The Honda Super Cub is the best-selling motor vehicle of all time, with over 100 million units sold worldwide since its introduction in 1958. The Super Cub was designed to be a simple, reliable, and affordable mode of transportation for the masses, and it has become an iconic symbol of motorcycling around the world. The bike’s design, which features a step-through frame and a semi-automatic transmission, made it accessible to a wide range of people, including beginners and those who had never ridden a motorcycle before.
The Super Cub was first introduced in Japan in 1958, and it quickly became popular due to its durability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. The bike’s engine, which was designed to be compact and lightweight, was mounted horizontally to make the bike slimmer and easier to step through. The Super Cub also featured pressed-steel handlebars, 17-inch wheels and tires, and polyethylene resin fenders, which were light, durable, and painted in attractive bright colors.
In the early 1960s, the Super Cub was introduced to the US market, where it was initially met with skepticism due to its small size and step-through design. However, Honda’s marketing campaign, which featured the now-famous slogan “You meet the nicest people on a Honda,” helped to change the perception of the Super Cub and make it a popular choice among young people and families.
The Super Cub’s success in the US was followed by its introduction to other parts of the world, including Europe and Southeast Asia. In these regions, the Super Cub became a ubiquitous mode of transportation, particularly in areas where roads were rough and cars were out of reach. The bike’s durability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use made it an ideal choice for people who needed a reliable and affordable way to get around.
Over the years, the Super Cub has undergone several design updates and improvements, including the introduction of new engine technologies and safety features. In 2019, Honda reintroduced the Super Cub C125 in the US, which features a modern design and advanced technologies such as fuel injection, ABS, and LED lighting.
Today, the Super Cub remains a popular choice among motorcyclists around the world, and its iconic design and simplicity continue to inspire new generations of riders. The bike’s success has also spawned a range of variants and derivatives, including the Trail Cub and the Hunter Cub, which are designed for off-road and adventure riding.
The Super Cub’s impact on the world of motorcycling cannot be overstated. It has democratized access to motorcycling, making it possible for people from all walks of life to experience the thrill and freedom of riding a motorcycle. The Super Cub’s design and engineering have also influenced the development of other motorcycles and scooters, and it continues to be a benchmark for simplicity, durability, and affordability in the motorcycling industry.
In conclusion, the Honda Super Cub is a true icon of motorcycling, and its impact on the world of transportation and culture is still being felt today. Its simplicity, durability, and affordability have made it a beloved choice among riders around the world, and its influence can be seen in the design and engineering of many other motorcycles and scooters. As a testament to its enduring popularity, the Super Cub continues to be produced and sold today, and it remains a symbol of the freedom and excitement of motorcycling.