Legends of Scooter Sport: Honda C100 Super Cub

I figured that the most numerous produced vehicle (not just scooter but vehicle) ever would be an appropriate choice for the first ever installment of "Legends of Scooter Sport."  The Honda C100, Honda 50, or Honda Super Cub has been produced in some form or another since 1958 and 70 million bikes have been produced.  Its' light weight, easy of use, and unbeatable reliability has won it over in the hearts and souls of millions all over the world.  The model originally came with a solo seat and cargo rack, (similar to the later Honda c105) but by the time the bike made it to America, it had evolved into a two seater.  The first model was powered by a pushrod 50cc four-stroke power plant putting out a bone crushing 4.5HP.  At the time the four-stroke motor was in a class of its own due to its high revving nature and the lack of having to premix oil as found in most two-stroke bikes common of the time.  The power met the road via two 17" tires, a three speed gearbox, and an automatic clutch.  The step thru design on the chassis was revolutionary and was designed to allow easy access to women, children, and people of all sizes.  In 1964 two larger capacity engines were offered for the first time, a 90cc and a 70cc.  This bike launched Honda's famous "You meet the nicest people on a Honda" ad campaign.

 

First Generation C100:

 

 

In the late 1960s Honda upgraded the 50cc motor to a OHV engine putting out a more respectable 4.9HP.  Though the basics of the Super Cub design remained constant over the years, the bike was slowly upgraded over time.  The most notable upgrade being the addition of conventional motorcycle forks in the early 1980s.  During its lifetime the bike has spawned numerous other models including the popular Honda CT90 (or Trail 90) and the electric start C102 Super Cub.  During the 80s in the USA the Super Cub was phased into Honda's newest model, the Passport.  The Passport featured a more modern 12v CDI type ignition to meet stricter emission requirements and achieve better fuel mileage.  The Passport has been unavailable in the US as a new model for almost twenty years.

USA Spec C102:

 

The Super Cub is still produced today for the Japanese and Asian markets and it is one of the most durable bikes on the planet.  There have been many reported instances of running cooking oil in the engine instead of regular oil without even a whimper from the motor.  Recently electronic fuel injection was added to the new models being produced and it continues to be a great seller in Japan and other parts of Asia.

Modern Super Cub Anniversary Edition: 

 

 I love my 1965 Honda C100 and if you would like to check out more about it and its' modifications, you can see it in the DIY section. 

 

 

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