History of the Honda CB 100
The Honda CB 100 (Super Sport 100) was a basic everyday motorcycle released in 1970, with manufacturing continuing until just 1972. However, in those 3 years, this basic motorcycle became an international favorite as a reliable city or town bike. and frugal. bicycle. The basic chassis and design of the bike was not revolutionary as it followed previous CB bikes. In fact, clones of the CB 100 have continued to dominate many countries in some parts of the world, thanks to their simplicity and reliability.
At the heart of the Honda CB 100 is a basic air-cooled 99cc 4-stroke single cylinder engine. It produced only 11 hp at 8000 rpm, but that was enough power for a lightweight everyday bike with a curb weight of just over 200 pounds. With a good driver and a long stretch of road, the CB 100 could reach top speeds approaching 70 mph. However, since the CB 100 only had basic expandable caliper brakes on both 18-inch wheels, this was fast enough for a safe ride! The CB 100 performed very well on small, crowded roads, where this little Honda could effortlessly weave through clogged traffic.
The CB 100 engine came with Honda’s own forced wet sump lubrication system which made maintenance easy. A 5-speed transmission used a wet multi-plate clutch system to ease operation on busy city streets, which require a large number of gear changes even during short trips. Designed for basic touring, the Honda CB 100 had a basic, comfortable seat and suspension suitable for flat city streets. Even with a tank holding just over 2 gallons of fuel, the Honda CB 100 required surprisingly few top-ups, thanks to the frugal 99cc engine and lightweight chassis. Under real driving conditions, the CB 100 returned between 80 and 95 mpg, making it an affordable and practical drive.
During the 3 years of production, some cosmetic changes were made to each year’s production, but there were no major technical modifications. To many Honda enthusiasts, the 1972 model is the most attractive, with its white tank, side cover with tasteful colored inserts, and lots of chrome. However, you can still find older models in parts of the UK, while riders in some parts of Asia are happy to buy exact clones made locally. With the right quality of genuine parts, the Honda CB 100 remains a great little commuter motorcycle that promises little, but delivers more.