Model updates: Authentic, robust and offering simple riding pleasure, Honda’s Dax features a pressed steel frame, 31mm USD forks, 12-inch wheels and air-cooled SOHC two-valve engine with four-speed gearbox and centrifugal clutch. Full LED lighting, compact negative LCD display and pillion grab rail complete the full specification list, and the intangible and timeless appeal of the unmistakeable Dax styling is something no spec sheet can encapsulate. For 25YM it gains EURO5+ compliance plus funky new paint and looks set to carry on raising smiles across Europe.

1. Introduction
2. Model overview
3. Key features
4. Accessories
5. Dax origins and milestones
6. Technical specifications

1. Introduction

Honda’s pocketful of mini motorcycles strike a chord with young and old riders alike. The re-imagined Monkey 125 tugs at heart strings that remember the golden 1970s while providing thoroughly modern, compact and funky urban transport for riders of any age. The MSX125 Grom serves up left-field, customisable style for ‘Generation Y’ but also as perfect paddock transport in the worlds of car and bike racing.

In 23YM a new bike joined the fold. The ST125 Dax fully owned the genuine authenticity of the 1969 original* but brought thoroughly 21^st century performance from chassis, engine and ergonomics. The most recent version of the Dax was produced from 1995 to 2003 for the Japanese market; the more recent European success of its siblings hastened its return, and its mischievous charm and easy-going riding proposition bless the ST125 Dax with an extra layer of desirability.

Of course, nostalgia plays a part in the Dax’s appeal to riders now in middle age – riders who may have owned one in their youth and are pleased to see it again. Equally, ‘retro’ is important to younger owners; that’s real retro, not faux. A certain style sets some machines apart and the Dax has just that in abundance thanks to the form of its iconic T-shaped frame. Which is also how the bike got its name: extending from under the seat to the handlebars, and sitting atop the small 12-inch wheels, the look is reminiscent of the universally adored Dachshund, or Sausage Dog, to give it its everyday English name…

Basically unchanged for 25YM – except for EURO5+ compliance and new paint – this small bike carries on as before, which means it’s unique, easy, usable and great fun. Just as it has always been.

*See Dax Origins and Milestones below.

2. Model Overview

As it should, the Dax keeps it simple. A steel frame provides strength and houses the fuel tank while 31mm USD forks, twin rear shocks and 12-inch wheels with chunky tyres provide light steering and good suspension performance. Braking is via hydraulic discs front and rear with ABS control.

Robust and fuel efficient, the 124cc SOHC two-valve engine’s power is linear in delivery with smooth torque. A centrifugal clutch manages shifting between the four ratios so there’s no need for a handlebar-mounted clutch lever. It offers twist-and-go simplicity with the added entertainment of changes via a traditional left-foot gear lever. EURO5+ compliance has also been built in for 25YM.

All lighting is LED and a circular LCD display shows exactly what the rider needs to know. The pillion gets a chromed grab rail, too. Accessories available include a clock and gear indicator display, rear carrier, side bag support, immobiliser alarm, USB socket and heated grips.

The 25YM Dax will be available in the following colour options:

• **NEW** Pearl Shining Black
• Pearl Cadet Gray
• Pearl Glittering Blue

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3. Key Features

    3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Chrome high-set handlebars and upswept exhaust muffler are Dax signature pieces
• Full LED lighting and LCD instrument display
• Chrome passenger grabrail

While the Dax is small, its proportions provide enough room to be comfortable for two adults to ride.

The styling really is the frame; everything is attached to, or held within it, giving the Dax its unmistakeable retro look. As do all the other parts; the thick dual seat – seat height is just 775mm – chrome high-set handlebars and the 1970’s dirt bike-inspired upswept muffler with drilled, slotted and chromed heat shield. 

The frame’s mid-section wears a black stripe with ‘Dax’ picked out in quirky font, right next to the classic Honda Wing logo that marks its special heritage. A unique finishing touch comes in the form of a cartoon image of a Dachshund.

A chromed mudguard leads and sits below the evocative, circular headlight. To add extra charm to the light, signature round LEDs are used and the front indicators/position lights sit snugly in between low and high beams. The compact instrument display is a round, negative LCD while the rear taillight and indicators take their cues from the headlight and are also LED.

There’s a neat chrome grabrail for the passenger to hold while a cover seals the drive chain away from weather and loose clothing.

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3.2 Chassis

• T-shaped pressed steel frame integral to handling and looks
• 31mm USD forks, twin rear shocks and 12-inch wheels provide a smooth ride
• Hydraulic disc braking front and rear with ABS

The iconic T-shaped frame design houses the fuel tank, is authentic in aesthetic detail and constructed in pressed-steel with modern engineering know-how. Rake and trail are set at 24.9°/84mm with wheelbase of 1200mm. Wet weight is just 107kg.

31mm USD forks provide supple suspension response and, combined with the wide upswept handlebar, easy steering. Twin rear shocks are tuned for smooth compliance, even with a pillion. Blacked-out 12-inch rims (from the super-cool MSX125 Grom) wear fat, balloon-like tyres; a 120mm wide front and 130mm rear. They add sure-footed grip allied to nimble agility.

Single-channel ABS manages braking force. Hydraulic front and rear calipers grip 220/190mm diameter discs respectively.

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3.3 Engine

• 124cc, air-cooled SOHC two-valve design produces 6.9kW and 10.8Nm
• Stress-free centrifugal clutch and four-speed gearbox
• OBD2-2 sensor added for EURO5+ compliance, alongside updated catalyser and ECU settings

Drawn from the Super Cub C125 – so flexible, efficient and durable – the 124cc air-cooled engine features a SOHC two-valve cylinder head, with relatively long stroke and high compression; bore is set at 50mm, stroke at 63.1mm with compression ratio of 10.0:1. Peak power of 6.9kW arrives @ 7,000rpm, with peak torque of 10.8Nm @ 5,000rpm.

The engine’s strong performance means that even two-up a 90km/h cruising speed is achievable, with smart acceleration from low speed – just what’s needed for lively around-town amusement.

On the left-hand side of the bike the distinctive oval air box, filter and connecting tube ensure smooth, efficient airflow through the clean side, delivering crisp throttle response and driveability. The upswept muffler and heat shield is evocative of that golden motorcycling era of the ‘70s. An uprated catalyser, new ECU settings and addition of an OBD2-2 sensor ensure EURO5+ compliance.

In keeping with the laid-back, easy to ride feel the gearbox is a 4-speed unit (with neutral at the bottom) operated via centrifugal clutch, without the need for a clutch lever. At standstill the rider simply selects the gear required with the left-hand foot lever and, as the throttle is opened, the clutch operates automatically and does so through each ratio change, up or down.

Various low-friction technologies, like an offset cylinder and roller-rocker arms in the head, ensure impressive fuel economy of 66.7km/l (WMTC mode). This gives the Dax a range of approx. 250km from the 3.8L fuel tank.

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4. Accessories

A comprehensive range of Genuine Honda Accessories is available for the Dax. To boost everyday useability, a rear chrome luggage rack is available alongside a deep, left-hand side canvas pannier completed with an included waterproof black fabric inner bag. 

For added peace of mind in all weather, heated grips and a USB socket to keep personal devices charged are available.

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5. Dax Origins

In 1967, The Monkey Z50M was introduced in response to the demand for a ‘leisure-oriented bike’ for the American and European markets. Although well received, especially in America, by adults and children alike, thanks to its adjustable seat height and foldable features which allowed it to be loaded into a car, for 1969 American Honda requested a larger bike for its customers, but one that was still filled with the spirit of Monkey.

After visiting the US to better understand the requirements, engineers, inspired by the T-shaped frame of the CS90, which was a very popular bike in Japan, developed the Dax to have lower and longer proportions (compared to the Monkey) that allowed adults to have a more relaxed riding position as well as ride two up. The fuel tank, wiring and other components were housed in the T-shaped frame to create a unique, but also simple – and now iconic – design.

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5.1 Dax Milestones

1969 ST50/70 Dax Honda

Built for the export markets of Europe and the USA the original Dax was nifty, nimble and easy to ride. It appealed to both die-hard motorcyclists and recreational users as it was just plain fun. This is the bike that launched many two-wheeled journeys. The engine was based on the well-established Super Cub engine, but with the addition of modifications to both the intake and exhaust system to provide more torque at low-mid range. Available in both 50cc and 70cc versions, the Dax featured a 3-speed automatic centrifugal clutch, telescopic front suspension, hydraulic rear suspension and wide tyres with a unique tread pattern for stability and handling even when off-road.

1972 ST90 Mighty Dax

The ST90 Mighty Dax featured a more rigid T-shape frame, wider, more upright custom style ‘mini ape’ bars, high level front mudguard and a bigger engine that packed more speed and acceleration. The new larger 14in wheels came fitted with semi-off road pattern tyres to increase handling performance and stability, even when off-road.

1973 CY50 Nauty Dax

Aimed squarely at the RV (Recreational Vehicle) leisure market, the Nauty Dax was developed to offer even better riding performance and stability over rough terrain. Changes to the valve timing and the final drive – now with 4 speeds – increased torque in the low to midrange. With a new exhaust, fuel tank, side covers and unique rectangular shaped headlight, the Nauty Dax also featured a stepped seat and funky paint scheme. The new light and rigid diamond frame and the new fat balloon tyres made for easy rolling over rough campsite terrain.

1995 ST50 Dax

After 14 years, the Dax returned to the Japanese market. All the iconic design cues remained in place – a pressed steel backbone frame, telescopic suspension, wide foldable bars, chrome mudguard, muffler and block tyres – and were joined by the addition of a longer seat. The 50cc engine featured an automatic cam chain tensioner and magneto ignition for easy starting. Enjoying an eight-year production run, the ST50 Dax finally went off sale in 2003.

2022 ST125 Dax

Straight out of the traps with a useful, usable 124cc engine, four speed gearbox and centrifugal clutch the Dax makes a welcome return to the Honda minibike fold, joining the Monkey and MSX125 Grom.

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6. Technical Specification

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^{**All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice**}

^{Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.}

Model updates: Honda’s pocket-sized grin machine is set and ready to cheer up 2025. Specification includes air-cooled 124cc engine, five-speed gearbox, steel frame, USD forks, 12-inch wheels and IMU-controlled ABS braking. Full LED lighting and neat LCD dash are the premium finishing touches topped by a crisp – and suitably retro – new two-tone paint scheme.

Contents

1. Introduction
2. Model overview
3. Key features
4. Accessories
5. Monkey milestones
6. Technical specifications

1. Introduction

The Honda Monkey bike is perhaps most widely known as a groovy icon of the 1970s, but it first saw the light of day in 1961. Originally developed as a 49cc child’s plaything for Tama Tech, an amusement park in Tokyo, it proved so popular that a road-going version was developed, which was initially exported to America and Europe in 1963, with a distinctive chrome tank, folding handlebars and 5-inch diameter rigidly mounted wheels.

Its popularity was based on a cute, instantly-likable design, tiny dimensions and ultra-light weight – which made it a whole load of fun around town. By 1969 its wheels had increased to 8-inch in diameter and from 1970 it gained even greater popularity, when the addition of quick-detach forks meant it would fit into the trunk of a small car.

By 1978 – a point that marked the start of real prime time for the Monkey – the bike had been re-styled with a teardrop style fuel tank and became hugely popular with legions of RV (Recreational Vehicle) drivers in need of convenient transport to use once they were parked up. And this is where and when the cheeky Monkey really cemented its place in millions of hearts; with its 3-speed gearbox and centrifugal clutch (which needed no ‘traditional’ motorcycle skill to operate) it gave thousands of riders their first experience of twisting the throttle on a powered two-wheeler.

Because it was so much fun, and so easy to ride, it did more to sell the concept of motorcycles to a wider public than perhaps any other machine. With its chunky tyres, mini-‘ape’ style handlebars, miniscule fuel tank and big, squashy seat the Monkey look is unmistakably of its time, but – just like the affection in which it is held – also timeless.

And in 2018 the Monkey’s time came around once again. Inspired by the original (but also as a usefully fun 125cc motorcycle fit for the 21^st century) a brand-new Monkey cheered up the roads of Europe. For 22YM the Monkey got an engine upgrade, an extra gear for the transmission, suspension refinements and detail improvements, widening its ‘smile’ factor and building-in extra day-to-day usability.

Nothing changes mechanically for 25YM apart from EURO5+ compliance, but brand-new paint options means that the pocket-sized Monkey fun has never looked so good.

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2. Model Overview

The Monkey’s two-valve air-cooled engine produces 6.9kW power with 11Nm torque. It’s durable and easy to use while a 5-speed gearbox opens up longer rides. EURO5+ compliance has also been built in for 25YM. The steel frame, USD forks, twin rear shocks and 12-inch wheels roll smoothly; for extra safety the ABS braking is Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) controlled.

Then, of course, there’s the inimitable Monkey look, correct from the mini-ape ’bars to upswept exhaust. It’s infectiously grin inducing – for the rider and everybody it passes. Exclusive accessories include a rear carrier, side bag support, USB socket and heated grips.

For 25YM the Monkey will be available in the following, suitably cool, paint options:

• **NEW** Sheen Silver Metallic and Pearl Shining Black
• **NEW** Millenium Red and Pearl Himalayas White
• **NEW** Turmeric Yellow and Knight Silver Metallic

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3. Key Features

    3.1 Engine

• 124cc air-cooled engine delivers 6.9kW power and 11Nm torque
• 5-speed gearbox for easy cruising speed 
• O2 sensor added for EURO5+ compliance, alongside updated catalyser and ECU settings 

The Monkey is equipped with an engine designed to ride and have fun on; 124cc, SOHC with 50mm bore, 63.1mm stroke and compression ratio of 10.0:1. It produces peak power of 6.9kW @ 6,750rpm with peak torque of 10.7Nm @ 5,500rpm.

A correcting plate manages the path of fresh air drawn in and feeds an intake duct inlet and connecting tube designed to smooth airflow. The shape of the airbox also promotes smooth airflow, smooth torque output and flexible drivability. EURO5+ compliance has been applied via revised ECU settings, updated catalyser and additional O2 sensor. 

The 5-speed gearbox spreads its ratios apart for longer journey ease and provides a more relaxed cruising ability. Top speed is 91km/h. Manual clutch operation imparts a full-sized motorcycle experience while 12-inch wheels deliver agile around-town response. Naturally, the Monkey’s small stature and assured low-speed balance allow it an easy passage through jammed traffic.

It’s also an economical engine, returning 1.5 litres/100km (WMTC mode) by using low-friction technologies, such as an offset cylinder and roller-rocker arm for the valve gear. Sophisticated PGM-FI guarantees highly efficient combustion.

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3.2 Styling & Equipment

• Cheeky style harks back to the 1970s with mini-ape handlebars and upswept exhaust
• Chunky tyres complete the look
• Circular LCD display includes fuel indicator.

Classic Monkey style (mini-ape handlebars, chromed mudguards, upswept exhaust with stamped heat shield, chunky tyres, padded seat and ‘peanut’ tank) pays loyal homage to the original and provides all the cues required to chime both with those of a certain age, and a much younger generation.

Older riders connect to a certain ’70s irreverence – maybe matched to a memory of their first feel of motorcycling freedom – innate in the design while newer riders, already turned on to all things retro, get both that and something undeniably funky to set them apart from their friends. One thing that unites everybody, whether riding a Monkey or simply passing one by, is the ‘smile’ factor. It’s that sort of bike.

The glossy 5.6L fuel tank proudly wears a historical 3-D Classic Wing design Honda logo. Modern technology is fully present amongst the classic looks: a digital full-LCD circular display features speedometer (which winks playfully when the ignition is turned on), odometer with two trip meters and six-segment fuel level indicator; all lighting is LED.

A ‘wave’ pattern key (which also wears the Classic Wing motif) features an ‘answer back’ system that makes the lights flash at the push of a button to allow easy location in crowded car parks.

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3.3 Chassis

• Steel frame, USD forks and 12-inch diameter tyres
• Twin rear shocks feature two-stage springs to deal with rough surfaces
• Easy-to-manage 776mm seat height

The Monkey’s steel backbone frame is tuned for a suitable balance between rigidity and supple feel – perfect for the wide variety of conditions the machine is designed to be ridden in. Oval in cross-section, the swingarm echoes the circular design theme that runs through the bike.

Wheelbase is set at 1,145mm with rake and trail of 25°/82mm and a minimum turning radius of just 1.9m. Wet weight is 105kg, with a seat height of 776mm. The plush seat is made of high-density urethane for maximum comfort.

USD front forks employ 100mm travel and wear a premium Alumite finish. The dual rear shocks feature two-stage colour matched springs to maintain ride quality on bumper roads and reduced bottoming. They have 102mm of axle travel; maximum ground clearance is 175mm.

A single 220mm front disc and 190mm rear provide secure stopping performance, managed by the IMU-based ABS to mitigate rear ‘lift’ under strong braking. Fat, block pattern tyres make for a smooth ride and are sized 120/80-12 65J front and 130/80-12 69J rear.

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4. Accessories

A comprehensive range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the Monkey. To boost everyday useability, a rear chrome luggage carrier is available alongside a deep, left hand side canvas pannier completed with an included waterproof black fabric inner bag.

For added peace of mind heated grips and a USB socket to keep personal devices charged. Everyday practicality can be boosted through the addition of the optional clock and gear position sub-meter.

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5. Monkey Milestones

1961 Z100

First model – made for use at amusement parks – with 5-inch wheels, rigid suspension, foldable handlebars and Super Cub (C50) 3.1kW OHV 49cc engine. Backbone frame, triangular tank.

1963 CZ100

First road-going model – exported to North America and Europe.

1967 Z50M

First model sold in Japan – with ‘fold-down’ seat, handlebars and pegs to fit in the back of the car (the new fuel cap also added to prevent leaks when stored on its side during transport). Centrifugal clutch.

1969 Z50A

Telescopic front fork, 8” front wheels, low slung exhaust and indicators for the first time.

1970 Z50Z

Quick-detach front suspension to make it fold down even smaller to fit in the trunk of a small car. Centre stand to support the bike during the removal of forks.

1974 Z50J

Rear suspension and independent swing arm. First trapezium fuel tank and block tyres.

1978 (Z50J-I)

First model with custom bike style ‘tear drop’ fuel tank with increased capacity of 5L.

1979 (Z50J-I)

Chrome plated edition.

1984 (Z50J-I)

Limited edition ‘Gold’ model.

1985 A-Z50J

First appearance of hand operated clutch.

1987 A-AB22

‘R’ model with twin tube frame, single shock rear suspension and hydraulic front brake disc. 10-inch Comstar wheels with box section swingarm.

1988 A-Z50J

Dual mirrors for the first time.

1991 A-Z50J

Off-road styled ‘Baja’ model with twin headlights.

2000 Millennium model

Produced to mark the turn of the century.

2004 Freddie Spencer Special

In colours based on the CB750F ridden to victory in the Daytona 100 by Freddie Spencer.  

2006

40^th Anniversary special.

2009 Monkey Limited Edition JBH-AB27

First fuel-injected version, with roller rocker arm and off-set cylinder; with trapezium shaped fuel tank.

2017 50^th Anniversary Edition

Commemorating the 50^th anniversary of sales in Japan.

2018 Monkey 125

An all-new Monkey 125, re-imagined for the 21^st century, takes to the roads of Europe.

2022 Monkey 125

A fifth gear for the engine – plus a power boost – gave Honda’s little bike longer legs, making it more useful for longer rides.

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6. Technical Specifications

Model updates: Honda’s legendary Super Cub – originally born in 1958 and with over a 100 million built – continues its storied journey with EURO5+ compliance for its fuel-efficient air-cooled engine. And, as before, all the signature component parts are in place: four-speed gearbox driving through an automatic centrifugal clutch, easy-to-live-with step-through body design, and large diameter smooth-rolling wheels matched to comfortable, supple suspension. Smart Key operation adds convenience while the new, exclusive 25YM two-tone colour scheme harks back to the seminal look of the original.

Contents

1. Introduction
2. Model overview
3. Key features
4. Accessories
5. Super Cub facts
6. Technical specifications

1. Introduction

The very first Super Cub C100 was introduced in 1958, Honda’s 10^th year of existence. Created by Soichiro Honda and his long-time business partner Takeo Fujisawa, its stated aim was straightforward: ‘to provide the joy of playing a useful part in people’s lives’.

Nearly 60 years later, in 2017, the 100 millionth Super Cub was built, cementing its status as the most popular motor vehicle the world has ever seen. Along the way the Super Cub’s simple attributes of unique styling, reliability, frugality and sheer usability have never gone out of fashion. And it has quietly achieved exactly what Soichiro and Takeo wanted: to get people mobile and keep them mobile.

The Super Cub series has long been popular in Japan – where it has long been popular with business users including the Japanese Post Office, and in South East Asia – where it retains an important role in people’s lives as private transport. Well aware of the number of urban European riders – across a wide range of age demographics – who look for credible retro-inspired machinery and head-turning style, Honda brought the latest version of the iconic machine to Europe in 2018, marking a new chapter in its long history.

In 22YM the Super Cub C125 received further advances for its European audience. The timeless look was unchanged, but a brand-new EURO5-compliant engine and host of improvements drove it forward, just as Soichiro and Takeo would have wanted. In 25YM nothing changes mechanically – apart from EURO5+ compliance – while a new two-tone paint scheme draws inspiration from the original and ups retro style.

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2. Model Overview

The air-cooled SOHC engine, with the addition of an O2 sensor, uprated catalyser and revised ECU settings, gains EURO5+ compliance. It’s designed to produce smooth, usable power, and returns impressive fuel economy of 1.5L/100km (WMTC mode). A 4-speed gearbox drives through a centrifugal clutch.

Classic Cub styling – practical and easy to live with – is unchanged and includes standard-fit pillion seat and footpegs. Spring rates for front and rear suspension are set to smooth the ride on rougher city streets. New accessories available include a USB socket and heated grips.

The 25YM Super Cub C125 will be available in a sole, exclusive, paint finish:

• **NEW** Pearl Bosphorus Blue and Pearl Sugarcane Beige

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3. Key features

    3.1 Engine

• Air-cooled engine smooth, strong and fuel efficient – delivering 67.3km/l
• O2 sensor added for EURO5+ compliance, alongside updated catalyser and ECU settings
• Powerful Alternating Current Generator (ACG)

Efficient and durable, the Super Cub C125’s 124cc air-cooled engine combines the bottom-end (with re-designed crankcases) of the current Japanese-market C110 with the SOHC two-valve cylinder head and top-end of the MSX Grom. Bore is set at 50mm, stroke at 63.1mm with compression ratio of 10.0:1. Peak power of 7.2kW (a 0.1kW increase) arrives @ 7,500rpm, with peak torque of 10.4Nm @ 6,250rpm.

Smoothing airflow on the clean side the airbox (designed around the engine) is compact and combines with the connecting tube/injector position to improve driveability. The outward appearance of the muffler is one of the many elements of Super Cub’s ‘mythology’ and houses, a single, uprated catalyser. New ECU settings and addition of an O2 sensor ensure EURO5+ compliance.

The gearbox is a 4-speed unit (with neutral at the bottom) and ­­– in true Super Cub tradition – is operated via ‘automatic’ centrifugal clutch, without the need for a clutch lever. At standstill the rider simply selects the gear required with the left-hand foot lever and, as the throttle is opened, the clutch operates automatically and does so through each ratio change, up or down via heel or toe, toe for up through the gears, heel for down. Final drive ratio is 2.50 with 14T drive and 35T driven sprockets. A helical primary gear reduces ‘mechanical’ noise while the Alternating Current Generator (ACG) delivers healthy electrical output.

Amazing fuel economy is on offer – 1.5 litres/100km (67.3km/l) (WMTC mode) – giving a range of approx. 250km from the 3.7 litre fuel tank.

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3.2 Styling & Equipment

• Evocative styling unchanged; pillion pad and footpegs standard-fit
• Convenient Smart Key operation
• Full LED lighting, front and rear, for optimum visibility

The Super Cub C125’s time-tested, evocative styling – defined instantly by the leg-guards and fully enclosed mechanical parts – is a design with one word in mind: ‘universality’. In other words, it must be easy for a wide range of people to use. A key part of this ethos is the laid-forward ‘S-shaped silhouette’ which runs from the step-through space to rear mudguard, making access on and off easy. The 2022 pillion seat and footpegs are standard equipment.

Also, instantly recognisable as Super Cub is the ‘unit’ steering, which unifies the separate elements – forks, handlebars and leg shields – into one cohesive whole. On the original machine the handlebars, shaped to be like the wings of a bird, were a tactile and welcoming sales point and the modern-day Super Cub C125 with its forged, tapered handlebar wrapped in curvaceous moulded resin incorporating the switchgear and instruments, pays loyal homage to the original.

The grips are placed in a natural, easy-to-hold position and complement the straight-backed riding position, which gives excellent all-round visibility. Aiding comfort, the seat uses thick, high-density urethane foam. It is also cut back on both sides up front, helping ground reach.

All lighting is contemporary LED while the instruments highlight the depth of the overall design with two lenses separated by dual chrome rings. The outer ring houses the sweep of the analogue speedometer’s needle plus warning lights; the inner an understated digital display.

A modern finishing touch is the Honda Smart Key which also controls the immobiliser as an extra theft deterrent and is equipped with an ‘answer back’ function whereby the indicators will ‘blink’ at the push of a button to make finding the vehicle easy in busy parking areas. And, with a nod to its forebears (and underlining its place in Honda’s history) a historical 3D ‘Classic Wing’ logo crowns the Smart Key fob.

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3.3 Chassis

• Front fork and rear shock absorbers deliver supple ride quality
• 17-inch front and rear wheels
• Disc front brake matched by drum rear

Fun, easy handling has always been another Super Cub strength. To this end, the tubular steel ‘backbone’ frame has a rigidity balance carefully tuned around the headstock and between the engine mounting points, to optimise performance for the 124cc engine; the engine crankcases have specific hangers. Both handlebars and seat are rubber mounted and the footpegs also feature rubber inserts.

Rake and trail are set at 26.5°/71mm with wheelbase of 1,245mm. Wet weight is 111kg. 100mm travel telescopic forks and the twin rear shocks (matched to body colour) offer up a smooth ride on bumpy roads, while elegant 17-inch die-cast aluminium wheels (with machined rims and spokes) add stability and steering precision. 

Tubeless tyres are fitted, sized 70/90-17 front and 80/90-17 rear. A 220mm front disc brake and single-piston caliper are matched by a 110mm rear drum.

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4. Accessories

Useful Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the Super Cub to boost everyday useability: heated grips ensure a comfortable ride in all weathers whilst a USB socket is also available to keep personal devices charged.

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5. Super Cub Facts

Unsurprisingly, over six decades of production, the Super Cub has some remarkable stories and achievements behind it. Here are just fifteen:

• The first prototype wasn’t drawn out on paper, but using a clay model, into which Mr. Honda himself had strong input, using some ideas from a fact-finding trip to Europe in 1956.

• The first 1958 Super Cub C100’s low-floor backbone frame (for easy step-through), large leg shields (for protection from dust from unpaved roads), fully ‘enclosed’ bodywork (to hide the engine and harnesses), seagull-inspired handlebar shape and sky-inspired blue fairing laid down a universal template for decades to come.

• The size 17-inch wheels (relatively large in order to handle Japan’s uneven road surfaces) were designed and made exclusively for the Super Cub.

• It has always used a four-stroke engine – even from its first 1958 incarnation.

• It had to avoid the need for a clutch lever so delivery riders could ride one-handed with a stack of Soba noodle boxes on a left shoulder.

• Honda’s Suzuka factory was built in 1960 to help meet the demand for the hit product.

• The Super Cub has been produced in 16 factories across 15 different countries and sold in 160 different countries. 

• It went on sale in the USA in 1959, with a sticker price of just $295. It took west coast surfing youth by storm and paved the way for much bigger things for Honda in America.

• The first European production started in Honda Belgium (the second ‘overseas’ factory to product the vehicle).

• The Super Cub also starred in the ‘You meet the nicest people on a Honda’ ad campaign that changed the American perception of motorcycles away from being vehicles associated mainly with ‘biker gangs’.

• The Beach Boys made it even more famous in 1964 with their song ‘My Little Honda’.

• Also introduced to South Asia in 1964 the Super Cub became prized family transport that neatly dealt with the overwhelming traffic of the ever-growing major cities.

• The Japanese Patent Office awarded it a 3D trademark registration in 2014, recognising its shape and design as an iconic Honda product, and making it the first vehicle to achieve this status.

• Original sales were projected to be possibly 30,000 a month, which was amazing at the time as total motorcycle production in Japan was around 40,000 units a month, but something of an underestimate in the end.

• In typical, low-key Super Cub way on October 29^th, 2017 a commemorative ceremony was held at Honda’s Kumamoto factory to mark worldwide production of 100 million units.

6. Technical Specification

– ENDS –

^{**All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice**}

^{Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.}