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Hodaka Rat

MakeHodaka
Displacement98.0 ccm (5.98 cubic inches)
Hodaka Rat
Hodaka Rat - Main Image
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Review
The Hodaka Super Rat, a 1968 model, is a classic example of a lightweight and agile off-road motorcycle. Powered by a 98cc engine, it was designed for spirited riding on trails and in the dirt. With a seat height of 838mm and a weight of 83 kg, it's accessible to a wide range of riders. The Super Rat embodies the spirit of early off-road motorcycling, prioritizing fun and agility over outright power. The Super Rat features a 5-speed gearbox and progressive rate, oil-dampened front suspension, providing a decent level of control and comfort on rough terrain. Drum brakes offer adequate stopping power for its light weight. The 7.6-liter fuel tank allows for extended rides without frequent refueling. Its design reflects the functional and minimalist aesthetic of the era. The Hodaka Super Rat is a sought-after collector's item and a symbol of early off-road motorcycling. It appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate vintage motorcycles and the thrill of riding in the dirt. Its lightweight design and responsive handling make it a fun and engaging machine to ride, offering a taste of the past of off-road motorcycling.
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Pros (Advantages)

✅ Why buy this bike?

• Lightweight and nimble chassis made the Rat easy to handle for young riders and tight trails. • Reliable and relatively simple two-stroke engine was easy to maintain and repair for amateur mechanics. • Hodaka's reputation for quality components meant good durability for a small displacement dirt bike. • Excellent parts availability, even today, due to a strong enthusiast and vintage racing community. • The Rat's unique styling and distinctive chrome tank made it a standout and collectible motorcycle. • Affordable entry-level dirt bike, making it accessible for many aspiring off-road enthusiasts.
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Cons (Disadvantages)

⚠️ Things to consider

• Limited power output from the 98cc engine struggled on steep climbs or for heavier riders. • Basic suspension components offered minimal travel and poor damping for aggressive riding. • Drum brakes, common for the era, provided adequate but not exceptional stopping power in wet conditions. • Small fuel tank capacity limited range, requiring frequent refueling on longer trail rides. • Two-stroke engine required mixing oil with fuel, a less convenient process than modern four-strokes.
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License Class (EU)

Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.

Fuel Economy & Running Costs

Estimated average for 98cc class: 75-100 mpg (2.5-3.5 L/100km)

⛽ Tank: 7.60 litres (2.01 US gallons)

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Insurance Class

Insurance grouping for Hodaka Rat (98cc):

  • 📋 Group 1-5 — entry-level, lowest premiums
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    Insurance Calculator (UK est.)

    Personalised premium estimate for the Hodaka Rat (UK rates):

    💡 Estimate based on UK market averages. For real quotes, compare on Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, GoCompare.

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    Buy New & Used

    Find new and used Hodaka Rat listings:

    💡 Third-party listings. MotoBike Info is informational only.

  • 👤 Final premium varies by rider age, history, location.
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