Have questions GZ250 or Rebel 250?

[dhgeyer]

Well, alazar14, it certainly sounds like you're doing your research before buying. I have to admire that. I've always been more of an impulse guy myself. That's probably part of why I've been through so many bikes in such a short time. Not that I'm complaining, mind you.

Around here there are a couple of dealers that trade only (or mostly) in used motorcycles. They have large inventories. If you have any such establishments near where you are, you might consider finding them. They tend to allow test rides, as long as you have your motorcycle endorsement. You might luck out and be able to take each of the three bikes that you are now considering out for a short spin.

One suggestion I want to make based on something you said. Please don't start your riding career with a 25 lb pack on your back! This does not help your stability and balance in maneuvers one bit. Get some bungee cords and secure that 25 lb to the seat - and I do mean secure, as in absolutely secure. You can put small saddlebags on any of these bikes, and they will carry stuff safely and securely. What you can't get in the saddlebags, put in your pack, secure the straps completely, and bungee the pack to the bike. Your ride will much more pleasant and safer.

Surprising how few responses you got on the Rebel forum, and how much less real information, especially considering how popular that bike is. Makes me kind of proud to be a part of this forum! We seem to have a lot more collective experience here. A lot of that has to do with the fact that people who once owned GZ250s but traded up, still post here. Another thing you might want to notice is that many people who start on the GZ keep them, even after buying bigger bikes. I'll bet there's a reason for that. And then there's me. I bought my GZ while already owning two much larger bikes, including a full out 1000cc sport touring machine. When I want to go out and tool around the hills for an hour or three, guess which bike I go for?