Honda Super Cub C125 Blends Retro Style with Modern Urban Mobility in Malaysia

The motorcycle market constantly evolves with new styles and technologies, but few designs have endured like the retro aesthetic. The Honda Super Cub C125 emerges as a contemporary homage to this enduring legacy, sparking conversations about the value of nostalgia versus modern practicality.

With a price tag of RM13,999 (approximately $3,000), the Super Cub C125 presents a paradox. This 125cc machine costs as much as more powerful motorcycles, even serving as a down payment for quality used vehicles. What justifies this premium for what's essentially a collector's item?

For many Malaysian riders, their first motorcycle was likely a "kapchai" - the local term for small, practical bikes. Among these, Honda Cubs hold special significance, having transported generations through their formative years. The author recalls childhood experiences with the iconic C70 model, a memory shared by countless Southeast Asians.

The current Super Cub's premium pricing reflects its Japan-built status (CBU - Completely Built Unit). While this means higher import costs, it also guarantees Japanese craftsmanship and authenticity. The production shift to Kumamoto, Japan explains the price difference from locally assembled alternatives.

Successful retro design must evoke genuine emotional connections beyond superficial styling. The Super Cub C125 achieves this through its faithful recreation of the original's timeless silhouette, updated with modern touches.

Initial reactions highlight its nostalgic charm, transporting observers to the 1950s-70s. The design's universal appeal particularly resonates with female riders who describe it as "friendly" and evocative of student days. Unlike aggressive sport bikes, the Super Cub projects approachability - more golden retriever than wolf.

With a 780mm seat height, the Super Cub welcomes riders of all sizes. After testing larger motorcycles, the author found the Cub's lightweight (109kg) and minimalist controls refreshingly straightforward.

The color scheme - pearl nirvana blue frame with white body panels and red vinyl seat - creates a distinctive retro aesthetic. The circular LCD instrument cluster provides essential information without distraction, embodying the bike's utilitarian philosophy.

The 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine produces modest outputs: 9.5hp at 7,500rpm and 10.4Nm at 5,000rpm. While not built for speed, the smooth 4-speed gearbox (a rarity in Southeast Asian underbones) delivered surprising enjoyment, reaching a top speed of 95km/h during testing.

This performance aligns with Soichiro Honda's original vision - an efficient urban commuter for postwar Japan. That it became recreational transport across Asia speaks to its unexpected versatility.

Embracing the Super Cub's limitations reveals its charm. The author found pleasure in pushing its handling limits through corners, enabled by competent brakes (220mm front disc with hydraulic caliper and rear drum). This "carefree" riding style suits the bike's character perfectly.

The non-adjustable telescopic forks and twin shocks provide adequate comfort for city riding. Lighter riders (like the author's 51kg companion) find the handling particularly engaging, while heavier riders may notice limitations. The 1.2m wheelbase enables exceptional maneuverability in traffic.

Understanding the Super Cub's intended environment is crucial. It excels in urban settings but shouldn't venture onto highways where its modest power becomes a liability.

The 3.7L tank (accessed via a seat-mounted button) maintains the Cub tradition of frugality. Test rides covering 100km demonstrated impressive fuel economy, a key consideration for daily commuting.

While featuring convenient keyless ignition, the Super Cub lacks storage space and practical accessories like cargo hooks - sacrifices made for aesthetic purity. This underscores its role as a lifestyle vehicle rather than a workhorse.

At RM13,999, the Super Cub C125 occupies a niche between practical transportation and moving tribute. Honda's decision to preserve this heritage model - the vehicle that launched their global success - makes sense historically, if not commercially.

Numerous underbone models offer better performance at lower prices. What the Super Cub provides is intangible: attention, nostalgia, and connection. Female admirers and fellow riders frequently acknowledge it with waves and thumbs-up.

The price understandably gives pause. As a modern interpretation of motorcycling history, the Super Cub excels - delivering fun, accessible riding pleasure. The classic slogan "You meet the nicest people on a Honda" still resonates.

The Honda Super Cub C125 succeeds as a nostalgic piece with competent urban manners. Its classic styling, enjoyable riding dynamics, and excellent fuel economy come at the cost of practicality and value. For devoted Cub enthusiasts with disposable income, it offers irreplaceable charm. Budget-conscious or practical riders should explore alternatives.

• Engine: 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder
• Power: 9.5hp @ 7,500rpm
• Torque: 10.4Nm @ 5,000rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed semi-automatic
• Seat Height: 780mm
• Weight: 109kg
• Fuel Capacity: 3.7L
• Brakes: Front disc/rear drum
• Tires: 70/90-17 (front), 80/90-17 (rear)