The 1980s are considered a golden era of scooter popularity in America. Uncertainty caused by the 1973 OPEC oil crisis - opens in new window or tab. forced auto and motorcycle makers to address demand for more fuel-efficient transportation. Among Honda’s responses was the 1985 Aero 50 scooter, like the one recently sold on eBay.
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Gas-Saving Alternative
The energy crises were a thing of the past by 1985, yet memories lingered. Those who lived through the crises continued to want fuel-efficient vehicles. The Honda Aero 50 fit the bill. It didn’t win any design awards. Nor did it come with any groundbreaking technology. But it was still a Honda, which means something in the motorcycling world.
Honda's reputation for engineering excellence and reliability is world-renowned. Users know that Hondas come with rock-solid dependability.
Compared with the retro, flowing lines of 1970s scooters, the Aero 50 used the angular, futuristic style popular in the ’80s. Think of the DeLorean DMC-12 - opens in new window or tab. from the movie Back to the Future - opens in new window or tab., which became a cultural icon the same year the Aero 50 came out.
An Errand Runner
Some of the features that made the Honda Aero 50 a popular choice with riders include the fully enclosed bodywork. That was somewhat advanced for a 50-cc scooter at the time. There was also electric start, oil injection (no need to pre-mix gas and oil), and an emissions-conscious exhaust design that was pleasing to the ear.
The Aero 50 is powered by a 49-cc, 3.9-horsepower, two-stroke single-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). That combination makes it ideal for inexperienced riders and those seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver daily commuter, errand runner, or around-town vehicle when camping. Top speed is in the 35-to-40 mph range, perfect for lower-speed urban environments and trips to locations with minimal parking.
This scooter has lots of lockable storage, including a glovebox and side compartments. The rear cargo rack can hold a cargo box. The super clean dash has an analog speedometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. It complements sleek plastic bodywork emblazoned with ’80s graphics. The Honda Aero 50 is ’80s nostalgia in an elegant black and red package.
Meet Nice People
One of Honda's most popular advertising campaigns was, “You meet the nicest people on a Honda.” It rang true when Grey Advertising coined the phrase in the 1960s, and it still worked in the era known for synth-pop and leg warmers.
You may still meet someone nice when riding the Honda Aero 50 today. Regardless, riding it will make you smile. With only 1,024 miles on the odometer, this push-button-start, twist-and-go scooter is raring for more post-punk adventures.
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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.