Classic Bike Comes Home to Alden

To overcome the negative stigma surrounding motorcycles, Honda’s very first product sold in the USA used the advertising slogan “You Meet the Nicest People on an Honda”.  Now, you can also meet a middle-aged bald guy.  On Tuesday, I picked up a nicely rebuilt, classic 1965 Honda Super Cub from Uncle Graham Baker.  For those unfamiliar with the Super Cub, this isn’t just a classic motorcycle … it’s the world’s best selling motorized vehicle ever, with more than 60 million produced worldwide since its 1958 introduction.  While no longer sold in America, it’s still in production today overseas.

The bike is just beautiful, with classic styling and a step-through stamped steel frame.  It’s an economical vehicle with a tiny 49 cc, 4-cycle engine and three-speed semi-automatic transmission.  This one was even equipped with an optional electric starter.  One of my favorite ads for the Super Cub proclaims “Just Add a Gallon of Gas and You’re Ready to Go 225 Miles”.  Who needs a hybrid when you have a Super Cub?

The Super Cubs were also known for their rock-like durability, but this one will see light duty in Northern Michigan as a simple little leisure bike.  With a top speed under 50 MPH, I won’t be doing long road trips, but it’s perfect for the local roads around the lakes.  As The Beach Boys wrote in their 1964 hit Little Honda, “It’s not a big motorcycle, Just a groovy little motorbike”, and I completely agree.

About Kevin Forth

Always learning, Kevin is an IT professional that likes to tinker with electronics, motorcycles, and whatever he can take apart.

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2 Comments on “Classic Bike Comes Home to Alden”

  1. You DO meet the nicest people on a Honda!!!!! What great shots of the bike near the lake.
    It almost looks as if it will ride on water.
    Love all the history of this little machine. It’s meant to be enjoyed. So glad you’re riding it and not hanging it on the wall for art. Next are the tatoos and leather outfits. love, mj

    1. I’m certainly not hanging it on the wall … I’ve been riding it like it’s a new bike. This 45 year old machine is probably wondering what’s suddenly happened. I doubt it’s been ridden this much in years. I rode it to Mom’s earlier today, taking many scenic back roads, so that was a 25 mile round trip. I’ve also taken it on lots of little ten minute rides too. How long was the warranty?

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