HONDA MAKES 100 MILLION OF ONE BIKE—GUESS WHICH ONE

Every kid in the 1960s wanted to own a Honda Super Cub. Available in both 50cc and 110cc version, the Super Cub has been in production since since 1958 and it is produced at 16 different Honda factories in 15 countries. When the first-generation Super Cub C100 was first launched, the 2-stroke engine was the mainstream power plant for motorcycles. However, the Super Cub was equipped with an innovative and high-performance 50cc 4-stroke engine which was highly economical and durable. Super Cub C100 also achieved creative and unique designs including the low-floor backbone frame which enhanced the ease of getting on and off, a centrifugal clutch system which required no clutch operations, and the installation of a large plastic leg shield which reduced the amount of dirt splatter and wind experienced by the rider. Moreover, in 2007, Honda began installing fuel injection to the Super Cub C100, which further enhanced the environmental performance of the model. Honda just recently set up a new production line at the Kumamoto factory to build a revamped 2018 Super Cubs for the future (above).

The new 2018 Super Cub looks like a vintage Super Cub, but it is new. The bodywork is mildly redesigned and the headlight uses LED lights. The classic four-stroke engine is now fuel injected and the exhaust system employs a catalytic converter. The new Super Cubs will be available in both classic and professional versions—that may sound impressive, but the Pro version’s big changes are baskets front and rear,a large luggage rack and 14-inch wheels (the stockers are 17 inches). There are two engine options; (1) a 3.7 horsepower 50cc single, and (2) an 8.0 horsepower 110 cc single.

The Super Cub will only be available in Japan—with a $2000 retail price of the 50cc model and $2250 for the 50cc Pro version. The 110 models, standard and Pro, will sell for $2,500 and $2,650. Honda has produced 100 million Cubs over the years. Next on Honda’s agenda is an electric EV-Cub.