Honda’s 2019 Super Cub Is Coming To America

Honda's Super Cub—one of the first models Honda sold in the USA and the best-selling motor vehicle of all time with more than 100,000,000 units produced—is coming back to America. Introduced in 1968 and last seen in the States in '74, the iconic Super Cub C125 is completely redesigned for 2019 and due in dealerships next January with a target price of $3,600.

Powered by the same 125cc single that's found in the Grom and the retro-redux Monkey that Honda announced alongside the Super Cub, this bike has the largest engine in the Cub's 60-year history but still retains a lithe profile and a low weight of just 240 pounds (claimed, wet). A four-speed transmission with a centrifugal clutch offers scooterlike twist-and-go mobility, making this an easy-to-ride, extremely accessible bike with an estimated top speed of around 55 mph.

The Cub’s styling is true to the original, with full-coverage (plastic) bodywork that flows from the front fender past the valenced fork, leg fairing, solo bicycle-style seat, and rear rack to the bike’s wraparound rear fender. Honda has brought back the classic “old wing” badging and even installed a drivetrain shroud—a useful feature that went out of style decades ago—that keeps dirt and grime off the chain and sprockets and helps extend service intervals.

Although it appears vintage, the new Cub is thoroughly modern. Its engine is fuel injected and it sports a front disc brake with ABS, a digital dash as well as LED lighting and a keyless ignition. As with the original Super Cub scooter crossover, this 2019 model has the style, functionality, and approachability to appeal to a wide range of people, from teens and collegiates to baby boomers looking for the perfect bumper ornament for their RV.

With a target price of $3,600 the Super Cub isn’t exactly cheap, but given this bike’s closest competition is likely a 150cc Vespa scooter carrying a price tag closer to $5,600, the C125 is an affordable option for folks looking for a modern motorcycle with iconic style.

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