Finally got around to buying a Super Cub. (Don't like to rush into things! ?). I was going to wait for the new 125 Cub with the disc brake, but that could be a long wait in Thailand, and as they cost less than an iPhone and hold their value, I can always upgrade in the future.
Dropped in to Honda on Rama 4, they had the full range of colours and some accessories such as the bag that straps on the seat, a rack and a 'Super Cub' bottle holder. They prepped it while I was signing passport and Work Permit copies, and I was away on my new Cub in about 30 minutes.
The shop owner said he knows someone who can do the disk brake conversion for me, as the shop is not allowed to modify the bikes because they are an official Honda dealer.
I checked oil, tyre pressures, lights - all OK, but I tightened the brake adjusters a couple of turns as the lever was almost touching the bar before the gentle retarding starts (can't really call it braking).
It's a very pleasant little bike to ride. I'm not a fan of full auto cvt transmissions on bikes, so I like the semi auto system on the Super Cub. But down shifting seems to be an art? I think I need to release the downshift pedal slowly, as it seems to have a clutch, as well as matching the revs, otherwise the down-change is a helmet crashing lurch with a passenger? Any tips from the Wave and Cub veterans?
And first gear seems redundant? Shifting down into first on the move is always an uncomfortable experience, and the engine is so happy slogging away at low revs it pull away happily in any gear.
Upshifts are fun, and I'm sure that a semi-auto with chain drive is quicker than an elastic band cvt bike of the same engine size.
Handling is good, and well within the capabilities of It's modest power, and it can tackle the rough Bangkok roads well.
The 4000 km service costs 120 THB, 100 THB fills the underrseat tank, the old style bulb headlight is surprisingly bright, and the mirrors are effective.
I know a Wave is a better bike, but I like the retro looks of the Super Cub, and 110 c.c or 125 c.c is still next to nothing, but enough for city riding.
I usually use a motorcycle taxi to get to work, so the main use is for daily commuting. Next year I'll be replacing the CRF with something a bit bigger, and I won't want to leave that outside the office in the sun all day - so I'll be Cubbing to work.
