The Honda Rebel 250 CL250 is not just another motorcycle — it’s a bold statement of classic design infused with modern-day technology. Honda has reintroduced the Rebel 250 in a refreshed format under the name CL250, offering a unique scrambler-style alternative to traditional cruisers.
Whether you’re a beginner rider or someone looking for a stylish, efficient commuter motorcycle with weekend touring potential, the Rebel 250 CL250 promises to deliver a versatile and engaging experience.
📌 Table of Contents
- Overview of Honda Rebel 250 CL250
- Key Features and Highlights
- Specifications Table
- Performance and Engine Details
- Design and Styling
- Ride Comfort and Ergonomics
- Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
- Safety Features and Braking System
- Price and Variants
- Honda CL250 vs Rebel 250 vs Competitors
- Pros and Cons
- Who Should Buy It?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Final Verdict
📝 1. Overview of Honda Rebel 250 CL250
The Honda CL250 is Honda’s reimagined version of the classic Rebel 250, now designed with a more scrambler-like appeal. Built on the same 250cc platform used in the CB250 and Rebel 250, the CL250 adds rugged looks, high-mounted exhaust, and increased suspension travel to cater to urban explorers and light trail riders.
It’s perfect for:
- Urban commuting
- Weekend joyrides
- Beginner riders
- Those who prefer lightweight, fuel-efficient bikes with personality
⭐ 2. Key Features and Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc, Liquid-cooled, Single-cylinder |
| Power Output | ~24 PS |
| Torque | ~23 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual |
| Style | Scrambler |
| ABS | Dual-Channel |
| Suspension | Telescopic Front Forks, Dual Rear Shocks |
| Fuel Tank | 12 litres |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 172 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm (low and accessible) |
⚙️ 3. Honda Rebel 250 CL250 Specifications
Here’s a complete technical breakdown:
| Specification | Honda CL250 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 249cc Liquid-cooled DOHC Single-cylinder |
| Max Power | 24 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 23 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual |
| Fuel System | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled |
| Starting System | Electric Start |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork (150mm travel) |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shocks |
| Front Brake | 310mm Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240mm Disc with ABS |
| Tyres | Dual-purpose (Dunlop or IRC options) |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 Litres |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 172 kg |
🏁 4. Performance and Engine Details
Powered by a 249cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine, the Rebel 250 CL250 delivers smooth performance across city streets and highways. The 6-speed gearbox ensures a balanced mix of low-end torque and top-end cruising capability. Riders will find this engine refined, fuel-efficient, and responsive — thanks to Honda’s engineering prowess.
Key performance traits:
- Linear power delivery
- Responsive throttle
- Vibration-free ride at mid-range speeds
- Top speed: Approx. 125-130 km/h
- Acceleration (0-60 km/h): Under 5 seconds
🎨 5. Design and Styling
The Honda CL250 boasts scrambler styling:
- High-mounted exhaust for rugged looks
- Chunky tyres for better grip on all surfaces
- Round LED headlamp and turn signals
- Upright handlebar for relaxed riding posture
- Minimalist tail section with tuck-and-roll seat
The combination of retro design elements with a modern finish makes it stand out in a crowd. It also shares some design DNA with the larger Honda CL500.
🛵 6. Ride Comfort and Ergonomics
The ergonomics of the Rebel 250 CL250 are designed to offer comfort for both beginners and experienced riders. The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and mid-set footpegs make it extremely comfortable for city rides and light off-road patches.
Rider Experience:
- Easy to handle due to low seat height
- Comfortable for short to mid-distance touring
- Ideal for riders under 6 feet, but still manageable for taller individuals
- Pillion comfort is decent but not ideal for long rides
⛽ 7. Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Despite its sporty looks, the Honda CL250 remains fuel-efficient — one of the key reasons it appeals to a broad audience.
| Riding Condition | Mileage (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| City | 32-35 km/l |
| Highway | 38-40 km/l |
| Combined | ~36 km/l |
With a 12-litre tank, the bike offers a practical range of around 400-450 km on a full tank.
🛡 8. Safety Features and Braking System
Honda has ensured that the CL250 is equipped with modern safety features:
- Dual-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Grippy dual-purpose tyres
- Strong tubular steel frame
- LED lighting for better visibility
These features provide confidence and stability, especially for new riders.
💰 9. Price and Variants
Although the Rebel 250 CL250 hasn’t officially launched in India yet, in the Japanese and Southeast Asian markets, the pricing is roughly:
| Country | Approx. Price |
|---|---|
| Japan | ¥6,20,000 (~₹3.45 lakh) |
| Vietnam | VND 1,29,000,000 (~₹4.40 lakh) |
| Expected India Price (Unofficial) | ₹3.2 – ₹3.5 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Expected Variants:
- Standard variant
- Touring edition (with accessories)
⚔️ 10. Honda CL250 vs Rebel 250 vs Competitors
| Bike | Engine | Weight | ABS | Mileage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CL250 | 249cc | 172 kg | Dual | ~36 km/l | ₹3.4 lakh* |
| Honda Rebel 250 | 249cc | 170 kg | Dual | ~36 km/l | ₹3.2 lakh* |
| Royal Enfield Scram 411 | 411cc | 185 kg | Dual | ~30 km/l | ₹2.6 lakh |
| Yamaha FZ-X | 149cc | 139 kg | Single | ~45 km/l | ₹1.4 lakh |
| Bajaj Dominar 250 | 248cc | 180 kg | Dual | ~35 km/l | ₹1.8 lakh |
*Estimated prices for Indian market
✅ 11. Pros and Cons
👍 Pros:
- Stylish scrambler design
- Beginner-friendly performance
- Dual-channel ABS standard
- Honda reliability and build quality
- Efficient and refined engine
👎 Cons:
- Slightly overpriced for 250cc (if launched above ₹3 lakh)
- No TFT display or modern electronics
- Limited pillion comfort for long rides
- Limited dealership availability in some regions
👤 12. Who Should Buy the Honda CL250?
The Rebel 250 CL250 is best suited for:
- Beginner riders looking for their first big bike
- Commuters needing a stylish, efficient daily rider
- Weekend explorers wanting a scrambler look
- Honda loyalists who trust Japanese engineering
- Urban riders preferring upright posture and light off-road ability
❓ 13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the Honda CL250 available in India?
Not officially. However, it’s expected to be launched in India in late 2025 or early 2026.
Q2. What’s the difference between Rebel 250 and CL250?
Both share the same engine, but the CL250 is a scrambler-style motorcycle, whereas the Rebel 250 is a low-slung cruiser.
Q3. Is the CL250 good for long-distance touring?
With accessories like a windscreen and luggage racks, yes. But it’s better suited for short to mid-range touring.
Q4. Is the seat height comfortable for short riders?
Yes, with a seat height of around 790 mm, it’s accessible for most riders.
Q5. Can it handle off-road conditions?
It can manage light off-road trails, thanks to dual-purpose tyres and increased ground clearance.
🏁 14. Final Verdict – Should You Wait for It?
The Honda Rebel 250 CL250 is a refreshing take on the entry-level motorcycle scene. It combines the heritage of Honda, the style of a scrambler, and the reliability of a commuter. Though its price may be a sticking point if imported or CKD assembled in India, the overall value, performance, and looks make it a compelling package.
If you’re a fan of the retro-modern motorcycle movement and want a bike that turns heads while remaining practical, the Honda CL250 is worth waiting for.