The 1962 Grand Prix season had a new class – 50cc, and Honda built a bike to compete, the RC110/111. It’s been the subject of more than one commemorative, the most recent being in 2004. Like most we’ve seen, today CB50R has been used only for display, and though it’s built for racing, will likely continue to live behind the velvet ropes.
2004 Honda CB50R Dream for sale on eBay
Unlike a gazillion Honda Cubs, the 1962 racer and CB50R are double overhead cam four-stroke twins, with the 2004 boasting 7 hp. The 18-inch wheels are sized for the 156 lb. curb weight, and six close-ratio gears help keep the kettle boiling above 10,000 rpm. The suspension looks impossibly light but are adjustable Showa bits. Never intended for the road, it lacks lights, air cleaner, odometer – there’s not even a typical electrical system or kickstarter !
This example looks more like it’s been stored rather than fawned over, even if it hasn’t been ridden, a detailing would do wonders. Only 440 were made, and they were reportedly built by HRC, with an elevated MSRP. Just a few notes in the eBay auction:
A Dream Come True!2004 Honda CB50R “The Dream”Like new condition having being put into a collection then used for display since new.Motorcycle is not street legal and is sold with the original Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin
In 1960 when Honda scored their first Grand Prix victories, the GP season was just seven races, all in Europe. They won the 125 and 250cc championships in 1961, with Mike Hailwood aboard the 250. The year after they took the 350 and 250cc crowns, with Jim Redman riding. Bunch of racing history after that – this CB50R is a testament to Honda’s commitment.
-donn
I have one of these in my bedroom (and a very understanding wife…). They’re cool, but honestly I think Honda kind of half-stepped on this one. Many of the parts appear to have come out of the parts bin from other models, and while this is great in some areas (same footpegs as the RC30!), in some other areas like the front brake, well, its pretty pedestrian. I know you don’t need much brake on something this size and I’m sure its perfectly adequate, it just doesn’t look the part on what could have been a REALLY special build. All in all its a neat little bike, I love the DOHC head, but I can’t help but picture what it could have been if they’d taken it to the next level of detail and used higher spec components in some areas.
Oh and one of these just sold on BringATrailer for $13,750! Interesting times indeed…
But that’s BAT. Some motorcycles sell for crazy prices there.
Wasn’t there a street legal version?
yup but JDM only – https://evu.hhv.mybluehost.me/raresportsbikesforsale/japanese-dream-1997-honda-dream-50-ac-15/ -… 🙂
Anything can be made street legal if you know how.
I wonder if the Honda RS125r motor would fit in it ?
I don’t think a RS125 motor would be a good idea. I saw a CA plated RS125 in downtown Berkeley @10yrs ago. Man, did it have to rev to get going from a stop light in traffic. Fun to ride maybe up Tunnel rd. et al. But, not a looking fun in Downtown/city stop and go.
I have a 01′ Aprillia RS50 with a 01′ CR250 motor in it. Too much engine for chassis/brakes. But, cool novelty ride. That 2srtoke sound/ premix smell definitely keeps the smiles going!
eBay shows sold for $8,750.
dc