Honda CMX300 Rebel (2020-2022) Review: The Entry-Level Cruiser That Gets It Right

Introduction

The Honda Rebel series has long been the gateway drug to cruiser motorcycles, and the 2020-2022 CMX300 iteration continues this legacy with a modern twist. Designed for urban riders and newcomers to the two-wheeled world, this 286cc single-cylinder machine isn’t about raw power – it’s about accessibility, style, and the pure joy of uncomplicated riding. Over three years of production, Honda refined its formula of creating a bike that feels equally at home in city traffic and on winding backroads. Let’s dissect why this Rebel continues to rally enthusiasts to its cause.

Design Philosophy: Minimalism Meets Muscle

The Rebel 300’s aesthetic walks a tightrope between traditional cruiser DNA and contemporary minimalism. The blacked-out exhaust system, chopped fenders, and absence of chrome create a purposeful look that resonates with younger riders. Color options evolved through the generation:

• 2020: Matte Fresco Brown, Graphite Black, Matte Blue Jeans Metallic
• 2021/2022: Matte Gray Metallic, Pearl Blue

The 691mm (27.2") seat height remains unchanged – a masterstroke that allows riders as short as 5’2" to plant both feet firmly. Cast aluminum wheels (130/90-16 front, 150/80-16 rear) maintain the low-slung profile while providing enough sidewall for urban pothole absorption. All-LED lighting (standard from 2021 onward) gives the bike a premium edge over competitors still using halogen setups.

Performance: Small Bore, Big Heart

The Engine Character

At its core beats a 286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with DOHC architecture. The 76mm x 63mm bore/stroke ratio leans toward rev-happy characteristics rather than traditional cruiser lugging. While the 108.7 mph (175 km/h) top speed figure seems optimistic for real-world riding, the power delivery is where this mill shines:

• 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h): ~7.5 seconds (remarkable for a 286cc)
• Fuel Efficiency: 77.89 mpg (33.1 km/l) makes it cheaper to run than most 125cc scooters
• Vibration Management: Noticeable buzz above 65 mph (105 km/h), but rubber-mounted pegs help

The 6-speed gearbox is a revelation – the clutch pull could be measured in feathers, and gear ratios are spaced for both traffic crawling and highway overtakes. Cruising at 70 mph (113 km/h) sees the engine spinning at 7,000 RPM, which while audible, never feels strained.

Chassis Dynamics

The Rebel’s 1491mm (58.7") wheelbase and 28° rake angle suggest stability, but the 364 lb (165 kg) wet weight makes it flickable like a supermoto. Suspension travel numbers tell the story:

• Front: 122mm (4.8") via 41mm non-adjustable forks
• Rear: 97mm (3.8") through preload-adjustable dual shocks

This setup soaks up city imperfections admirably but gets overwhelmed during aggressive cornering. The optional ABS (standard in some markets) works through 296mm front and 240mm rear discs – more than adequate for the bike’s mass.

Rider Experience: Where the Rebel Truly Rebels

Swinging a leg over the Rebel reveals Honda’s ergonomic genius. The mid-mounted pegs create a slight knee bend (32° hip angle for a 5’10" rider), while the wide handlebar demands just enough forward lean to stay engaged. The 2.95-gallon (11.17L) tank limits range to ~210 miles (338 km), making it ideal for day trips rather than cross-country marathons.

Urban Warfare: Filtering through traffic feels natural – the narrow profile and upright riding position provide excellent visibility. The engine’s torque curve (peaking at 7,000 RPM) means you’re rarely shifting in stop-and-go scenarios.

Weekend Warrior: On twisty roads, the Rebel defies cruiser conventions. Ground clearance isn’t its forte, but the MRF tires offer surprising grip when leaned over. The real limitation is suspension – hit a mid-corner bump, and the rear shocks will remind you this isn’t a sportbike.

Competition: How the Rebel Stacks Up

Kawasaki Vulcan S 650

• Pros: 649cc parallel-twin, adjustable ergonomics
• Cons: 61 lb (28 kg) heavier, higher seat (705mm/27.8"), $2,000+ pricier
• Rebel Advantage: Lower running costs, easier maneuverability

Yamaha V Star 250

• Pros: Air-cooled simplicity, classic cruiser looks
• Cons: 5-speed gearbox, carbureted engine, no ABS option
• Rebel Advantage: Fuel injection, modern tech, better suspension

Suzuki Boulevard S40

• Pros: Thumper character, lower price point
• Cons: Single-seat configuration, 5-speed transmission
• Rebel Advantage: Passenger-ready design, superior highway manners

The Rebel’s secret weapon? Resale value. 2020 models still command 85% of their original MSRP in private sales – a testament to Honda’s reputation.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Rebel Roadworthy

Honda’s engineering ensures reliability, but these are the critical service points:

1. Cooling System: Flush coolant every 24,000 miles (38,600 km). Consider MOTOPARTS.store’s high-performance coolant for extreme climates.
2. Chain Maintenance: The O-ring chain needs cleaning every 500 miles (800 km). Our premium chain kits include everything for silent operation.
3. Valve Adjustments: Every 16,000 miles (25,750 km). Shim-under-bucket design requires mechanical expertise – not a DIY job for most.
4. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 changes every 2 years prevent ABS module issues.
5. Tire Upgrades: The stock MRFs last ~8,000 miles (12,875 km). Swap to our recommended cruiser radials for wet weather confidence.

Common Upgrades:
- Progressive suspension kits (improves rear shock performance by 40%)
- Aftermarket exhausts (gain 2-3 hp without affecting emissions compliance)
- Gel seats (addresses the stock seat’s 90-minute comfort limit)

Conclusion: The Perfect Rebellion

The 2020-2022 Honda Rebel 300 isn’t about chasing specifications – it’s about delivering a riding experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts. For new riders, it’s a confidence-building machine that forgens bad habits. For veterans, it’s a reminder of motorcycling’s purest joys. While the suspension could be plusher and the engine buzzier at speed, these “flaws” add character to a segment often plagued by sanitized perfection.

Whether you’re customizing it into a bobber or keeping it stock, the Rebel 300 remains one of motorcycling’s best entry points. And when you’re ready to make it truly yours, MOTOPARTS.store has the upgrades to transform this polite rebel into your personal two-wheeled revolution.

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Specifications sheet

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