Honda introduced the Super Cub motorcycle way back in 1958 before Honda even started selling cars in the United States. Honda has sold more than 100 million of them since, making them the best-selling motor vehicle of all time. The 49cc scooter-like motorcycle, which was last sold in the U.S. 40 years ago, is coming back and it looks great!
The new-generation Super Cub will get a power upgrade to a 125cc single-cylinder engine, 4-speed semi-automatic transmission, and an anti-lock braking system. The Super Cub has a centrifugal clutch so you can change gears without using a hand clutch. The bike features 17-inch wheels and an inverted front fork and twin shocks in the rear for a softer ride.
The new Super Cub looks nearly identical to the original and will keep its signature step-through design, plus it has a storage rack over the rear fender. The motorcycle comes standard as a single-seater, but can be upgraded to transport two passengers. There is a round LCD instrument panel with a speedometer, odometer with two trip meters, and a fuel gauge.
The 2019 Super Cub 125cc ABS will be available in Pearl Niltava Blue. The rebooted Super Cub goes on sale in January of 2019 and is expected to start at $3,600. No word on if Honda will revitalize their previously successful advertising campaign of “You meet the nicest people on a Honda.”
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Honda
Honda is also bringing back their Monkey motorcycle, which was introduced back in 1961. The Monkey has an interesting history, it was originally built for a Japanese amusement park ride. The little motorbike took off from there and now it is coming back to the United States.
The Monkey bike also comes with an air-cooled 125cc single-cylinder 9.25-hp engine with a 4-speed manual transmission and a 1.5-gallon gas tank. The 234-pound motorbike has a top speed of 50 mph. The Monkey has dual shocks, front and rear disc brakes, and 12-inch fat block-pattern tires. The wheelbase is 45.3-inches and the seat height is 30.6-inches. The mini bike has LED lights and will be available in October in Banana Yellow for the non-ABS version, starting at $4,000, and the ABS model will come in Pearl Nebula Red and cost $4,200.
Honda said it’s “continuing the tradition of offering American customers machines that are simultaneously nostalgic and up-to-date.” Honda did warn that the Super Cub and the Monkey would be available to “limited quantities” in the United States. Admit it, the inner hipster in you wants both of these retro bikes.
To quote the Beach Boys from their 1964 song “Little Honda,” “It’s not a big motorcycle, just a groovy little motorbike.”
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Honda
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Honda
Honda
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Honda