used it off-road a bit. Fells fine.. but I’ve changed fork oil from 10w to 15w without changing the springs, but I think you can put 20w, should be alright.. gonna follow you for sure!
Hey Denis, that's good to know!
As has been said, the best adventure bike, is the one you own. When I was a much younger man, my adventure bike was my 1973 Honda CB450, that I bought new. Not a dirt bike, but it saw a lot of dirt roads. Enjoy your adventure.
Those were cool bikes! We have a friend that's a big CB fan, and we saw a bunch of CBs at the Barber Museum.
lol, someone forgot to tell my 1974 Z1 900 Kaw it wasn't an off road bike. (mild)
I like the mods you did. Your choice to not overload that Rebel and make your safety and comfort choices based on solid thinking shows good sense. Funny how so many say this is or isn't right for your ride.... Go back 30 years or more. What were they using for cross country or any other type of riding they did. The bike that fits you and your style is the bike you need. It is great we have choices so we can find the right bike for us. Enjoy your ride!
Thanks Kevin. Yeah I always default to what Ted Simon did and figure any modern bike is fine in comparison. Never mind some of the round the world riders from the 30s!
I suppose these are things I've never had to think about as a 178cm man. Pretty neat seeing you adapt instead of complain. Big kudo's.
Thank you!
Wow..
You have really motivated me..Thank you.
I just recently purchased a Rebel 300.
New to riding again..
It's been 30 years since I had my last bike.
Just getting used to it and building my confidence.
Your video helped!
Very cool!!
Thank you for sharing
You can do it! Hope you love that 300. Thanks for the nice words!
Thank you so much!!
Every word of confidence I can get will go straight to the heart!
I appreciate it so much ❤️
Yes heated grips and a throttle lock are a must on any bike I ride.
The burp at the end was hilarious, got me to subscribe. Looking forward to seeing the adventures!
Haha, thanks for coming along!
Great video guys, easy to watch and great choice of mods. All quality and with a proper thought out purpose. Looking forward to seeing the travels, especially Mexico!
Thank you. Looking forward to see how that garage comes out when it's finished!
@@ScramblerStories Me too - Hopefully it stands up!
You have a really nice bike. You'll grow very fond of this willing and forgiving bike. May all your adventures be all successful, exciting and safe.
Thank you!
Crash bobbins for the front forks and rear swing arm and handle bar ends. 12 v din power point, so able to charge things on the move. May be a tank bag( nine magnetic) .
Good review, the more I see of these the more they appeal to me, it is possible to tour on any bike as long as you feel it suits you. All the best from England.
Thank you. It's been a great little bike!
thank you for this video. i am looking for a rebel 500 abs for my first bike (500 is an absolutely a must for me) and seeing these beginner friendly changes were helpful
Glad it was helpful. It'll make a great first bike and honestly, it makes a great bike even if it's not you're first. Can't go wrong!
I have just gone to a Honda Rebel from a Honda ATV Scooter 150 cc, the scooter was just too high for me so I bit the bullet and got a Honda Rebel 500 and it is sweet and my feet a flat on the ground, but it is a big change having gears, you have inspired me to be brave and get riding. I know this is nothing to do with your talk but anything that inspires is good. (Melva)
Awesome, definitely! Since this video was released, the Rebel has 30,000+ more miles, has seen a ton of off-road riding, across the US, Canada, Mexico, up to Alaska, and it's still doing great!
Good for you, hope you enjoy all the adventures you have on your bike. People have been around the world on tiny bikes, the adventure is what you make it...
Absolutely!
My adventure motorbike is a Yamaha xj6 Diversion F, 11 years old. You'll be grand on the rebel Caitlin.
Thank you!
love my 2017 Rebel 500, it has taken me all over Canada, as well as parts of the States. we just finished a 13,000km trip to the Arctic Circle, Yukon Terratory.
Nice!! That's what I am talking about. Perfect response to someone else's comment.
The Honda Rebel sure is a lot sexier than it was when I was learning on an old Honda Rebel 250...that bike was squirrely and drove me nuts! Yours looks great, and I like that you've been proactive with upgrades that work for you. I started out on a non-touring bike too...I had a Harley Davidson Heritage classic which while a softail offered a nice ride but was not designed for the 500+ mile days we often do on trips. But I loved her. Upgraded to a Street Glide Special two years ago and never looked back...although I do not have heated grips and I really would like them!
Ah yeah. I'm not sure I could go without heated grips now that I have had them. At least for traveling.
Nice setup, glad you enjoy riding together, my wife and I just started scootering together.
Awesome! It's been a lot of fun sharing experiences together around North America.
My wife and I purchased the 2019 cb500x with bark busters,crash bars and a centre stand we have done just fine,we also lowered the seat height on my wife’s bike. We do have sat navigation on both bikes and helmet intercoms so me wife can tell me to speed up.
Awesome!
Hi Caitlin, regards from Spain. I have too one Rebel 500, I have mods to mini cruiser. This video confirming that the Honda Rebel is the most custom bike of the world, she make all that you wants. Thanks
Awesome, hope to ride in Spain one day!
I found some long shocks for the rear shocks. And for the front shocks they have some long travel shocks as well. And as for the rear fender they do sale some large saddle bags with bungie cords. Then for the tank they sale plastic tank protectors that will stop any scratches. I'm sure you got it figured out. But if your ever solo running they sale a large rear bag mount with a sissy bar that allows for more vertical storage.
Raising the suspension would be great for off-road, but then I wouldn't be able to touch the ground!
I think Caitlyn's setup will do just fine. I really liked the enthusiastic showcase of accessories installed. May you enjoy the miles ahead! :)
Thank you!
I own this same bike as well! I love the black and white coloring. Super fun bike and awesome video!
Thank you!
Great bike and awesome setup! I'm a Goldwing driver but sold off all my other bikes so I need something to move around on and not have to rely on taking my Freight Train everywhere... maybe this is my next toy.
It's definitely fun and easy to chuck around.
What a fun setup. As a fellow short woman that started on the original 250 Rebel, I love the idea that you're using the newest version for your adventures. It's amazing that there are now skid plates for those bikes! Protection has come a long way in the past 30 years!
Just a suggestion for your hands - add some BarkBuster guards with the "Storm" wind-breakers. I don't have heated grips, but the Storm wind breakers really keep the worst off my hands (I ride year-round - now on a Versys x300).
Another 'short person' tip for long-distance riding on a cruiser - shift your leg position by using the passenger's pegs. Not sure if the Rebel is set up where you can do that safely, but I did that all the time on my old Kawasaki Nomad and it really was more comfortable for longer rides.
Looking forward to watching your adventures! Stay safe and have fun!
Thank you. This bike doesn't have passenger pegs unfortunately, they're extra with teh passenger seat kit. We've considered putting highway pegs on the engine dresser bars, but we'll see.
My daughter wants an adventure bike but she is also vertically challenged so she had to settle on a Rebel. (I spent a lot of time and money modifying a BMW G650 for her but it was still too tall.) I wonder when the motorcycle manufacturers are going to figure out that not everyone is 6 foot tall. I am confident that when the first major motorcycle manufacturer makes an adventure bike for shorter people, it will be an instant success. Until then, we may have to borrow some of your ideas for her Rebel. Great video. Thanks.
Yeah, the fact that the Harley Pan America has the electronic suspension that lowers at a stop is great, but still not enough for those with the shortest inseams. But people have gone around the world on bikes less suited than a Rebel, so it can be done. But for those wanting to get aggressive off-road their isn't much out there. We've been looking for a XT225/250 to see if that could be a possibility. The seat height is fairly low for a dual sport, then if the suspension is set right for proper sag, plus a lowering link, I think it's possible to get it pretty low.
If you don't mind the looks some led lights that clip on your crash bars might be handy for your travels? Especially good down unpaved tracks.
Yeah, that is something we've pondered but need to find a well priced solution. One of the brands I was looking at was pricier than I expected.
looks great! i have a rebel 500 myself best mods i have done for long trips is a mustang solo seat and windscreen! keep it up
Yeah, we just did 1,000 miles in two days, and now Caitlyn's starting to think she will need to replace the seat. Hahaha
This summer i rented a rebel 1100T and did about 2800 miles through Colorado, utah, arizona, & wyoming. The bike road nice except for gravel roads where i did a lot of camping and it did not handle them well. That and the seat being uncomfortable made the journey harder than it had to be. I could have rented a 500 rebel and that would have been better for me. The trip was a great experience though.
You have a nice bike. Best of luck.
I'd be curious how the 1100 and 500 compared on gravel roads if they both had the same tires. Ultimately it's not what they are designed for, but Caitlyn has to make do with what she can. Definitely an underrated motorcycle though. I enjoy riding it too.
W ith the right tires, probably wouldn't be a problem for her bike. Part of my problem may have been all my gear and camping supplies thar made the gravel hard.
can you make a u turn with the honda ?
No it’s illegal
Nice setup. About the only thing I don't like about the rebel is the small tank but that just means you need to stop more often. I have hand guards and heated grips. I have found that the heated grips are nice on cold mornings in the mountains. I bought some cheap hippo hands and added Velcro to make them easy on and off. Great when it gets down near freezing. The 500 should have plenty of power for anything. I ride a Honda Falcon 400 in south America and it gets by with 30hp. Good riding and I'll be watching your adventures.
Thank you!
This is kind of making me rethink some of my plans for a new bike next spring
Lots of options out there!
Best adventure bike in the world is the one you are most comfortable with. Ride all day pick it up when it falls over. Looks like a good choice to me.
Cheers, thank you!
I have a rebel 300 and wow you gave me a lot of information and ideas to add to my bike. Those crash bars would have saved me twice. Oh well. I like the two dents on either side of my fuel tank.
Those dents are character marks!!
Never thought of a rebel as an off road touring bike. Really an eye opener
We'll see how it holds up!
Get some bark buster storm. In the cold and the rain, the push the air off your hands. Heated grip liners are very small, and can be made to fit tight inside regular gloves. In case you did not know, there is a usb ready hookup cable under the gauge cluster.
Didn't know about the hookup under the cluster, thanks!
It’s a pigtail, ready for a USB adapter. It’s a switched 12v. Also, your little triangular side cover just pop off, you can put tools and some small items in those covers like a the Allen key for the seat, spare key, and what not. Not a lot of space, but Ana ziplock bag and some gorilla tape and you are golden.
Great mindset to have. Any bike is a touring bike as long as you can put up with it, the touring options just make it comfortable!
I drove my Yamaha WR125 over 10000km on all sorts of roads, including highways. I would just make a reason up to go visit neighbouring cities/countries every weekend and just go lol.
Nice!!
The T-rex center stand, T-rex engine guard & sliders are perfect for us "newbie"riders. The Atlas throttle lock and back rack for long trips is "spot on"! Wind shield is another smart choice! The seat and shocks would be another item to strongly consider! Have a great time on the road and enjoy the journey! Doug🏍️😇👍😁❤️
Thanks Doug!
I use handlebar Mits during the winter, they don't look particularly cool, but I'd rather be warm and comfortable. 👍
For sure!
Awesome! Worth a review. We poor fellas are not getting this bike in India, but we do have CB300R and CB500R which is heading same engine. We are in the huge monopoly market of Royal Enfield Meteor cruiser. Though we don't have low seat height cruiser yet therefore Honda Rebel 300/500 are good potion for us... Your presentation again tempting our adrenaline. Your bike is loaded perfectly. Have many miles ahead. Thanks
Wow, that's surprising. The meteor isn't a low enough seat height for riders like Caitlyn. Hope the rebels get there eventually, they're a great platform.
New subscriber!
Love it! I just went on a moto-camping trip with my 81 Kawasaki 440 LTD! It was fun but wasn’t perfect but it is what I have and I love it!
Awesome!
i just got my endorsement and am looking at the rebel 500. i am also short and would love an adventure bike too once i get practice on the rebel. BMW has the 700GS (dual sport) that can be lowered down to 30 inch seat height which i will consider in the future once i get more confident. i wont be doing crazy off roads so it may be doable.
Throw a leg over and see how one feels! I think they're really great bikes, I'm so glad we got Caitlyn one. The 700GS would be super cool, perhaps the rebel will get you to one quickly!
The was a fun video to watch! Getting my 2022 model CMX500 soon and will copy some of your setup. Well done again, informative but fun.
Thank you!
Comfort is key. Problems that made longer distance uncomfortable for me were 1. wind noise, which can be deceptively tiring not to mention putting you at risk for tinnitus. and 2. bunching up of riding pants (or whatever you wear) behind the knee. As for problem 1. trial and error and with three after-market windscreens I finally found one that worked for my bike, a BMW F800 ST. 2. you probably have a good choice already there with your knee bend not being too extreme. Best wishes and safe travels.
Thank you!
Great video! You taught me a lot about what can be done to the Rebel and you talked me into getting one.
Awesome! Hope you enjoy it!
All your accessories choices hit the mark beautifully for nearly ALL types of riding trips. Good selectings!🏍️👍🦅😇😎 Doug
Thanks Doug!
Sick bike! Way better than the angry lawnmower. The after market parts you put on (and those that came with it) are pretty slick, but also functional - so win win! Happy trails, and safe travels to you both!
I really like it better than that Suzuki. We'll see how it holds up on the road though!
Gerbing xs heated glove. Fantastic for small hands. I also have a rebel. And I love it
We'll have to check those gloves out!
I have rebel 500 2022. The bike is super . I dont like to load as much you have. The heated grips are must have . Also me i cant wear winter gloves .
Definitely. Heated grips making traveling in riding into the colder months so much easier!
I love your spirit of adventure...be safe and long live with long rebellious ride...i got one too but just riding for fun...
Thank you! Hope you enjoy yours as well.
pretty cool bike! i have a 2019 Rebel 500. the second day i had mine, i dropped it in my front yard, forgot to put the kickstand down. i have hard lockable bags on mine, footboards instead of pegs. need risers, had some on order, but after delay for 2 and a half months cancelled. gonna order another brand. need a windshield. a sissybar to stack my motocamping gear on the rear rack(just like the one you have) i am planning to go cross country next May. no interstate, unless it's necessary, country roads only. the Rebel is a poor man's cruiser, not an adventure bike. but riding in traffic is an adventure. not going to Mexico, or Alaska. mostly the states i haven't been to. Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, those states north of I 80 i think. gonna sub, to learn some things about long trips on the Rebel 500. thanks for now. be safe.
Awesome. We would have gone with lockable hard luggage but since it came with the soft bags, they will do for now.
Superb choice. Great bikes. The bike I’m going to get the missus when/if she decides to take the plunge and learn to ride. Love the mods. Looking forward to seeing your travels. 👍🏻
Didn’t realise the TFT on the Scrambler had a night mode. The TFT was always the one thing on that bike I was never keen on, but the brief glimpse we got it looked mint!
So far the Rebel has been awesome! Yeah the TFT is display is really good, far better than I would have thought. I would have put it my cons of the bike before owning, but now it's definitely in the pros.
Check out snowmobile gloves and such. Enjoy the ride.
Thank you!
Your cute and very enthusiastic. Great job, great camera presence, and articulate.
Great!
Thank you!
I would add a rear carrier so you could pack more luggage. I would also suggest a beeline navigation instead of the phone & phone as backup. But this is just what I would do. Everybody’s requirement is different. Best of luck & have a safe trip. Nigel 🇩🇪
Thank you Nigel!
Great vid. I’m short also and wanting to do more is hard with what’s available. I will keep an eye for you vid. Thanks for posting.
Thanks for watching!
awesome!! i am about to get the 500 too! i am a short 5’3” so i can flat foot this bike, very excited!!!
Awesome! Enjoy it!
Seat issue? Do what I did, I bought myself cycling shorts with padding, and what a difference. It really helps especially on a long drive, give it a try.
Thank you, that's exactly what I was thinking of doing. - Caitlyn
I would have to have a driver backrest. Looking forward to following your adventures.
Thanks John!
What do you think . Is this bike to small for me , im 6.5’ ( 195 cm ) ?
Assuming you have a long inseam, I do think you'll be cramped on the bike. My husband is 5'11" with a 33" inseam he can ride it, but is a bit too cramped for a long period of riding. With forward foot controls it might be a bit better.
A perfect motorcycle is the one which we can flat foot with manageable weight, good average and can maintain decent speed on highways. Happy motoring 🙂
Well said!
I would fit some hand guards, keeps some of the wind off your hands, and if off road they will prevent bushes putting your front brake on if you brush past them.
That was the original idea, but haven't found anything that would work with the stock handlebars yet. Maybe will just have to fabricate something.
Your bike looks great. I’m sure it will be perfect for your adventures. Good luck and ride safe.
Thank you!
I see someone else already suggested handguards. A really good idea if you ride in colder climates, and also keeps a ton of dead bugs off your hands. I like the setup you have. It may not be the typical touring or adventure bike, but that's irrelevant unless what others think matters to you. You will have the same experiences riding and see the same sights as someone with the big Beemer or the Africa Twin, and pay a lot less. I picked up an old "WeeStrom", set it up the way I wanted it, and love it. Safe travels!
Oh nice. Our friend Marek had a V-stom 650 for years and loved it. Of the many bikes he's owned over the years, he'd buy another one in a heartbeat. I think it's be his second favorite after his DR650.
how much would all the mods cost ?
Probably between $1k to $2K. Under $1k for us, since the bike came with the luggage, rear rack, and the exhaust.
Well thought out mods is my verdict. Happy touring 👌👍
Thank you!
have fun, I'm on my third moto now, Versys x300 it's not about size, it is about having fun, but I don't have a problem sitting on the bike at 6'7" of course my thighs are not flat like when sitting on my first moto 30_ years ago in Taipei (Sanyang 125 4 speed plus neutral/ classic motorcycle) so, small for the usa but big to me anyway.
Right now, that is what is important. She's having a blast on the Rebel, much more than the S40!
I think you've made some very intelligent mods given you're intended use. I have a 500 and love it. It is strictly street use. Longer rides tell me I would be happier with a better saddle. I will be anxious to follow your journey.
Thank you!
@@johnqpublic4691 Just did 1,000 miles in two days, and it's starting to feel like that seat needs to be replaced! 🤣
Love this! Can’t wait to follow all of your adventures!
Thank you Darrin! When we get to our Mexico videos, it's going to be fun to see what we put this poor Rebel through.
Girl you r right about the fact that every motorcycle is an adventure bike. I have a 100 cc kawasaki CT 100motorcycle that churns out 70 km per ltr fuel economy and can do 110km/hr top speed. I have built it on scrambler style and I've covered long trip on it
Right on! Would love to see that bike!
I would consider strapping two large water bottle holders to the crash bars and adding two small amber/yellow lights to the front to make you more visible. Amber/yellow lights really draw attention more then white lights
We looked into lights and did want to add some, but ran out of time before we hit the road. Definitely something we might still add when we can.
Handguards would make a huge contribution to keeping your hands warm by protecting them from the wind.. I have Barkbusters on my Street Scrambler, which also protect the levers (not that it ever goes off road), and I was surprised how much difference they make in the UK winter.
For sure. There's always hippo hands, but boy are they ugly in my opinion!
Nice setup! I live in a colder environment myself and had put some thought into getting handguards to keep the wind at bay. And they also have the added protection for the controls.
That's definitely a good idea.
If you don't want to change the seat, for longer days on saddle may I recommend a pair of biking shorts (the ones with padded bottoms) under the long pants. They work really well for me in India on my CB350. Also, be careful of which way the exhaust is pointed at - it could be targeting the bottom of the side bag and melt it.
No issues with the exhaust/bag so far. But thanks for the biking shorts tip. It is something I'm looking into.
OMG I dropped my Rebel too during a left u-turn after one month having it, the front wheel ended up in a ditch at the side of the road. fortunately, I had crash bars installed and I only needed to change the left fork cover as it was scratched.
Glad there was no serious issues!
Thanks for the video, very useful!. Could you share the information about the handle bar raisers?. Thank you!.
These are the ones we installed. amzn.to/3Fy5U4V
Awesome little touring bike - and you've got it kitted out perfectly for your upcoming adventures! Have fun and ride safe! 🙂
Thanks so much!
Great looking bike. Make it your own for whatever type of riding. Awesome video🤙✌️
Thank you!
I've got the 1985 450, love what you've done to yours.
Oh wow! Our friend Calvin has always spoke really highly of the 450 Rebel from the 80s, but we've never seen one in person.
Love it! I dig your ideas. I am going to get some of your accessories for my rebel. Thanks for the ideas.
Thank you! The heated grips and crash bars are definitely working out so far!
Don't now how much off roading or mud riding you are planning on doing but perhaps raise the front fender a bit to allow for clearance of those more aggressive tires and to let the mud not build up.
Not a bad idea!
Sweet bike! I have a 2022 500 in Pearl Organic Green and absolutely Love it! In the name of Jesus I am praying for your safe travels and also that you find the perfect gloves for your Carnie hands 🙏 😁
Thank you. Love that color that you got!
I think that windshield would look great smoked or tinted.
I had a tinted one on my Street Scrambler, also from Dart Flyscreens. - Chris
I've got a 2021 Honda Rebel ABS SE and the very first thing I did was get a good seat. Mustang makes one that will change your riding life for the better, believe me. Also, you should look into Viking saddle bags, the big ones. They hold a lot and look good on the bike, the best 300 bucks you can spend aside from the Mustang seat. Stock seat has pretty much no padding. Happy riding! Also, don't tell people they're going to drop the bike. I've been riding since I was 10 and I'm 66 and I've never ever dropped a bike. That's a very weird and negative thing to put into a new rider's head. :)
Thanks for the tip. Once you start taking a bike off-road, it will definitely be dropped. It's not a negative, it happens to most once you start going off-pavement, traveling fully loaded, etc. But that's great that you've avoided it!
300 miles is fantastic, if you're backside complains buy an airhawk cushion, you will not be disappointed...Good luck, just found your channel and subscribed
Funny enough, I totally got a seat cushion similar to airhawk. A cheap one from Amazon but did the job. We're really behind on videos right now, but made it across the country on the rebel and then down into Mexico. Including riding through the desert with deep send, rock gardens, and river crossings. Longest day on the Rebel now is just over 500 miles, but definitely always trying to keep it to 300 or less on travel days.
@@ScramblerStories Excellent, well done you.
GREAT VIDEO! I didn't know folding brake and clutch levers were possible. I subscribed.
Thank you!
It may not be the perfect bike for adventure riding but I like the honest and unpretentious approach to riding a motorcycle. Many shorter riders insist on riding a BMW GS Adventure or something similar just to prove something or maybe for the Instagram :D
Sometimes taking the inappropriate bike is more fun!
Great little like you say any bike can be a touring bike it’s up to you just tide and have fun. Good luck guys on your trip🙋♂️😎🌴
Thank you!
Your bike looks great. Stay safe and have fun.😎
Thanks, we will try our best!!
Great content, funny, informative and living
the dream baby!
Thank you!!