The Honda CT50 Motra, launched in 1982, combines motorcycle agility with utility, featuring a unique dual-range transmission and rugged design for off-road tasks.
The Honda CT50 Motra, introduced in 1982, stands out as an unusual motorcycle designed primarily for work with its unique features and utility-oriented design.
Overview and Specifications
The CT50 Motra is a compact 49cc minibike that showcases Honda’s ingenuity with a 3-speed gearbox combined with dual-range sub-transmission, effectively offering six forward speeds. Designed for tasks beyond mere recreational riding, it is equipped with functional front and rear cargo racks, targeted at off-road agricultural and hunting applications rather than commuting.
The Motra was launched on June 10, 1982, priced at ¥165,000 (approximately $2,500 today), aimed at outdoor enthusiasts rather than daily commuters.
Historical Context
Honda launched the CT50 Motra amidst a surge in the popularity of 50cc minibikes in Japan during the early 1980s. With a sales target of 45,000 units annually, the Motra was presented as a robust alternative to the slew of lightweight models saturating the market, noted for their simplicity and charm. The bike stood out due to its durability and capacity to carry loads, embodying the strengths of the CT series.
Powertrain and Performance
At its heart, the Motra hosts an air-cooled 49cc four-stroke single engine, derived from Honda’s well-known Super Cub family. It generates a modest output of 4.4 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 3.3 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 RPM, with a compression ratio of 9.8:1. This performance is enhanced by its innovative dual-range gearbox, allowing the driver to switch between high and low ranges—similar to 4x4 vehicles like Jeeps.
Honda claims the Motra could tackle steep inclines, boasting a capability to ascend a 23-degree slope (42% grade). Furthermore, fuel efficiency is impressive, yielding about 100 kilometers per liter (approximately 235 miles per gallon) when tested at 30 km/h (about 18.6 mph). The bike was tailored for lower-speed, rugged utility, rather than highway travel.
Design Features
The design of the CT50 Motra also reflects its utilitarian purpose. The front cargo carrier, mounted to the backbone frame, alleviates stress on the handlebars, contributing to better handling when fully loaded. Additionally, the rear shock absorbers feature Honda’s leveling system, allowing preload adjustments to match diverse payloads.
It comes fitted with wide 5.40-10 block-pattern tires, tailored for traction in off-road situations. A uniquely positioned main stand allows for secure parking on sloped terrains and adds to its practical design ethos. Weighing in at just 168 lbs (76 kg) dry, it finds an appealing balance between agility and robustness.
Buyers could choose from two color options: Popo Green, embodying a military aesthetic, and Maize Yellow, resembling construction gear. Marketing materials from Honda often pictured the Motra loaded with camping gear, further emphasizing its role as a dependable outdoor companion.
Market Reception and Legacy
Despite the ambitious vision for the Motra, market reception was lukewarm, and it struggled to achieve its projected sales figures, ultimately leading to its production running for four to five years without a significant redesign. Minor changes included updates to the seat covering and some components, but it was clear that production numbers fell far short of the initial expectations. Honda never released official production totals, but it’s understood the figures were substantially below the target.
Following the Motra's discontinuation, Honda revisited the exposed-frame utility concept with future models like the 2001 Zoomer, later known in North America as the Ruckus. However, neither the Zoomer nor the PS250 (Big Ruckus) incorporated the dual-range sub-transmission that distinguished the Motra.
Today, the CT50 Motra enjoys a somewhat cult status among motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors, with limited imports to regions like the U.S., Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. Its unique design and capabilities have secured a special place in the realm of vintage motorcycles.
Current Example
The featured 1982 Honda CT50 Motra retains its original features, including matching high-mounted fenders, multi-piece wheels, cargo racks, vinyl solo seat, mirrors, and both center and side stands. It operates on a 49cc four-stroke single engine, automatic clutch, and the intricate dual-range transmission activated by a heel/toe shifter. Notably, it comes with drum brakes on both the front and rear, standard fork suspension, and Bridgestone tires, ensuring it remains a functional example of its kind.
The odometer indicates approximately 3,200 kilometers (around 2,000 miles), although the full history of the mileage remains unclear. Recent maintenance has been performed, including carburetor cleaning and part replacements. The bike is currently available for sale in North Salem, New York.
For interested buyers, further details and bidding options can be found in the listing here.
Images courtesy of Bring a Trailer and Honda.
