The bolt also has 7 years of aftermarket support. There's a dozen different ways you can build one with bolt on parts, ecu tunes, 'lite' performance parts, and tons and tons of documented mods. Plus, for a 'starter' cruiser, more like great second bike, the bolt is a great city beater, with just enough nuts to have fun at stoplights. Ivan's tune, open air intake, aftermarket exhaust, any kind of handlebar you could imagine, and either a comfy 2up seat and a windshield, or a better bobber seat and a hacksaw to get rid of the rear fender... Let alone suspension components that completely change the entire way the motorcycle handles and feels. The bolt is a fun tinker bike, and a great work utility with just enough soul to go toss around in the twisties or stoplights on the weekend.
I've had mine for 4 years and love it. Made it club style and it rides great on both city streets and freeways (although I'm debating on doing the Stryker pulley swap for lower RPMs on freeway). Ivan's tune made shifting buttery smooth and no more throttle response delay. I think I've spent $3500 total including labor (I just buy and ride) on all my mods and I have no regrets. Lot of compliments from everyone including Harley guys. I just had to put a decal that says 'not a Harley' on the swingarm so people would stop complimenting me on my "Dyna". 😂
You're completely missing the point. sound and rattle are not "shity" build it's a character feature and the reason why sporter was so successful in the first place. It's the same reason why people love v2/v4 engines and dry clutch.
@@Fearless154 Maybe! I haven't ridden a Sportster, so perhaps I am missing the point, I'll grant that. But consider, it's also possible that people are romanticizing a bad characteristic because the bike was so iconic despite the questionable design of the engine. I think Yamaha made the Bolt as basically a refined, more reliable, cheaper price point Japanese version of the Sportster. A Sportster for the more value-minded folks out there. It sounds like it's already like a 90% rip-off of the Sportster design, so what would be the point of it if it were fully 100% the same bike? If the Bolt had the same vibration going on as the Harley, somehow I doubt that Spite would still be waxing poetic about its "character".
@@blessedbethecurse I won't necessarily say it's "bad" charactiricsics but it appeals to different riders. Some prefer their motorcycles to be smooth and linear and some wilder.
First off, modern sportsters aren’t rattly, they haven’t been for years, since the mid 2000’s when they switched to different engine mounts to up comfort. And in terms of quality and fit and finish, the Harley feels a lot more solid. The bolt is a really good bike, but modern, specifically 2007+ sportsters are extremely reliable. Pushrod with gear driven timing means you never, ever have to adjust valves, they feel like a heavy, planted piece of steel in terms of fit and finish/quality, they don’t leak oil anymore, they just run forever. Sportster 1200’s also make a lot more power then a bolt
I think a big selling point for the Bolt is that you get more of the classic HD look without the price tag of the HD emblem, where the Rebel is more modern and sporty looking
@@lionheart5078 I said Non-HD bikes feel toy like. And for me it comes to the touch controls and other parts. HD has nice and solid feeling controls and switches, metal fenders, etc. meanwhile non-HD/ metric bikes pretty much all have the same cheap plastic switches and buttons, and many have plastic fenders.
Brand new rider here. Passed my Texas licensing exam last weekend and bought a blacked out 2019 Bolt. It’s gorgeous and it checked all the boxes I had. Didn’t want something too powerful where I’d pull a Pee Wee Herman on my first ride lol. So excited to get going on it!
Can confirm I've had a Bolt for two years; it's my first bike. Hasn't needed any repairs, just normal maintenance. Still runs beautifully and I'm happy with it as my first bike!
I had to replace a customers pulley side counter shaft bearing on a v star 950 because another technician improperly tensioned and misaligned the drive belt. It was the first and only time I had to open one of these babies up and they really are bullet proof. The build quality inside was absolutely stunning to see. Every bolt was thread locked with orange. These engines will last a lifetime and beyond.
Motorcycle buying is a personal choice, you usually fall in love with the look / make, then you fall in love with the ride. To each his own and much respect to my extended family on two wheels.
I own a bolt, and yeah it’s a 2014 model that they keep on producing so can’t compete too much to the new Rebel, this being said, like they said the Rebel is more of a naked bike into a cruiser bike, so they’re very different, and honestly they looks are a main seller point for both bolt and rebel (particularly for the bolt). The bolt is really perfect to those who want a reliable, no fuss, motorcycle that works all the time especially compared to HD at large. With the new Rebel being more of a modern new age cruiser
If you ask me they're not competing they're made for totally different riders and riding preference. One is a cruiser for chilling and carving milage and another sporty naked and cruiser hybrid for more wild riders. It's like comparing Harley bagger to X Diavel totally different bike for different riders.
I am becoming very interested in a rebel 500 as a first bike someday...seems to really fit that niche. I like the idea of a cruiser, it fits my vibe well. But, I can't get over how clunky they can be. I remember taking a class years ago and using a V-star, I hated that thing! Hopped on a CBR once and didn't like how forward it was but it felt so much more natural to me. The rebel may perfectly fit that cruiser idea while still having a natural feel for me.
I have a 2014 as well as one I did the Ivan's flash for the ECU, it was a completely new bike. Sometimes I look for that 6th gear, but once I do a pulley swap it should help with lowering the RPMs on the highway.
I get comparing the bikes because of the engine sizes, but the 1100 doesn't really seem like a beginner bike to me and with the used market wouldn't it make more sense to compare the bolt to a rebel 500; they both come in around $5000 used, both are recommended as beginner bikes by multiple channels, and both would better options for people who want a small cruiser that's not a Harley.
I own a 1100T and I would recommend it for new riders. Just don't use sport mode for the first year. Rain mode for a month would be a good idea too. The light weight and low seat makes it easy for new new riders.
My girl has a Bolt....and it's honestly pretty great. Plenty of power for highway stuff, and super comfy. My Daily is a Kawi Z900, but I don't mind hopping on her bike occasionally
@@Butts0hboi the rebel was my first bike haha I outgrew it in months as you eventually want/need more power. I still remember the struggles getting on the highway lol safe riding!
@@nathanwagner6535 The airbox is horrendous on the Bolt. It's like the designers never bothered to actually ride the prototype. It digs right into the corner of my knee. Lost interest immediately because even getting to see that horrible 1989 Gameboy quality speedo screen. It blows my mind that manufacturers like Yamaha seem to NEVER improve on their bikes. "This is it for the next 10-15 years, take it or leave it."
Just took a test ride on a Bolt 950 a few days ago and compared that to when I took my motorcycle test on the Rebel, personally the rebel model we had at the time was a little too low for me personally and I loved the size on the bolt. I am leaning more towards the bolt personally
Difference is that the Bolt sells used for around 4k, Rebels stay near their MSRP for a long time. Got on my first Bolt at only 2k miles used for half the MSRP, amazing first bike.
That tells you a lot about how much the Bolt sucks tbh. I got mine for $2800, needed about $500 in parts and labor. At $3300 total I'd say it was a fair deal, at $4K I would have looked for something better.
@@SuicideVan what makes you say that? I think the bike is very reliable and has plenty of power. I haven’t had any problems with mine and I’m at 34k miles
@@zacboughton4205 reliable, absolutely, Yamaha makes good engines. Power? Not so much. It's nearly maxed out at highway cruising speeds. For me I was often on highways for extended periods of time and the engine probably wouldn't hold up long under constant high output. It's all about what you need from your machine. I switched to a Kawasaki Versys 1000 after the Bolt, but today I ride a much slower Royal Enfield Himalayan. I'm often on dirt roads in rural backwoods Texas and rarely on a highway. If you're happy with it, I'm glad you're happy.
@@SuicideVan I take mine on long road trips frequently running 85-90 MPH without issue. I only start to lose power at about 98 and max out at 116. Thats plenty for me. I also have aftermarket exhaust, air intake and ivans ECU reflash. But I have no issues with any speeds up to 98 mph. EDIT: Looped it from Washington to Colorado and back with zero issues.
@@commonsurvivor I'm 6'1" tall riding a 2017 Rebel 300 as my first bike and I love it, riding longer than a couple of hours can be exhausting but that's nothing a seat and suspension modification couldn't fix and I have watched a few videos on the Rebel 1100 and it's even better than the 300 and 500 so I would say the same thing about the 1100, it checks all of the boxes especially if you modify the seat and rear suspension
actually love the dct ( do alot of city driving in traffic) and the fact that it handles like a naked bike but looks like a cruiser ( i'm short, so taller bikes make it uncomfortable for me to sit on at stops)
Doesn't really matter either way. There will always be a newer "better" model no matter what you get. As long as you're having a good time then you made a good purchase.
Bro I have a bolt my buddy has a rebel and even he wants a bolt. But rebel is easier to handle somewhat but bolt really doesn’t have issues and I ride everyday
It seems like The more it vibrates, the hotter it gets, the louder it sounds, the slower it ride, the lesser features it has, more characterful and Cruisary it is ! Hell.. what do I know ? I’m a Vulcan boy !!
I've owned a Bolt for almost 7 months now, put on about 1k miles. It's my second bike. My first was a '98 Honda VLX 600. I love the Bolt but it's not perfect. It needs money to look and perform ok. Some common performance mods besides exhaust and intake are the ECU flash, front shock upgrade, and Stryker pulley swap. It drags peg pretty early and I've seen plenty of riders get bigger shocks or blocks for the rear to raise it. I'd love to take a Rebel 1100 for a ride in the near future. I think the Bolt looks only slightly better than the Rebel.
Bought a Rebel 1100 a few months ago. It is an amazing bike with great maneuverability and tremendous usable power that's perfect for around town or highway cruising. That cruise control is clutch for long trips.
A great review on these two bikes! I was considering both of these bikes, but I did decide on the Honda Rebel 1100 ! It is a great bike and I really enjoy the ride! A cool bike that I would highly recommend! It was the manual edition of this bike! Enjoyed this review!
I'm new to the riding community, I've been wanting to do it for a while but never pulled the trigger. I saw a Rebel 1100 and fell in love, decided to pay for my BRC this week and hopefully will have the funds to purchase one by next year!
Brilliant idea making the 1100 Rebel. Retain riders who learned on small Rebels and capture experienced riders who dig this bike. Someone at Honda got it right.
The Sportster that was modern was the Buell XB9R/S and XB12R/S. They were the knee dragging, canyon carving, playbike that ran a sportster powerplant. Harley stayed with what sold bikes the nostalgia of yesteryear classic designs that had been seen on the silverscreen and were associated with being tough and rebellious. Now there is a new bike culture that is looking for power cruisers that bear the American nameplates but with the performance and handling capabilities of foreign offerings like Ducati, BMW, Moto-Guzzi, and Triumph. The Buell lineup was that bike. For those that wanted a naked sport oriented bike the XB9S was a sportster that was flickable in the twisties but wasn't a full-on "crotch-rocket." Harley needs to build a sportster that has a better ground clearance and lean angle that inspires a more take me to the canyon and carve appointment. In the 2020s the Sportster should be more directly in competition with the Ducati Monster in design. The sportster went from being a lightweight short wheel based funbike to a lowered and lengthened dragster style ride. My 59XLCH is taller and shorter wheel-based than modern 883 and 1200 sporties. While there are some that still appreciate a low, long, and lean lightweight cruiser, the youngsters of today also want something that says we can hang in the cloverleafs and sound mean as hell doing it. The Indian FTR is an example of an American V-Twin Naked playbike with such capabilities. If Harley took the Street 500 and 750 engines and put them in a FTR style chassis or a Pan-American chassis striped naked with motard styling; I think they would have a winner on their hands. Take the PA engine and throw it in a Ducati Monsteresque platform and call it the sportster and phase out the current style sportster as it is outdated
I knew as soon as I saw this topic on IG what the outcome would be, but the fact that the rebel is a newer better bike isn't a bad thing if you like the bolt. The bolt was my first bike and I still have nothing but good things to say about it even though I now have what I believe to a be a better bike (z900rs) It was a great bike to customize, it was reliable, fun, and I thought it looked cool and sounded good after I put an exhaust on it. They still make me smile when I see one on the road and I always say to myself "oooh look a bolt". I don't think the bolt is the best bike out there, but I still miss mine.
I think it’s worth bringing up that if your getting a first bike, you can find a used bolt with reasonable miles for under 4500$. We won’t see used rebel 1100s for a bit and they’ll likely hold there value up in the 7000 range for a bit (not yet though). New vs New, rebel all the way though.
Honestly I really want the 1100. I have a rebel 500 now. My only issues is a wish it was belt drive and I think they went over board with the blacked out look
I have an iron 1200 and I’m about ready to get rid of it. After 45 minutes my hands go to sleep on the highway. I’m seriously interested in the rebel 1100.
The Vulcan 900 custom is heavier & the 950 compared to the 900, are almost the same in power/torque, air cooled vs liquid cooled. The Yamaha is much more better, the v star 950.
IMO Yamaha made a major mistake in discontinuing the big Stratoliner. The power of that big V-twin and the aluminum frame was fantastic and very well balanced. I wish I had mine back.
I would have liked to see them race from a dead start. The bolts power is in the low end. I’ll also say it feels like a completely different bike after a tune, air filter, and exhaust. Rebel looks sweet though!
@@deangullberry5148 Yeah, they were suppose to update it a couple years ago by adding watercooling and new suspension. Don't know if they're still gonna do it. It's called the Bronx.
@@cafenightster4548 I think the Bronx was a whole new class, for H-D. This new CEO seems to have a hard-on for electric vehicles, hence the e-bikes and Livewire, which looks suspiciously like I remember the Bronx, from it's press release. For what it's worth; imo the sportster needs to hold on to it's classic looks, but modernized to compete with the Scout. H-D needs to get it's head out of it's corporate ass, and maintain the current product lines with a few improvements, and revive Buell to gain traction with the kids. The Livewire is a step in the right direction, but a 30k for an electric squid missile is going to do more harm than good. That adventure thingy is kinda cool, but really only because I'm old enough to vaguely remember Harley dirt bikes, that were mostly sold to the military.
Bought a ninja 400 for my first bike about 2 month ago and got my M endorsement on it 2 days ago. With being 300+ LBS, it gets me around pretty quick but I'm sold on the rebel 1100. I will try to pick one up this weekend!
I'm buying honda rebal 1100T Manuel at Christmas can't wait I took one for a test ride it really is a stunning bike to ride so easy and light can't wait to get it
I got a used 2020 bolt r spec at 1500 miles. I'm at 1900 now. I'm 5'6, 145lbs and it's basically all bike when I ride. It's very very very fun and the bike just wants to go fast with me on it. The spongy front end I dont feel at all but maybe I'm still in the honeymoon phase of the bike and i don't ride others. I would highly recommend to any beginner to intermediate rider. If you're a pro I would be looking at the rebel or equivalent
I had a bolt. Totally modded. Apea, exhaust, engine guard, mirrors, eliminator, mustang seat. Was a great bike. Extremely reliable. I didn't get that wobble in the bars at all so dunno whats happening there. Sold it last year because I got into nakeds.
@@shahfacekillah it’s fantastic, I’ve modded it a fair bit, clip ons, ecu flash, upgraded suspension , brake lines blah blah blah . I’ve put over 50,000 km on it and it’s been a great fun reliable , it’s fast enough on the street and gets good attention when out riding. What did you trade your bolt for?
@@KB-yj5xp I sold it privately. My plan was to get an MT09. Instead, I used that money to pay off some debt. That was November 2019. I recently put a deposit down on a Triumph Trident. Just waiting for the dealer to call me when it arrives.
An important aspect I see almost no comments about: You get traction control, ABS, and cruise control on the rebel! That’s a big part of the reason I didn’t like my bolt and got rid of it, though I never had any accidents.
All my friends ride Harleys and were encouraging me to get one aswell. After years of watching them hurt themselves trying to fix their broken down bikes I decided to go with a Yamaha Bolt. Best decision I ever made, not only can I keep up with them but I also get more miles to the gallon and it's alot cheaper
Ya, in any vehicle that's my first priority, will this thing leave me on the side of the road? If Yamahas and Hondas are way more durable, then Harley should innovate to compete.
That's one of the main reasons I was keeping an eye on the used market for a Japanese cruiser when I first got my M endorsement back in 2020 (at the time, it didn't matter which; Suzuki c50 boulevard, the Vulcan, Honda, Yamaha, I wasn't picky at the time since I had no reference point). Ended up finding a used, 2 year old Bolt at a local Harley dealership. Two years later and I regret nothing; she's got enough power to maintain decent highway speeds and was a great bike for me to learn on. I am swapping over/upgrading to a Triumph Trident 660 in about 6 months or so now that I've learned what I want out of my next bike, but I highly recommend the Bolt to people.
Basically, if you want the power feel of a naked or sport bike then go for the Rebel. But if you want the comfort and smooth feel of a cruiser then go for the Bolt.
I have a bolt c spec that I use for groceries and I think for the pricepoint for used it is great. You can grab one cheap for 3000 with low miles because it is low in power. But it is not meant to be a powerful bike. The bolt comes ready to be chopped though! Lots of accessories for it and it is very versatile. Some use it as a scrambler
The bolt is the modern SR400. It's a template to build your bike from. Cheap, analogue, air-cooled and easy to work on. Make it a flat tracker or a rat bobber - up to you. If you keep it stock, well it just ain't that good.
You guys should do a review on the Kawasaki Vulcan VN900 Classic if you get the chance, I see people bashing the 650 Vulcan but the 900 is much more the traditional cruiser and imo also a competitor to the Sportster. I didn't even know it existed until I saw one in a bike shop
To be fair, the old school cruiser crowd loves to rip on anything that doesn't look like a traditional Harley. I have fooled old school Harley riders with my Bolt since it has a custom paint job along with a Vance & Hines exhaust/intake setup. They were shocked that it wasn't a Sportster. But yeah, they don't tend to view the Vulcan 650 S or the newer Honda Rebels favorably since they're much sportier looking.
As an old timer and Harley Sportster fan I would said that the Bolt is a better Sporster, no question ask. Now when we talk about character on a bike I believe all bike has a character and all bikes specially when you start putting your tools on you bring that character up. I drive a s40 yes a miniature cruiser bike and I love how chill i could drive on if and how easy to maneuver around. Now let me talk about the better bike and thats the Rebel, no matter how you put it they create the learning category back in the day with the 250, tease us with the rebel 400, prepare us with the 300 and 500 and now they just create a hole category of bikes. Honda just make a new category base on a cruiser dying market and even induce sone old folks to love it. My next bike most likely is going to be the 1100 Rebel...
One thing is certain. The Rebel's speedometer is much prettier and easier to read. In some shots the bolt's meter was impossible to read while the rebel was clear. If the bolt had a nicer meter i'd buy.
@@zackadams419 i will say something like that should be pretty easy to pop off and put a replacement one on but it sucks you kind of almost HAVE to for the bolt :(
I was actually a fan of the Bolt after riding it on a demo day. Haven't rode the 1100 Rebel. I learned on the 300. However, I'm giving both a look for my next bike. As well as the Vulcan S (ABS).
Something about pricing is since the bolt has kept the same model for the last 7 years there's a vary large used market for the same bike. Since the rebel 1100 is a brand new model the used market is barren leaving you no choice but to pay full price at a dealership. A Bolt new in my area is just under $10 000 and the rebel sits at around $13 000 but the average price of a used bolt in my area is $7000. That price of course goes up depending on what the previous owner has put into it but going used can save you loads of cash. From what I've seen from the video the Rebel is definitely a better bike but is it $6000 more valuable than the bolt? Prices are all Canadian if anyone's curious about where I got my numbers
Can you guys please compare rebel 1100 with triumph bobber? I own a bobber and it would be really interesting to see you guys riding both bikes. Spite’s weee! at the end got me😂
Looking at your other vids, and opinions about the Rebel, makes me think that Honda really snuck-up on the competition by making it so light. And understanding that cruiser riders actually enjoy carving canyons!!😁
I bought my Yamaha xsr900 6year ago, and I feel the rebel 1100 is like Yamaha XSR 900, a vintage look with sport inside. yamaha bolt is a different story, I just got a used bolt a few days ago, and I'm in love with it. totally different.
Big Papa Yams! You Gotta get them meat claws on the new Pan Am and let us know what you think! Also went from a tw200 to a gladius, to a cb599 to , to a bolt then to a an Iron 1200... gotta say that the sporty has way more character and overall better fit and finish.. I always said that I’d never own a Harley BUTT... I sat on one and test rode it... bought the one next to the one I tested.
I’ve got the same 2014 Grey/Black put Bassani sweepers-Ivan’s flash-K&N Intake-even cut and welded back foot-pegs on her, IMO Honda is probably the better “new style” performer but if you want to save $ and be able to customize about anything you can think of the Bolt is a WAY better option. $4200 used with 2800 miles, with all upgrades I’m still way under sticker for the Honda that has no aftermarket yet.
Spite, a Harley simp: The bolt misses the point of... having that classic rattley tambourine situation that the sporty did. Me: Yeah fuck owning a bike that doesn't sound a bag of bolts falling down a stairwell! (I will never understand Harley boys)
Harley guys are missing a few screws and the bikes are..average at best and heavy as fuck however my first bike was a Sportster and honestly I understand it and the people who buy them. If you’ve never ridden one you’re definitely missing out. I’d probably never buy another one but I’m glad I had one for the time I did.
@@leviathan0232 You are totally correct and in the right for calling me out on not riding one yet - I'm actually very I eager to try one. 'Bout the only kind of bike I haven't tried at this point. It's not like I don't *want* to understand. People must love them for a reason. It just seems so crazy to me when I see one next to me at a light or whatever and EVERYTHING is shaking, including the rider. Seems like it would get old really really fast. Also, I'm too nerdy to be comfortable with the 'bad boy' vibe the whole scene projects. (I've know enough Harley guys to know that on average they are really nice people and the image is just that, an image. But still) As Spite put it in a recent video about Harleys - NO NERDS!
Have been on & off 2wheels most of my life and owned some very cool ride . Now I’m picking up the hot rod of my 20s ! A 1984 V65 😎 ! Would be fun to see y’all do a review of that ol killer
It is a good evaluation you guys have done. Yammie, as a racer, is a died in the wool sporty hater. Consequently, we get a true, objective opinion from the guy that hates the class that he is evaluating.
Speaking about how the Sportster feels like it’s got loose nuts and bolts rattling around inside the engine as if that is a preferable trait? Dude, that’s exactly why we look for Harley styling in a foreign bike. We don’t want overpriced, rattley, leaky, and noisy, but love the styling. I’m glad I found this vid because these are the two bikes that I’ve narrowed my search down to. They’re both great looking bikes, but I think I prefer the more traditional Bolt, despite its shortcomings when compared to the Rebel.
I ride my Rebel 1100 in rain mode in my neighborhood, sport mode everywhere else. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the throttle on the 1100. You just gotta use your user modes, my guy.
Yeah, that Honda seems worth checking out.....& I agree with Spite, that an additional 100cc would be welcome. The Honda seems to be fairly priced also. Quality. Though, because of ergonomics, I much prefer a street fighter bike over all the rest.
That is the bike they SHOULD have compared it to.. If they want to compare the Bolt to a Rebal it HAD to be the 500... Like comparing a Ninja 650 with an ZX6R
@@christopher7310 Vulcans not a bad bike, you can get one used for pretty cheap. It handles well, doesn’t look half bad, revs to 9k what’s not to love about it.
@@portlandshomlessproblem1728 stuff nothing really wrong with the bike. It just doesn't know what it wants to be. It doesn't feel nor ride like a cruiser, nor does it ride or feel like a bike that would normally have a parallel twin in it. It is quick, I'll give it that. I wanted one for a while. When I took one out for a ride, it just didn't feel like a cruiser at all. Even though it does kind of look the part. When compared to the rebel, is not even close. Short of the great price you can find a used one, there's no reason to buy one over the rebel if you're looking at getting a brand new bike.
@@christopher7310 I think cruisers like the Vulcan 650 is called a Sport Cruiser. I'd even put the Rebel in the same category. The rebel is not a traditional cruiser anyway. The engine they used from the 1100 is from the Africa Twin which is sport/adventure bike. The 500's engine was from the CBr500r engine. Pretty much like the Vulcan 650's engine which came from the Ninja 650.
Was choosing my next bike between these two, I still think the bolt looks better, easier for a bigger person like me, and is more of a lazy backroad bike. I love the new rebel line but I don't want something with pep, my sport bike days are passed, I just want something that will glide through the Natchez Trace and through my small town.
Avoid the Bolt. I'm not even that big of a guy (5'9" 200lbs) and it feels cramped after an hour. The terrible suspension doesn't help either on longer rides. It's also not fast enough to cruise at highway speeds. Where I live I need to be at least at 70 mph, mostly 80, to stay slightly ahead of the flow. The Bolt just has nothing left at those speeds, and it can't be healthy to run it for duration at 80% of its top speed. I'm bummed, I got a great deal on mine used sure, but when I bought a metric cruiser I had dreams of comfortable distance highway rides in my future. Only consider it if you will only ride in town or on country roads. If you are ever planning on twisty mountain roads or interstate travel, pass on it.
@@SuicideVan thanks for the input, I live in a small town of Tennessee, mainly I want the sportster look without the chrome and in my budget. Call me a poser but I just really like the way it looks, I want to do some trips from Nashville to Atlanta every now and then and it’s a shame it doesn’t have the power it needs. I appreciate the feedback but I think the bolt is the only used bike in my price point with the aesthetic I want. I’ll start looking into the iron 1200s more now. Thanks Van!
@@SuicideVan I’m 5,11 and 240lbs, I want to put forward controls on the bike and a saddle man seat, would that alleviate the cramped feeling on the bike or would it still be a bit compact
But the Rebel’s look is definitely a holdback. It does look more like a naked bike than a cruiser. If Honda could do something about that upswept tank and make it look a little bit more traditional it would do a lot for it.
Thank you very much for your reviews, how tall are you guys? Do you think that a 6’1” beginner (me) with forward controls and handle raisers could use the Rebel as an only bike? Thank you.
I know people hate on the Vulcan S but citing around he 7 min mark in the video... The Rebel 1100 does not compare to the Sportster, Indian scout, bolt, or any of the traditional cruisers. It is far closer to a standard bike like a triumph than a cruiser. The only real direct competition to 1100 is the Vulcan S. Lightweight zippy fun cruiser. I would LOVE to see a side by side with those.
Want to win that sweet Honda Rebel? Go to www.yammienoob.co !
no
Yes but I don't live in the U.S. and hence cannot participate in the giveaway :(
@@xAnimelovvvvverx Me neither. (Canada)
Love from India squid
Tried 5 times to register. Put all the info in then nothing.
Just wanted to say that I passed my category A motorcycle exam today :)
I had to cancel a lesson since it is raining for hours now.
Have fun 👌
@@sebastiangeorge7714 same in my country. Every time i had a lesson it was raining :/ good luck!
Congrats man!!
Congrats man!
Good dealio! Now you have your license to learn more 👍🤘
The bolt also has 7 years of aftermarket support. There's a dozen different ways you can build one with bolt on parts, ecu tunes, 'lite' performance parts, and tons and tons of documented mods. Plus, for a 'starter' cruiser, more like great second bike, the bolt is a great city beater, with just enough nuts to have fun at stoplights. Ivan's tune, open air intake, aftermarket exhaust, any kind of handlebar you could imagine, and either a comfy 2up seat and a windshield, or a better bobber seat and a hacksaw to get rid of the rear fender... Let alone suspension components that completely change the entire way the motorcycle handles and feels. The bolt is a fun tinker bike, and a great work utility with just enough soul to go toss around in the twisties or stoplights on the weekend.
Yup. Thats is exactly why I love mine. I got so many mods on mine. All Bolts own by bolt enthusiasts dont look or ride a like.
And you can pick it up slightly used Waaay cheaper than the rebel .
@@joecamel6835 I think I'm leaning towards the Rebel with ABS/Cruise.
I've had mine for 4 years and love it. Made it club style and it rides great on both city streets and freeways (although I'm debating on doing the Stryker pulley swap for lower RPMs on freeway). Ivan's tune made shifting buttery smooth and no more throttle response delay.
I think I've spent $3500 total including labor (I just buy and ride) on all my mods and I have no regrets. Lot of compliments from everyone including Harley guys. I just had to put a decal that says 'not a Harley' on the swingarm so people would stop complimenting me on my "Dyna". 😂
Not to mention the parts swap that fixes that "death wobble" he speaks about.
Spite, basically: "The Bolt isn't as good as a Sportster because it isn't built as shitty and rattle-y as the Harley" 🙄
You're completely missing the point. sound and rattle are not "shity" build it's a character feature and the reason why sporter was so successful in the first place. It's the same reason why people love v2/v4 engines and dry clutch.
Yupp kinda tru
@@Fearless154 Maybe! I haven't ridden a Sportster, so perhaps I am missing the point, I'll grant that. But consider, it's also possible that people are romanticizing a bad characteristic because the bike was so iconic despite the questionable design of the engine. I think Yamaha made the Bolt as basically a refined, more reliable, cheaper price point Japanese version of the Sportster. A Sportster for the more value-minded folks out there. It sounds like it's already like a 90% rip-off of the Sportster design, so what would be the point of it if it were fully 100% the same bike? If the Bolt had the same vibration going on as the Harley, somehow I doubt that Spite would still be waxing poetic about its "character".
@@blessedbethecurse I won't necessarily say it's "bad" charactiricsics but it appeals to different riders.
Some prefer their motorcycles to be smooth and linear and some wilder.
First off, modern sportsters aren’t rattly, they haven’t been for years, since the mid 2000’s when they switched to different engine mounts to up comfort. And in terms of quality and fit and finish, the Harley feels a lot more solid. The bolt is a really good bike, but modern, specifically 2007+ sportsters are extremely reliable. Pushrod with gear driven timing means you never, ever have to adjust valves, they feel like a heavy, planted piece of steel in terms of fit and finish/quality, they don’t leak oil anymore, they just run forever. Sportster 1200’s also make a lot more power then a bolt
I think a big selling point for the Bolt is that you get more of the classic HD look without the price tag of the HD emblem, where the Rebel is more modern and sporty looking
The problem is that it (and any other non HD cruiser bike) feels so cheap and toy like when riding them.
@@chevyon37si wouldn’t say HD feel toy bike, more like older feeling and more motorcycle
@@lionheart5078 I said Non-HD bikes feel toy like. And for me it comes to the touch controls and other parts. HD has nice and solid feeling controls and switches, metal fenders, etc. meanwhile non-HD/ metric bikes pretty much all have the same cheap plastic switches and buttons, and many have plastic fenders.
@@chevyon37s ah ok yea i agree didn’t read well
Brand new rider here. Passed my Texas licensing exam last weekend and bought a blacked out 2019 Bolt. It’s gorgeous and it checked all the boxes I had. Didn’t want something too powerful where I’d pull a Pee Wee Herman on my first ride lol. So excited to get going on it!
Are you still riding it today?
I just bought a 2019 bolt and live in texas also! small world
That 950 engine on the bolt is bulletproof. Introduced in 2009. Bulletproof, reliable, economical engine.
Can confirm I've had a Bolt for two years; it's my first bike. Hasn't needed any repairs, just normal maintenance. Still runs beautifully and I'm happy with it as my first bike!
I had to replace a customers pulley side counter shaft bearing on a v star 950 because another technician improperly tensioned and misaligned the drive belt. It was the first and only time I had to open one of these babies up and they really are bullet proof. The build quality inside was absolutely stunning to see. Every bolt was thread locked with orange. These engines will last a lifetime and beyond.
Are you saying the Honda engine isn't bulletproof, reliable, and economical?
@@HalfCrazy520 it’s the same, I just have years experience with the 950 engine.
@@HalfCrazy520"I like waffles" "So you hate pancakes" type mindset
Motorcycle buying is a personal choice, you usually fall in love with the look / make, then you fall in love with the ride. To each his own and much respect to my extended family on two wheels.
I own a bolt, and yeah it’s a 2014 model that they keep on producing so can’t compete too much to the new Rebel, this being said, like they said the Rebel is more of a naked bike into a cruiser bike, so they’re very different, and honestly they looks are a main seller point for both bolt and rebel (particularly for the bolt). The bolt is really perfect to those who want a reliable, no fuss, motorcycle that works all the time especially compared to HD at large. With the new Rebel being more of a modern new age cruiser
If you ask me they're not competing they're made for totally different riders and riding preference.
One is a cruiser for chilling and carving milage and another sporty naked and cruiser hybrid for more wild riders.
It's like comparing Harley bagger to X Diavel totally different bike for different riders.
I am becoming very interested in a rebel 500 as a first bike someday...seems to really fit that niche. I like the idea of a cruiser, it fits my vibe well. But, I can't get over how clunky they can be. I remember taking a class years ago and using a V-star, I hated that thing! Hopped on a CBR once and didn't like how forward it was but it felt so much more natural to me. The rebel may perfectly fit that cruiser idea while still having a natural feel for me.
Sportsters have come a long way as far as reliability. The new ones it’s yet to be seen so who knows
I feel the rebel 1100 is like Yamaha xsr900, a sports bike with a vintage feeling.
I have a 2014 as well as one I did the Ivan's flash for the ECU, it was a completely new bike. Sometimes I look for that 6th gear, but once I do a pulley swap it should help with lowering the RPMs on the highway.
I get comparing the bikes because of the engine sizes, but the 1100 doesn't really seem like a beginner bike to me and with the used market wouldn't it make more sense to compare the bolt to a rebel 500; they both come in around $5000 used, both are recommended as beginner bikes by multiple channels, and both would better options for people who want a small cruiser that's not a Harley.
This comment deserves more attention.
I own a 1100T and I would recommend it for new riders. Just don't use sport mode for the first year. Rain mode for a month would be a good idea too. The light weight and low seat makes it easy for new new riders.
My girl has a Bolt....and it's honestly pretty great. Plenty of power for highway stuff, and super comfy. My Daily is a Kawi Z900, but I don't mind hopping on her bike occasionally
I’ve had the bolt for 3 years now and have no complaints. Highly recommended it 👍🏼
That’s awesome! I found the rebel to be too cramped at 6ft. Haven’t sat on a Bolt yet but hopefully more comfortable
@@Butts0hboi the rebel was my first bike haha I outgrew it in months as you eventually want/need more power. I still remember the struggles getting on the highway lol safe riding!
The Bolt’s speedo screen looks like they took the screen from the original Gameboy from 1989.
My buddy has a Bolt, and I think it's a great budget cruiser EXCEPT for the dash and the massive, ugly stock air intake that batters your right knee.
@@nathanwagner6535 The airbox is horrendous on the Bolt. It's like the designers never bothered to actually ride the prototype. It digs right into the corner of my knee. Lost interest immediately because even getting to see that horrible 1989 Gameboy quality speedo screen. It blows my mind that manufacturers like Yamaha seem to NEVER improve on their bikes. "This is it for the next 10-15 years, take it or leave it."
That's what Harley did for years, must be an American thing @@godwhomismike
What's a Gameboy?
After watching this video, I gotta say I still LOVE my Bolt. But I do wanna try the Rebel soon!
Just took a test ride on a Bolt 950 a few days ago and compared that to when I took my motorcycle test on the Rebel, personally the rebel model we had at the time was a little too low for me personally and I loved the size on the bolt. I am leaning more towards the bolt personally
Difference is that the Bolt sells used for around 4k, Rebels stay near their MSRP for a long time. Got on my first Bolt at only 2k miles used for half the MSRP, amazing first bike.
That tells you a lot about how much the Bolt sucks tbh. I got mine for $2800, needed about $500 in parts and labor. At $3300 total I'd say it was a fair deal, at $4K I would have looked for something better.
Dang not anywhere near me! People want 8k for a used bolt .
@@SuicideVan what makes you say that? I think the bike is very reliable and has plenty of power. I haven’t had any problems with mine and I’m at 34k miles
@@zacboughton4205 reliable, absolutely, Yamaha makes good engines. Power? Not so much. It's nearly maxed out at highway cruising speeds. For me I was often on highways for extended periods of time and the engine probably wouldn't hold up long under constant high output. It's all about what you need from your machine. I switched to a Kawasaki Versys 1000 after the Bolt, but today I ride a much slower Royal Enfield Himalayan. I'm often on dirt roads in rural backwoods Texas and rarely on a highway. If you're happy with it, I'm glad you're happy.
@@SuicideVan I take mine on long road trips frequently running 85-90 MPH without issue. I only start to lose power at about 98 and max out at 116. Thats plenty for me. I also have aftermarket exhaust, air intake and ivans ECU reflash. But I have no issues with any speeds up to 98 mph.
EDIT: Looped it from Washington to Colorado and back with zero issues.
I'm so glad the rebel is getting the credit it deserves, Honda really did a good job on this bike, is not perfect but it checks so many boxes ✅
I got one myself and i love it, feels incredibly light and nimble
@@nathanielknox5795 congrats man, enjoy it👍
What if you're over 6' tall?
@@commonsurvivor I'm 6'1" tall riding a 2017 Rebel 300 as my first bike and I love it, riding longer than a couple of hours can be exhausting but that's nothing a seat and suspension modification couldn't fix and I have watched a few videos on the Rebel 1100 and it's even better than the 300 and 500 so I would say the same thing about the 1100, it checks all of the boxes especially if you modify the seat and rear suspension
actually love the dct ( do alot of city driving in traffic) and the fact that it handles like a naked bike but looks like a cruiser ( i'm short, so taller bikes make it uncomfortable for me to sit on at stops)
Now imagine how a customizer could snazz up that Rebel with some tasty paint and chrome.
Bruh why you gotta do my bolt dirty like that 😭😭 the rebel 1100 want a thing when I bought mine. Plus it’s my first bike and I’m happy
Doesn't really matter either way. There will always be a newer "better" model no matter what you get. As long as you're having a good time then you made a good purchase.
Love my bolt! So customizable and that vtwin looks way better than the rebel engine IMO
Bro I have a bolt my buddy has a rebel and even he wants a bolt. But rebel is easier to handle somewhat but bolt really doesn’t have issues and I ride everyday
Bolt looks waaaay better. That would be my main reason for picking it. I already got a nice perfomance bike. if i want a cruiser, its all looks for me
It seems like The more it vibrates, the hotter it gets, the louder it sounds, the slower it ride, the lesser features it has, more characterful and Cruisary it is !
Hell.. what do I know ? I’m a Vulcan boy !!
Finally! Keep the Rebel rolling! Btw, regarding the tank shape... Honda is selling a rubber padding for that cut.
I've owned a Bolt for almost 7 months now, put on about 1k miles. It's my second bike. My first was a '98 Honda VLX 600. I love the Bolt but it's not perfect. It needs money to look and perform ok. Some common performance mods besides exhaust and intake are the ECU flash, front shock upgrade, and Stryker pulley swap. It drags peg pretty early and I've seen plenty of riders get bigger shocks or blocks for the rear to raise it. I'd love to take a Rebel 1100 for a ride in the near future. I think the Bolt looks only slightly better than the Rebel.
Where do you get the ECU flash
@@derick12331 Ivan's Performance Products. They're based out of South Carolina but also have a European partner.
Bought a Rebel 1100 a few months ago. It is an amazing bike with great maneuverability and tremendous usable power that's perfect for around town or highway cruising. That cruise control is clutch for long trips.
A great review on these two bikes! I was considering both of these bikes, but I did decide on the Honda Rebel 1100 ! It is a great bike and I really enjoy the ride! A cool bike that I would highly recommend! It was the manual edition of this bike! Enjoyed this review!
I'm new to the riding community, I've been wanting to do it for a while but never pulled the trigger. I saw a Rebel 1100 and fell in love, decided to pay for my BRC this week and hopefully will have the funds to purchase one by next year!
If you want to try another amazing European cruiser get hold of a triumph bobber, its amazing!
Fantastic recommendation! I loved my test ride on the Bobber, but fell back into my roots with a RE Continental GT.
I'd actually recommend the Speedmaster over the Bobber, it's just more practical.
But they're mostly the same bike anyway.
Brilliant idea making the 1100 Rebel. Retain riders who learned on small Rebels and capture experienced riders who dig this bike. Someone at Honda got it right.
I’ve been looking at both of these. Thank you for doing the side-by-side comparison.
The Sportster that was modern was the Buell XB9R/S and XB12R/S. They were the knee dragging, canyon carving, playbike that ran a sportster powerplant.
Harley stayed with what sold bikes the nostalgia of yesteryear classic designs that had been seen on the silverscreen and were associated with being tough and rebellious. Now there is a new bike culture that is looking for power cruisers that bear the American nameplates but with the performance and handling capabilities of foreign offerings like Ducati, BMW, Moto-Guzzi, and Triumph.
The Buell lineup was that bike. For those that wanted a naked sport oriented bike the XB9S was a sportster that was flickable in the twisties but wasn't a full-on "crotch-rocket." Harley needs to build a sportster that has a better ground clearance and lean angle that inspires a more take me to the canyon and carve appointment.
In the 2020s the Sportster should be more directly in competition with the Ducati Monster in design. The sportster went from being a lightweight short wheel based funbike to a lowered and lengthened dragster style ride. My 59XLCH is taller and shorter wheel-based than modern 883 and 1200 sporties.
While there are some that still appreciate a low, long, and lean lightweight cruiser, the youngsters of today also want something that says we can hang in the cloverleafs and sound mean as hell doing it. The Indian FTR is an example of an American V-Twin Naked playbike with such capabilities.
If Harley took the Street 500 and 750 engines and put them in a FTR style chassis or a Pan-American chassis striped naked with motard styling; I think they would have a winner on their hands. Take the PA engine and throw it in a Ducati Monsteresque platform and call it the sportster and phase out the current style sportster as it is outdated
I knew as soon as I saw this topic on IG what the outcome would be, but the fact that the rebel is a newer better bike isn't a bad thing if you like the bolt. The bolt was my first bike and I still have nothing but good things to say about it even though I now have what I believe to a be a better bike (z900rs) It was a great bike to customize, it was reliable, fun, and I thought it looked cool and sounded good after I put an exhaust on it. They still make me smile when I see one on the road and I always say to myself "oooh look a bolt". I don't think the bolt is the best bike out there, but I still miss mine.
I think it’s worth bringing up that if your getting a first bike, you can find a used bolt with reasonable miles for under 4500$. We won’t see used rebel 1100s for a bit and they’ll likely hold there value up in the 7000 range for a bit (not yet though). New vs New, rebel all the way though.
Honestly I really want the 1100. I have a rebel 500 now. My only issues is a wish it was belt drive and I think they went over board with the blacked out look
If you don’t mind me asking why would you prefer a belt drive?
I had a 2014 Bolt and I also had a 1200 Iron right after that. I liked my Bolt better. That’s just me though.
I loooooove my iron 1200 but I’d be super interested in riding a bolt just because I hear so much about it!
I have an iron 1200 and I’m about ready to get rid of it. After 45 minutes my hands go to sleep on the highway. I’m seriously interested in the rebel 1100.
@@CactusJack252 Still 4 sale?
Awesome comparison, I had my eyes set on the Bolt until I saw this comparison. Great Job 👌
Hope you got the Bolt. It's a bigger Sportster that you don't need to fix every couple of miles.
I would be interested in seeing how the rebel compares to the Vulcan 900 custom.
rebel >
I own a 900 custom and I like it but rebel
The rebel 1100 halls ass I love lining up next to harleys and yamaha cruisers and smoking them.. I even surprised a gsx750 off the line
Rebel smokes it but yami is comfier
The Vulcan 900 custom is heavier & the 950 compared to the 900, are almost the same in power/torque, air cooled vs liquid cooled. The Yamaha is much more better, the v star 950.
IMO Yamaha made a major mistake in discontinuing the big Stratoliner. The power of that big V-twin and the aluminum frame was fantastic and very well balanced. I wish I had mine back.
I would have liked to see them race from a dead start. The bolts power is in the low end. I’ll also say it feels like a completely different bike after a tune, air filter, and exhaust. Rebel looks sweet though!
Sportster going out definitely marks the end of an era when it comes to cruisers
It'll get a major overhaul, but it ain't going away
@@deangullberry5148 Yeah, they were suppose to update it a couple years ago by adding watercooling and new suspension. Don't know if they're still gonna do it. It's called the Bronx.
@@cafenightster4548 I think the Bronx was a whole new class, for H-D.
This new CEO seems to have a hard-on for electric vehicles, hence the e-bikes and Livewire, which looks suspiciously like I remember the Bronx, from it's press release.
For what it's worth; imo the sportster needs to hold on to it's classic looks, but modernized to compete with the Scout. H-D needs to get it's head out of it's corporate ass, and maintain the current product lines with a few improvements, and revive Buell to gain traction with the kids.
The Livewire is a step in the right direction, but a 30k for an electric squid missile is going to do more harm than good.
That adventure thingy is kinda cool, but really only because I'm old enough to vaguely remember Harley dirt bikes, that were mostly sold to the military.
Bought a ninja 400 for my first bike about 2 month ago and got my M endorsement on it 2 days ago. With being 300+ LBS, it gets me around pretty quick but I'm sold on the rebel 1100. I will try to pick one up this weekend!
You'll love it. They are amazing. I love my other bikes, but when i get on the Rebel 1100.... Its just perfect.
Just put down my deposit for honda to make it. I'll be getting it at the end of this month. Can't wait!
They took too long to get the rebel so I bought a 2021 zx-14r. Sooooo much fun lol
I'm buying honda rebal 1100T Manuel at Christmas can't wait I took one for a test ride it really is a stunning bike to ride so easy and light can't wait to get it
I got a used 2020 bolt r spec at 1500 miles. I'm at 1900 now. I'm 5'6, 145lbs and it's basically all bike when I ride. It's very very very fun and the bike just wants to go fast with me on it. The spongy front end I dont feel at all but maybe I'm still in the honeymoon phase of the bike and i don't ride others. I would highly recommend to any beginner to intermediate rider. If you're a pro I would be looking at the rebel or equivalent
I had a bolt. Totally modded. Apea, exhaust, engine guard, mirrors, eliminator, mustang seat. Was a great bike. Extremely reliable. I didn't get that wobble in the bars at all so dunno whats happening there.
Sold it last year because I got into nakeds.
Same here, changed the bars, twin slash exhaust ecu etc.... really liked it but traded it in for a Z900rs
@@KB-yj5xp how's the Kawi???
@@shahfacekillah it’s fantastic, I’ve modded it a fair bit, clip ons, ecu flash, upgraded suspension , brake lines blah blah blah . I’ve put over 50,000 km on it and it’s been a great fun reliable , it’s fast enough on the street and gets good attention when out riding. What did you trade your bolt for?
@@KB-yj5xp I sold it privately. My plan was to get an MT09. Instead, I used that money to pay off some debt.
That was November 2019. I recently put a deposit down on a Triumph Trident. Just waiting for the dealer to call me when it arrives.
@@shahfacekillah enjoy, all the reviews are pretty good for that bike, looks like a winner
An important aspect I see almost no comments about: You get traction control, ABS, and cruise control on the rebel!
That’s a big part of the reason I didn’t like my bolt and got rid of it, though I never had any accidents.
First 40 minutes of ever with my first r3. That was fun!! Cant wait for some sunlight tomorrow
All my friends ride Harleys and were encouraging me to get one aswell. After years of watching them hurt themselves trying to fix their broken down bikes I decided to go with a Yamaha Bolt. Best decision I ever made, not only can I keep up with them but I also get more miles to the gallon and it's alot cheaper
Ya, in any vehicle that's my first priority, will this thing leave me on the side of the road? If Yamahas and Hondas are way more durable, then Harley should innovate to compete.
That's one of the main reasons I was keeping an eye on the used market for a Japanese cruiser when I first got my M endorsement back in 2020 (at the time, it didn't matter which; Suzuki c50 boulevard, the Vulcan, Honda, Yamaha, I wasn't picky at the time since I had no reference point). Ended up finding a used, 2 year old Bolt at a local Harley dealership. Two years later and I regret nothing; she's got enough power to maintain decent highway speeds and was a great bike for me to learn on. I am swapping over/upgrading to a Triumph Trident 660 in about 6 months or so now that I've learned what I want out of my next bike, but I highly recommend the Bolt to people.
Y’all need to get your hands on a Yamaha raider! That’s a REAL cruiser
Basically, if you want the power feel of a naked or sport bike then go for the Rebel. But if you want the comfort and smooth feel of a cruiser then go for the Bolt.
I have a bolt c spec that I use for groceries and I think for the pricepoint for used it is great. You can grab one cheap for 3000 with low miles because it is low in power. But it is not meant to be a powerful bike. The bolt comes ready to be chopped though! Lots of accessories for it and it is very versatile. Some use it as a scrambler
The bolt is the modern SR400. It's a template to build your bike from. Cheap, analogue, air-cooled and easy to work on. Make it a flat tracker or a rat bobber - up to you. If you keep it stock, well it just ain't that good.
I have the R Spec, fully stock, and it feels amazing.
@@javilorenzana our definitions of amazing differ greatly
Facts nothing on mines is stock I don’t think I would of loved it so much w out all my aftermarket’s
You guys should do a review on the Kawasaki Vulcan VN900 Classic if you get the chance, I see people bashing the 650 Vulcan but the 900 is much more the traditional cruiser and imo also a competitor to the Sportster. I didn't even know it existed until I saw one in a bike shop
To be fair, the old school cruiser crowd loves to rip on anything that doesn't look like a traditional Harley. I have fooled old school Harley riders with my Bolt since it has a custom paint job along with a Vance & Hines exhaust/intake setup. They were shocked that it wasn't a Sportster. But yeah, they don't tend to view the Vulcan 650 S or the newer Honda Rebels favorably since they're much sportier looking.
As an old timer and Harley Sportster fan I would said that the Bolt is a better Sporster, no question ask. Now when we talk about character on a bike I believe all bike has a character and all bikes specially when you start putting your tools on you bring that character up. I drive a s40 yes a miniature cruiser bike and I love how chill i could drive on if and how easy to maneuver around. Now let me talk about the better bike and thats the Rebel, no matter how you put it they create the learning category back in the day with the 250, tease us with the rebel 400, prepare us with the 300 and 500 and now they just create a hole category of bikes. Honda just make a new category base on a cruiser dying market and even induce sone old folks to love it. My next bike most likely is going to be the 1100 Rebel...
One thing is certain. The Rebel's speedometer is much prettier and easier to read.
In some shots the bolt's meter was impossible to read while the rebel was clear. If the bolt had a nicer meter i'd buy.
Yeah. The speedometer on the Bolt just makes it look really really cheap. If I’m looking at it all the time, I’d feel I’m riding a cheap bike.
@@zackadams419 i will say something like that should be pretty easy to pop off and put a replacement one on but it sucks you kind of almost HAVE to for the bolt :(
Loved this video! Great episode! Keeeeep em comin!
I was actually a fan of the Bolt after riding it on a demo day. Haven't rode the 1100 Rebel. I learned on the 300. However, I'm giving both a look for my next bike. As well as the Vulcan S (ABS).
Something about pricing is since the bolt has kept the same model for the last 7 years there's a vary large used market for the same bike. Since the rebel 1100 is a brand new model the used market is barren leaving you no choice but to pay full price at a dealership. A Bolt new in my area is just under $10 000 and the rebel sits at around $13 000 but the average price of a used bolt in my area is $7000. That price of course goes up depending on what the previous owner has put into it but going used can save you loads of cash. From what I've seen from the video the Rebel is definitely a better bike but is it $6000 more valuable than the bolt? Prices are all Canadian if anyone's curious about where I got my numbers
Great review, you've come far !
Very diserved, great work!!💪🏻👍🏻
Ok I have a 14 bolt. I’ve upgraded the intake and exhaust and added a fuel controller. It’s fast as hell. I’ll take on that POS Honda any day
Since you’re in Austin, you should take a ride down Whitestone towards marble falls. It’s a beautiful scenery!
Awesome video guys!
Can you guys please compare rebel 1100 with triumph bobber? I own a bobber and it would be really interesting to see you guys riding both bikes.
Spite’s weee! at the end got me😂
A new set of ties on the bolt will get rid of the death wobble. It’s just an issue with the stock tires due to some weird imbalance
whoa, you should of shown the death wobble at the beginning of the vid. that was nuts
I've had 2 sportster 883 custom and xl 883 super low and loved them over my road king lol now the rebel has my eye!!
Completely complimented the Harley the whole time !
Looking at your other vids, and opinions about the Rebel, makes me think that Honda really snuck-up on the competition by making it so light. And understanding that cruiser riders actually enjoy carving canyons!!😁
The HD Sportster is like straddling a log so that has to be a huge improvement.
Loved this, these were the two bikes I was looking at for my second bike.
I bought my Yamaha xsr900 6year ago, and I feel the rebel 1100 is like Yamaha XSR 900, a vintage look with sport inside. yamaha bolt is a different story, I just got a used bolt a few days ago, and I'm in love with it. totally different.
Big Papa Yams! You Gotta get them meat claws on the new Pan Am and let us know what you think! Also went from a tw200 to a gladius, to a cb599 to , to a bolt then to a an Iron 1200... gotta say that the sporty has way more character and overall better fit and finish.. I always said that I’d never own a Harley BUTT... I sat on one and test rode it... bought the one next to the one I tested.
I’ve got the same 2014 Grey/Black put Bassani sweepers-Ivan’s flash-K&N Intake-even cut and welded back foot-pegs on her, IMO Honda is probably the better “new style” performer but if you want to save $ and be able to customize about anything you can think of the Bolt is a WAY better option. $4200 used with 2800 miles, with all upgrades I’m still way under sticker for the Honda that has no aftermarket yet.
Thank so much for this review
Spite really needs a denim vest. Annnnnd a bandana. Great vids btw!
The motion is seconded.
I'll 3rd this motion. It is something that needs to happen.
Spite, a Harley simp: The bolt misses the point of... having that classic rattley tambourine situation that the sporty did.
Me: Yeah fuck owning a bike that doesn't sound a bag of bolts falling down a stairwell!
(I will never understand Harley boys)
My last bike was a ktm duke 690, my next bike will be a Harley Softail... And I have no real reason for it lol
Probably because you drink almond milk.
@@expendable4h002 lol he def drinks nut juice
Harley guys are missing a few screws and the bikes are..average at best and heavy as fuck however my first bike was a Sportster and honestly I understand it and the people who buy them. If you’ve never ridden one you’re definitely missing out. I’d probably never buy another one but I’m glad I had one for the time I did.
@@leviathan0232 You are totally correct and in the right for calling me out on not riding one yet - I'm actually very I eager to try one. 'Bout the only kind of bike I haven't tried at this point. It's not like I don't *want* to understand. People must love them for a reason. It just seems so crazy to me when I see one next to me at a light or whatever and EVERYTHING is shaking, including the rider. Seems like it would get old really really fast. Also, I'm too nerdy to be comfortable with the 'bad boy' vibe the whole scene projects. (I've know enough Harley guys to know that on average they are really nice people and the image is just that, an image. But still) As Spite put it in a recent video about Harleys - NO NERDS!
All sushi 🍣 no beef 🍖 that line was hilarious 😆, great job.
fr
that shit killed me hahah
Have been on & off 2wheels most of my life and owned some very cool ride . Now I’m picking up the hot rod of my 20s ! A 1984 V65 😎 ! Would be fun to see y’all do a review of that ol killer
Just made my mind up. Thanks
The handling of the rebel is soooo smooth. Anyway, I live the Bolt, too. Got both now! 😂
Off topic question: where are you guys riding? The scenery is amazing
It is a good evaluation you guys have done. Yammie, as a racer, is a died in the wool sporty hater. Consequently, we get a true, objective opinion from the guy that hates the class that he is evaluating.
Speaking about how the Sportster feels like it’s got loose nuts and bolts rattling around inside the engine as if that is a preferable trait? Dude, that’s exactly why we look for Harley styling in a foreign bike. We don’t want overpriced, rattley, leaky, and noisy, but love the styling.
I’m glad I found this vid because these are the two bikes that I’ve narrowed my search down to.
They’re both great looking bikes, but I think I prefer the more traditional Bolt, despite its shortcomings when compared to the Rebel.
I ride my Rebel 1100 in rain mode in my neighborhood, sport mode everywhere else. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the throttle on the 1100. You just gotta use your user modes, my guy.
😢 the guy they rented this bike from on Twisted Road probably
Yammie you really need to check out the Kawasaki Vulcan 900 and compare that to a Sportster. I think you'll be surprised.
Yeah, that Honda seems worth checking out.....& I agree with Spite, that an additional 100cc would be welcome. The Honda seems to be fairly priced also. Quality.
Though, because of ergonomics, I much prefer a street fighter bike over all the rest.
The Africa twin is one of the original retro modern bikes. It's an old French racing bike. You know now the t7 is similar
Personally I think the rebel in one of the best looking cruisers it’s so crisp in all black
The Rebel is modern, light weight, handles well, and has a sporty liquid cooled engine. Sounds like the Vulcan S. Just saying.......
That is the bike they SHOULD have compared it to.. If they want to compare the Bolt to a Rebal it HAD to be the 500... Like comparing a Ninja 650 with an ZX6R
How would you compare the rebel to the Vulcan 650S?
Price vs performance and features... NOT EVEN CLOSE. The Rebel takes it.
@@christopher7310 Vulcans not a bad bike, you can get one used for pretty cheap. It handles well, doesn’t look half bad, revs to 9k what’s not to love about it.
@@portlandshomlessproblem1728 stuff nothing really wrong with the bike. It just doesn't know what it wants to be. It doesn't feel nor ride like a cruiser, nor does it ride or feel like a bike that would normally have a parallel twin in it. It is quick, I'll give it that. I wanted one for a while. When I took one out for a ride, it just didn't feel like a cruiser at all. Even though it does kind of look the part. When compared to the rebel, is not even close. Short of the great price you can find a used one, there's no reason to buy one over the rebel if you're looking at getting a brand new bike.
@@christopher7310 I think cruisers like the Vulcan 650 is called a Sport Cruiser. I'd even put the Rebel in the same category. The rebel is not a traditional cruiser anyway. The engine they used from the 1100 is from the Africa Twin which is sport/adventure bike. The 500's engine was from the CBr500r engine. Pretty much like the Vulcan 650's engine which came from the Ninja 650.
they also made Vulcan S vs scout comparison video!
I just bought a rebel 300 I love it as a new rider
Just watched this now. 2023 and the classic Sportster is in fact Dead. Not just dead, but not replaced with a viable option
The Bolt is the most recognizable Sportster alternative..........Yammie - “Another Sportster?!?” 😂
Wish they reviewed the bolt as the bolt alone instead of a sportster 2.0 from Harley.
Was choosing my next bike between these two, I still think the bolt looks better, easier for a bigger person like me, and is more of a lazy backroad bike. I love the new rebel line but I don't want something with pep, my sport bike days are passed, I just want something that will glide through the Natchez Trace and through my small town.
Avoid the Bolt. I'm not even that big of a guy (5'9" 200lbs) and it feels cramped after an hour. The terrible suspension doesn't help either on longer rides.
It's also not fast enough to cruise at highway speeds. Where I live I need to be at least at 70 mph, mostly 80, to stay slightly ahead of the flow. The Bolt just has nothing left at those speeds, and it can't be healthy to run it for duration at 80% of its top speed.
I'm bummed, I got a great deal on mine used sure, but when I bought a metric cruiser I had dreams of comfortable distance highway rides in my future.
Only consider it if you will only ride in town or on country roads. If you are ever planning on twisty mountain roads or interstate travel, pass on it.
@@SuicideVan thanks for the input, I live in a small town of Tennessee, mainly I want the sportster look without the chrome and in my budget. Call me a poser but I just really like the way it looks, I want to do some trips from Nashville to Atlanta every now and then and it’s a shame it doesn’t have the power it needs. I appreciate the feedback but I think the bolt is the only used bike in my price point with the aesthetic I want. I’ll start looking into the iron 1200s more now. Thanks Van!
@@SuicideVan I’m 5,11 and 240lbs, I want to put forward controls on the bike and a saddle man seat, would that alleviate the cramped feeling on the bike or would it still be a bit compact
But the Rebel’s look is definitely a holdback. It does look more like a naked bike than a cruiser. If Honda could do something about that upswept tank and make it look a little bit more traditional it would do a lot for it.
Yeah it looks ugly af.... #1 reason the rebel 1100 if off my list of next bike...
It's not that the Sportster is "too old school". It's that there are MANY much better, cheaper bikes out there.
I just did my first “long” day at around 170 miles. It was great but I twisted my knee with a poorly executed foot down.
Thank you very much for your reviews, how tall are you guys? Do you think that a 6’1” beginner (me) with forward controls and handle raisers could use the Rebel as an only bike?
Thank you.
I know people hate on the Vulcan S but citing around he 7 min mark in the video... The Rebel 1100 does not compare to the Sportster, Indian scout, bolt, or any of the traditional cruisers. It is far closer to a standard bike like a triumph than a cruiser. The only real direct competition to 1100 is the Vulcan S. Lightweight zippy fun cruiser. I would LOVE to see a side by side with those.
what if Yamaha put a 1100 or 1200 motor in the Bolt?