All too often, we are enamored with the latest high-powered, rally-inspired machines that enable us to push our limits and go farther, harder, and faster than ever before. So it was a bit surprising to many when news of an all-new, utilitarian 125cc trail bike from Big Red garnered more excitement and praise than nearly any other adventure motorcycle introduced this year. But the introduction of the Honda Trail a hundred twenty five was actually more of a revival than something completely new.

Anyone who grew up in the 60s, 70s or 80s saw Honda CT90 and CT110 trail bikes everywhere: at the campsite, strapped on the back of RV’s, riding on dirt roads, at the town store… They were beloved for their simplicity, rugged design and go-anywhere capability. Over the course of nearly three decades, Honda sold over 725,000 units of their CT-series trail bikes just in the U.S. and many of us from a certain age bracket got their first motorcycle ride on one, either as a pilot or passenger.

With its compact size, lightweight design, automatic clutch, and friendly appearance, the CT was an nonintimidating introduction to the world of motorcycling and epitomized the 1960s "you meet the nicest people on a Honda” advertising slogan. Yet its four-speed semi-automatic transmission, rugged build, side-mount foot pegs, and off-road-tuned suspension gave it a cool factor that set it apart from any scooter. It was a practical vehicle for traveling into the forest on hunting and fishing expeditions. But more often, it was brought along on the family camping trip, used for picking up supplies, gathering firewood, and for casual riding around camp - a bike that mom and the kids could enjoy too 125 motorcycle.

So with all those good vibes and fond memories associated with these iconic bikes, perhaps tumultuous 2020 was the perfect year to reintroduce the CT to America in the form of the Honda 125 Trail. To maximize nostalgia, Honda was smart to make its latest path bike look true to its original form. In fact, sitting next to the early 1980s CT110, the new Honda Trail one hundred twenty five could easily be mistaken for the same bike. Some of the similarities include the long upswept muffler with its heat shield cooling fins, the bulging airbox with high-mounted snorkel, the dual rear shocks, large rear utility rack, heel-toe shifter, and giant u-shaped handlebars. Even the small details like waffle hand grips, metal front fender, or the large diameter front wheel hub that looks like a drum brake, take you back to those golden days.

Posted by: shefuzuo at 07:35 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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