Reflex

HONDA REFLEX (NSS250)

The Reflex was introduced for 2001 to replace Honda’s long running and landmark scooter, the Helix. The Helix had grown into quite a popular scooter among enthusiasts but it was first introduced in 1986 so Honda clearly felt they needed to create a new generation. The Reflex is a great maxi-scooter but it didn’t have the same appeal that the Helix did. Vocal enthusiasts in North America and especially in Japan begged Honda to bring the Helix back, which they did for 2003. Both of these scooters were then sold side by side in Honda’s showroom until 2007 when they were both dropped.

I’m not sure what it is about the Reflex that people didn’t like because it’s a great scooter. Perhaps would be buyers found the Helix to be a more unique and stylish machine. I dunno....the Reflex is maybe a bit bland style-wise but it’s a great scooter. There were some complaints about the comfort of the Reflex compared to the Helix too.

The Reflex offered owners a higher top of 75mph (rather than 70 mph) which makes it a great scooter for any road. The Reflex initially sold in two versions; regular (NSS250) and ABS (NSS250A). I believe the NSS250A Reflex was the first scooter here in North America to offer ABS. The Reflex also got a rear disc brake, something the Helix lacked. It’s a huge testimate to the appeal of the Helix that it was able to sell alongside the Reflex despite the its technical disadvantages.

For 2004, Honda added a ‘Sport’ version of the Reflex, dubbed the NSS250S. This was also available with ABS (code: NSS250SA). The sport version got you black rims, a few chrome bits and maybe a few other things.

So what’s not to like? Well a couple things. First, owners commonly report a dead spot in the acceleration from 30-40mph. Supposedly it’s something you can fix

by changing the roller weights but issues like this shouldn’t be present in a new scooter. Also, the Reflex is sometimes criticized as being uncomfortable on longer trips. I’ve heard this a few times but it doesn’t seem to be a huge issue.

For more info on the Reflex, check out this page. You need to sign up for this Yahooo group but the site is loaded this site with info included how to remedy the 30-40mph acceleration problem. You can also get in touch with other Reflex owners and read about some long distance trips several owners have made.

Pros:
* 75-80mph
* Large (3.2 gallon) gas tank
* 60-65mpg
* Light (375lbs)

Cons:
* Less comfortable than the Helix
* Expensive
* Less distinct than the Helix

Owner Reports:
“I’m really enjoying [my Reflex]. Smooth, comfortable AND very stylish. It fits a full face Shoei in the underseat trunk. It’s no rocket ship though. It’s only a 250, and it is heavier than a Helix. It really needs to be a 400 like the Majesty, but I don’t buy Yamaha’s.

It does handle better than any other scooter I’ve ridden. It tops out at 80 mph on flat ground and can hold 65 on most highway grades. 0 to 60 is something like 12 or 13 seconds....Nothing to write home about.”

- Chris (San Diego Scooter Squadron)

Links:
MotorscooterGuide Forums - Visit the forum on this site to chat about your scoot.
BikeBandit.com - Good for looking up OEM parts and finding out what’s still available
Honda Reflex Owners - Lots of Reflex info.

Key Specs:
* Engine: 249cc, 2-valve, 4-stroke, SOHC, liquid cooled single
* Compression: 10.5:1
* Bore x stroke: 72.7 x 60.0 mm
* Fuel system: 30mm CV Carb with auto-enricher
* Ignition: Fully transistorized
* Dry weight: 171.9 kg (379.0 pounds)
* Seat height: 719 mm (28.3 inches)
* Wheelbase: 1,544 mm (60.8 inches)
* Front suspension: 33mm hydraulic fork
* Front suspension travel: 99 mm (3.9 inches)
* Rear suspension: Single-side swingarm with dual hydraulic shocks with seven-position spring-preload adjustability
* Rear suspension travel: 119 mm (4.7 inches)
* Tires: 110/90-13 (front), 130/70-12 (rear)
* Front brakes: 240mm disc (3 piston caliper with a ‘combined braking system’)
* Rear brakes: 220mm disc (single piston with CBS)
* Fuel capacity: 12.11 litres (3.20 gallons)
* Colors: Red, Silver, Blue, Yellow