Despite the epic success of the legendary Honda Super Cub, only a few dozen with the full US-only Roadster kit were sold. Very few remain on the road. The example recently for sale on eBay is a rare opportunity for a collector to buy one.
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The Honda Super Cub Changed the World
Since the C100 Super Cub’s introduction in 1958, Honda has built over 100,000,000 of these machines—about twice the output of the venerable Toyota Corolla - opens in new window or tab.. In its native Asia, it remains a go-to form of transport for millions. Urban dwellers appreciate its simplicity, durability, and ease of use.
The Honda C100 or Super Cub is easily the best-selling motorized vehicle of all time. In Italy, its popularity was partly why production of one of its favorite scooters—the Lambretta - opens in new window or tab.—ceased in 1972. However, in North America, where vehicular demands differ, there was little demand for such a diminutive machine. However, Honda had a neat plan.
Marketing Genius
Vehicle manufacturers spend big dollars on advertising and marketing cars and trucks. However, few have matched the success of Honda’s American campaign in the 1960s. The “You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda” ad—created by Los Angeles-based Grey Advertising - opens in new window or tab.—was a broad scheme of colorful and vibrant adverts. It’s one of the most influential and iconic slogans ever created.
The ad campaign had an enormous impact on sales. In 1959, when Honda decided to expand into the North American market, the total sales of imported bikes was about 6,300 units. By the end of 1963, after the “Nicest People” campaign and a year in the market, import sales reached 148,000.
According to legend, Honda spoke to a US import distributor about shipping 7,500 bikes to the States. However, the distributor declared that most importers couldn’t sell at that volume over a year. Honda said it intended to sell that many units in a month.
Custom Group
Honda realized that offering add-on features to American customers would increase sales. The company created the “custom group” of four add-on kits: Student, Boss, Rally, and Roadster.
Each had its distinct style. The Boss and Student retained the standard Super Cub step-through look. Meanwhile, the Rally and Roadster traded the practicality of the step-through feature for a more conventional fuel tank mounted between the seat and the headstock. The Roadster kit had the sportiest look, with a shortened cafe-racer-style seat - opens in new window or tab. and pared-down front fender. As with the rest of the custom group, the venerable five-horsepower motor and three-speed semi-automatic transmission remained as is.
Fully Restored After 1,788 Miles
Despite showing so few registered miles, this pretty C100 was fully restored in 2004 and has been on display ever since. Upon careful inspection, it would appear close to a brand new 1965 Honda Super Cub, including the seat, tank, and front fender that identify it as a Roadster.
As one of the most reliable transport machines ever made, it won’t take much to put the C100 on the road again. Or should it remain on display in like-new condition for future generations to behold?
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.