these were banned for use in my area back in the late 70's. banned as unsafe. (mostly the pedal start ones) but all shaped like this got pulled over and ticketed
It's a version of the most popular vehicle in the world, not motorcycle, vehicle. More sold than all Volkswagen bugs and Toyota corollas combined!!! I thinks sales alone should make that pretty obvious
When the Honda craze hit my Texas hometown in 1965, my parents forbid me to ride with my friends on their Honda 50 and 65s. Which I did anyway. When they forbid me to own a Honda, I entered a contest sponsored by Coke and our local radio station and won a Honda Cub 50 in 1968. I rode that little bike everywhere including down the Gulf Freeway and over the causeway to Galveston. I remember old men owning the Trail models which they took camping in their pickup. Very capable little bikes. I ride a Harley Eglide now, but will always have a place in my heart for the Honda Cub 50!😎👍
I totally get the Vintage bike issues and the Stop Light conversations. I have a 1982 Honda VF 750 SC (the shaft drive VF). Every time I stop when out on a ride I end up in conversation with a stranger who had one, wanted one, a friend had one, brother had one or someone in their street had one. I will add that she is my daily rider and a couple of weeks ago managed a 1,000 mile trip to the Isle of Man (middle of November) without missing a beat in three days. Old Honda's never die, they just get better... Good video mate, best wishes from the UK.
Unfortunately, my 1964 Honda CA200 hasn’t been very reliable. It died while riding it in September 2021 and I have been chasing a ‘no spark’ malady ever since. Prior to that, it started easily when cold but was almost impossible to start when warm. A fun little bike when I can get it to run.
I could not agree with you more. I have a 1982 Trail 110. I cannot ride it down the street without someone stopping me to tell me how they wished they still had theirs, or it was their first bike and it was the best bike they ever owned. I can park it next to a Harley; people ignore the Harley and want to talk about the 110 - even the Harley owners! It is amazing how popular these lille bikes are. I also own two 1965 Honda Dreams (CA77) 305's. Fun and nostalgic bikes as well.
I'm in Australia and have the 82 VF 750 C ( Magna ) model myself. It was imported from the states in 2011 and only had about 13,000 miles ( 21,000 klms ) when I got it a couple of years ago. It's got about about 50,000 kms ( 31,000 miles ) now. You've got to love the American imports as they always have such low mileage on them.
The first version was a Honda Trail 55. I had one when I was 11 years old and grew up with that little bike. I’m 71 now, still riding and have owed probably 25 bikes in my life. The little Trail 55 opened up a whole new world for me! Thanks to my Pop for making it happen; bless his soul. We literally took it every where. No better way to grow up than to have a bike! In deed, what a start to ride through life starting on what some think is a toy. Pure respect for this Honda! Thanks RevZilla, Zack and Ari!
Here in Australia these bikes numbered in their thousands as they were the prime transport for the Postmen of the Australian Postal service. There are still hundreds of them in use today. They were also used by Farmers before the arrival Ag Bikes. There is an annual event here in Australia known as the Postie Bike Challenge where riders travel as much as 4,000 kilometers across the country to raise funds for needy causes.
I had the original C90 while living in the Dominican Republic. I put around 5000 miles on it. Great little machine! Never had an issue with it. I've taken people on it almost every day and I've sat on the back - it isn't actually that bad! Off-road capabilities are great too as I've ridden it down dirt trails and on the beach in deep sand without a problem. I miss it a lot. It was such a great vibe coasting at sunrise to the nearby surf spot!
The CT Trail 90 was my 1st bike at 12 yrs old. I mowed a lot of yards & shoveled a lot of snow to get it. I had some of the best times in my life on it. I'm 6.2" now & I'd say you'd have to be in good physical condition to ride that far & that long with your knees bent that far. Cramp city, but I'm glad they did, I loved it!
I actually have one of these from 1971 that I use as a daily commuter. It’s an amazing bike to have and I’ve taken it through rain and snow and it has impressed me every time.
i inherited a 69 ct90 from an uncle that passed. it sat in his backyard baking in the fontana sun for who knows how long. now its in Colorado sitting in the corner of the garage. Ari's rebuild inspired me to start restoring it. sounds like a box of rocks when i roll it around so it needs quite a lot of work, but im looking forward to it. thanks for the inspiration.
In Australia the postal service use these as delivery units and havé done so for as long as i can remember I am 70. It still the most fun on a bike I have had never let me down.
I purchased this 1975 CT90 off the dealer's showroom floor and enjoyed it daily for 15 years... even dated on it. Today, I own two: a 1980 CT110 and 1986 CT110. My five children learned to ride on these CTs and passed their motorcycle licence with them. Both CTs are in great shape and we all still enjoy riding them together! I also join them on a nice, vintage 1974 Honda light twin, the CB200. On the road we ride a pair of GTV/GTS 300i1 Vespas. We love CT 90/110 Hondas for all the same reasons as Zack. They are amazing!
Lovely bike, my neighbor gave me(free) his sl125 last year and I put 11$ into it to get it running. Ran it around the neighborhood all summer and put a whopping 120 miles on the thing! Now it's getting the treatment it deserves, rebuilding all the old worn-out components. These bikes are great, they are pure, they are motorcycling. Great episodes!!
Love the attention you gave to this bike. I have a ‘73 that’s been in my family since it was new. Brought it back from the dead 8 years ago and have a lot of sentimental attachment to it. Fun bikes for sure and there’s a bunch of FB groups that have like-minded collectors of these as well. Thanks for the vid!
There are probably millions of these sub-150 motorcycles running around Japan and even more around SE Asia. From food delivery to postman to girls going to high school (though my local post office started to convert to electric). Fun little machines, can't wait to get one to complement my main bike.
I've recently restored a '69, and I recommend avoiding that particular year. There are a number of one-year only parts on the '69 (including control cables) that can be hard to find. Later years are a better restoration choice. Nevertheless, I love this thing.
inherited a '69 from an uncle that passed. started tearing it apart to restore it. thanks for the heads up. also the front end intimidates me never worked one like that.
I can agree with this. I know 69 was a 1 year bike, but all of the k0 (67-69) bikes present this challenge. I have a 67. I really like the look of the earlier leading link suspension and the horizontal slots on the exhaust heat shields, but I wouldn't buy another one if I was looking for something to ride, rather than look at. It is near impossible to get a carb rebuild kit, and the carb itself would be very tough to replace. The bolt spacing on the carb/intake holes is not standard, so you can't just throw any Chinese carb on it. The intake boot is always missing and hard to get (not that this isn't the case for the later models too...). I'm not sure how much better the newer suspension is, but the leading link suspension on the k0 is not just soft but super short travel. Still so stoked on this bike. It has been an amazing project. It's all about lowering expectations and loving it for what it is. So much fun and makes everybody happy
I remember the adverts first time around. In the 1960s. Not that the UK got the CT models, but if I could get USA Moto magazines I pored over the Honda CT adverts and really wanted one of these, even the one with the twin rear sprockets before the dual-range transmission. I’ve watched all your CT episodes several times, and have just watched all three in one go!! An amazing bike and you and Ari did it justice, I think. Thank you. I’m now trying to turn an Innova (ANF125) into something of a look-alike. Some of it is fun🤣 Les in UK
Loved this series, the Alaska ride, Ari’s loving refresh, this daily ride. I rode my first real motorcycle, a Honda SL70 in 1971. The CT90 and all the other smaller Honda’s were so much a part of the motorcycle vibe when I was growing up. ❤️
This video and the prior two have been a blast to watch, having owned a couple of CT 90's. I haven't read the prior comments but I'm surprised that in your short history on this bike you did not mention it's long use, even to this day, in Australia as postal delivery transportation. Honda was selling this model for years around the world but their Australian postal service customer kept their production lines going strong for a very long time . The Postie, later also a 110cc version, is highly loved there to this day and tested to their capacity for abuse quite regularily, with great success!
When the old guy pulled up next to you to ask about the bike,I have a Honda Monkey 125 and people do it all the time on that bike,most think it is a restored Z-50,pretty fun stuff and a conversation piece.
I started riding on an old Trail 90. Now I have a Trail 125 and it's still one of my favorites to ride. Your little chuckle when you stepped off the bike says it all. That's pretty much my reaction I have every time I ride mine. Impossible not to have a smile when you ride these awesome little machines.
I recently received my trail 125 I am beyond happy with this little motorcycle took about nine months because there's a big waiting list for them worth waiting for I'm in South Florida and I've been doing a lot of trail riding and it's absolutely amazing how simple and reliable this little motorcycle is 🙌👌
Had a Trail 90 back in the late 70's/early 80's. Picked up a new Trail 125 this past summer, which is not quite the same as the old Trail 90. Found a '75 Trail 90 this past fall, and had to get it. The 125 is 80lbs heavier and a bit taller. Both are terrific bikes.
This bike created more human mobility than any personal motor vehicle ever. Just a great piece of engineering for all of mankind. For me, the sound of it is sweeter than any other engine, it just means freedom and happiness. And that the noodle lady has arrived to set up shop.
I love these and really want one! Although you’d think with how many millions they sold and how many are out there, they’d be worth a little less. You could buy a new Trail 125 for what some of sell for.
Its the same with old Beetles. People treat them as disposable object because they where so cheap, then half a century later people want them because of nostalgia.
I'm 64 years old. My dad purchased the new1971 Honda CL 100 for me. For the grand total of $349 before taxes. My friend had the Trail 70. Younger kids down the street had the trail 50's. I remember this bike too. DAMN, people get a small fortune out of them today. They do bring back memories.
They are awesome little bikes. We had two 1975’s on our ranch back in the day. Great little work horses. Used and abused them for years until they just said I’m done. We moved on to Honda three wheelers after that bring due to more useful and quads today. Great memories on those little 90’s👍
I bought a 1978 CT90 as my first bike last summer. I spent lots of time and money learning how to tinker and restore it. I learned a lot but I’m not gonna lie, it was a real pain. All of the fasteners are soft as butter, all of the parts take a month to get to Canada and cost a ton to ship, it’s quite delicate if you’re trying to keep it in good shape. I sold it this past summer. Definitely wouldn’t own it as your only bike, but would be great as a side project.
I feel your pain. I purchased my first CT90 in summer 2019. It was a 1970. Bought it for $1,500 usd and blew about $1,500 usd attempting to refurb it. In the end it looked beautiful, however it drank oil and fouled plugs. Could not find any mechanic willing to give it a new top end. Plus no guarantee a new top end would have fixed it. Literally as I gave up on my little beautiful money pit Honda released their Trail125 prototype at the Tokyo Bike Show. Immediately sold my CT90 for $1,200 usd and put the funds towards a deposit on my current Trail125. Dreams do come true.... eventually 😄🙏
Just throw a 1981-1985 atc110 or atc125m engine in them! Never spend time on the 90 engine you will switch to pull start instead of kick start or with the atc125m electric start, that's the only downside. Still have hi/low but the engines are some 15years newer and have cdi ignition systems and a good increase in power, the 110 doesn't use a battery even so you really virtually can't break down. 55mph instead of 45. Wheelies too! Chinese engines are really hit and miss I've had good and bad ones but hondas shift better every time and are just smoother in general.
These bikes are very popular where I'm from, and cubs and others like it. You can wheelie them at any speed if you come down on the seat hard enough, even flat out in 4th gear. Also there's the other tactic of holding the gear lever down and revving it up before letting the gear off which mimics using the clutch. Of course if you do wheelie them a lot you might crack the frame but there's just something undeniably fun and charming about a little bike like this pulling wheelies.
Just letting you know you giggled all the way while making this video, which tells US how fun and appreciative is this bike. That was fun to watch thank you!
My father got 2 of these when I was young, a 1967 and a 1969 I think. The older one had 2 rear sprockets and to shift to low range you had to add links to the chain and run it on the larger sprocket. The newer of the 2 could be shifted without tools, I can't remember how. We rode those things thousands of miles. They never failed nor did they ever do anything spectacularly well they just always got us where we were going even when there was no trail at all.
@@davesy6969 The original Trail 90 (the CT200) didn’t have the selectable trans, it had 2 rear sprockets and a piece of chain. After 3 years of production, Honda added the Hi/Lo switch trans and changed the designation to CT90.
This is the bike that got me I to bikes. My dad had a 110 when I was a kid and had alot of fun on it. I didnt really ride again until my 30s when. My dad found two 90s for a great price. I happened to meet up with a few other Ct owners in Jan of 2020 and we did a group ride up in the Sierra Nevada foothills up through the snow and dirt roads. Well to say I was hooked is an understatement. Our CT/small Honda rides kept going on through the first stages of lockdown / pandemic here in California and really made life bearable. I have a whole crew of great friends because of this magic little machine!
In 2018-2019 I rode my '73 trail 90 all around the Carson City Nevada area. From the desert to the High Sierras there was nowhere it couldn't get me to and then back home. Never had a problem. In low gear you could climb a tree with it! There isn't a hill or mountain in the surrounding area that I didn't climb including a few that would give an exceptionally motivated mountain goat a case of the dry-heaves just thinking about climbing up it! Wonderful memories!
Been running my 75 for 47 years now, still a champ. BTW, don't use "fork oil", specs call for straight 30 weight. I ran the wheels off a 68 back in the day, the leading link forks had 1.5" pf travel and I jumped that too, bent the sheet metal forks but it was an even bend so all was well.
Zack alluded to the weird feeling one gets when riding such a small, powerless machine in traffic or on the highway. After riding a modern, even mid-sized, machine in town, my description of riding a Honda 90 is: one feels completely naked! That said, what a great, legendary machine is the Trail 90. Zack and Ari did it justice! Thanks.
I love the double blip on the throttle on the second back in attempt! Look at you work the auto clutch👍. Do you see how he did this people… it’s not done by locking the rear brake! That’s not backing it in. That’s called skidding your rear tire. That leads to a crash.
I've owned several old Honda XRs over the years, last one was an XR600 (not quite as ancient as the Trail 90 but still an old Honda) and nothing runs like an Old Honda only problem I ever had was a stator go bad. I LOVE that you guys took the small bikes on the AK adventure. I have an R12GS and honestly if your riding doesn't involve High Speed highway runs for long distances the little bikes (ok like 250-600cc, not sure I'd be satisfied with anything smaller) are where it's at especially on dirt or rough roads.
These earlier CT90's had a 6v electrical system, and normal points distributor. They were designed to be a light trail bike, where crossing water might happen, which is why the exhaust is up high. The Low range on the gearbox was also for climbing steep trails. Also, the steering handlebar has a clamp, when released, allows it to be turned sideways, making it easier to carry or store. Overall, wasn't meant to go freeway speeds - just reasonably sedate but constant miles. One of the reasons they made so many, and had such a long lifespan, was they became the default delivery bike for mailman for Australia Post. So they ordered tens of thousands of the things. They also wanted the bike to become simpler, more reliable and cheaper, so Honda made changes. Most the CT90's in Australia did not have the low-range selector. The electrical system was changed onwards as standard 12v, with an electrical distribution. In Australia, the extra fuel tank was changed for a handy toolkit. I've still got mine - like many, retired from Australia Post and lives its life out on the farm.
I said something like this on the CTXP video and I'll repeat it here: IMHO, itakes some SERIOUS guts to ride that little thingy across Alaska, or LA, or the street, for that matter. LOL Thanks for another excellent video, Zack!
I bought a 1969 to restore as a pandemic project, also as a learning project like Zack suggests. I've learned how to rebuild an engine, how to strip down and repaint everything, how to polish aluminum, how expensive chrome work is, and on and on... I also learned that 1969 was a transitional year and that early '69 models and later '69 models were slightly different and that I have an early '69 model. So I've also learned how important part and schematic research is, lol. If this was a VW Beetle it would be highly sought after, but it's an old Honda so it's just more of a PIA to find parts for unique models. If you're looking at one for a learning project, shoot for a mid-'70's model. Also, those little gas cans are worth their weight in gold.
the Honda 50 Cub was my first bike. Not even sure of the year, it was used when I got it. Had my Dad buy it for me, I just turned 14 and rode it for 4 years all through my high school years. Little bike but I went everywhere on that bike. Then 47 years later, I got a 2008 Honda Shadow 750 which I am still riding to this day... Appreciate your vids on the ride to Alaska and here, brings back memories... thanks so much... P.S. Gas at that time was $.35 cents a gallon. the gas tank held %.25 cents worth and I could go almost 100 miles on a tank...
Fair finish for the Classic VW Beetle of Motorcycles. Not Fast, and Not Furious, but has Conquered Continents because of it's simplicity, approachability, and rock solid reliability. There's a reason Australia Post ran a fleet of theses things for nearly 50 years
These are great little bikes. I picked one up in July 2020, an Orange 74 model, for $100. With a carb cleanup, $10 battery and scuffing the points, it was running. Pretty good for a 47yr old bike. Have since gotten a new carb and an innertube. Love the dual range. Good for out here in the west Texas desert and hills. I did name her Dreamsicle.
So great to see the mix of new and old on the Daily ride. It almost seems that the "classics" are becoming something of a regular feature. Great to hear some of the history of the bikes too.. Wonder if anyone has a Hodaka Wombat or Ace that you could ride...
I was hoping that the CT90 would have been the first ride of a new season so it would at the top of the list. But out of all the bikes on the list it definitely has the best story.
I just went to but a 2024 trail 125 and me and this fella probably twice my age were talking about how good these old ones were right there in the dealer
Really appreciate the honest placement on the leaderboard. Great little machine for its time and technology and capabilities have moved on. Nostalgia alone isn’t enough to make a bike excellent.
I have a 1971 Trail 90 with 1400 original miles. All original and looks almost new and runs great. You might want to switch to a solid state rectifier for reliability. Otherwise, just enjoy it.
My first bike was a new 1970 CT90 in canary yellow. Lots of hunters had them and they would go ANYWHERE albeit slowly. Slow but steady. The airbox snorkel located under seat so if going through water you can be up to your knees with no problems. In low range it will keep moving forward as long as the tires have traction. If the new 125 had come with the dual range tranny set up I would buy one in a heartbeat.
The new one has more than 2x the torque of the old one and the low range was 2:1 so first gear on this ALREADY has as much torque as the old 90 in low range but you get more top speed than ever and don't have to switch between both.... you don't need low range unless you need to go less than 3mph
Well of course it wouldn't accelerate hard, you had it in rain mode. Flick to track mode and prepare to go back to the future. First proper bike I rode in the Virgin Islands, the 110 version. Great fun.
After these videos I want one. Going to wait until after xmas and see if the itch is still there. Thanks for all the work and content. Revzilla is the best. Especially Ari and Mr Courts.
I have a 71’ ct90 and i take it out most every day after work. Its a hoot to cruise around- i have done some bushwacking backwoods riding and I couldnt ask for a better bike; it goes anywhere i ask it too. My friend has the new 125 and it feels like the next logical step after the original 90
My very first ride. Believe it or not, that 90 will eat your lunch when you are nine years old. I can remember thinking that a CB 350 was HUGE. Also, I was under the impression that they came new with a stolen milk crate. The ride along Chihuahua was extra.
Well if were going to get into vintage bikes I would love to see my first bike witch was a Honda 1970 175 SL. It along with the 350 SL were some of the first dual sports that Honda made. I rode my 175 all over Montana. I grew up in Missoula and rode to Bozeman and back and to Glacier Park and back and also off road on single track. I have very found memories of all of that as most of us old riders do. I am not sure why but there always seems to be sentimental attachments our firsts what ever machine it is. Please Revzilla give us more. This bit about the Honda 90 was spectacular. I loved it.
@@johnpagejr.7628 awesome bikes tho honda really knew what they were doing back then, well they always have but stopped sending the good stuff to America about '85
@@16driver16 Well as that maybe true I have three Honda's in my garage. I stopped riding not long after I got married but after my wife died went out and bought a CRF230L. Then I bought a NC700X and 2weeks ago I finally got my CRF300L Rally and love it. I will probably sell the 700 if anyone is interested let me know.
@@johnpagejr.7628 the trail90 was my first street legal motorcycle, I waited all to long at 28yrs old to start riding on the road. I ended up with 6 ct90s and 2 c70 passports, sold them off and upgraded to a tw200 until my back stopped being able to do serious offroading. I sold the tw200 and ride a 2017 duke 390 now, with some offroad tires for when I ride logging roads and small trails, but mostly stick to mountain roads for my backs sake.
I always wanted a Trail 90 because my Grandpa had one. He died in 1969 when I was almost 5 and I remember riding on it. I know it was used so it may have been one of the first few years offered. Now that the 125 is out I would like to have one of those. Purely sentimental for me.
In the late 60's and early 70's pickup campers were getting popular. You could order a set of strap on bumper motorcycle carriers from companies like JC Whitney very cheap. It was common to see Trail 90's strapped to the front or back of pickups with campers. Those carriers didn't protrude far from the bumper so the swiveling handle bars was a nice touch to make them fit in those carriers.
In the Philippines we have the Honda XRM since the early 2000's as we have a mix of paved, badly-paved, unpaved roads and even trails leading to remote communities; probably based on the original Trail concept and designed to adopt a cub-like Honda XR dual sport design. I even think XRM means "XR-Mini". Anyway the bike has pretty similar specs to the Grom and CT125 as I think they share the same engine and other bits. I do hope you could import one and take it on another trail adventure.
The ct90's did not come with blinkers by default until 1975. This was due to laws in the US requiring motorcycles to have blinkers. Earlier models did have an option to include blinkers although there are not many surviving examples. You can change out the front and rear shocks for more stiffness to accommodate heavier riders on rougher terrain and still keep the stock look. You can also get an aftermarket cam that will increase the torque without providing any top end HP. I did not hear it mentioned but these bikes are 6v. The Honda CT 110's are 12v. You can get conversion kits to change out the 6v incandescent bulbs for LEDs. If you get one that's been sitting around you can quickly overall it by a top end rebuild. Get the head and cylinder redone with a new piston and rings. Don't forget to rebuild the carburetor, there are some decent videos that can walk you through it and it's easier than you think. The chances of needing to rebuild the bottom is VERY low. Australia uses these bikes for their postal service, called Posties, and they run them up to 30k miles without issue.
Learned to ride many years ago on a Trail 50 and then "graduated" to a Trail 70. The 50 was a centrifugal clutch with foot lever but the 70 was a standard. Different platforms, I know, but really neat to see what has been done with this 90.
In 1995, my buddy asked me if i wanted to buy his bike for $300. A CB125S built in 1985. I rode that bike for 19 years. It was not much different. It was great around town. And not bad on long rides as long as you weren't in a hurry. 45-50 mph. I think it had 100,000 miles on it by the end. My current bike is a 2007 yamaha scooter. 250cc. Sort of like a modern version of the cushman highlander
My first bike at age 12 was a 1968 T 90. Learned how to ride on it, went everywhere in the woods and trails. I don’t think I ever did a minute of maintenance and it went great.
The clutchless operation made this bike good for woodsmen, hunters, farmers, postmen, food delivery people because you can operate it with one hand. Combined with the light weight and trail ability, low seat height, you can do all kinds of awkward jobs that farmers, woodsmen, hunters do (open and close gates, operate tools and weapons etc). It goes beyond a bike and is a machine that is a huge timesaver for so many jobs. I would argue that even to this day for some purposes it's the ONLY tool. It can take you down narrow animal trails through woods and things that an ATV won't. You can idle along at low speed and use the other hand to parry branches and things away. At 200lb you can just lift it over big obstacles
Thoroughly enjoyed your Alaska video with the Honda Trails, so good to see the Trail 90 getting extra air time on this channel. Hope this won’t be the last time we see it - maybe a challenge video?
Check out Ari’s Alaska Adventure article here! rvz.la/31nGGXf
If you get the parts for the speedometer, you can make one of those new-fangled UA-cam-Shorts with it.
Just a suggestion.
these were banned for use in my area back in the late 70's. banned as unsafe. (mostly the pedal start ones) but all shaped like this got pulled over and ticketed
Watched and enjoyed, thank you
Those handle bars are way off
I live in anchorage
Knowing this bike survived the ctxp and after seeing the restoration, it is safe to say that this bike is an engineering marvel.
I don't think marvel makes motorcycles. But thanks for stopping by!
It's a version of the most popular vehicle in the world, not motorcycle, vehicle. More sold than all Volkswagen bugs and Toyota corollas combined!!! I thinks sales alone should make that pretty obvious
Honda did a good job on the engine (it was neat to watch Ari tear it down, and then reassemble it).
It’s a Honda expect nothing less from all of their bikes
@@hassimyousef9683 Not all their engines have been great, believe it or not
When the Honda craze hit my Texas hometown in 1965, my parents forbid me to ride with my friends on their Honda 50 and 65s. Which I did anyway. When they forbid me to own a Honda, I entered a contest sponsored by Coke and our local radio station and won a Honda Cub 50 in 1968. I rode that little bike everywhere including down the Gulf Freeway and over the causeway to Galveston. I remember old men owning the Trail models which they took camping in their pickup. Very capable little bikes. I ride a Harley Eglide now, but will always have a place in my heart for the Honda Cub 50!😎👍
My first bike was a red c50. Loved it. I own a c90 now 😊
Yeah japan (including their products) were viewed very negatively back then, since the war was still fresh in people's minds.
@@tristan6509 not just japanese products, motorcycling at that time was considered as dangerous, and smt that gangs do, Honda changed that belief
I like how you guys have decided to showcase this bike after the rebuild. I was hoping to see more of it after the fact.
Me too
Me too
add me to that list as well!
I totally get the Vintage bike issues and the Stop Light conversations. I have a 1982 Honda VF 750 SC (the shaft drive VF). Every time I stop when out on a ride I end up in conversation with a stranger who had one, wanted one, a friend had one, brother had one or someone in their street had one. I will add that she is my daily rider and a couple of weeks ago managed a 1,000 mile trip to the Isle of Man (middle of November) without missing a beat in three days. Old Honda's never die, they just get better... Good video mate, best wishes from the UK.
Bro I just googled to see what your motorcycle looks like. And it looks fantastic, enjoy it.
Unfortunately, my 1964 Honda CA200 hasn’t been very reliable. It died while riding it in September 2021 and I have been chasing a ‘no spark’ malady ever since. Prior to that, it started easily when cold but was almost impossible to start when warm. A fun little bike when I can get it to run.
Really appreciate you keeping that bike on the road sir. Cheers!
I could not agree with you more. I have a 1982 Trail 110. I cannot ride it down the street without someone stopping me to tell me how they wished they still had theirs, or it was their first bike and it was the best bike they ever owned. I can park it next to a Harley; people ignore the Harley and want to talk about the 110 - even the Harley owners! It is amazing how popular these lille bikes are. I also own two 1965 Honda Dreams (CA77) 305's. Fun and nostalgic bikes as well.
I'm in Australia and have the 82 VF 750 C ( Magna ) model myself. It was imported from the states in 2011 and only had about 13,000 miles ( 21,000 klms ) when I got it a couple of years ago. It's got about about 50,000 kms ( 31,000 miles ) now. You've got to love the American imports as they always have such low mileage on them.
The first version was a Honda Trail 55. I had one when I was 11 years old and grew up with that little bike.
I’m 71 now, still riding and have owed probably 25 bikes in my life.
The little Trail 55 opened up a whole new world for me! Thanks to my Pop for making it happen; bless his soul. We literally took it every where. No better way to grow up than to have a bike!
In deed, what a start to ride through life starting on what some think is a toy. Pure respect for this Honda!
Thanks RevZilla, Zack and Ari!
For once I agree that you absolutely have to watch the preceding videos. They are both excellent. The shop manual video is a work of art.
Here in Australia these bikes numbered in their thousands as they were the prime transport for the Postmen of the Australian Postal service. There are still hundreds of them in use today. They were also used by Farmers before the arrival Ag Bikes. There is an annual event here in Australia known as the Postie Bike Challenge where riders travel as much as 4,000 kilometers across the country to raise funds for needy causes.
I had the original C90 while living in the Dominican Republic. I put around 5000 miles on it. Great little machine! Never had an issue with it. I've taken people on it almost every day and I've sat on the back - it isn't actually that bad! Off-road capabilities are great too as I've ridden it down dirt trails and on the beach in deep sand without a problem. I miss it a lot. It was such a great vibe coasting at sunrise to the nearby surf spot!
My second or 3rd bike was a CT90 - it's what I took my DMV test on. Amazing little bike with a huge heart. I kick myself for getting rid of it.
The CT Trail 90 was my 1st bike at 12 yrs old. I mowed a lot of yards & shoveled a lot of snow to get it. I had some of the best times in my life on it. I'm 6.2" now & I'd say you'd have to be in good physical condition to ride that far & that long with your knees bent that far. Cramp city, but I'm glad they did, I loved it!
Ari did an awesome job of rebuilding this bike. That was an amazing video... award winning maybe!
I actually have one of these from 1971 that I use as a daily commuter. It’s an amazing bike to have and I’ve taken it through rain and snow and it has impressed me every time.
Do you need a driver's license to ride this bike
@@edselbobpacerin some countries the 50cc version does not require a license
But the trail 90 is considered a real motorcycle
i inherited a 69 ct90 from an uncle that passed. it sat in his backyard baking in the fontana sun for who knows how long. now its in Colorado sitting in the corner of the garage. Ari's rebuild inspired me to start restoring it. sounds like a box of rocks when i roll it around so it needs quite a lot of work, but im looking forward to it. thanks for the inspiration.
In Australia the postal service use these as delivery units and havé done so for as long as i can remember I am 70. It still the most fun on a bike I have had never let me down.
I purchased this 1975 CT90 off the dealer's showroom floor and enjoyed it daily for 15 years... even dated on it. Today, I own two: a 1980 CT110 and 1986 CT110. My five children learned to ride on these CTs and passed their motorcycle licence with them. Both CTs are in great shape and we all still enjoy riding them together! I also join them on a nice, vintage 1974 Honda light twin, the CB200. On the road we ride a pair of GTV/GTS 300i1 Vespas.
We love CT 90/110 Hondas for all the same reasons as Zack. They are amazing!
Lovely bike, my neighbor gave me(free) his sl125 last year and I put 11$ into it to get it running. Ran it around the neighborhood all summer and put a whopping 120 miles on the thing! Now it's getting the treatment it deserves, rebuilding all the old worn-out components. These bikes are great, they are pure, they are motorcycling. Great episodes!!
That SL was the first bike I ever owned and would love to find one to restore. Good luck!
What was that $11 for shits and giggles.
@@ryanthompson2893 Spark plug and oil. The rest was adjust and clean points, clear rats nest from air box and clean carburetor.
Zack's laugh when he first backs it in....priceless. The joy of motorcycling.
Respect to Ari Henning for the restoration video. What a work of art.
Ive been watching all of the ctxp and throttle out waiting for a new video. More Zack and Ari please
I second this Revzilla so listen!!!
Every week almost there’s a new video
I learned to ride on my Uncle Jim's Trail 90, and now 50 years later still riding. Thanks for the memories.
Love the attention you gave to this bike. I have a ‘73 that’s been in my family since it was new. Brought it back from the dead 8 years ago and have a lot of sentimental attachment to it. Fun bikes for sure and there’s a bunch of FB groups that have like-minded collectors of these as well. Thanks for the vid!
There are probably millions of these sub-150 motorcycles running around Japan and even more around SE Asia. From food delivery to postman to girls going to high school (though my local post office started to convert to electric). Fun little machines, can't wait to get one to complement my main bike.
I've recently restored a '69, and I recommend avoiding that particular year. There are a number of one-year only parts on the '69 (including control cables) that can be hard to find.
Later years are a better restoration choice.
Nevertheless, I love this thing.
Chect out Dr Atv. Might have something you're looking for.
Contact Mel Bashor on the CT90 FB group. He makes new old stock sets.
inherited a '69 from an uncle that passed. started tearing it apart to restore it. thanks for the heads up. also the front end intimidates me never worked one like that.
I can agree with this. I know 69 was a 1 year bike, but all of the k0 (67-69) bikes present this challenge. I have a 67. I really like the look of the earlier leading link suspension and the horizontal slots on the exhaust heat shields, but I wouldn't buy another one if I was looking for something to ride, rather than look at. It is near impossible to get a carb rebuild kit, and the carb itself would be very tough to replace. The bolt spacing on the carb/intake holes is not standard, so you can't just throw any Chinese carb on it. The intake boot is always missing and hard to get (not that this isn't the case for the later models too...). I'm not sure how much better the newer suspension is, but the leading link suspension on the k0 is not just soft but super short travel.
Still so stoked on this bike. It has been an amazing project. It's all about lowering expectations and loving it for what it is. So much fun and makes everybody happy
I remember the adverts first time around. In the 1960s. Not that the UK got the CT models, but if I could get USA Moto magazines I pored over the Honda CT adverts and really wanted one of these, even the one with the twin rear sprockets before the dual-range transmission. I’ve watched all your CT episodes several times, and have just watched all three in one go!! An amazing bike and you and Ari did it justice, I think. Thank you. I’m now trying to turn an Innova (ANF125) into something of a look-alike. Some of it is fun🤣 Les in UK
I grew up in Vietnam and my family had 2 of these, one Cub 70, and STILL have them in storage right now.
Enjoy Zack and Ari's videos immensely. Hope we get to see these two and more well into the future. Thanks.
After seeing CTXP, That new Trail 125 is as rugged and simple as a new bike is, I WANT ONE MORE THAN EVER NOW.
Me too
Due to the size and the fact i'm not a short person, I do not but I was very impressed with how the Trail 125 performed, its a solid machine!
Count me also, and I already bought myself a brand new bike a year ago.
I genuinely love that Ari didn't bother replacing the original brake cable before the big Alaska ride.
I always enjoy the Daily Rider episodes but this one just made me smile all the way through.
That instrument cluster review was perfect. It's blue and has numbers, and a needle!
Loved this series, the Alaska ride, Ari’s loving refresh, this daily ride. I rode my first real motorcycle, a Honda SL70 in 1971. The CT90 and all the other smaller Honda’s were so much a part of the motorcycle vibe when I was growing up. ❤️
This video and the prior two have been a blast to watch, having owned a couple of CT 90's. I haven't read the prior comments but I'm surprised that in your short history on this bike you did not mention it's long use, even to this day, in Australia as postal delivery transportation. Honda was selling this model for years around the world but their Australian postal service customer kept their production lines going strong for a very long time . The Postie, later also a 110cc version, is highly loved there to this day and tested to their capacity for abuse quite regularily, with great success!
When the old guy pulled up next to you to ask about the bike,I have a Honda Monkey 125 and people do it all the time on that bike,most think it is a restored Z-50,pretty fun stuff and a conversation piece.
“You meet the nicest people on a Honda”
I started riding on an old Trail 90. Now I have a Trail 125 and it's still one of my favorites to ride. Your little chuckle when you stepped off the bike says it all. That's pretty much my reaction I have every time I ride mine. Impossible not to have a smile when you ride these awesome little machines.
I recently received my trail 125 I am beyond happy with this little motorcycle took about nine months because there's a big waiting list for them worth waiting for I'm in South Florida and I've been doing a lot of trail riding and it's absolutely amazing how simple and reliable this little motorcycle is 🙌👌
Had a Trail 90 back in the late 70's/early 80's. Picked up a new Trail 125 this past summer, which is not quite the same as the old Trail 90. Found a '75 Trail 90 this past fall, and had to get it. The 125 is 80lbs heavier and a bit taller. Both are terrific bikes.
This bike created more human mobility than any personal motor vehicle ever. Just a great piece of engineering for all of mankind. For me, the sound of it is sweeter than any other engine, it just means freedom and happiness. And that the noodle lady has arrived to set up shop.
I love these and really want one! Although you’d think with how many millions they sold and how many are out there, they’d be worth a little less. You could buy a new Trail 125 for what some of sell for.
Most of the old ones were shown no mercy or care and have been scrapped by now.
Yeah but good luck buying a 125 right now.
Its the same with old Beetles. People treat them as disposable object because they where so cheap, then half a century later people want them because of nostalgia.
People think they are worth that but real trail90 owners don't pay anywhere over $1200 for a good running riding bike. Join the Facebook group
US sales were a very small percentage of total sales. These old bikes are s lot more common and can be purchased for much less in other countries.
I'm 64 years old. My dad purchased the new1971 Honda CL 100 for me. For the grand total of $349 before taxes. My friend had the Trail 70. Younger kids down the street had the trail 50's. I remember this bike too. DAMN, people get a small fortune out of them today. They do bring back memories.
Vintage bikes all day long. I have a '71 CT70, '71 CB350, & 71'CL350. All in blue
They are awesome little bikes. We had two 1975’s on our ranch back in the day. Great little work horses. Used and abused them for years until they just said I’m done. We moved on to Honda three wheelers after that bring due to more useful and quads today. Great memories on those little 90’s👍
I bought a 1978 CT90 as my first bike last summer. I spent lots of time and money learning how to tinker and restore it. I learned a lot but I’m not gonna lie, it was a real pain. All of the fasteners are soft as butter, all of the parts take a month to get to Canada and cost a ton to ship, it’s quite delicate if you’re trying to keep it in good shape. I sold it this past summer. Definitely wouldn’t own it as your only bike, but would be great as a side project.
I feel your pain. I purchased my first CT90 in summer 2019. It was a 1970. Bought it for $1,500 usd and blew about $1,500 usd attempting to refurb it. In the end it looked beautiful, however it drank oil and fouled plugs. Could not find any mechanic willing to give it a new top end. Plus no guarantee a new top end would have fixed it. Literally as I gave up on my little beautiful money pit Honda released their Trail125 prototype at the Tokyo Bike Show. Immediately sold my CT90 for $1,200 usd and put the funds towards a deposit on my current Trail125. Dreams do come true.... eventually 😄🙏
@@findingneutral Owning an old CT is a romantic idea, but it's more work than its reputation would lead you to believe
@@GimmehMyMoney I agree 100%. Ill never buy a refurb again.
Just throw a 1981-1985 atc110 or atc125m engine in them! Never spend time on the 90 engine you will switch to pull start instead of kick start or with the atc125m electric start, that's the only downside. Still have hi/low but the engines are some 15years newer and have cdi ignition systems and a good increase in power, the 110 doesn't use a battery even so you really virtually can't break down. 55mph instead of 45. Wheelies too! Chinese engines are really hit and miss I've had good and bad ones but hondas shift better every time and are just smoother in general.
More Zac and Ari!!!
I have six Trail 90’s. For the vintage the can definitely be ridden every day. Always keep one plated and insured. Fun low power enjoyment.
These bikes are very popular where I'm from, and cubs and others like it. You can wheelie them at any speed if you come down on the seat hard enough, even flat out in 4th gear. Also there's the other tactic of holding the gear lever down and revving it up before letting the gear off which mimics using the clutch. Of course if you do wheelie them a lot you might crack the frame but there's just something undeniably fun and charming about a little bike like this pulling wheelies.
Just letting you know you giggled all the way while making this video, which tells US how fun and appreciative is this bike. That was fun to watch thank you!
My father got 2 of these when I was young, a 1967 and a 1969 I think. The older one had 2 rear sprockets and to shift to low range you had to add links to the chain and run it on the larger sprocket. The newer of the 2 could be shifted without tools, I can't remember how. We rode those things thousands of miles. They never failed nor did they ever do anything spectacularly well they just always got us where we were going even when there was no trail at all.
There was a high/low gear switch on the rear left of the engine.
@@davesy6969 The original Trail 90 (the CT200) didn’t have the selectable trans, it had 2 rear sprockets and a piece of chain. After 3 years of production, Honda added the Hi/Lo switch trans and changed the designation to CT90.
My brothers and I used to go logging with our trail... like literally pull logs out of the woods of VT.
And Mom's bike still runs great to this day!
This is the bike that got me I to bikes. My dad had a 110 when I was a kid and had alot of fun on it. I didnt really ride again until my 30s when. My dad found two 90s for a great price. I happened to meet up with a few other Ct owners in Jan of 2020 and we did a group ride up in the Sierra Nevada foothills up through the snow and dirt roads. Well to say I was hooked is an understatement. Our CT/small Honda rides kept going on through the first stages of lockdown / pandemic here in California and really made life bearable. I have a whole crew of great friends because of this magic little machine!
I'm pretty sure corvette guy will love the trail 90 I mean who doesn't
You meet the nicest people on a Honda
The trail 90 has become a must own cycle in my life!
Go to Australia and become a postie and they'll give you a free one.
In 2018-2019 I rode my '73 trail 90 all around the Carson City Nevada area. From the desert to the High Sierras there was nowhere it couldn't get me to and then back home. Never had a problem. In low gear you could climb a tree with it! There isn't a hill or mountain in the surrounding area that I didn't climb including a few that would give an exceptionally motivated mountain goat a case of the dry-heaves just thinking about climbing up it! Wonderful memories!
WHAT AN UPSET!
I was fully expecting a top 10 finish from the trail. So exciting.
Ari did an amazing job of refurbing it, I was impressed!
Been running my 75 for 47 years now, still a champ.
BTW, don't use "fork oil", specs call for straight 30 weight.
I ran the wheels off a 68 back in the day, the leading link forks had 1.5" pf travel and I jumped that too, bent the sheet metal forks but it was an even bend so all was well.
Zack alluded to the weird feeling one gets when riding such a small, powerless machine in traffic or on the highway. After riding a modern, even mid-sized, machine in town, my description of riding a Honda 90 is: one feels completely naked! That said, what a great, legendary machine is the Trail 90. Zack and Ari did it justice! Thanks.
I dont know what my life would be without revzilla
That restoration video was 🔥🔥🔥
Agreed.
I have been using my 2008 ct110 as a daily rider for 10 years. Still running great.
I love the double blip on the throttle on the second back in attempt! Look at you work the auto clutch👍. Do you see how he did this people… it’s not done by locking the rear brake! That’s not backing it in. That’s called skidding your rear tire. That leads to a crash.
POSTIES are Super popular in Australia and they race them! We need this in the US
The 110 (105cc) used here in Australia for decades to deliver the mail. That's why they're called 'Postie Bikes' Love my 1985 CT.
I've owned several old Honda XRs over the years, last one was an XR600 (not quite as ancient as the Trail 90 but still an old Honda) and nothing runs like an Old Honda only problem I ever had was a stator go bad. I LOVE that you guys took the small bikes on the AK adventure. I have an R12GS and honestly if your riding doesn't involve High Speed highway runs for long distances the little bikes (ok like 250-600cc, not sure I'd be satisfied with anything smaller) are where it's at especially on dirt or rough roads.
These earlier CT90's had a 6v electrical system, and normal points distributor. They were designed to be a light trail bike, where crossing water might happen, which is why the exhaust is up high. The Low range on the gearbox was also for climbing steep trails. Also, the steering handlebar has a clamp, when released, allows it to be turned sideways, making it easier to carry or store. Overall, wasn't meant to go freeway speeds - just reasonably sedate but constant miles.
One of the reasons they made so many, and had such a long lifespan, was they became the default delivery bike for mailman for Australia Post. So they ordered tens of thousands of the things. They also wanted the bike to become simpler, more reliable and cheaper, so Honda made changes. Most the CT90's in Australia did not have the low-range selector. The electrical system was changed onwards as standard 12v, with an electrical distribution. In Australia, the extra fuel tank was changed for a handy toolkit.
I've still got mine - like many, retired from Australia Post and lives its life out on the farm.
I said something like this on the CTXP video and I'll repeat it here: IMHO, itakes some SERIOUS guts to ride that little thingy across Alaska, or LA, or the street, for that matter. LOL Thanks for another excellent video, Zack!
I bought a 1969 to restore as a pandemic project, also as a learning project like Zack suggests. I've learned how to rebuild an engine, how to strip down and repaint everything, how to polish aluminum, how expensive chrome work is, and on and on... I also learned that 1969 was a transitional year and that early '69 models and later '69 models were slightly different and that I have an early '69 model. So I've also learned how important part and schematic research is, lol. If this was a VW Beetle it would be highly sought after, but it's an old Honda so it's just more of a PIA to find parts for unique models. If you're looking at one for a learning project, shoot for a mid-'70's model. Also, those little gas cans are worth their weight in gold.
Any other bikes gas tanks will put you back $200-$300 easy it's that everything else on them is cheap
the Honda 50 Cub was my first bike. Not even sure of the year, it was used when I got it. Had my Dad buy it for me, I just turned 14 and rode it for 4 years all through my high school years. Little bike but I went everywhere on that bike. Then 47 years later, I got a 2008 Honda Shadow 750 which I am still riding to this day... Appreciate your vids on the ride to Alaska and here, brings back memories... thanks so much... P.S. Gas at that time was $.35 cents a gallon. the gas tank held %.25 cents worth and I could go almost 100 miles on a tank...
Fair finish for the Classic VW Beetle of Motorcycles.
Not Fast, and Not Furious, but has Conquered Continents because of it's simplicity, approachability, and rock solid reliability.
There's a reason Australia Post ran a fleet of theses things for nearly 50 years
These are great little bikes. I picked one up in July 2020, an Orange 74 model, for $100. With a carb cleanup, $10 battery and scuffing the points, it was running. Pretty good for a 47yr old bike. Have since gotten a new carb and an innertube. Love the dual range. Good for out here in the west Texas desert and hills. I did name her Dreamsicle.
I want one of those so bad. 1975 too. The year I was born. Lovin’ it!
This is some of the best entertainment available!!! I can't wait to see what you and Ari come up with next!!! Keep up the good work amigos!!!
So great to see the mix of new and old on the Daily ride.
It almost seems that the "classics" are becoming something of a regular feature.
Great to hear some of the history of the bikes too..
Wonder if anyone has a Hodaka Wombat or Ace that you could ride...
I was hoping that the CT90 would have been the first ride of a new season so it would at the top of the list. But out of all the bikes on the list it definitely has the best story.
Luv your comment about the loose nut behind the handle bars
Hey that's me in the first question! And yes, that answered the question.
6:13 even the Harley guy show some interest on this legendary Honda .. back in the day underbone Honda was prime
I just went to but a 2024 trail 125 and me and this fella probably twice my age were talking about how good these old ones were right there in the dealer
Really appreciate the honest placement on the leaderboard. Great little machine for its time and technology and capabilities have moved on. Nostalgia alone isn’t enough to make a bike excellent.
My first daily ride and it was a pleasant one at that. Looking forward to binging on the rest
I have a 1971 Trail 90 with 1400 original miles. All original and looks almost new and runs great. You might want to switch to a solid state rectifier for reliability. Otherwise, just enjoy it.
Let the little bike live at the Revzilla HQ!
But Zach has to ride it there first.
That would be a good episode.
FYI Zach and Ari are in California and Revzilla HQ is in Philadelphia.
My first bike was a new 1970 CT90 in canary yellow. Lots of hunters had them and they would go ANYWHERE albeit slowly. Slow but steady. The airbox snorkel located under seat so if going through water you can be up to your knees with no problems. In low range it will keep moving forward as long as the tires have traction. If the new 125 had come with the dual range tranny set up I would buy one in a heartbeat.
The new one has more than 2x the torque of the old one and the low range was 2:1 so first gear on this ALREADY has as much torque as the old 90 in low range but you get more top speed than ever and don't have to switch between both.... you don't need low range unless you need to go less than 3mph
Well of course it wouldn't accelerate hard, you had it in rain mode. Flick to track mode and prepare to go back to the future. First proper bike I rode in the Virgin Islands, the 110 version. Great fun.
After these videos I want one. Going to wait until after xmas and see if the itch is still there. Thanks for all the work and content. Revzilla is the best. Especially Ari and Mr Courts.
Out standing..Honda made some of the best motor bikes in the 60s and 70s,,,
I have a 71’ ct90 and i take it out most every day after work. Its a hoot to cruise around- i have done some bushwacking backwoods riding and I couldnt ask for a better bike; it goes anywhere i ask it too. My friend has the new 125 and it feels like the next logical step after the original 90
My very first ride. Believe it or not, that 90 will eat your lunch when you are nine years old. I can remember thinking that a CB 350 was HUGE. Also, I was under the impression that they came new with a stolen milk crate. The ride along Chihuahua was extra.
Well if were going to get into vintage bikes I would love to see my first bike witch was a Honda 1970 175 SL. It along with the 350 SL were some of the first dual sports that Honda made. I rode my 175 all over Montana. I grew up in Missoula and rode to Bozeman and back and to Glacier Park and back and also off road on single track. I have very found memories of all of that as most of us old riders do. I am not sure why but there always seems to be sentimental attachments our firsts what ever machine it is. Please Revzilla give us more. This bit about the Honda 90 was spectacular. I loved it.
The only reason this bike got on the show is because of how many there are, those less popular models don't stand a chance
@@16driver16 Yes you are probably write.
@@johnpagejr.7628 awesome bikes tho honda really knew what they were doing back then, well they always have but stopped sending the good stuff to America about '85
@@16driver16 Well as that maybe true I have three Honda's in my garage. I stopped riding not long after I got married but after my wife died went out and bought a CRF230L. Then I bought a NC700X and 2weeks ago I finally got my CRF300L Rally and love it. I will probably sell the 700 if anyone is interested let me know.
@@johnpagejr.7628 the trail90 was my first street legal motorcycle, I waited all to long at 28yrs old to start riding on the road. I ended up with 6 ct90s and 2 c70 passports, sold them off and upgraded to a tw200 until my back stopped being able to do serious offroading. I sold the tw200 and ride a 2017 duke 390 now, with some offroad tires for when I ride logging roads and small trails, but mostly stick to mountain roads for my backs sake.
I always wanted a Trail 90 because my Grandpa had one. He died in 1969 when I was almost 5 and I remember riding on it. I know it was used so it may have been one of the first few years offered. Now that the 125 is out I would like to have one of those. Purely sentimental for me.
They made them many years before 69 but those old ones had a leading link front suspension
In the late 60's and early 70's pickup campers were getting popular. You could order a set of strap on bumper motorcycle carriers from companies like JC Whitney very cheap. It was common to see Trail 90's strapped to the front or back of pickups with campers. Those carriers didn't protrude far from the bumper so the swiveling handle bars was a nice touch to make them fit in those carriers.
In the Philippines we have the Honda XRM since the early 2000's as we have a mix of paved, badly-paved, unpaved roads and even trails leading to remote communities; probably based on the original Trail concept and designed to adopt a cub-like Honda XR dual sport design. I even think XRM means "XR-Mini". Anyway the bike has pretty similar specs to the Grom and CT125 as I think they share the same engine and other bits. I do hope you could import one and take it on another trail adventure.
The ct90's did not come with blinkers by default until 1975. This was due to laws in the US requiring motorcycles to have blinkers. Earlier models did have an option to include blinkers although there are not many surviving examples.
You can change out the front and rear shocks for more stiffness to accommodate heavier riders on rougher terrain and still keep the stock look. You can also get an aftermarket cam that will increase the torque without providing any top end HP.
I did not hear it mentioned but these bikes are 6v. The Honda CT 110's are 12v. You can get conversion kits to change out the 6v incandescent bulbs for LEDs.
If you get one that's been sitting around you can quickly overall it by a top end rebuild. Get the head and cylinder redone with a new piston and rings. Don't forget to rebuild the carburetor, there are some decent videos that can walk you through it and it's easier than you think. The chances of needing to rebuild the bottom is VERY low. Australia uses these bikes for their postal service, called Posties, and they run them up to 30k miles without issue.
My 74 has factory installed turnsignals.
@@bruceelrick7164 That's a rare gem! Is that an early 74 or late model?
@@duacot6633 if your facts are correct, then maybe mine is a late 74. Its Canadian bought, I wonder if they had signals up here earlier?
I commute daily on a c90. Brilliant bikes. I'm having the new ct125 imported into the UK. Can't wait.
This and "Dave" must be my favorite Daily Rider episodes :)
I commute daily on a C90 in the UK cheap to run/repair, solid and when it's not it fits in the back of most cars
Learned to ride many years ago on a Trail 50 and then "graduated" to a Trail 70. The 50 was a centrifugal clutch with foot lever but the 70 was a standard. Different platforms, I know, but really neat to see what has been done with this 90.
In 1995, my buddy asked me if i wanted to buy his bike for $300. A CB125S built in 1985. I rode that bike for 19 years. It was not much different. It was great around town. And not bad on long rides as long as you weren't in a hurry. 45-50 mph. I think it had 100,000 miles on it by the end.
My current bike is a 2007 yamaha scooter. 250cc. Sort of like a modern version of the cushman highlander
My first bike at age 12 was a 1968 T 90. Learned how to ride on it, went everywhere in the woods and trails. I don’t think I ever did a minute of maintenance and it went great.
The clutchless operation made this bike good for woodsmen, hunters, farmers, postmen, food delivery people because you can operate it with one hand. Combined with the light weight and trail ability, low seat height, you can do all kinds of awkward jobs that farmers, woodsmen, hunters do (open and close gates, operate tools and weapons etc). It goes beyond a bike and is a machine that is a huge timesaver for so many jobs. I would argue that even to this day for some purposes it's the ONLY tool. It can take you down narrow animal trails through woods and things that an ATV won't. You can idle along at low speed and use the other hand to parry branches and things away. At 200lb you can just lift it over big obstacles
Thoroughly enjoyed your Alaska video with the Honda Trails, so good to see the Trail 90 getting extra air time on this channel. Hope this won’t be the last time we see it - maybe a challenge video?
Gotta love the charm of this bike and how well engineered it is for it's purpose, yet super simple. Here in Vietnam it's perfect.