Honda C100 Super Cub

When the Honda Super Cub was introduced in 1959, it certainly seemed like it would be no challenge to the current industry giants:  Harley Davidson, Triumph and BSA.  We were used to great big motorcycles that our "uncles" took us rides on, but admonished us that, "this is not for kids."   These giant sized motorcycles were intimidating to the general public, especially since the cult movie "The Wild Bunch" with Marlin Brando didn't help their public image.  Plus these were just "toys", worse yet they were MADE IN JAPAN.  Anyone who is now over 50 years of age remembers what a lousy reputation for cheap, shoddy products that the Japanese had back then. Wow has that changed!

So Mr. Honda cleverly devised the "You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda" campaign.  It played off the negative motorcycle image to one of California sunshine and happy people just buzzing around from one place to the next.  The inexpensive, but neatly finished, Honda step through apparently was just what the doctor ordered for a fast moving American public.  They had an automatic clutch, and some even came with electric starters.  How could it get much easier?  They were manufactured in several different formats, all looking pretty much the same--all offering a boat load of fun at a very low price.

Well, I am sure that it hit California before Ohio, but in 1965,  my first ride on Bob Hoover's little CA 100 hooked me forever.  The 50cc 4-stroke overhead valve engine seemed to be bulletproof.   And...if you pushed the rear of the shifter back as far as it could go, it would be in neutral.  Revving it up and lifting the foot gave immediate wheelies that whetted your desire for more and faster small motorcycles.  You just couldn't wait to get your hands on a Sport 65, or step up to a Super 90, or really get jiggy with it, a CB 160!  I am sure Mr. Honda could hardly have imagined getting such a great start into the United States market.

The Super Cub proved to be nearly indestructible, and still is today.  It stands as the world's best-selling vehicle with over 31 million sold. They can still be seen in brand new form in many Asian countries where it is still used as a major form form of transportation.

Click below for a very cheesy, but nostalgic, video of the Hondells presenting the song   

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqKi_9p1zks