Honda topped two categories at the Motorcycle News Bike of the Year Awards 2019, with CB500X and Super Cub C125 claiming the Best sub-500cc bike and Best scooter, respectively. Receiving the accolades from such a recognised authority is a clear indicator of the pair’s class-leading attributes.
2018 marked the return of the Super Cub, the best-selling motorcycle of all time. Since 1958, over 100 million Super Cubs have rolled over production lines around the world. In its latest generation, it wraps modern running gear in an immediately recognisable aesthetic, that’s a clear homage to the original. Retained is the semi-automatic transmission, a model-defining feature, that enables clutch-less gearshifts. Channelling the spirit of the icon’s lineage, the new Super Cub C125 delivers on a nostalgic front, while also providing a great riding experience in urban environments.
Speaking on the Super Cub C125, MCN said: “There is something undeniably charming about Honda’s latest incarnation of the Super Cub, making it a worthy winner of this year’s Best Scooter.” “The latest Cub isn’t designed to be a solely practical solution, instead offering a stylish alternative to a conventional scooter that pays tribute to Honda’s original late 1950s design.”
Honda overhauled the CB500X for 2019, imparting a suite of revisions on the A2-compliant model’s chassis and twin-cylinder engine. Doing justice to these fairing-deep changes, such as the enlarged 19-inch front wheel, is a more aggressive, visual design that draws on Honda’s flagship adventurer, the Africa Twin. All the above enhance and promote the CB500X’s all-round ability, making it the consummate everyday bike.
MCN’s talked-up the CB500X: “It’s Honda at its best with typically brilliant ergonomics and idiot-proof, intuitive rideability. Few bikes are as easy to ride – light, nimble handling and an upright view make for a great bike for commuting and slicking through traffic.” “Finished and detailed like a bike costing twice the price, Honda’s six grand adventurer is an exceptional all-round machine.”
Acknowledging the two awards, Neil Fletcher, Head of Honda UK Motorcycles said, “Praise doesn’t come much better than in the shape of an MCN award. So, we’re delighted to be taking two home! The Super Cub name is synonymous with Honda and motorcycling, so I’m delighted it’s back in our model line-up and this award gives credence to its return. Whereas, the CB500X is better than ever thanks to a raft of upgrades, representing an incredibly capable all-rounder.
