Honda C50 1971 49cc 1 cyl OHC 3506

Honda C50  1971 49cc OHC  frame # C50L003077 engine # 7101699

The history of the Honda C50 begins in the 1950s, a period of post-World War II reconstruction in Japan. The country needed an affordable, reliable, and efficient means of transportation. Honda’s founder, Soichiro Honda, and then-director Takeo Fujisawa saw an opportunity to address this need. Together, they decided to develop a motorcycle that would be easy to use, even for those with no experience with motor vehicles. In 1958, the first Honda Super Cub was introduced, powered by a 50cc four-stroke engine. This initial version, known as the C100, was the predecessor of the C50. With its revolutionary design and distinctive semi-automatic transmission, the Super Cub was an immediate success. The name “Super Cub” was chosen to emphasize the bike’s reliability and simplicity, and it quickly became a household name.

In 1966, the Honda C50 was introduced as the successor to the C100. While the engine displacement remained the same (50cc), the technology was further refined. The C50 became renowned for its fuel efficiency, ease of operation, and virtually indestructible construction. Its semi-automatic gearbox allowed riders to shift gears without a clutch lever, making the C50 even more accessible to a broad audience. One of the key reasons for the C50’s popularity was its overall user-friendliness. Its low seat height, lightweight frame, and simple controls made it easy for almost anyone to ride, regardless of experience or physical strength. This inclusivity helped the model gain popularity among men and women, young and old alike. (from: www.stirlingclassics.nl)

Super Cub production continues to this day. Over 100 million have been built in 20 countries, making it not just the most popular motorcycle but also the most successful motor vehicle ever.

The specimen we present here is in very good condition, we think it has never been restored and still has its original finish. Even the original tool kit, with Honda logo on the tools, is present. This version of the C50 was sold in The Netherlands between 1971 and 1974 under moped regulations, which meant at the time that it had to be fitted with pedals. The odometer reads 6870 km and the little machine runs very well.