Classic motorcycle head-to-head

Honda C90 Super Cub vs Yamaha YB100

Honda C90 Super Cub scores 78/100 overall against Yamaha YB100 on 66/100. On the road: 67–63. As classics: 88–68. Overall result: Honda C90 Super Cub.

The numbers

Category-by-category result

CategoryHonda C90Yamaha YB100Advantage
road
PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field.23Yamaha YB100
HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners.77Level
BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance.45Yamaha YB100
ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained.108Honda C90
Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge.109Honda C90
ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys.76Honda C90
classic
StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal.87Honda C90
Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era.107Honda C90
Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.86Honda C90
CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience.97Honda C90

Choose the Honda C90 if…

you value simple engineering, legendary reliability and one of the most important everyday motorcycles ever made.

Choose the Yamaha YB100 if…

you want a simple, dependable lightweight with classic commuter charm and easy ownership.

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Background

History

Honda C90

The Honda C90 Super Cub was produced from 1966–1989 and used a 89cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.

Yamaha YB100

The Yamaha YB100 was produced from 1973–1989 and used a 97cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.

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Interesting details

Did you know?

Honda C90

  • Its production span in this library runs from 1966 to 1989.
  • The recorded engine description is: 89cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
  • Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance.

Yamaha YB100

  • Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1989.
  • The recorded engine description is: 97cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
  • Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability, styling.
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Present-day appeal

Collector notes

Honda C90

Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda C90 Super Cub. Its library score for reliability is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.

Yamaha YB100

Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha YB100. Its library score for ownership appeal is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.

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Before you buy

Buying checks

Honda C90

  • Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
  • Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
  • Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
  • Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
  • Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
  • Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.

Yamaha YB100

  • Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
  • Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
  • Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
  • Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
  • Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
  • Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.

Period opposition

Historic rivals

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Final result

The verdict

Honda C90 Super Cub wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda C90 Super Cub wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda C90 Super Cub takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.

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