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Honda Juno M 85
1962
1962
The 1962 Honda Juno M85 represents an interesting chapter in Honda's early foray into the scooter market. A successor to the earlier Juno K series, the M85 aimed to refine the concept with improved performance and styling. While not a motorcycle in the traditional sense, it competed with other small-displacement two-wheeled vehicles of the era, such as Lambretta scooters and even some lightweight motorcycles like the Suzuki Colleda.
Powering the Juno M85 is a 169.0 ccm (10.31 cubic inches) twin-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This configuration, unusual for scooters of the time, allowed it to produce a respectable 12.0 HP (8.8 kW) at 7600 RPM. Despite its relatively modest output, the engine provided adequate propulsion for navigating urban environments. The scooter's weight of 157.0 kg (346.1 pounds) contributed to its maneuverability, although it was heavier than some of its contemporaries.
The Juno M85 offered a comfortable riding experience for its time, prioritizing practicality over outright sportiness. The riding position is upright and relaxed, typical of scooters, making it suitable for daily commuting. The enclosed bodywork provided some protection from the elements, enhancing rider comfort in inclement weather. While not designed for long-distance touring, the Juno M85 was well-suited for short to medium trips within the city.
The target audience for the 1962 Honda Juno M85 was primarily urban commuters seeking a convenient and economical mode of transportation. It appealed to riders who valued ease of use and weather protection. While the Juno M85 wasn't a sales sensation, it showcased Honda's innovative spirit and willingness to experiment with different designs, paving the way for future scooter models that would eventually become global successes.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Unique Styling: The Juno M85's enclosed bodywork and futuristic design stand out, offering a distinctive aesthetic appeal unmatched by contemporaries. • Comfortable Ride: Its torsion bar suspension and well-padded seat provided a smoother, more comfortable ride compared to other scooters of the era. • Automatic Transmission: The 'Cometmatic' automatic transmission offers ease of use, eliminating the need for manual gear changes. • Reliable Engine: Honda's commitment to engineering resulted in a relatively reliable engine for its time, requiring less frequent maintenance. • Electric Starter: The inclusion of an electric starter motor made starting the Juno M85 considerably easier than kick-start-only scooters. • Advanced Features: Equipped with features like a speedometer, turn signals, and a comfortable riding position, it was advanced for its time.⚠️ Things to consider
• Complex Mechanics: The automatic transmission and enclosed bodywork made maintenance and repairs more difficult and costly. • Heavy Weight: The extensive bodywork and robust construction resulted in a heavier scooter, negatively affecting handling and acceleration. • Poor Handling: The combination of weight and unusual front suspension led to less-than-ideal handling, especially at higher speeds. • Limited Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts for the Juno M85 is extremely difficult due to its limited production run and age. • Low Power Output: The 169cc engine produced modest power, making it less suitable for carrying passengers or climbing steep hills.The Honda Juno M 85 produces 12 HP, fitting A2 license limits (max 35 kW / 47 HP). For riders 18+.
Estimated average for 169cc class: 55-80 mpg (3.0-4.5 L/100km)
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