Engineered by Honda for the classic motorcycle segment, the 1972 Honda C50 features a 49.5 cc (3 cu in) oil & air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 4.8 HP (3.5 kW) at 10,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 3.7 Nm (2.7 lb-ft) at 8,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 3-speed gearbox and chain final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 39.0 x 41.4 mm (1.5 x 1.6 inches) with a 8.8:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the C50 measures 69 kg (152 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 760 mm (29.9 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,180 mm (46.5 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 3.3-liter (0.9 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 2 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 165 km (103 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 75 km/h (47 mph).
Power Band Window
8,200–10,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~165 km (103 mi)
Engine
Displacement49.5 ccm (3.02 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsHorizontal 4-stroke 2-valve single cilinder
Power4.8 HP (3.5 kW)) @ 10000 RPM
Torque3.7 Nm (0.4 kgf-m or 2.7 ft.lbs) @ 8200 RPM
Compression8.8:1
Bore x Stroke39.0 x 41.4 mm (1.5 x 1.6 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin downdraft 12.5 mm
Fuel ControlOverhead Cams (OHC)
IgnitionPoints ignition
LubricationWet sump
CoolingOil & air
Max RPM12000
Transmission
Gearbox3-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchCentrifugal wet multiplate clutch
DrivelineEnclosed chain drive with a 3-speed semi-automatic gearbox
Performance
Top Speed75.0 km/h (46.6 mph)
Fuel Consumption2.00 litres/100 km (50.0 km/l or 117.61 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases46.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustSingle exhaust sigar style muffler
Chassis
Frame TypePressed steel underbone
Trail71 mm (2.8 inches)
Front SuspensionLeading link
Front Travel56 mm (2.2 inches)
Rear SuspensionTwin shock swingarm
Rear Travel61 mm (2.4 inches)
Wheelbase1180 mm (46.5 inches)
Ground Clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre2.25´-17´
Rear Tyre2.25´-17´
Front BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake). Cam operated drum brake
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
