The Nikkei newspaper reported on June 22 that this move means Honda will stop producing motorcycles with a maximum capacity of 50 cc. The Japanese manufacturer has an 80% domestic market share of this type of vehicle.
Meeting new emissions standards would be costly to develop. Sales of the bike are falling, so a big price increase is not an option. The styling of the bike also makes it difficult for Honda to sell it widely overseas.
1971 Super Cub motorcycle, specially designed for newspaper delivery
Japan will tighten its toxic emissions standards from November 2025. For engines of 50cc or less, it will be difficult to design a conversion kit that meets the standards. Motorcycle models currently sold in Japan cost between 200,000 and 300,000 yen (about 32 million to 48 million VND). If the engine is upgraded to meet emission standards, the cost can increase more than a 125cc bike, which costs up to 450,000 yen.
Motorcycle sales have been falling as demand for electric scooters and bicycles has increased. Last year, just over 92,000 motorcycles were sold in Japan, about 3% of the peak year in 1982, when more than 2.7 million were sold.
Motorcycles were a popular means of transportation in post-World War II Japan, which saw the country's rapid economic growth. Their affordability and fuel efficiency made them popular with families, students, and commuters.
Honda pioneered this model, with the introduction of the 49cc Super Cub C100 in 1958. The Super Cub is Honda's best-selling two-wheeler globally, with over 110 units built.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/honda-se-ngung-san-xuat-xe-gan-may-tu-nam-2025-185240622083057013.htm
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