Description
FOR SALE
An iconic and frugal Mk1 Honda NC50 Express in magnificent condition.
EQUIPMENT
Sporty styling, sporty riding position, backbone design frame, telescopic front fork suspension, rear swinging arm suspension, automatic clutch with single-speed transmission, foot wind starting system with squeeze start, large headlight with high beam indicator, fitted indicators, moulded plastic fenders front and rear, large ribbed foot pegs, ribbed hand grips, large comfortably padded seat, lighted speedometer, horn, oil level indicator, centre stand, rear luggage rack. Factory Options: Turn signal indicator kit. Dealer Accessories: Front luggage basket, additional mirror on nearside.
EXTERIOR
‘You meet the nicest people on a Honda Express’. This was the marketing slogan for many small economy Honda scooters and mopeds of the era which became very popular in the years following the 1973 oil crisis where thrifty means of motoring was increasingly sought. This 1979 UK Mk1 example is finished in Honda Orange one of three colours available the other being Yellow and Blue. Lovingly restored by the previous fanatical owner, the frame paintwork is perfect with a bright polished shine and correct period decals. Very light age-related markings and patination can be seen on the rear plastic mudguard and the plastic engine casings. The correct colour replacement two-tone seat cover is immaculate and the very rare to find original Honda front basket remains fitted. The lights, Nippon Seiki gauge, high beam indicator and push button horn all work perfectly. Incredibly even the correct factory supplied round indicator kit is fitted. Guaranteed to raise a smile on a trip to the newsagents!
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The 2-stroke 49cc engine develops 2. 6hp and still features the correct foot wind starting system with squeeze start and automatic clutch and single-speed transmission. All mechanicals are in perfect working order as is the Autolube system with ball-level indicator and fuel gauge. The engine was stripped, checked, serviced and rebuilt with new barrel and piston kit. The carburettor, oil pump and reed valves were stripped, ultra-sonic cleaned where required, checked, serviced and set up with new gaskets. Even the original refurbished Honda exhaust system is fitted with restored outer shield. The engine needs running in but a couple of foot winds and a squeeze of the rear brake and this delightful Honda pops into life ready for simplistic and frugal motoring enjoyment!
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The chrome rims are bright with some very faint pitting and both wheel hubs have been restored, laced with new spokes, wheels trued and fitted with matching new Vee Rubber 2. 25-14 24B tyres which have masses of tread. The cable operated drum brakes work affectively but require a firm squeeze.
HISTORY FILE
Registered new on the 22nd of May 1979, this fantastic UK example is a Mk1 version of the popular NC50 series. The bike was purchased in 2023 by the previous owner, Mr Moore, whose hobby of tinkering with classic motorcycles has taken over his garden with various outbuildings designed for everything from storage, refurbishment, maintenance and even a small parts department! Meticulous restoration has been a labour of love for Mr Moore with this bike being identical to the one he owned in 1980! The bike runs and performs as good as it looks and despite qualifying for tax and MOT exception, the next owner will enjoy the peace of mind gained from the MOT carried out in January 2025 where it passed with flying colours. A Honda NC50 Express Deluxe owner’s manual and sales brochure are included. Great fun and a sense of humour required!
MOT January 2026, tax exempt, HPI Clear.
Please Google 'KGF Classic Cars YouTube' and 'KGF Classic Cars Flickr' for a HD video and multiple detailed HR photos of this vehicle.
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