Honda Cm-91

HONDA CM-91

A New Version of an Old Favorite

To SAY THAT THE HONDA CUB is the most popular motorcycle in the world is more than true. This little "sissy" bike with the full fenders, "step-through" frame and splash shields, is the model you "meet the nicest people on." It is a terrific little piece of transportation for the city streets, if the streets aren't too crowded with fast moving traffic. One of the obvious drawbacks to the 50cc Cub, little brother to the Cub 90, or Super Cub, as we call it, is the lack of power. Top speed and drag strip performance are not too important, except when they are related to the bike's ability to get out of the way of impending danger by speeding up. This is an especially difficult problem in the 40 mph to 50 mph speed ranges on the little bikes.

Honda has the answer, to our way of thinking. They have put the CS-90 overhead camshaft engine in a slightly enlarged “Fifty” (CA-100) frame. It has the same three-speed transmission with automatic clutch. And the little machine is so smooth and quiet, one tends to forget the engine is running. An electric starter will eventually be optional, but since the bike leaps to life with only the slightest prod of the kick lever, an electric starter hardly seems necessary. The rear chain is fully enclosed for the ultimate in neatness. Double seat and rear passenger foot rests and a luggage rack are all standard.

Honda rates the CM-91 (its official designation) at 7.5 hp @ 9,500 rpm. It weighs 185 pounds, has a top speed of 59 mph, and like most lightweights, handles like a bicycle, only better. CM-91s are available in red, black, and white (ours was white).

You might classify this Honda as an all-American model, as it is an improved (to American standards) Honda fifty.

We tested the bike, loaned to us by Honda, when it was still in the early delivery stages, so we can’t quote a price. We put a good many miles on it inside the huge Los Angeles Sports Arena, prior to setting up and tearing down the CYCLE WORLD Motorcycle Show. Within the confines of cement walls, the little Honda was docile, easy going, quiet, and altogether a very pleasing little bike, without being a “ladies” machine in the fullest sense. ■