Ups
- Nostalgic looks with modern features
- Semi-automatic clutch easy for newbies
- 17-inch wheels offer better ride and more tire choices
Downs
- No storage bins
- No passenger accommodations
- Shifting requires finesse for smooth acceleration
Verdict
A modern remake of the original 50cc motorcycle that launched motorcycling (and Honda) into the American mainstream, the Super Cub C125 ABS has all the retro looks of its forebear but with a thorough infusion of current tech, including a fuel-injected 125cc engine. It’s a completely enjoyable and accessible pathway to motorcycling fun.
Overview
American Honda’s immensely successful “You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda” lifestyle advertising campaign of the ‘60s was originally based upon the little 50cc Super Cub (check out Kevin Cameron’s history of the bike here), a crossover between a scooter (small size, step-through underbone frame, no clutch) and a motorcycle (manual shift gearbox, large wheels) whose accessibility and fun factor changed the nation’s attitude toward motorcycles. Continuously manufactured by Honda since 1958 for numerous world markets, production numbers of the Super Cub have long since surpassed 100 million, making it the most produced motor vehicle in history.
Despite its sales success and long history with numerous iterations and updates, the Super Cub was actually dropped from American Honda’s lineup in 1974. It wasn’t until 2019 that the Super Cub returned to the US, and while the styling closely resembles the original, the internals are vastly upgraded. Modern features such as fuel injection for the 125cc engine, a steel tube frame (replacing the old pressed-steel underbone chassis), inverted fork with increased suspension travel, front disc brake with ABS, LED lighting, electric start, and smart keyless ignition are just some of the updates that make the new Super Cub even more enjoyable than its predecessor.
Updates for 2021
There are no updates for 2021 to the Super Cub C125 ABS. The only available colorway is Pearl Nebula Red.
Pricing and Variants
The MSRP for the Super Cub C125 ABS is $3,749.
Competition
Some competitors for the Honda Super Cub C125 ABS include Yamaha’s Zuma 125 and Suzuki’s Burgman 200, but the direct competition with regard to styling would likely be scooters such as Vespa’s Primavera 150 or Sprint 150.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Super Cub’s OHC air-cooled 125cc two-valve single-cylinder engine is claimed to put out 9.1 hp at 7,500 rpm, and 7.2 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. That’s enough to easily cruise at 50 mph, with CW’s Morgan Gales reporting that “I saw 65 mph on flat ground and still had some room to go” in his First Ride Review of the new Super Cub. The semi-automatic clutch on the four-speed transmission makes shifting an easy task for beginner riders, with the heel/toe shifter making sure that your shoes don’t get scuff marks on top.
Handling
The Super Cub handles bumps, potholes, and other pavement irregularities much better than your average scooter, due to its 17-inch wheels (versus the usual 10- to 13-inch wheels on scooters) being able to roll over obstacles with greater ease. Light damping and good wheel travel ensure a comfortable, compliant ride.
Brakes
A 220mm disc with single-piston caliper front brake equipped with ABS and a drum brake in the rear ensures that the Super Cub stops quickly and safely.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
There are no miles-per-gallon figures available for the Super Cub C125 ABS.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The Super Cub’s ergonomics are standard scooter fare, with an upright riding position, easy-to-reach bars, and comfortable, well-padded seat. There are no passenger accommodations though.
Electronics
Other than the front brake’s ABS, there are no rider aids or other electronics on the Super Cub C125 ABS. All lighting is LED.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Super Cub comes with Honda’s standard one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty. Extended warranty coverage is available through the HondaCare Protection Plan.
Quality
As with any Honda, the Super Cub’s fit and finish is excellent.
2021 Honda Super Cub C125 ABS Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $3,749 |
| Engine: | 125cc, OHC, air-cooled single; 2 valves/cyl. |
| Bore x Stroke: | 52.4 x 57.9mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 4-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | PGM-FI w/ 24mm throttle body |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiple disc; cable operation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | TCI |
| Frame: | Tubular steel chassis |
| Front Suspension: | 26mm inverted fork, nonadjustable; 3.9 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Dual shocks, nonadjustable; 3.3 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Mechanical leading/trailing 110mm drum brake |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum; 17 x 2.25 in. / 17 x 2.75 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 70/90-17 / 80/90-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 26.5°/2.8 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 48.9 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.4 in. |
| Seat Height: | 30.7 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 1.0 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 240 lb. |
| Contact: | powersports.honda.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com